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Orc Matched #0.5
Thorn's Dove
"When I touched the gate, I saw my red thread of destiny. I believe the Source led me across the stars to you. My cridhe."
RUTH
After my old life burns to ash, I make the wild decision to buy a coastal farm intending to convert it into a Tolkien-inspired bed-and-breakfast. The ramshackle buildings, overgrowth, and daunting hard work are all things I expected. What I didn't expect was to stumble across an enormous washed-up wall of muscle on my beach. Thorn isn't human. He's an orc from across the universe who speaks with a Scottish accent, wears a kilt, and is dead set on making me his mate.
But I've got more important things to take care of, like completing the renovations on time and keeping a nosy FBI agent at bay. Thorn stays, he helps me, protects me, and shows me heartbreaking patience. Thawing my heart even as he heats my blood. I want him, badly, but I'm too broken. And the last thing I want to do is break his heart of gold.
THORN
A dream sets me on a path far from my homeworld of Talam, to a broken gate that awakens at my touch. Drawn forward by fate, I travel through the gate and across the stars. I wake on a strange planet called Earth with the lovely human female from my dream draped atop me. Ruth is my cridhe, my soul-bound mate. But how am I to woo her when we look so starkly different? When her world is beyond my wildest imaginings? When it is so obvious that males in the past have hurt her terribly and still seek to do so?
To stay by her side, I make a wild gamble to help her realize her dream. In exchange, I'll get to live with her, be near her, and protect her. Even if she never accepts me as her cridhe. It would have to be enough. But it's a fool's promise because I know in my soul that I could never get enough of her.
This is a full-length 65000-word sci-fi alien romance with fantasy elements that is HFN. Content Information is available on the author's website. Originally a short story included in the Big Feels Monster Romance Anthology.
All proceeds from pre-orders and the month of June 2022 to go to charity for bodily autonomy rights. Receipts to be posted on the author's website.
RUTH
After my old life burns to ash, I make the wild decision to buy a coastal farm intending to convert it into a Tolkien-inspired bed-and-breakfast. The ramshackle buildings, overgrowth, and daunting hard work are all things I expected. What I didn't expect was to stumble across an enormous washed-up wall of muscle on my beach. Thorn isn't human. He's an orc from across the universe who speaks with a Scottish accent, wears a kilt, and is dead set on making me his mate.
But I've got more important things to take care of, like completing the renovations on time and keeping a nosy FBI agent at bay. Thorn stays, he helps me, protects me, and shows me heartbreaking patience. Thawing my heart even as he heats my blood. I want him, badly, but I'm too broken. And the last thing I want to do is break his heart of gold.
THORN
A dream sets me on a path far from my homeworld of Talam, to a broken gate that awakens at my touch. Drawn forward by fate, I travel through the gate and across the stars. I wake on a strange planet called Earth with the lovely human female from my dream draped atop me. Ruth is my cridhe, my soul-bound mate. But how am I to woo her when we look so starkly different? When her world is beyond my wildest imaginings? When it is so obvious that males in the past have hurt her terribly and still seek to do so?
To stay by her side, I make a wild gamble to help her realize her dream. In exchange, I'll get to live with her, be near her, and protect her. Even if she never accepts me as her cridhe. It would have to be enough. But it's a fool's promise because I know in my soul that I could never get enough of her.
This is a full-length 65000-word sci-fi alien romance with fantasy elements that is HFN. Content Information is available on the author's website. Originally a short story included in the Big Feels Monster Romance Anthology.
All proceeds from pre-orders and the month of June 2022 to go to charity for bodily autonomy rights. Receipts to be posted on the author's website.
183 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2022
252 people are currently reading
1000 people want to read
About the author
Carlotta Hughes
9 books85 followersCarlotta Hughes is a giant orc-like lady living in Northern California with her four cats and enormous book collection. She wrote a creation story with a polar bear at age five and has been writing ever since. When not reading or writing, she can often be found exploring and generally being a bubbly gerblin hermit. She loves snackies, being warm, weapons, and snuggles.
Carlotta writes thorny, corny, horny stories with sassy one-liners, alt-human love interests, sexually frustrated characters, lots of simping and guaranteed HEA. Her stories tend to explore the spectrum of humanity including: disabilities, gender, sexuality, kinks, and survivorship.
You know, for science.
Carlotta writes thorny, corny, horny stories with sassy one-liners, alt-human love interests, sexually frustrated characters, lots of simping and guaranteed HEA. Her stories tend to explore the spectrum of humanity including: disabilities, gender, sexuality, kinks, and survivorship.
You know, for science.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
February 15, 2024
Hippie meets Space Orc
Thorn was all sorts of hot, with his feminist views and support for Ruth’s dream. Ruth was a severely traumatized women who decided to chase a dream of building Hobbiton so she could be independent. And who better to help with this project than Mr Space Orc himself?
This was very much so a slow burn romance, although both characters were attracted to one another right off the bat. They learned to trust each other, care for each other, and be a support for each other.
Looking forward to the sequel!
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: grief, death, fire, rape (off page), forced prostitution (off page), drugging (off page), sexual harassment, near-drowning
Thorn was all sorts of hot, with his feminist views and support for Ruth’s dream. Ruth was a severely traumatized women who decided to chase a dream of building Hobbiton so she could be independent. And who better to help with this project than Mr Space Orc himself?
This was very much so a slow burn romance, although both characters were attracted to one another right off the bat. They learned to trust each other, care for each other, and be a support for each other.
Looking forward to the sequel!
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: grief, death, fire, rape (off page), forced prostitution (off page), drugging (off page), sexual harassment, near-drowning
May 25, 2022
I didn't put this book down until I finished it. Seriously, I stayed up waaaaaay too late to get to end because I loved it so much. Any Tolkien fan will enjoy the references and the way the author made the Orcs in this book so much more, so much better! They had a great, rich culture and enormous detail to their language and accents.
Thorn was just an absolute hunk and a total sweetheart. While Ruth was a strong lady with a bad past, taking her chance at building something pretty and new with her Tolkien inspired bed & breakfast.
Finding a real Orc passed out on her beach she does the obvious thing, dragging him into her home and patching him up. Some of their interactions are really funny after that, some incredibly deep and emotional, and some sizzling hot.
With an FBI agent on their case, stalking Ruth and trying to ferret out their secrets, Ruth needs to learn to trust her orc to keep her safe.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Thorn was just an absolute hunk and a total sweetheart. While Ruth was a strong lady with a bad past, taking her chance at building something pretty and new with her Tolkien inspired bed & breakfast.
Finding a real Orc passed out on her beach she does the obvious thing, dragging him into her home and patching him up. Some of their interactions are really funny after that, some incredibly deep and emotional, and some sizzling hot.
With an FBI agent on their case, stalking Ruth and trying to ferret out their secrets, Ruth needs to learn to trust her orc to keep her safe.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 7, 2023
4.5 stars rounded up
I loved this book so much! As someone who wants to live in a hobbit hole and build stuff with the love of her life, this spoke to me on so many levels. It’s cozy and pretty low angst, despite our FMC healing from some major trauma and some wild external conflict.
It’s the 1970s. Ruth has recently escaped a cult and recovering from a boatload of trauma. All she wants to do is hang out on her beautiful beach farm, build some hobbit holes, and transform her land into a Tolkien-esque B&B. Thorn is an orc prince from another planet who receives a dream about his cridhe/fated mate (Ruth) who he’s never met before and decides to tumble through an inter dimensional portal that exits into a sea cave on Ruth’s property.
What follows is a beautiful tale of patience, understanding, and confidence that things will work out. Thorn helps Ruth heal and is the king of consent even though he knows Ruth his is fated mate. They become friends and work on constructing hobbit holes for the B&B together. With some unlikely allies in their small town, there’s huge found family vibes.
What I loved: plus-sized heroine who is ACTUALLY plus-sized! The MMC just hangs around helping out around the farm and now he’s heavily invested in the future of the B&B. While the MMC has big “let me know if you want me to do a murder” vibes, the FMC is a total badass on her own.
What I didn’t love: pacing was a liiiiiittle odd in some places with a bit of jumping around, but I believe this was originally part of an anthology so I get it.
All in all, really loved this book. I think the next book follows Ruth and Thorn’s granddaughter, so excited for that!
I loved this book so much! As someone who wants to live in a hobbit hole and build stuff with the love of her life, this spoke to me on so many levels. It’s cozy and pretty low angst, despite our FMC healing from some major trauma and some wild external conflict.
It’s the 1970s. Ruth has recently escaped a cult and recovering from a boatload of trauma. All she wants to do is hang out on her beautiful beach farm, build some hobbit holes, and transform her land into a Tolkien-esque B&B. Thorn is an orc prince from another planet who receives a dream about his cridhe/fated mate (Ruth) who he’s never met before and decides to tumble through an inter dimensional portal that exits into a sea cave on Ruth’s property.
What follows is a beautiful tale of patience, understanding, and confidence that things will work out. Thorn helps Ruth heal and is the king of consent even though he knows Ruth his is fated mate. They become friends and work on constructing hobbit holes for the B&B together. With some unlikely allies in their small town, there’s huge found family vibes.
What I loved: plus-sized heroine who is ACTUALLY plus-sized! The MMC just hangs around helping out around the farm and now he’s heavily invested in the future of the B&B. While the MMC has big “let me know if you want me to do a murder” vibes, the FMC is a total badass on her own.
What I didn’t love: pacing was a liiiiiittle odd in some places with a bit of jumping around, but I believe this was originally part of an anthology so I get it.
All in all, really loved this book. I think the next book follows Ruth and Thorn’s granddaughter, so excited for that!
January 9, 2024
Well, crud
It's not that it's a BAD book, but it is flawed and the ending made me SO MAD! SPOILERS AHEAD!
The beginning was rough, mainly because the author kept including non-english words (Gaelic maybe? ) in ways that felt more "showy" than important to the story. It made the flow jagged and clumsy.
The romance part of the story was decent. I liked the main characters. It was decently written, if a little silly with the g-man references and 70s slang that felt forced. But then the bad guy showed up and suddenly the story was ridiculous. It just got goofier and goofier. I could almost forgive all that because the sex was bomb and our Orc guy was darling and there were Tolkein references everywhere.
I might have given this a 3, maybe 3.5 stars, if it weren't for the prequel chapter for the next book included at the end, which was HEART BREAKING and INFURIATING. I don't read romance books to have the happily- ever- after ripped away at the last moment. I'm so mad right now.
It's not that it's a BAD book, but it is flawed and the ending made me SO MAD! SPOILERS AHEAD!
The beginning was rough, mainly because the author kept including non-english words (Gaelic maybe? ) in ways that felt more "showy" than important to the story. It made the flow jagged and clumsy.
The romance part of the story was decent. I liked the main characters. It was decently written, if a little silly with the g-man references and 70s slang that felt forced. But then the bad guy showed up and suddenly the story was ridiculous. It just got goofier and goofier. I could almost forgive all that because the sex was bomb and our Orc guy was darling and there were Tolkein references everywhere.
I might have given this a 3, maybe 3.5 stars, if it weren't for the prequel chapter for the next book included at the end, which was HEART BREAKING and INFURIATING. I don't read romance books to have the happily- ever- after ripped away at the last moment. I'm so mad right now.
did-not-finish
July 5, 2022This is a book I may read someday in the future. But the beginning of this is so incredibly dark. In the first few pages, we hear that she has been abused, was made pregnant by one of her abusers, got an abortion, doesn’t have family around, is recovering from being on drugs constantly, etc. And then the hero’s sister has died. And that’s where I stopped.
I’m sure this book is lovely,but I just can’t take so much darkness right now.
I’m sure this book is lovely,but I just can’t take so much darkness right now.
September 16, 2022
“Och, fallen for me already, have you lass?” He asked, voice rumbling and gravelly. My mind blanked for a moment. He… this orc… he just… spoke English with a Scottish accent. I could understand him!
I need more than 5 stars, when I tell you I loved this book not only does it make my top favorites list but it is right up there with the classics. This is totally a must read for anyone that loves fantasy and paranormal romances!
Like I thought I had read the best take on orcs before, this one takes the cake. Hands down. Best thing to happen to orcs since Tolkien! It's new and fresh, the detailing in this book is **chef's kiss** molto bene!!
One thing I absolutely love about Carolotta Hughes' writing is found at the back of the book. Not only for her content awareness section where she explains and lays out possible triggers but she also includes audio samples of the words used in the book! I had SO much fun being able to listen to the words instead of "nrjrieodnrjrd" gibberish in my head. That alone would make the book worth 5 stars.
***Spoiler Alert***
So this book takes on an alien tone for the orcs, who live in a different galaxy than humans. Thorn is prince of a tribe of orcs that gets a message from the Source about his soulmate. With the blessing of his mother, and spiritual leader, Thorn sets out to the mystical wall that will transport him to Earth. ((HOW FREAKING COOL IS THAT?!?!))
Ruth is a flower child, total hippie, and she was chewed up and spit out from the commune lifestyle. She has had A LOT happen to her (check content awareness) and she decides that she is going to risk it all on a little farm that she is going to turn into a Tolkien's Hobbit inspired bed-and-breakfast.
She finds Thorn washed up on the beach and gets him from the beach to her house through grit and will power. She doesn't care that he doesn't appear to be human, she sees a being that needs help and she's the only one that can help him.
The romance in this book was hot and sweet all at the same time! Thorn knows that Ruth is his soulmate and he does everything in his power to ensure her dreams come true and he does it all while fighting his own wants and desires.
Thorn is an absolute hero, coming to Ruth's defense when she needs it, protects her, and best of all helps her heal from her past.
I don't want to give too much away because it is such a great story but I will say that when the fit hit the shan, Thorn is the total package. I was on the edge as the plot climaxed, I was so nervous it still gives me a twist in my gut to think about. Superbly written.
If I had to come up with one sentance to summarize the entire book it would have to be - Wholesome spice that carries you through ALL the emotions. I have read very few books that top this one.
I need more than 5 stars, when I tell you I loved this book not only does it make my top favorites list but it is right up there with the classics. This is totally a must read for anyone that loves fantasy and paranormal romances!
Like I thought I had read the best take on orcs before, this one takes the cake. Hands down. Best thing to happen to orcs since Tolkien! It's new and fresh, the detailing in this book is **chef's kiss** molto bene!!
One thing I absolutely love about Carolotta Hughes' writing is found at the back of the book. Not only for her content awareness section where she explains and lays out possible triggers but she also includes audio samples of the words used in the book! I had SO much fun being able to listen to the words instead of "nrjrieodnrjrd" gibberish in my head. That alone would make the book worth 5 stars.
***Spoiler Alert***
So this book takes on an alien tone for the orcs, who live in a different galaxy than humans. Thorn is prince of a tribe of orcs that gets a message from the Source about his soulmate. With the blessing of his mother, and spiritual leader, Thorn sets out to the mystical wall that will transport him to Earth. ((HOW FREAKING COOL IS THAT?!?!))
Ruth is a flower child, total hippie, and she was chewed up and spit out from the commune lifestyle. She has had A LOT happen to her (check content awareness) and she decides that she is going to risk it all on a little farm that she is going to turn into a Tolkien's Hobbit inspired bed-and-breakfast.
She finds Thorn washed up on the beach and gets him from the beach to her house through grit and will power. She doesn't care that he doesn't appear to be human, she sees a being that needs help and she's the only one that can help him.
The romance in this book was hot and sweet all at the same time! Thorn knows that Ruth is his soulmate and he does everything in his power to ensure her dreams come true and he does it all while fighting his own wants and desires.
Thorn is an absolute hero, coming to Ruth's defense when she needs it, protects her, and best of all helps her heal from her past.
I don't want to give too much away because it is such a great story but I will say that when the fit hit the shan, Thorn is the total package. I was on the edge as the plot climaxed, I was so nervous it still gives me a twist in my gut to think about. Superbly written.
If I had to come up with one sentance to summarize the entire book it would have to be - Wholesome spice that carries you through ALL the emotions. I have read very few books that top this one.
May 25, 2022
I have never fallen in love with a book this fast. The characters are wonderfully written, the world and story are incredible, and OH MY the spice. Thorn is what every woman wants; kind, considerate, loving, and able to tear anyone who threatens his loved ones apart. Ruth is sassy and gives good chubby girl representation! She strong, stubborn, and can do anything she sets her mind to. I finished this book in two days, hardly able to put it down. The way Carlotta is able to portray emotions through the book is true talent. The scenes flow wonderfully together and feels so natural to read. I also loved the use of Scots Gaelic that was well researched! My only suggestion for anyone who wants to read this is to check Carlotta's website for the pronunciation guide. It was extremely helpful!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 15, 2023
Stars: 5
FMC: Ruth aka Dove
MMC(s): Thorn
Tropes: Fated mates, focus on trauma healing, teddy bear MMC, feisty FMC, touch them and DIE, interstellar portal patient MMC/wary FMC, BBW rep, I’ll build your dreams, HEA
Reviewer add: I literally made a note about Stargate.
Perspective: Dual
Plot or character driven: Both
Spicy scenes breakdown:
Present? Yes. No closed doors here.
Detailed? Yes.
Multiple, with only one character? Yes.
Multiple, with both/multiple characters? Yes, with both.
Personal favorite? The bathroom scene, and their auditory voyeur scenes.
Anything else to note?
Burn speed: Medium. Ruth is wary, but attracted, and Thorn always knows what he wants.
Can this be read as a stand-alone: Theoretically yes. First in the series.
Re-Readability: Yes, high.
Content/Trigger Warnings/Enticements: Check the author’s notes, full CW/TW are listed at the end of the book and by chapter.
Use of the word s*vage: 0.
Instances where I could change the color of Thorn’s skin to black or brown and literally be describing historical racism, i.e. racializing orcs: also 0.
These two things alone would have gotten an A+ from me. If you don’t know why I’m noting these two things and would like to, feel free to comment, DM me, whatever.
That said, this was my first book by Carlotta Hughes who I have interacted with several times across different platforms. (She is an absolute gem, btw.) A friend of mine also wanted to read this book and so we did a buddy read of it over the weekend, and it’s like being wrapped in a warm, cozy blanket. I laid down to read it on Saturday night and on Sunday morning I was somehow at 74%?? What is time?
I loved everything about Ruth, I loved her growth, I loved her resistance that wasn’t hammered but felt organic enough that I didn’t want to throttle her, and I loved her love of Tolkien. I love Thorn, and how he’s tied to his family, and his culture, and how he misses home but he also knows that where Ruth is, is where he’s supposed to be.
And he helps her build her dreams and it’s a love story.
With spice. Cause, let’s be truthful, you gotta season those potatoes. However, it’s not so sweet as to be cloying, there’s still action, and there’s still some trials for them to go through, but there’s something real, and true, and peaceful in this that makes me feel at home.
#CozyMonsterF*cking there’s a new one.
FMC: Ruth aka Dove
MMC(s): Thorn
Tropes: Fated mates, focus on trauma healing, teddy bear MMC, feisty FMC, touch them and DIE, interstellar portal patient MMC/wary FMC, BBW rep, I’ll build your dreams, HEA
Reviewer add: I literally made a note about Stargate.
Perspective: Dual
Plot or character driven: Both
Spicy scenes breakdown:
Present? Yes. No closed doors here.
Detailed? Yes.
Multiple, with only one character? Yes.
Multiple, with both/multiple characters? Yes, with both.
Personal favorite? The bathroom scene, and their auditory voyeur scenes.
Anything else to note?
Burn speed: Medium. Ruth is wary, but attracted, and Thorn always knows what he wants.
Can this be read as a stand-alone: Theoretically yes. First in the series.
Re-Readability: Yes, high.
Content/Trigger Warnings/Enticements: Check the author’s notes, full CW/TW are listed at the end of the book and by chapter.
Use of the word s*vage: 0.
Instances where I could change the color of Thorn’s skin to black or brown and literally be describing historical racism, i.e. racializing orcs: also 0.
These two things alone would have gotten an A+ from me. If you don’t know why I’m noting these two things and would like to, feel free to comment, DM me, whatever.
That said, this was my first book by Carlotta Hughes who I have interacted with several times across different platforms. (She is an absolute gem, btw.) A friend of mine also wanted to read this book and so we did a buddy read of it over the weekend, and it’s like being wrapped in a warm, cozy blanket. I laid down to read it on Saturday night and on Sunday morning I was somehow at 74%?? What is time?
I loved everything about Ruth, I loved her growth, I loved her resistance that wasn’t hammered but felt organic enough that I didn’t want to throttle her, and I loved her love of Tolkien. I love Thorn, and how he’s tied to his family, and his culture, and how he misses home but he also knows that where Ruth is, is where he’s supposed to be.
And he helps her build her dreams and it’s a love story.
With spice. Cause, let’s be truthful, you gotta season those potatoes. However, it’s not so sweet as to be cloying, there’s still action, and there’s still some trials for them to go through, but there’s something real, and true, and peaceful in this that makes me feel at home.
#CozyMonsterF*cking there’s a new one.
July 4, 2023
This book is complete and utter perfection.
Ruth and Thorn are my new favorite couple. I found Ruth to be such a relatable character. She suffered through a traumatic past, and somehow found the strength to move on and build the life that she dreamed of for herself.
Thorn literally jumps through space and time, and lands right at her doorstep. Their journey to learning each other, and building their relationship, while falling into a deep and passionate love..is the kind of crazy fairytale you’d only ever consider in your wildest dreams.
If you love a slow burn, fated mates, alpha-cinnamon roll heroes, and strong and stubborn heroines who turn into mush with just the right touch..this is the book for you. Their happily ever after just warmed my cold dark heart, and I’ll keep a piece of their story with me always.
Ruth and Thorn are my new favorite couple. I found Ruth to be such a relatable character. She suffered through a traumatic past, and somehow found the strength to move on and build the life that she dreamed of for herself.
Thorn literally jumps through space and time, and lands right at her doorstep. Their journey to learning each other, and building their relationship, while falling into a deep and passionate love..is the kind of crazy fairytale you’d only ever consider in your wildest dreams.
If you love a slow burn, fated mates, alpha-cinnamon roll heroes, and strong and stubborn heroines who turn into mush with just the right touch..this is the book for you. Their happily ever after just warmed my cold dark heart, and I’ll keep a piece of their story with me always.
Read
January 17, 2023It was a slightly slower burn than I love, but it was a very sweet story with deep emotional topics. Plus some sexy, sexy steamy loving.
Trigger warning, past sexual abuse, talk of abortion, a religious cult in her past. There may be more but I think these are the big ones. I'm looking forward to book 2. Three cheers to the author who is also make the illustrator! Beautiful cover art!
Trigger warning, past sexual abuse, talk of abortion, a religious cult in her past. There may be more but I think these are the big ones. I'm looking forward to book 2. Three cheers to the author who is also make the illustrator! Beautiful cover art!
June 4, 2025
2.5 stars
June 18, 2024
Sign me up for Scottish Space Orcs, I am a willing volunteer! I really enjoyed the setting, monster romance in the 1970s was new for me. Thorn’s Dove switched the human woman ends up on alien planet/world to having the Thorn end up on Earth which was a fun change. I love exploring new worlds though so I’m really excited to see more of his home world in future books. If you’re a Tolkien fan so is the FMC Ruth and the story surrounds her building a Hobbit themed bed and breakfast. I would like to book my vacation immediately, one orc and one room please!
May 28, 2022
What are you feeling? Sci-fi, fantasy, or even historical fiction? Somehow Carlotta Hughes brings in a bit of all three of those genres and packs it into Thorn’s Dove for us to enjoy.
Keep in mind that this is a prequel, or at least, that’s what I kept telling myself when I felt like I still had questions or frustrations. Like, when does Thorn go back? I kept waiting for him to do that and for this to be a bittersweet ending. Who (or what) the hell is Julia? When orc/human babies are born, do they look like humans on earth and orcs in Talam? Is there a little desert orc suburb in Area 51?
I’m looking forward to more of this series. I want less Earth I think and more Talam. I feel like I’ve learned enough orc vocabulary to have earned some Talam time! Besides, I need questions answered. I think it is a credit to the story that I’m less frustrated and more impatient and looking forward to the Orc Matched series to really begin.
***I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.***
Keep in mind that this is a prequel, or at least, that’s what I kept telling myself when I felt like I still had questions or frustrations. Like, when does Thorn go back? I kept waiting for him to do that and for this to be a bittersweet ending. Who (or what) the hell is Julia? When orc/human babies are born, do they look like humans on earth and orcs in Talam? Is there a little desert orc suburb in Area 51?
I’m looking forward to more of this series. I want less Earth I think and more Talam. I feel like I’ve learned enough orc vocabulary to have earned some Talam time! Besides, I need questions answered. I think it is a credit to the story that I’m less frustrated and more impatient and looking forward to the Orc Matched series to really begin.
***I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.***
May 28, 2022
Honest ARC review: This story was so sweet and cozy but also emotional. I loved the details and characters added in this extended/full version. Thorn is on Orc prince that has a crazy dream about a human woman. He goes through a portal into the human world to find the woman who could possibly be his mate. He is a big teddy bear of an Orc! He is so sweet, protective, understanding, and is in touch with his emotions. We see him open up and be vulnerable which was great to see from a strong male character. Ruth is new to town and buys a house and farm on the beach. She has a pretty rough past and is looking to start over and build her dream Hobbit inspired bed and breakfast. When she comes across a non human male that has been washed up on her beach she feels a pull to him and helps him. Ruth is feisty, sweet, and determined. She goes through a journey of healing through the book and it was very touching. I would definitely recommend this book!.
July 23, 2024
Ruth (h) has escaped some rough experiences in her past and has bought a run-down coastal farm with the goal of owning her own bed and breakfast by the sea. Thorn (H), an Orc prince, has a dream of his fated mate and follows his mother's guidance to seek a magical gate on Talam to a matching gate on Earth. Ruth finds the injured Thorn washed-up on the shore near her farm and takes Thorn home to protect him, as she has no love for authorities and doesn’t want to turn him on. Thorn recognizes her from his dream and has to work to convince her that they belong together. The hot and steamy sexy scenes were off the charts - so good! Love the characters and the relationship that grows between Ruth and Thorn. There are run-ins with towns folk, the authorities, and more as Ruth and Thorn strive for their HFN - the ending! The ending…just, just…sob.
May 25, 2022
I was introduced to Thorn and Ruth in the Big Feels Anthology and absolutely fell in love with them. This book is an expansion on that and absolutely did not disappoint. They are fated mates, but not insta-love. Their relationship develops naturally and since the book is dual pov, you get to see them fall in love with each other. There are also some pretty great spicy scenes. I absolutely love this book and will definitely be reading anything else the author writes. I also really love the detail the author give to content and trigger warnings. Each chapters has a detailed list of triggers that is listed in the book - you don’t have to go to a separate website to view the CW/TW. All-in-all, it was a great book.
May 28, 2022
Thorn is an Ork… but like a sexyyyy ork. He wears a kilt and has a Scottish accent! This brought me right back to my teenage Gerard Butler crush. *sighs in Reminisce* This smut filled literature definitely hit me like a pheromone cloud. While the spice was knicker dropping, the plot was meh. I would recommend this book for a spicy wine alone night… *buzz* *buzz* *buzz*….
For me this book was spice with a garnish of plot and sometimes you just need that.
For me this book was spice with a garnish of plot and sometimes you just need that.
May 29, 2022
(ARC read)
Ok so I was lucky enough to find this beauty through Tiktok and boy am I glad I did. Thorn is the ultimate cinnamon roll bada** hunk of an ORC. Phew the way I was picturing him speaking with his accent 🥵. Anyway, total book boyfriend material. No lie. I likes that he was in touch with his emotions but didn't take it over the top. I LOVED that this gave us a good representation of good chunky woman positivity. Our fmc was a bada** as well and I just loved them together
Ok so I was lucky enough to find this beauty through Tiktok and boy am I glad I did. Thorn is the ultimate cinnamon roll bada** hunk of an ORC. Phew the way I was picturing him speaking with his accent 🥵. Anyway, total book boyfriend material. No lie. I likes that he was in touch with his emotions but didn't take it over the top. I LOVED that this gave us a good representation of good chunky woman positivity. Our fmc was a bada** as well and I just loved them together
Currently reading
January 27, 2023I had started to read this in the Big Feels anthology but never finished. It does not have a Happily Ever After ending btw, it's HFN, and in the next book in the series you find out he left eventually. The Orc Matched sequel is with Ruth as a grandma and her human-orc granddaughter comes to live with her after her divorce. Sad to read at that point that Ruth had been alone for
January 25, 2023
I loved this so much!!!
This ends in a HFN! Hint: if you want to keep those warm and fuzzies do not read the excerpt. This was sweet, and the fated mates aspect really makes it a cozy comfort read with pretty low angst. I absolutely loved this story and cannot wait for more of this fated mates universe!!!
This ends in a HFN! Hint: if you want to keep those warm and fuzzies do not read the excerpt. This was sweet, and the fated mates aspect really makes it a cozy comfort read with pretty low angst. I absolutely loved this story and cannot wait for more of this fated mates universe!!!
October 6, 2022
Loved this sweet and sexy orc story. Slow burn that explodes into fire. Fun and well-developed characters, exciting action. Glossary at the back. Highly recommend.
https://www.amazon.com/Thorns-Dove-Or...
https://www.amazon.com/Thorns-Dove-Or...
July 9, 2023
rating: 3 ⭐️
a sweet monster romance! but don't think it ain't spicy 🌶️
we've got drama, we've got life goals, we've got love and we've got spice, all wrapped up in a hot otherworldly monster sweetheart
a sweet monster romance! but don't think it ain't spicy 🌶️
we've got drama, we've got life goals, we've got love and we've got spice, all wrapped up in a hot otherworldly monster sweetheart
December 17, 2024
This prequel was a wonderful introduction to the Orc Matched universe! The plot and spice were very well balanced. I loved the slow burn between Thorn and Ruth; the way he allowed her to move the relationship forward at her own pace was wonderful. Looking forward to reading the rest of this series!
August 10, 2022
Freaking loved it! Loved Thorn! This book got me started on my Orc kink lol. 🥵💜🔥 A++
September 16, 2022
I have read very few books that top this one!
“Och, fallen for me already, have you lass?” He asked, voice rumbling and gravelly. My mind blanked for a moment. He… this orc… he just… spoke English with a Scottish accent. I could understand him!
I need more than 5 stars, when I tell you I loved this book not only does it make my top favorites list but it is right up there with the classics. This is totally a must read for anyone that loves fantasy and paranormal romances!
Like I thought I had read the best take on orcs before, this one takes the cake. Hands down. Best thing to happen to orcs since Tolkien! It's new and fresh, the detailing in this book is **chef's kiss** molto bene!!
One thing I absolutely love about Carolotta Hughes' writing is found at the back of the book. Not only for her content awareness section where she explains and lays out possible triggers but she also includes audio samples of the words used in the book! I had SO much fun being able to listen to the words instead of "nrjrieodnrjrd" gibberish in my head. That alone would make the book worth 5 stars.
***Spoiler Alert***
So this book takes on an alien tone for the orcs, who live in a different galaxy than humans. Thorn is prince of a tribe of orcs that gets a message from the Source about his soulmate. With the blessing of his mother, and spiritual leader, Thorn sets out to the mystical wall that will transport him to Earth. ((HOW FREAKING COOL IS THAT?!?!))
Ruth is a flower child, total hippie, and she was chewed up and spit out from the commune lifestyle. She has had A LOT happen to her (check content awareness) and she decides that she is going to risk it all on a little farm that she is going to turn into a Tolkien's Hobbit inspired bed-and-breakfast.
She finds Thorn washed up on the beach and gets him from the beach to her house through grit and will power. She doesn't care that he doesn't appear to be human, she sees a being that needs help and she's the only one that can help him.
The romance in this book was hot and sweet all at the same time! Thorn knows that Ruth is his soulmate and he does everything in his power to ensure her dreams come true and he does it all while fighting his own wants and desires.
Thorn is an absolute hero, coming to Ruth's defense when she needs it, protects her, and best of all helps her heal from her past.
I don't want to give too much away because it is such a great story but I will say that when the fit hit the shan, Thorn is the total package. I was on the edge as the plot climaxed, I was so nervous it still gives me a twist in my gut to think about. Superbly written.
If I had to come up with one sentance to summarize the entire book it would have to be - Wholesome spice that carries you through ALL the emotions.
“Och, fallen for me already, have you lass?” He asked, voice rumbling and gravelly. My mind blanked for a moment. He… this orc… he just… spoke English with a Scottish accent. I could understand him!
I need more than 5 stars, when I tell you I loved this book not only does it make my top favorites list but it is right up there with the classics. This is totally a must read for anyone that loves fantasy and paranormal romances!
Like I thought I had read the best take on orcs before, this one takes the cake. Hands down. Best thing to happen to orcs since Tolkien! It's new and fresh, the detailing in this book is **chef's kiss** molto bene!!
One thing I absolutely love about Carolotta Hughes' writing is found at the back of the book. Not only for her content awareness section where she explains and lays out possible triggers but she also includes audio samples of the words used in the book! I had SO much fun being able to listen to the words instead of "nrjrieodnrjrd" gibberish in my head. That alone would make the book worth 5 stars.
***Spoiler Alert***
So this book takes on an alien tone for the orcs, who live in a different galaxy than humans. Thorn is prince of a tribe of orcs that gets a message from the Source about his soulmate. With the blessing of his mother, and spiritual leader, Thorn sets out to the mystical wall that will transport him to Earth. ((HOW FREAKING COOL IS THAT?!?!))
Ruth is a flower child, total hippie, and she was chewed up and spit out from the commune lifestyle. She has had A LOT happen to her (check content awareness) and she decides that she is going to risk it all on a little farm that she is going to turn into a Tolkien's Hobbit inspired bed-and-breakfast.
She finds Thorn washed up on the beach and gets him from the beach to her house through grit and will power. She doesn't care that he doesn't appear to be human, she sees a being that needs help and she's the only one that can help him.
The romance in this book was hot and sweet all at the same time! Thorn knows that Ruth is his soulmate and he does everything in his power to ensure her dreams come true and he does it all while fighting his own wants and desires.
Thorn is an absolute hero, coming to Ruth's defense when she needs it, protects her, and best of all helps her heal from her past.
I don't want to give too much away because it is such a great story but I will say that when the fit hit the shan, Thorn is the total package. I was on the edge as the plot climaxed, I was so nervous it still gives me a twist in my gut to think about. Superbly written.
If I had to come up with one sentance to summarize the entire book it would have to be - Wholesome spice that carries you through ALL the emotions.
March 27, 2024
Type: Meet Cute, fated Mates, romantasy
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Speed of Burn: 🔥🔥
Character Arcs: 🤪🥹😟 🧌 🏨 🌊 🔥 💕 💍
Darkness:⛅️☀️
POV: 👫🏻
Tropes: Loner female, over-possessive orc male, fated mates, He gets hurt, she takes care of him, he becomes her protector while waiting for her to fall in love with him
Series: #.5 of at least 4
Synopsis:
Ruth has received money after coming out of a series of unfortunate events, she is determined to turn her life around with the perfect project; take the money her parents left her and turn a plot of land into a Hobbit themed hotel for events and weddings. Now if she can just get the pesky FBI agent to go away and stop trying to seize her land, and have the small nearby town folk stop treating her like a leper, she may actually get it accomplished.
Thorn is the Clan Chiefs son, his marriage to a suitable clan's daughter will solidify a pact between the two clans. But when he tells his mother about the dreams of a strange human woman he has been having she tells him he has to use the gateway to find her. So he does.
Ruth has no idea what to do with a 7 ft tall orc that has washed up on her beach but they soon figure it out.
Review:
Such a fun read. It's giving Jamie Frazer if he was a 7 ft orc that could shape shift into a human man with a magic ring and a granola hippy nerd lady that i would 100% be friends with in RL. I mean....who wouldn't want their own version of Hobbinton? And an Bed and Breakfast? Over Looking a cliff? Yes please, sign me up.
I also love that the FMC is plus size. We don't really get an idea of how "plus" she is, but there is limited talk of how soft and curvy she is and she has a moment of asking Thorn if her body is not attractive because of how flabby she is ( this is not verbatim, sry, I forgot to highlight the exact quote) but nothing is overly self deprecating or focused on her size, anymore than a normal narrative for any plus size person with someone interested in them. It wasn't integrel to the storyline, which I appreciate.
It was a quick read, and just a feel good book. Low stakes. So would def recommend, I am ready to read the next in the series, it sounds like they all deal with different Orc Clan members finding human mates.
Similar Vibes:
Space for Love by Emily Antoinette
Monsters of Moonvale Series by Emily Antoinette
Trigger Warnings:
Almost drowning, phone call creeper masturbation, Governmental stalking, mentions of previous gRape, mentions of previous cult experiences, mention of parents dying, pregnancy, lust haze where he doesn't stop right away, fire,
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Speed of Burn: 🔥🔥
Character Arcs: 🤪🥹😟 🧌 🏨 🌊 🔥 💕 💍
Darkness:⛅️☀️
POV: 👫🏻
Tropes: Loner female, over-possessive orc male, fated mates, He gets hurt, she takes care of him, he becomes her protector while waiting for her to fall in love with him
Series: #.5 of at least 4
Synopsis:
Ruth has received money after coming out of a series of unfortunate events, she is determined to turn her life around with the perfect project; take the money her parents left her and turn a plot of land into a Hobbit themed hotel for events and weddings. Now if she can just get the pesky FBI agent to go away and stop trying to seize her land, and have the small nearby town folk stop treating her like a leper, she may actually get it accomplished.
Thorn is the Clan Chiefs son, his marriage to a suitable clan's daughter will solidify a pact between the two clans. But when he tells his mother about the dreams of a strange human woman he has been having she tells him he has to use the gateway to find her. So he does.
Ruth has no idea what to do with a 7 ft tall orc that has washed up on her beach but they soon figure it out.
Review:
Such a fun read. It's giving Jamie Frazer if he was a 7 ft orc that could shape shift into a human man with a magic ring and a granola hippy nerd lady that i would 100% be friends with in RL. I mean....who wouldn't want their own version of Hobbinton? And an Bed and Breakfast? Over Looking a cliff? Yes please, sign me up.
I also love that the FMC is plus size. We don't really get an idea of how "plus" she is, but there is limited talk of how soft and curvy she is and she has a moment of asking Thorn if her body is not attractive because of how flabby she is ( this is not verbatim, sry, I forgot to highlight the exact quote) but nothing is overly self deprecating or focused on her size, anymore than a normal narrative for any plus size person with someone interested in them. It wasn't integrel to the storyline, which I appreciate.
It was a quick read, and just a feel good book. Low stakes. So would def recommend, I am ready to read the next in the series, it sounds like they all deal with different Orc Clan members finding human mates.
Similar Vibes:
Space for Love by Emily Antoinette
Monsters of Moonvale Series by Emily Antoinette
Trigger Warnings:
Almost drowning, phone call creeper masturbation, Governmental stalking, mentions of previous gRape, mentions of previous cult experiences, mention of parents dying, pregnancy, lust haze where he doesn't stop right away, fire,
October 19, 2023
Excellent storytelling!
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book/series. Carlotta is an excellent storyteller, making the unexpected happen around every bend. I was fully expecting a stereotypical, caveman-style plotline, but she shook things up. I love her exploration of magic, because finding one's soulmate is a miracle. I love that she marks out all of the triggers ahead of time so anyone who needs to prepare themselves or avoid it can do so (although I'm not sure how the story would play out if the triggering chapters were skipped entirely).
Her heros/heroines are not perfect and know they aren't perfect. There's personal growth and healing. Violence happens when it needs to. The bedroom (and out-of-bedroom) scenes are not just steamy, they're molten. There are so many possible plotlines she has yet to explore, and I cannot wait to follow the rest of these complex characters on their journeys!
My only real complaints about the entire series are that I wish she knew how to properly use periods versus commas and how to conjugate verbs with soft i's (sink/sunk/sank, drink/drunk/drank, etc) - because that second one only happened a handful of times in the entire series. It got frustrating beginning a sentence in a certain tone of voice only to discover that it wasn't a sentence on its own but rather the end of the sentence before and, therefore, should've been read in a completely different tone. Other times, whole sentences that should've been separate were joined with a comma. This made using text-to-speech difficult to follow, which I easily bypassed by doing nothing else for several days.
The timeline gets confusing near the end of the third book of the series, but I disregarded the incongruities and took the new information at face value.
Great books. Highly recommend. Be prepared for steamy scenes to last.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book/series. Carlotta is an excellent storyteller, making the unexpected happen around every bend. I was fully expecting a stereotypical, caveman-style plotline, but she shook things up. I love her exploration of magic, because finding one's soulmate is a miracle. I love that she marks out all of the triggers ahead of time so anyone who needs to prepare themselves or avoid it can do so (although I'm not sure how the story would play out if the triggering chapters were skipped entirely).
Her heros/heroines are not perfect and know they aren't perfect. There's personal growth and healing. Violence happens when it needs to. The bedroom (and out-of-bedroom) scenes are not just steamy, they're molten. There are so many possible plotlines she has yet to explore, and I cannot wait to follow the rest of these complex characters on their journeys!
My only real complaints about the entire series are that I wish she knew how to properly use periods versus commas and how to conjugate verbs with soft i's (sink/sunk/sank, drink/drunk/drank, etc) - because that second one only happened a handful of times in the entire series. It got frustrating beginning a sentence in a certain tone of voice only to discover that it wasn't a sentence on its own but rather the end of the sentence before and, therefore, should've been read in a completely different tone. Other times, whole sentences that should've been separate were joined with a comma. This made using text-to-speech difficult to follow, which I easily bypassed by doing nothing else for several days.
The timeline gets confusing near the end of the third book of the series, but I disregarded the incongruities and took the new information at face value.
Great books. Highly recommend. Be prepared for steamy scenes to last.
August 20, 2023
“Ruth.” I put an edge in my voice so she’d look at me. “I’ve had a lifetime of hard things. I can’t tell you how badly I’ve needed all of your softness.”
I didn’t expect Thorn’s Dove to resonate on a soul deep level but here I am having cried off and on because Thorne is seriously the fucking sweetest. You can feel how much he adores and worships Ruth and the ground she walks on. Speaking of Ruth, I need her to be my best friend. I vibe with her so hard. She’s non judgmental, free spirited, but also guarded when it comes to opening herself up to friendships and intimacy. After finishing my read I was left feeling so satisfied and comforted. Like my heart was too full of happiness. This love and connection was an incredible thing to read about and one that felt very genuine and true to its very core. The way Carlotta was able to make me fall in love with these characters separately and then again ever more deeply as a couple has solidified my hunch when I first began my read that this book and this author are most definitely a new favorite of mine. I am so happy I finally picked this book up and I am gonna be thinking about it for a long time. If you love orcs or are in the market for a new monster romance, I can’t recommend Thorn’s Dove enough.
TWs: harassment towards the FMC (not by the MMC), brief mention of a past abortion/drug addiction/sexual assault/rape, physical assault to FMC (not by MMC), arson
What to expect:
-orc M/plus sized human F
-mutual masturbation
-fated mates/soulmates
-he would do ANYTHING for her
-Tolkien references
-building a bed & breakfast
-he’s got a Scottish accent
-portal/gate traveling
-knotting
-breeding kink
-long ridged tongue
-hurt/comfort and she rescues him from drowning
-“do you want me to kill those who hurt you?”
5⭐️ 3.5🔥
I didn’t expect Thorn’s Dove to resonate on a soul deep level but here I am having cried off and on because Thorne is seriously the fucking sweetest. You can feel how much he adores and worships Ruth and the ground she walks on. Speaking of Ruth, I need her to be my best friend. I vibe with her so hard. She’s non judgmental, free spirited, but also guarded when it comes to opening herself up to friendships and intimacy. After finishing my read I was left feeling so satisfied and comforted. Like my heart was too full of happiness. This love and connection was an incredible thing to read about and one that felt very genuine and true to its very core. The way Carlotta was able to make me fall in love with these characters separately and then again ever more deeply as a couple has solidified my hunch when I first began my read that this book and this author are most definitely a new favorite of mine. I am so happy I finally picked this book up and I am gonna be thinking about it for a long time. If you love orcs or are in the market for a new monster romance, I can’t recommend Thorn’s Dove enough.
TWs: harassment towards the FMC (not by the MMC), brief mention of a past abortion/drug addiction/sexual assault/rape, physical assault to FMC (not by MMC), arson
What to expect:
-orc M/plus sized human F
-mutual masturbation
-fated mates/soulmates
-he would do ANYTHING for her
-Tolkien references
-building a bed & breakfast
-he’s got a Scottish accent
-portal/gate traveling
-knotting
-breeding kink
-long ridged tongue
-hurt/comfort and she rescues him from drowning
-“do you want me to kill those who hurt you?”
5⭐️ 3.5🔥
June 4, 2022
Where can I get a Thorn?
I was excited to read this book since the first time I saw the cover on IG, and the story lived up to my hopes for it. I love the idea of the FMC wanting to escape to her own little corner of the world and start a Tolkien themed farm.
The relationship between Thorn and his “dove” is adorable and the chemistry between them felt natural. She really made him wait and work for it, and for good reason as she’s trying to heal from her past trauma. I love the steamy scenes, very well written. And the fact that there was a scene included that touched on consent and boundaries even within a committed relationship, just yes 👏🏻
I’m hoping future books will explain what is happening back in Thorn’s world, since that kind of faded into the background as the book went on.
There was just enough conflict, I think, with the creepy FBI dude coming around to mess things up. And the found family trope came in clutch as always, though how open and quickly accepting some side characters were seemed a little too easy.
Overall a highly enjoyable monster romance for me and I look forward to seeing what this author does in the future!
I was excited to read this book since the first time I saw the cover on IG, and the story lived up to my hopes for it. I love the idea of the FMC wanting to escape to her own little corner of the world and start a Tolkien themed farm.
The relationship between Thorn and his “dove” is adorable and the chemistry between them felt natural. She really made him wait and work for it, and for good reason as she’s trying to heal from her past trauma. I love the steamy scenes, very well written. And the fact that there was a scene included that touched on consent and boundaries even within a committed relationship, just yes 👏🏻
I’m hoping future books will explain what is happening back in Thorn’s world, since that kind of faded into the background as the book went on.
There was just enough conflict, I think, with the creepy FBI dude coming around to mess things up. And the found family trope came in clutch as always, though how open and quickly accepting some side characters were seemed a little too easy.
Overall a highly enjoyable monster romance for me and I look forward to seeing what this author does in the future!
March 14, 2023
The descriptions and imagery in this story was excellent and brought you to the world without being overly wordy and boring. Very much fantasy with portal space magic. Definitely made my list of favorite books I read this year!
I loved Ruth, she is a strong female character without being annoying about it and too hard headed. She had a tough past and wanted to heal herself from that past and she did with buying the farm. She is such a cute soul, it’s not common for me to like the FMC, idk but most times they annoy me but Ruth didn’t which made reading this 100 times better!
Thorn is a big softy with a huge heart but will burn the world down if it meant protecting Ruth! I love that so much! He is just a big ol cinnamon roll with daggers and I think that is my favorite type going into books like these!
I loved the dynamic between them, they both needed healing and let each other heal while also helping each other heal. They both were respectful of each other and so perfect together!
Also, book is spicy! Hot hot 🔥
Happy reading everyone! ❤️
I loved Ruth, she is a strong female character without being annoying about it and too hard headed. She had a tough past and wanted to heal herself from that past and she did with buying the farm. She is such a cute soul, it’s not common for me to like the FMC, idk but most times they annoy me but Ruth didn’t which made reading this 100 times better!
Thorn is a big softy with a huge heart but will burn the world down if it meant protecting Ruth! I love that so much! He is just a big ol cinnamon roll with daggers and I think that is my favorite type going into books like these!
I loved the dynamic between them, they both needed healing and let each other heal while also helping each other heal. They both were respectful of each other and so perfect together!
Also, book is spicy! Hot hot 🔥
Happy reading everyone! ❤️
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