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Orcs of Oksha #1
A Touch of Magic
A cursed princess. A feared enemy. A love that could change everything.
Set in the same universe as Solasta, this bold reimagining of Shrek weaves romance, danger, and dark magic into an unforgettable tale.
Fionnuala “Fiona” Kerridan was raised to be the perfect High Fae princess, graceful, obedient, and willing to sacrifice everything for her kingdom. Her future is a strategic marriage to secure peace and prosperity. And she is ready to accept it.
Until her wedding day shatters everything.
Before the vows can be spoken, a vengeful sorceress crashes the ceremony and unleashes a devastating curse, one meant not just to punish Fiona, but to humiliate her father. In a single, irreversible moment, the beloved princess is transformed into the very creature her people fear an orc.
Cast out of the life she once knew, Fiona must venture into forbidden lands in search of a way to break the curse. Her only hope lies with the Oksha, the most feared orc tribe in all of Lyraen.
But survival among enemies is not her greatest challenge.
Malek Strong-Axe, the powerful and enigmatic Ruk’hai of the Oksha, is everything Fiona was raised to despise and the one man she cannot seem to resist. As truths unravel and loyalties are tested, Fiona begins to question everything she once believed about her people, her enemies, and herself.
Because monsters are not always what they seem.
And love may be the most dangerous force of all.
Now, torn between duty and desire, Fiona must reclaim the life she lost or fight for a future she never imagined.
This book contains mature themes and explicit content. Intended for readers 18+.
Tropes &
Enemies to Lovers • Slow Burn • Monster Romance • Forbidden Love • Forced Proximity • Found Family • Powerful Heroine • Touch Her and Die • Secrets & Betrayal • Beauty Becomes the Beast
*Standalone Novel*
Set in the same universe as Solasta, this bold reimagining of Shrek weaves romance, danger, and dark magic into an unforgettable tale.
Fionnuala “Fiona” Kerridan was raised to be the perfect High Fae princess, graceful, obedient, and willing to sacrifice everything for her kingdom. Her future is a strategic marriage to secure peace and prosperity. And she is ready to accept it.
Until her wedding day shatters everything.
Before the vows can be spoken, a vengeful sorceress crashes the ceremony and unleashes a devastating curse, one meant not just to punish Fiona, but to humiliate her father. In a single, irreversible moment, the beloved princess is transformed into the very creature her people fear an orc.
Cast out of the life she once knew, Fiona must venture into forbidden lands in search of a way to break the curse. Her only hope lies with the Oksha, the most feared orc tribe in all of Lyraen.
But survival among enemies is not her greatest challenge.
Malek Strong-Axe, the powerful and enigmatic Ruk’hai of the Oksha, is everything Fiona was raised to despise and the one man she cannot seem to resist. As truths unravel and loyalties are tested, Fiona begins to question everything she once believed about her people, her enemies, and herself.
Because monsters are not always what they seem.
And love may be the most dangerous force of all.
Now, torn between duty and desire, Fiona must reclaim the life she lost or fight for a future she never imagined.
This book contains mature themes and explicit content. Intended for readers 18+.
Tropes &
Enemies to Lovers • Slow Burn • Monster Romance • Forbidden Love • Forced Proximity • Found Family • Powerful Heroine • Touch Her and Die • Secrets & Betrayal • Beauty Becomes the Beast
*Standalone Novel*
357 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 18, 2026
About the author
Nessa Alviera
6 books14 followersHi there! Welcome to my page! ✨
I love writing monster romance featuring cinnamon roll monsters and strong, sweet heroines who know their worth. In my books, you'll find love, respect, plenty of heart, and happily-ever-afters guaranteed.
I believe romance should be comforting, exciting, and a little magical, so expect devoted heroes, fierce heroines, found families, and enough fluff to make you smile. Whether my monsters have horns, claws, tails, or wings, one thing is certain: they adore their mates and would do anything for them.
When I'm not writing, I'm probably reading, obsessing over mythology and folklore, or dreaming up new worlds and creatures to fall in love with.
Thank you for stopping by! I hope my stories bring you joy, laughter, and all the swoony moments your heart desires. ❤️
Happy reading!
I love writing monster romance featuring cinnamon roll monsters and strong, sweet heroines who know their worth. In my books, you'll find love, respect, plenty of heart, and happily-ever-afters guaranteed.
I believe romance should be comforting, exciting, and a little magical, so expect devoted heroes, fierce heroines, found families, and enough fluff to make you smile. Whether my monsters have horns, claws, tails, or wings, one thing is certain: they adore their mates and would do anything for them.
When I'm not writing, I'm probably reading, obsessing over mythology and folklore, or dreaming up new worlds and creatures to fall in love with.
Thank you for stopping by! I hope my stories bring you joy, laughter, and all the swoony moments your heart desires. ❤️
Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
May 26, 2026
I’m not sure if I actually liked this book or if I just forced myself to finish it, but I feel like the Fae side of the lore lacked serious development. Aside from the fact that they have magic and long lifespans, there’s nothing there, no unique culture, no distinct characteristics. It loses its fantasy appeal when the Fae just feel like humans with magic who happen to live forever.
Also, after Fiona becomes an orc, she seems to lose all her human traits instantly. The entire process of adaptation and internal conflict lasted about two chapters, and then it was just over. There’s never any mention of her feeling uncomfortable with her new appearance or feeling out of place. Honestly, it took me longer to get used to a tattoo on my arm than it took Fiona to adapt to an entirely new body.
Then, the book tries to sell the idea that Fiona has never lifted a finger in her life, but then she starts cleaning Malek’s house like a pro, training with an axe, and doing a thousand other chores. For someone who hasn't been used to physical labor for over 100 years, she handles it all with such natural ease that it completely betrays the character established at the beginning.
The plot inconsistencies are frustrating, too. From the start, there are hints that Malek knows exactly who Fiona is based on her scent and features, but when she finally tells him the truth, he acts surprised and angry, only to claim later that he always knew. The same thing happens with Fiona’s powers, he discovers she has earth powers because she made a rare flower bloom and is all happy, saying she is going to save his land. Then a few chapters later, when Fiona does the same thing, he acts all suspicious, saying those Fae powers brought curses to his lands? It makes me wonder if the author actually thought through these decisions or if she simply forgot what she had written in previous chapters.
Also, after Fiona becomes an orc, she seems to lose all her human traits instantly. The entire process of adaptation and internal conflict lasted about two chapters, and then it was just over. There’s never any mention of her feeling uncomfortable with her new appearance or feeling out of place. Honestly, it took me longer to get used to a tattoo on my arm than it took Fiona to adapt to an entirely new body.
Then, the book tries to sell the idea that Fiona has never lifted a finger in her life, but then she starts cleaning Malek’s house like a pro, training with an axe, and doing a thousand other chores. For someone who hasn't been used to physical labor for over 100 years, she handles it all with such natural ease that it completely betrays the character established at the beginning.
The plot inconsistencies are frustrating, too. From the start, there are hints that Malek knows exactly who Fiona is based on her scent and features, but when she finally tells him the truth, he acts surprised and angry, only to claim later that he always knew. The same thing happens with Fiona’s powers, he discovers she has earth powers because she made a rare flower bloom and is all happy, saying she is going to save his land. Then a few chapters later, when Fiona does the same thing, he acts all suspicious, saying those Fae powers brought curses to his lands? It makes me wonder if the author actually thought through these decisions or if she simply forgot what she had written in previous chapters.
May 26, 2026
I read this in a single sitting - totally in the mood for a good, sweet orc story to cleanse my eyeballs and mind. This did it for me and MORE.
Fionnuala was NO damsel in distress. She was actually a badass bitch who fought for herself and everything she stood for. I liked her a lot, especially given her being a High Fae princess. You know they typically have a type. Not this woman!!!
And Malek. Yes sirrrrr. He’s brutal when necessary but such a kind soul and I loved him from the beginning. Need a 11ft tall mans with compassion, braided hair, a knot, AND piercings (everywhere 👀). Don’t worry, you found him. He’s the leader of this orc clan and if Fiona didn’t get to him first, shiiiit.
This was genuinely just a good time. Nothing too intense or serious, mostly a cozy, slow burn with emotions and feelings and a little bit of “let’s fuck shit up” energy and I loved it.
5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
Fionnuala was NO damsel in distress. She was actually a badass bitch who fought for herself and everything she stood for. I liked her a lot, especially given her being a High Fae princess. You know they typically have a type. Not this woman!!!
And Malek. Yes sirrrrr. He’s brutal when necessary but such a kind soul and I loved him from the beginning. Need a 11ft tall mans with compassion, braided hair, a knot, AND piercings (everywhere 👀). Don’t worry, you found him. He’s the leader of this orc clan and if Fiona didn’t get to him first, shiiiit.
This was genuinely just a good time. Nothing too intense or serious, mostly a cozy, slow burn with emotions and feelings and a little bit of “let’s fuck shit up” energy and I loved it.
5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
June 1, 2026
Absolutely loved the start of the book but it ended up losing its momentum halfway through.
The plot lacked any depth and was definitely driven by tropes rather than any in-depth world building. Plus dialogue was a bit too cringey for me unfortunately, it completely took me out of the scene.
The ending also gave me “then everybody clapped” vibes which was anticlimactic. It’s such a shame because I was really loving the start of the book!
The plot lacked any depth and was definitely driven by tropes rather than any in-depth world building. Plus dialogue was a bit too cringey for me unfortunately, it completely took me out of the scene.
The ending also gave me “then everybody clapped” vibes which was anticlimactic. It’s such a shame because I was really loving the start of the book!
May 1, 2026
Addictive, perfectly paced, and had me completely losing my mind
→ Overall vibe
This book had me giggling, kicking my feet, screaming into my pillow the entire time. The tension??? INSANE. The kind that keeps you hooked from start to finish without ever getting frustrating.
→ What I loved
The characters??? I’m in love. They feel alive, dynamic, and their chemistry is just… everything.
And one thing I appreciated so much: no unnecessary drama. Everything flows naturally, nothing feels forced, and it makes the story so much more enjoyable.
The pacing is also perfect. It’s fast, easy to read, but still really well built. Nothing feels rushed or empty.
→ This scene???
The way I SCREAMED???
Malek… my man. My MAN.
→ And honestly
I have so many more quotes that made me freak out, giggle, bury my face in my pillow… but I won’t spoil anything. Just trust me on this.
→ I need more.
Like… I NEED MORE.
I would give anything for another book about Drak. I need to know who he ends up with. I need more of him.
And Kalisha??? My baby. She deserves everything. I need her HEA.
→ Overall
This was everything I want in a romantasy read: tension, characters, emotions, and zero unnecessary complications.
→ Overall vibe
This book had me giggling, kicking my feet, screaming into my pillow the entire time. The tension??? INSANE. The kind that keeps you hooked from start to finish without ever getting frustrating.
→ What I loved
The characters??? I’m in love. They feel alive, dynamic, and their chemistry is just… everything.
And one thing I appreciated so much: no unnecessary drama. Everything flows naturally, nothing feels forced, and it makes the story so much more enjoyable.
The pacing is also perfect. It’s fast, easy to read, but still really well built. Nothing feels rushed or empty.
→ This scene???
“– Where you see weakness, I see fire. And fire doesn’t need permission to burn, Fiona.
– Fire can also burn everything if you aren’t careful.
– Then let it burn. I would rather turn to ashes at your side than live without knowing your touch.”
The way I SCREAMED???
Malek… my man. My MAN.
→ And honestly
I have so many more quotes that made me freak out, giggle, bury my face in my pillow… but I won’t spoil anything. Just trust me on this.
→ I need more.
Like… I NEED MORE.
I would give anything for another book about Drak. I need to know who he ends up with. I need more of him.
And Kalisha??? My baby. She deserves everything. I need her HEA.
→ Overall
This was everything I want in a romantasy read: tension, characters, emotions, and zero unnecessary complications.
May 19, 2026
I couldn’t stop reading.
I was so hooked that even while I was working i couldn’t stop thinking about this book and what could happen and just praying for work to end so I could finish it.
The pacing was fantastic and the style of writing was easily digestible making it a quick read.
The story was so sweet and avoided tropes that often cause me a lot of frustration. For example the couple had good communication which prevented a lot of silly relationship drama which allowed us to really focus on the plot.
I would die for Malek and Fiona honestly.
I assume there will be more books and I would love to see a story focusing on our other side characters.
I really would love to see more about Drak, Kristen, Leone and Kalisha.
I was so hooked that even while I was working i couldn’t stop thinking about this book and what could happen and just praying for work to end so I could finish it.
The pacing was fantastic and the style of writing was easily digestible making it a quick read.
The story was so sweet and avoided tropes that often cause me a lot of frustration. For example the couple had good communication which prevented a lot of silly relationship drama which allowed us to really focus on the plot.
I would die for Malek and Fiona honestly.
I assume there will be more books and I would love to see a story focusing on our other side characters.
I really would love to see more about Drak, Kristen, Leone and Kalisha.
June 4, 2026
was it good or was it just a ten foot tall love interest that isn’t a man of the 21st century named ethan or jack or kyle who is self employed and values “fitness and health” as the most important attributes in their future partner? was it good or do i just hate men so much that i yearn for something they could never be : someone who loves and respects their partner very much (and is also an orc)?
May 31, 2026
TRIGGER WARNING. Gender-based violence from the MML to the FML.
- The MML strangling the FML as a punishment for 'disobedience' and saying 'good girl' to her when she apologised to him after he had humiliated her.
- The MML harrassing, gawking and stalking the FML while she is naked.
I may vomit. Yuck-
Managed till Chapter 10 before the digusting masc-dom vibes started.
Before that happened, I actually had enjoyed the book with its rich invented vocabulary (though there were incongruencies in how the phrases appeared in text and how they were listed in the index). The plot thus far had been enjoyable, even funny. But this - absolutely not.
Noping out. Dnf.
- The MML strangling the FML as a punishment for 'disobedience' and saying 'good girl' to her when she apologised to him after he had humiliated her.
- The MML harrassing, gawking and stalking the FML while she is naked.
I may vomit. Yuck-
Managed till Chapter 10 before the digusting masc-dom vibes started.
Before that happened, I actually had enjoyed the book with its rich invented vocabulary (though there were incongruencies in how the phrases appeared in text and how they were listed in the index). The plot thus far had been enjoyable, even funny. But this - absolutely not.
Noping out. Dnf.
June 1, 2026
I'm leaving this book 4 stars, because it's an indie book, else it would be 3 stars. I really struggled with this review.
The idea and the beginning of this book was really good. There were some things that confused me or irritated me, but overall, the first half of this book was good.
The second half however has huge pacing problems and inconsistencies.
The romance between the MCs is slow and good, until they are suddenly in love, confess to each other and without even talking about it, are mated. It's just kind of anticlimactic and I felt like I missed a few chapters.
Fiona just accepted Maleks claim and they didn't talk about anything at all.
That the MC knew the whole time who she was, was not well planned out in my opinion. His behaviour was terrible, if he really knew who she was and if he really felt for her the whole time. His reactions also didn't make sense if he knew who she was. It just felt like this idea came the author later and she tried to incorporate it into the story.
Fiona on the other hand was over all inconsistent and not well developed as character.
This whole world has to be TINY since they can go to war by foot and can go there and back within a day.
The second half of this book was all over the place, politics that made no sense whatsoever, the person who cursed Fiona suddenly appearing and helping, dialogue that could be from a Fanfiction in 2010.
I don't have a problem with a little bit of cringe, but these dialogues gave me goosebumps, and not the good kind.
I read this book in two sittings and I can't say, that I didn't enjoy it. But the plotholes and inconsistencies were just too big for a better rating.
The idea and the beginning of this book was really good. There were some things that confused me or irritated me, but overall, the first half of this book was good.
The second half however has huge pacing problems and inconsistencies.
The romance between the MCs is slow and good, until they are suddenly in love, confess to each other and without even talking about it, are mated. It's just kind of anticlimactic and I felt like I missed a few chapters.
Fiona just accepted Maleks claim and they didn't talk about anything at all.
That the MC knew the whole time who she was, was not well planned out in my opinion. His behaviour was terrible, if he really knew who she was and if he really felt for her the whole time. His reactions also didn't make sense if he knew who she was. It just felt like this idea came the author later and she tried to incorporate it into the story.
Fiona on the other hand was over all inconsistent and not well developed as character.
This whole world has to be TINY since they can go to war by foot and can go there and back within a day.
The second half of this book was all over the place, politics that made no sense whatsoever, the person who cursed Fiona suddenly appearing and helping, dialogue that could be from a Fanfiction in 2010.
I don't have a problem with a little bit of cringe, but these dialogues gave me goosebumps, and not the good kind.
I read this book in two sittings and I can't say, that I didn't enjoy it. But the plotholes and inconsistencies were just too big for a better rating.
May 10, 2026
3.7 stars
If this book requires a trigger warning, then as a society we’re probably doomed — or you should stick to children’s books and fairy tales.
If you’re looking for a cute, sweet little orc romance, then this Shrek retelling is absolutely for you. For me, though, it was waaay too sappy and lovey-dovey. At times it bordered on cringe, and I found myself rolling my eyes and skipping pages. But that’s just me — I’m not really one for over-the-top affection and endless declarations of love. They make me feel physically sick.
That said, if you’re the complete opposite and adore soft, gushy romance, then dive in headfirst because you’ll probably eat this shit up.
I will say, though, that it made for a nice palate cleanser and a good break in between the heavy dark romances and massive fantasy series I usually gravitate towards.
One thing I personally hate in fantasy books is when another language is constantly used and you have to keep flipping to a glossary to figure out what the bloody hell a word means. It completely pulls me out of the story. Again though, that’s a personal preference rather than a criticism of the writing itself.
If this book requires a trigger warning, then as a society we’re probably doomed — or you should stick to children’s books and fairy tales.
If you’re looking for a cute, sweet little orc romance, then this Shrek retelling is absolutely for you. For me, though, it was waaay too sappy and lovey-dovey. At times it bordered on cringe, and I found myself rolling my eyes and skipping pages. But that’s just me — I’m not really one for over-the-top affection and endless declarations of love. They make me feel physically sick.
That said, if you’re the complete opposite and adore soft, gushy romance, then dive in headfirst because you’ll probably eat this shit up.
I will say, though, that it made for a nice palate cleanser and a good break in between the heavy dark romances and massive fantasy series I usually gravitate towards.
One thing I personally hate in fantasy books is when another language is constantly used and you have to keep flipping to a glossary to figure out what the bloody hell a word means. It completely pulls me out of the story. Again though, that’s a personal preference rather than a criticism of the writing itself.
June 15, 2026
3 ⭐️
This was cute!! The first 50% really sucked me in and I could NOT put it down, I was sitting at a solid 3.5 to potentially a 4 but the last 50% really kinda lost me. I absolutely loved the pretense of this , it was so fun and a cool twist on shrek. The beginning was giving me a malificent vibe as well and I was loving the world building. This was my first orc romance and as an avid monster loving girlie I felt ashamed I hadn’t read one yet…but the romance fell a bit flat for me. I wanted a little more angst and tension. I think this is one of the reasons my rating fell as the story went on, I also was a little disappointed by the ending, the choices that were made didn’t make sense to me and it felt extremely anticlimactic.
This was cute!! The first 50% really sucked me in and I could NOT put it down, I was sitting at a solid 3.5 to potentially a 4 but the last 50% really kinda lost me. I absolutely loved the pretense of this , it was so fun and a cool twist on shrek. The beginning was giving me a malificent vibe as well and I was loving the world building. This was my first orc romance and as an avid monster loving girlie I felt ashamed I hadn’t read one yet…but the romance fell a bit flat for me. I wanted a little more angst and tension. I think this is one of the reasons my rating fell as the story went on, I also was a little disappointed by the ending, the choices that were made didn’t make sense to me and it felt extremely anticlimactic.
June 30, 2026
Cursed on her wedding day, will princess Fionnuala survive life as an orc? And maybe just find love along the way...
What I liked: This was a super creative way to incorporate the cursed-princess aspect of Shrek into a fantasy romance. I found Fionnuala to be a really likeable female lead & Malek was a swoon-worthy MMC.
Why only 4 stars: I don't love it when there's a ton of fantasy language words incorporated into a story. Personal preference. It really slowed the pace down, to me!
Tropes: she's a monster too, monster romance, orcs, fish out of water
What I liked: This was a super creative way to incorporate the cursed-princess aspect of Shrek into a fantasy romance. I found Fionnuala to be a really likeable female lead & Malek was a swoon-worthy MMC.
Why only 4 stars: I don't love it when there's a ton of fantasy language words incorporated into a story. Personal preference. It really slowed the pace down, to me!
Tropes: she's a monster too, monster romance, orcs, fish out of water
May 31, 2026
This book just wasn't doing it for me. Lots of inconsistencies and stale dialogue. It just felt like it was going nowhere for me, like the build up wasn't there.
I do think this book has a ton of potential, some things just need to be reworked.
I do think this book has a ton of potential, some things just need to be reworked.
June 8, 2026
3.75 ✨ I really enjoyed this book, I loved Malek, who doesn’t love a Orc leader who’s obsessed with his girl 😍 I love how strong Fiona was! They were great together and I loved the fated mates aspect of the story and how they were always linked! Such a cute read!
May 19, 2026
Very easy and straightforward that it brought me out of the reading slump 😛
May 23, 2026
Amazing!
June 16, 2026
Very gud and well wrighten
May 30, 2026
Great fun read what I needed
May 15, 2026
so. GOOD, JESUS CHRIST
My god that was a really good book, it had me giggling, furious and almost altogether in love with orcs.
My god that was a really good book, it had me giggling, furious and almost altogether in love with orcs.
May 27, 2026
Zu viel Shrek Abklatsch.
May 12, 2026
Really enjoyed this book and will keep my eye out for more from this author
May 29, 2026
I find it hard to believe the main character, who was described as vain and never having done any work in her life, being able to adjust to becoming an orc that quickly. Especially when she first saw how her blond hair looked with green skin, she described it as ugly or something like that. Then when she gets to the orc camp she's just suddenly okay with working hard every day of her life? I doubt it.
There were also several plot inconsistencies, and how the author handled who the MMC really was could have been better.
Also the artwork that depicts her as an orc is inconsistent with how orcs are described in the book.
There were also several plot inconsistencies, and how the author handled who the MMC really was could have been better.
Also the artwork that depicts her as an orc is inconsistent with how orcs are described in the book.
Did Not Finish
June 28, 2026I didnt even start this. Straight of the bat it had a section on words in the characters language and the English translation and my brain just cant right now so until further notice its a no from me
June 9, 2026
This could be a translation error. But the dialogue and prose is distracting most of the time, and confusing every time after. Legit there are so many instances of the exact “it wasn’t just this, it was this” I had to google if the translation company used AI. I was actually dumbfounded at how often it occurs. And the plot inconsistency doesn’t help. So MMC recognized FMC instantly but was still flabbergasted that she was exactly who he thought she was??? And they praise her for being goddess sent with her magic…but then he’s mad she has magic??? We keep moving forward and backward with the characters. One page, he’s accusing her of being deceitful and breaking her word (of which she literally has never done) and then like 10 pages later, they’re doing the nasty and he’s irrevocably in love with her. But then he’s distrustful again???
Additionally, and this is a nitpick, the FMC is a Mary Sue. She’s kind of just…perfect. At everything. Her magic? 10/10 goddess blessed. Learning a language? Easy peasy I guess. Self loathing for being “ugly”? (She calls herself that), instantly forgotten, no self consciousness or doubt here. Fighting? She picked it up so fast, she’s teaching someone else to fight immediately and perfectly competently. She has no issues. :) her personality is insufferable outside of that, she’s relentlessly entitled the entire first half, then perfectly fitting in and the princess of the people in the second. It read like Shrek self-insert fanfiction.
Additionally, and this is a nitpick, the FMC is a Mary Sue. She’s kind of just…perfect. At everything. Her magic? 10/10 goddess blessed. Learning a language? Easy peasy I guess. Self loathing for being “ugly”? (She calls herself that), instantly forgotten, no self consciousness or doubt here. Fighting? She picked it up so fast, she’s teaching someone else to fight immediately and perfectly competently. She has no issues. :) her personality is insufferable outside of that, she’s relentlessly entitled the entire first half, then perfectly fitting in and the princess of the people in the second. It read like Shrek self-insert fanfiction.
May 27, 2026
Malek and Fiona 💜
Saw this on my feed as an adult fantasy shrek retelling and my interest was piqued immediately. I’m so glad I read this because I had the best time and fell in love with the characters and the world. Fionnuala, or Fiona, went on quite the personal journey from being a pampered and sheltered fae princess to becoming a strong and independent orc after being cursed on the day of her wedding. She was forced to leave her world behind to learn how to survive amongst the orcs, realizing that everything she thought she knew about them was colored by years of hate between the two groups. Malek is a strong and protective leader who saves Fiona and teaches her their ways, trusting her despite their differences and growing closer to her more and more as time goes on. The two have an undeniable connection that spans back to when they met as children and now together again, their love could be the turning stone for peace between the orcs and the fae. May a love like Malek feels for Fiona find me because the care and devotion he has for her is top tier! 🥰 I love them together so much and the family and friends that gather around them to fight for a new path of peace and change. 💜 I can’t wait for the next book because I need to see Kalisha finding her happiness and to get more details on the connection between Kristan and Drak that formed!!
Saw this on my feed as an adult fantasy shrek retelling and my interest was piqued immediately. I’m so glad I read this because I had the best time and fell in love with the characters and the world. Fionnuala, or Fiona, went on quite the personal journey from being a pampered and sheltered fae princess to becoming a strong and independent orc after being cursed on the day of her wedding. She was forced to leave her world behind to learn how to survive amongst the orcs, realizing that everything she thought she knew about them was colored by years of hate between the two groups. Malek is a strong and protective leader who saves Fiona and teaches her their ways, trusting her despite their differences and growing closer to her more and more as time goes on. The two have an undeniable connection that spans back to when they met as children and now together again, their love could be the turning stone for peace between the orcs and the fae. May a love like Malek feels for Fiona find me because the care and devotion he has for her is top tier! 🥰 I love them together so much and the family and friends that gather around them to fight for a new path of peace and change. 💜 I can’t wait for the next book because I need to see Kalisha finding her happiness and to get more details on the connection between Kristan and Drak that formed!!
June 2, 2026
woof okay, again here I am lured into a book from an instagram reel. really caught me with the Shrek retelling, only mates braid each others hair schtick. Well, honestly, this felt so copy & paste from a “how to write a fae fantasy book 101” like we chatgpt’d the outline & wrote two sentences off each bullet point. Not enough world building & cultural info for me personally. You get a star for the made up Orc language - I enjoyed that part. However it fell SOO flat. Just boring & stereotypical in the worst way.
Like okay she gets turned into an Orc by a witch or whatever & she magically is comfortable in her new 10 foot tall body?!?! Like no struggle at all except for 2 sentences.
Also the hair braiding scene did not go as I expected either like why was it a challenge thing idk could’ve been more romantic
Had so much potential - definitely needed someone to edit & I don’t know, write something better
The other star is for the Orc 69 scene & the pearls on his dick. At least that was creative.
Like okay she gets turned into an Orc by a witch or whatever & she magically is comfortable in her new 10 foot tall body?!?! Like no struggle at all except for 2 sentences.
Also the hair braiding scene did not go as I expected either like why was it a challenge thing idk could’ve been more romantic
Had so much potential - definitely needed someone to edit & I don’t know, write something better
The other star is for the Orc 69 scene & the pearls on his dick. At least that was creative.
May 9, 2026
This was a quick and easy read - saw a tiktok about it - grabbed is from KU, finished it before bed.
I am a fan of Orc books and found this to be a fun take on the common lore behind them and a new world built with a Fae focus. I appreciate the time and effort of building a new language that is both referenced at the beginning in a glossary and throughout the book. The formula of this book was not surprising, but I still enjoyed the ride. The characters learn and grow as the story continues, and the romance/spice felt appropriate and earned when it happened. I do wish the end ~third of the story had felt as fleshed out as the romance and growth of the main characters - but appreciate the author including something other than just the 'romance' as a focus. Interested to see where the series goes and how the seeds of that overarching story hopefully plays out more fully.
I am a fan of Orc books and found this to be a fun take on the common lore behind them and a new world built with a Fae focus. I appreciate the time and effort of building a new language that is both referenced at the beginning in a glossary and throughout the book. The formula of this book was not surprising, but I still enjoyed the ride. The characters learn and grow as the story continues, and the romance/spice felt appropriate and earned when it happened. I do wish the end ~third of the story had felt as fleshed out as the romance and growth of the main characters - but appreciate the author including something other than just the 'romance' as a focus. Interested to see where the series goes and how the seeds of that overarching story hopefully plays out more fully.
June 1, 2026
Firstly, I love this cover. Secondly, I think I've just read a fan fiction inspired by shrek, but not at all shrek 🤣🤣
Honestly, I loved this book, the character growth from Fiona is great. She starts off a little arrogant in her high fae ways, but that calms down the longer she stays with the orcs; she was sassy as fuck, stubborn but determined. I loved Malek, with his intense and quiet looks at her 😭 man was obsessed from day one, and will be until the follow each other into the next world.
I love how the male characters listened to her when she brought up her plans, we see the transition from fae princess that was destined to be just a baby maker, to an actual person, a partner, and leader.
Plot line was fantastic, smooth and flowed so easily. The magic element was fun and easy to understand, except for the curse, I failed at that comprehension test 😭
Honestly, I loved this book, the character growth from Fiona is great. She starts off a little arrogant in her high fae ways, but that calms down the longer she stays with the orcs; she was sassy as fuck, stubborn but determined. I loved Malek, with his intense and quiet looks at her 😭 man was obsessed from day one, and will be until the follow each other into the next world.
I love how the male characters listened to her when she brought up her plans, we see the transition from fae princess that was destined to be just a baby maker, to an actual person, a partner, and leader.
Plot line was fantastic, smooth and flowed so easily. The magic element was fun and easy to understand, except for the curse, I failed at that comprehension test 😭
June 8, 2026
⋆｡°✩ Spoiler Free Reviews ⋆｡°✩
I love me a good orc romance!
Tropes for this one; orc romance, enemies to lovers, slow burn, forbidden love, forced proximity, powerful heroine, touch her & die, secrets, betrayal, Beauty becomes the Beast, Shrek retelling (I kid you not!)
Smut for this one was 3/5 on the spice scale and its a HEA.
Fiona is our FMC and I actually loved her. She was a little pompous for my taste at first, very much Spoiled Princess vibes but actually she redeemed herself. She definitely won my heart over and I loved the person she became!
Malek is our MMC and something about a gruff alpha orc just.. ugh yes. I loved the fact that he knows more than he says, and he’s happy to let his woman defend herself.. more like Malek, please and thank you!
I love me a good orc romance!
Tropes for this one; orc romance, enemies to lovers, slow burn, forbidden love, forced proximity, powerful heroine, touch her & die, secrets, betrayal, Beauty becomes the Beast, Shrek retelling (I kid you not!)
Smut for this one was 3/5 on the spice scale and its a HEA.
Fiona is our FMC and I actually loved her. She was a little pompous for my taste at first, very much Spoiled Princess vibes but actually she redeemed herself. She definitely won my heart over and I loved the person she became!
Malek is our MMC and something about a gruff alpha orc just.. ugh yes. I loved the fact that he knows more than he says, and he’s happy to let his woman defend herself.. more like Malek, please and thank you!
June 23, 2026
I read this book because an Instagram reel and I somehow didn’t think the story would be like this one.
I enjoyed it but I have my problems. It had so many potential!
For me the first half of the book was okay and a bit meh. High fae princess’ shock about orc body and change of her life lasted for a few pages and then suddenly gone.
I would love to have more Malek POV, since through Fiona’s eyes it felt like he was constantly suspicious of her identity and actually he knew it from the start and acted like that in the favor of Fiona.
I liked the second half more! Things started to happen, and i couldn’t put the book down. But it felt like the change between the first and second half felt rushed and too fast.
Overall an enjoyable read.
I enjoyed it but I have my problems. It had so many potential!
For me the first half of the book was okay and a bit meh. High fae princess’ shock about orc body and change of her life lasted for a few pages and then suddenly gone.
I would love to have more Malek POV, since through Fiona’s eyes it felt like he was constantly suspicious of her identity and actually he knew it from the start and acted like that in the favor of Fiona.
I liked the second half more! Things started to happen, and i couldn’t put the book down. But it felt like the change between the first and second half felt rushed and too fast.
Overall an enjoyable read.
June 1, 2026
2.5/5 stars
This was a cute read, but unfortunately it lacked a bit of substance for me.
The pacing felt far too rushed, which was probably a consequence of the book’s short length. Because of that, I never really had enough time to connect with the characters or become fully invested in the story.
There were also quite a few moments that felt illogical. I mean… who wouldn’t question an orc woman who can’t speak the language and knows absolutely nothing about the local customs? 😅
Overall, it was enjoyable enough, but not particularly memorable. You can read it, but you’re not really missing out if you don’t.
This was a cute read, but unfortunately it lacked a bit of substance for me.
The pacing felt far too rushed, which was probably a consequence of the book’s short length. Because of that, I never really had enough time to connect with the characters or become fully invested in the story.
There were also quite a few moments that felt illogical. I mean… who wouldn’t question an orc woman who can’t speak the language and knows absolutely nothing about the local customs? 😅
Overall, it was enjoyable enough, but not particularly memorable. You can read it, but you’re not really missing out if you don’t.
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