Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
Kassie Edwards—When a messy divorce, an absentee father who can’t even bother to call, and small-town gossip leaves my kids hurting, I decide that it’s time for a fresh start. Armed with our few possessions and limited savings, we move across realms to help out at my—until recently fellow-divorcee—best friend’s new cafe, The Spiced Pumpkin, just in time for the Halloween season. Ghostly goblins may have it in for me this time as everyone prepares for the greatest festival the village has ever seen. Pumpkin patches, carnivals and a goblins ball are a delight, and I’m tempted to trust my heart again by an Orc whose confections are only as sweet as his heart.
Garval Ironclaw---Ever since the last harvest festival, I haven’t been able to get a certain female out of my mind. Even now that I’ve hung up my battle axe in exchange for the warm comforts of a cozy kitchen in my own bakery inside of The Spiced Pumpkin. Co-owning this little establishment is a dream come true for this giant of an orc, but what I truly yearn for is the female I haven’t forgotten. The same female who is now working in the kitchen across from me. I can’t seem to stay away even when I know I should. And with the human festivities of All Hallows Eve bleeding into our quiet village, merging with our own traditions of Hallow Night, I’m eager to cook up a few memorable treats. I’m not such a fool that I cannot see that no sweet can compare to the lips of the female I wish to make my mate.

151 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 18, 2021

97 people are currently reading
532 people want to read

About the author

S.J. Sanders

86 books1,007 followers
S.J. Sanders is a mom of two toddlers and one adult living in Anchorage, Alaska. She has a BA degree in History, but spends most of her free time painting, sculpting, doing odd bits of historical research, and writing. While she has more research orientated writing under another pen name, her passion is sci-fi and paranormal romance of which she is an avid reader. After years of tinkering with the idea, and making her own stories up in her head, S.J has began to seriously pursue writing as an author of Sci-fi Romance utilizing her interests in how cultures diversify and what they would look like on a extraterrestrial platform to humans interacting with them and finding love.

She can be found on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Author-SJ-Sa...

And follow her blog at https://sjsandersromance.wordpress.com

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
572 (50%)
4 stars
324 (28%)
3 stars
178 (15%)
2 stars
41 (3%)
1 star
10 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
Profile Image for Lindsay.
219 reviews276 followers
July 20, 2022
This orc won me over. Garval is the brother of Body from How to Claim a Human Mate and I had been anticipating the way S.J. Sanders would weave Lynn’s BFF into a relationship with her brother in law. Since I believe the romance of the tension atleast begins in the prior book, I would recommend reading both though the series is by no means necessary to enjoy the book. If you are in this world for the orcs only, reading Book 1: The Orc Wife, Book 6 and this would leave you well equipped in this world.

Into the actual plot, we have Kassie , the aforementioned BFF and newly divorced mom of 3. Her douchebag of an ex moved on so fast that he already has a bun in the oven with who was probably his mistress. Thus small town gossip and need to get away. This comes verbatim from the synopsis (sue me I cannot summarize to save my life), but into my opinions of the characterization. Often characters that are single mothers don’t connect with me because I am 20 years old and obviously not the target demographic. However, I liked Kassie. She was more than just a Mom (I mean that in a positive way. I just dislike it when people’s character becomes enmeshed in some else’s).

Garval was in a tough position, in love with a woman he thought he couldn’t have… her being mated and all. When Garval finds out she is unattached and he’s been misled by his brother, there is some drama that I loved. Newly secure in his protection and care for her, they quickly became a family which I loved.

The writing was at times funny. I caught myself laughing out loud a few times and this gives a fair dose of the steam. This was fabulous and if there is another book, especially an orc, I’ll continue.
Profile Image for ❀ Crystal ✿ -  PEACE ☮ LOVE ♥ BOOKS .
2,532 reviews308 followers
October 25, 2021
This book was my first dive into the series & it worked fine as a standalone. It was a super quick and lighthearted read which was just what I needed. I definitely need to go back and read through the series!!! The heroine and her children move across realms looking for a fresh start. Life is completely different for them all but immediately everyone is happier. The hero Garval has had a crush on the human Kassie for a year since spotting her but as she was mated he keeps his feelings to himself. The two work together and it doesn't help matters that Garval's brother keeps secret about Kassie no longer being married. His antics however do allow the two to bond and get to know one another. This also gives Garval time to show Kassie what a good male, mate and father he could be. Very cute read and I loved the Halloween/Holiday theme.
3,323 reviews30 followers
October 27, 2021
Trick or Orc

Yup, I admit I couldn't wait for Kassie to leave her awful husband and take the offered job Lynn wanted her to take.
428 reviews3 followers
September 4, 2025
3.5⭐️

Equal parts cozy small town fantasy, swoonworthy romance and delicious smutty goodness. Our FMC is a single mum in her early 40s and she lands herself a big, brawny ex-warrior orc / baker. That’s right he can toss you over his shoulder and whip up cinnamon rolls… while being one himself.

He’s doting, dominant when needed and did I mention very well equipped 😏 Only downside is the ending is a bit abrupt and editing is a hot mess. Good thing there was a hot orc to distract me.
Profile Image for Mx_Virg.
38 reviews1 follower
February 7, 2023
Rating: 2.5

After reading "How to claim a human mate", I immediately wanted to read Kassie and Garval's story. And like it's predecessor, it was very cute. No drama, no side plot that doesn't really add much to the story anyway. I enjoyed most of the book. Too bad that the parts I don't enjoy, I really disliked. I don't know if I'll go back and read the rest of the series, I like the vibe but some of the tropes and character development kills it for me.

Garval is the opposite of his brother, more subdued and respectful, so I liked him a lot more. But he does share some things with his brother, namely: not communicating and hiding stuff from the woman you're courting. *sigh* There were several moments, I was like "wait, he still hasn't told her?!?". There are other ways to create tension and friction in your story then miscommunication. Change it up!

But what really left a sour taste in my mouth was this little gem of a quote:
I can't even be mad at Garval for keeping our bloodbond a secret in the first place. If I had paid attention at all to Lynn, I would have known it right away, and so I recognize it as my fault.

So, he lies, but because she didn't figure it out, it's really her fault? Seriously? Wtf?!? This alone dropped my rating from a 3-3.5 to a 2.5.

The worst is, this wasn't even needed, the story would have still made sense without this, this is ridiculous and just wrong. My guess is that the author thought "well, anyone would be mad for being lied to like that, but since it's the end of the book, here's a little tidbit to explain why she isn't mad." There are many inconsistencies within this story, and that's ok, that's on par for the genre. I thought "well she's in love and finds it romantic, or something like that, who cares if she doesn't", I didn't need to know she's blaming herself for his lies and not figuring it out!

I'm sad, the first part especially was quite cute and entertaining.
Profile Image for JML.
1,298 reviews24 followers
October 22, 2021
Omg this was such a delicious treat🔥💖🔥💖🔥

This was one of the best Halloween holiday treats that I've had the pleasure of reading. I love Garval from Lynn and Body's story. I wanted him to find his happily ever after and if it can't be with me than the so fearful Kassie will just have to do.lol Kassie and Garval's story started in Lynn's book this reluctant warrior took one look at Kassie and new she was the female for him. Unfortunately with this realization came the knowledge that his beloved was mated to another and already had children. He forced himself to protect and care for her from afar. Kassie fell in the with the Fae world but returned home because of her love for her children and the marriage she was trying to save to a shallow mean man who didn't deserve her or their wonderful children. When she gets the opportunity to too back she takes and move the whole family! When she sees Garval again her mind and body are now fully able to appreciate her handsome warrior. There are so a!my laugh out loud moments, tender moments and outright passionate ones that you won't be able to put the book down. I loved every minute of this story and I highly recommend you read it for yourself. As a matter of fact I highly recommend the whole Monsterly Yours series you won't be disappointed💖🔥💖🔥🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥💖🔥💖💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥💖🔥💖💖💖🔥🔥💖🔥💖🔥
Profile Image for Ambrosia.
43 reviews2 followers
October 20, 2021
It was a quick read if a bit boring and not an ounce of drama, but I can't help but feel that the romance between the two characters moved TOO FAST like 0-1oo fast, considering she has three kids. I was half expecting/hoping that the ex would come back into the picture only for there to be a little bit of drama when she sent him packing.



**Spoilers Here**

UNHYGENIC AND UNPROFESSIONAL, who makes out in a commercial kitchen, with the girl pinned to the wall where customers and staff can easily look inside. Literally, a page before another woman was checking him out while she was entering the shop, and then they're tongue wrestling. Like WTF. (I know, novel, but unbelievable in standards of business. Lynn should be fuming.)

Also having wild sex in her room I can totally get behind, what I can't is that her youngest (1?) is sleeping in his crib IN HER ROOM, and she is not being quiet. Like seriously have some consideration and there is no regard for the baby when they all cry out in passion. That honestly makes no sense to me.

The I love you when they have only had sex for the second time, and not even a month (I believe) since she has moved to the village. Like gurl you thirsty, but you shouldn't be THAT thirsty.

and finally..... twins.... why?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for m..
836 reviews82 followers
October 30, 2021
3.5 STARS

I rarely say this, if ever really, but I wish this book had been shorter and the smut had happened sooner. I think overall it's a me thing and not the book's fault I was in the mood for one specific thing and picked up this book and it turns out it wasn't really the thing I had been looking for. Still a cute story overall though, despite this being a novella, the author took her time developing the romance which I can certainly respect!
Profile Image for Poppy || Monster Lover.
1,808 reviews500 followers
August 14, 2023
Cute, but dragged a bit for me

I liked the premise of this book, with a divorced single mother being loved on by an orc. Garval was a sweetie and I loved that he was a baker.
The lack of communication about a major plot point between main characters was weird to me, especially since they were open with each other about everything else.
This was very much a cozy slice of life romance novella.

Spice: 3/5

Triggers: former cheating spouse
Profile Image for MC.
650 reviews7 followers
May 14, 2023
super spicy sweet story

4.5 / 5.0 what a fun short story. If you’re familiar with any of the other stories in this collection, then Kassie and Garval are not new players. As with the other books, this one is cosy, slice of life, sexy good fun. There is an HEA epilogue so be ready for that bit of sweetness. The only thing I wish was some retribution for the cheating deadbeat dad ex, but here’s hoping he got his comeuppance.

Until Next Time
MC
Profile Image for BookishKB.
846 reviews207 followers
August 30, 2025
🎃 Bookish Thoughts
This was short and sweet! Just a fluffy Halloween monster romance novella.

✨Fave Quote
“This is perfect,” he observes, his voice thick with emotion. “This is what mating is. Two beings coming together to make something so perfect between them that it nourishes their hearts.”
Profile Image for Taboo and Tentacles.
49 reviews15 followers
October 5, 2025
This was such a sweet, cozy spooky season read that was exactly what I needed. 🎃

No drama, lots of pining, mating bonds, and an orc MMC that bakes sweet treats. What’s not to love?

For around 50% of this book there was miscommunication, so I did get frustrated with that, but it does all fall into place eventually.

I did really enjoy the story, and I will definitely be picking up other books in this series!
Profile Image for Jesska (๑˃̵ᴗ˂̵)♡.
262 reviews2 followers
October 13, 2022
Super cute halloween romance with some light spice 🔥

Trope: Fated mates

This dual POV follows Kassie & Garval.
Kassie, a warm-hearted loving mother, is trying to hold it together for her three kids since her husband abandoned them all. After a year of being divorced she accepts her friends invite to move across worlds & work at a cafe - where she meets Garval.
Garval is my absolute favorite! He’s a giant orc, former warrior & present baker. He’s basically a giant teddy bear who is obsessed with Kassie at first sight. I enjoyed how much he cared for the kids too, it was nice the whole romance wasn’t just about their lust.

Even though the book is short, I felt there was good enough character development that the connection wasn’t too forced or rushed. I have never read any other books in the series & I didn’t feel like I was missing out from not knowing characters. It did make me want to read other stories within the series!

Would recommend if you’re looking for a short & cute Halloween romance. 💛 🎃
Profile Image for Lady Tea.
1,790 reviews126 followers
April 16, 2023
Rating: 4.1 / 5

This is so cute and sweet, with all the Halloween vibes! (Which is ironic of course, because I'm reading this in April, which is at the exact opposite end of the year!)

Also, what I really appreciated was a bit of a different take on the romance, where this time the heroine is in her 40s, has three kids (one of them a teenager), and is also on the plus side. HOWEVER, her orc hero doesn't want just her, but her entire family as well for his own, and absolutely loves and adores her despite what other human men (like her stupid ex) would consider burdensome or unattractive.

That there's true love, believe you me!

Oh, and also a nice re-read when it comes time to have some pumpkin spice and everything nice. Cheers to reading this next time in the autumn, ha ha! Maybe in my 40s as well? ;)
136 reviews3 followers
October 31, 2021
The Virtue of Patience

This story came at the perfect time, with Halloween today of all days! My love for Sander's stories is ratcheted looking forward to this book. A wonderful telling that has me coveting this particular orcish romance.
Cast aside by a selfish husband who has no loyalty to the family he created, a beautiful woman leaves for opportunities in a land her best friend inspires her to return to and rekindles an interest with a certain orc who has been pining for her since her leave the following year.
Damn if I would wait! Not with hot orc meat that tempting!
Wait, where ARE my manners?! Can't bake a cake if you can't wait, right? Ugh. But I love this story so much, I will wait until the next time I need to read it...which will be sooner than you think!
Profile Image for I'm Fine, Just Tired.
1,215 reviews19 followers
April 9, 2023
My favorite one in this series!

Garval and Kassie are adorable together! And Kassie's kids just automatically being so receptive to moving and the orc culture really made me smile!

Call me a romantic idiot, but something about that really appeals to me in ways I can’t even describe. I’m not entirely sure if I’m on the same page, but I’ve heard that some fae species make their mate selection quickly, which makes courting a human mate all the more frustrating for them. Lucky for him, I also fall in love pretty damn fast. All I can really do is hold on, enjoy the ride, and see if we’re meant to be. this is the attitude I'm looking for in fated ate books. Far superior than the enemies to lovers angstyness that most father mates books have.
Profile Image for Brutally Honest.
495 reviews32 followers
January 2, 2022
This is just sugary sweet over-the-top cotton candy caramel apples and all that.

The whole episode with the pumpkins was super bizarre. The guy works in a KITCHEN for goodness sakes. I've worked in commercial kitchens. It's disgusting at times. Like utterly revolting. Glad I'm not a porter.

H and h are in love and all that within a very short amount of time, and the kids are just... Idk.

So yeah if you're in the mood for insta love and cavities, this is for you. I'm regretfully not in the mood for that at all.
Profile Image for ElfQueen.
535 reviews
March 2, 2022
This is a super cute with a guaranteed HEA! I actually like Garval +Kassie's story more than Bodi + Lynn.
Garval is so sweet + even tempered but also super sexy too. And Kassie was low drama + just wanted the best for her kids.
While the editing could have been better *hence why I gave it 4 instead of 5*, I still thoroughly enjoyed the story. I found myself laughing pretty hard at times + smiling + going "aww" during moments of absolute sweetness.
If you love orc romances like I do but also want a guaranteed HEA without a lot of drama or angst, then give this book a try.
Profile Image for DAISY READS HORROR.
1,121 reviews169 followers
May 9, 2022
This truly was the perfect Autumn feels read for halfway to Halloween🎃! I loved the cover! I mean hellloooo the damn Orc is wearing a candy corn apron lol the setting was perfect for me. I loved that they had a Fall Halloween themed carnival and were baking yummy fall 🍁 treats.

The romance was good it wasn’t heavy in your face. There were some steamy parts of the book but nothing vulgar. I know I’ll be reading more in this series. Im excited the author said the next book will be based in the troll world!
347 reviews
November 10, 2024
Kassie finally gets a HEA with a good male.

This is a direct sequel to Lynn and Bodi’s story. When Garvel first meets Kassie she is still married to the loser Jason and very pregnant. Even so he feels that she is his mate.

When Kassie moves to the Orc world neither Bodi nor Lynn tell him she is divorced. He is so torn,because he now knows she is his mate, but is too honorable to act on the fact. Finally, he finds out and goes into full courting mode.

The HEA of both these women shows you can find true love, even if it is the second time around.
Profile Image for Andi Downs.
1,446 reviews14 followers
October 21, 2021
Fantastic Afternoon Read.

I have been reading and reviewing a variety of Orc themed books, as well as hunting for others. I loved these characters and a story filled with emotion, angst and touches of humour. Kassie was brave in taking that leap for a new life for her and her kids. Her friend, Lynn, her mate and family, all worked to get Kassie and Garval together. Such a fun read and was almost a shame when it ended, but loved the twins and the growing family.
Profile Image for EvaLovesRomance.
472 reviews
December 8, 2021
Beyond Sweet

I so wanted to know what was gonna happen to Kassie and her kids plus the baby ump from Lynn's book. I am so happy that I got to read this book even though somethings from her life made me furious but it was all for the best because she found her one true love that extended to her three kids. Loved this sweet love story of happiness coming through where there was none expected.
Profile Image for Summer.
385 reviews
September 27, 2022
This was such a super cozy and sweet Halloween read. Kassie is a mom of three and divorced. She is finally ready for a fresh start and decides to work for her best friend in a cafe. There she meets Garval, a huge green Orc who loves to bake sweet treats. Sparks fly between the two bakers and it was super cute. This was a super fluffy fall romance that had no angst and was just plain adorable. I do prefer stories with a bit more edge and this was sickeningly sweet but I still enjoyed reading it.
Profile Image for amirahlynn.
596 reviews22 followers
November 1, 2021
2.5, How do I say a book is predictable without it sounding offensive? It’s a predictable novella in between a series. So you know how it’s going to go, nothing surprising. I might have enjoyed more if I had read the other books first but I didn’t. I was going to give it a three but it was just a bit too predictable.
Profile Image for Ingrid Spera.
1,108 reviews27 followers
November 12, 2021
Such a fun and sweet story!

This was like an orc-himan Hallmark story! I absolutely loved how sweet and fun and drama free this was! Just a nice breath of fresh air about a human female and a very delicious orc male. I'd would definitely recommend this little Halloween treat to anyone!
247 reviews4 followers
November 15, 2021
Heart warming love story!! Really good!!!

This story was just what I hoped it would be. Sweet, meaningful relationships and some unusual situations. Loved all the things that you would expect from a teenager who moves to a different place and the feel good bonding that takes place in all their lives. Sweet but sexy I really enjoyed it. Recommend this one to others.
2,374 reviews20 followers
November 16, 2021
Wonderful and Captivating

This book is just as great as all the previous ones and holds your attention from beginning to end? You won't be disappointed in any way when reading this story,it has humor, orcs celebrating Halloween, Kassie finding true love with her orc Garval, and steamy sexy scenes that leaves you saying ahh. A must buy and keep them coming they are awesome.
1,343 reviews4 followers
January 14, 2022
A divorced mom of three moves to the fae side and falls in love with an orc.

After her husbands dumps her for his twenty something mistress and then ignores their children for the next year she takes up a friends offer of a cooking job in the Orc village at her coffee shop. The baker turns out to have a lot of interest in the new cook, and things are soon heating up!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.