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Orc Mates #1
Vorgak the Cruel
When the orcs invaded the human dimension, no one could stop them. War raged for years, and now the monstrous beasts have agreed to peace on two conditions: one, the human scientists must rebuild the machine that brought them into this world; and two, they must be provided with fertile brides to bear them orc babies.
Candace West needs to escape. For two years, she’s suffered at the hands of her abusive husband, and she can’t take it anymore. When he refuses to give her the divorce and threatens her life, she runs to the only place where she knows she’ll be protected – the nearest institute for orc brides. Once she offers herself as tribute, she is safe, and a hired attorney takes care of the divorce. Now, all she has to do is keep her word, learn about the orcs’ culture, and follow the one who chooses her as his mate.
Vorgak the Cruel has been trying to find the right mate for months. When he first sees Candace, he’s not convinced, but the human female pursues him. She seems to be willing and insistent, so for better or for worse, he takes her with him. He knows she is broken, and in spite of his name, he doesn’t want to hurt her. But if he isn’t careful, someone else will hurt Candace. She is his mate now, so it’s his duty to protect her.
Candace West needs to escape. For two years, she’s suffered at the hands of her abusive husband, and she can’t take it anymore. When he refuses to give her the divorce and threatens her life, she runs to the only place where she knows she’ll be protected – the nearest institute for orc brides. Once she offers herself as tribute, she is safe, and a hired attorney takes care of the divorce. Now, all she has to do is keep her word, learn about the orcs’ culture, and follow the one who chooses her as his mate.
Vorgak the Cruel has been trying to find the right mate for months. When he first sees Candace, he’s not convinced, but the human female pursues him. She seems to be willing and insistent, so for better or for worse, he takes her with him. He knows she is broken, and in spite of his name, he doesn’t want to hurt her. But if he isn’t careful, someone else will hurt Candace. She is his mate now, so it’s his duty to protect her.
170 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 20, 2021
351 people are currently reading
587 people want to read
About the author
Cara Wylde
151 books661 followersCara Wylde loves to write about strong, feisty women and their hot Alphas who will do anything to make them happy. Her books are filled with romance and just a dash of mystery, suspense, and that eerie atmosphere she fell in love with reading too many gothic novels. With a master's degree in Comparative Literature, she can't help but play with tropes and themes from various genres, trying to come up with fresh perspectives on the paranormal characters her readers love so much. Vampires, shape-shifters, demons, witches... Cara will always make sure they get their own twists.
When she's not writing, Cara is reading, planning her next story, or daydreaming. Her idea of pure heaven is a day filled with nothing but her laptop, a huge coffee pot, relaxing music, and a new, exciting project.
When she's not writing, Cara is reading, planning her next story, or daydreaming. Her idea of pure heaven is a day filled with nothing but her laptop, a huge coffee pot, relaxing music, and a new, exciting project.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
March 22, 2021
Qué aventura ha sido leer este libro, no pude dejarlo!
•Mi opinión puede contener Spoilers
•Esta destinada a ser un descargo personal no para que alguien más lea pero si lo haces y te ofende, me disculpo porque sé lo que es que te guste un libro y otros lo critiquen
Vorgak The Cruel de Cara Wylde Serie Orc mates libro 1
Argumento:
Cuando los orcos invadieron la dimensión humana, nadie pudo detenerlos. La guerra duró años, y ahora las monstruosas bestias han acordado la paz con dos condiciones: una, los científicos humanos deben reconstruir la máquina que los trajo a este mundo; y dos, deben estar provistas de novias fértiles para que tengan bebés orcos.
Candace West necesita escapar.
Durante dos años, ha sufrido a manos de su marido abusivo y no puede soportarlo más. Cuando él se niega a darle el divorcio y amenaza su vida, ella corre al único lugar donde sabe que estará protegida: el instituto más cercano para novias orcas.
Una vez que se ofrece como tributo, está a salvo y un abogado contratado se encarga del divorcio.
Ahora, todo lo que tiene que hacer es cumplir su palabra, aprender sobre la cultura de los orcos y seguir al que la elige como su compañera.
Vorgak el Cruel ha estado tratando de encontrar la pareja adecuada durante meses. Cuando ve a Candace por primera vez, no está convencido, pero la mujer humana lo persigue. Ella parece estar dispuesta e insistente, así que para bien o para mal, él la lleva con él.
Sabe que está rota y, a pesar de su nombre, no quiere lastimarla. Pero si no tiene cuidado, alguien más lastimará a Candace. Ella es su compañera ahora, por lo que es su deber protegerla.
Mí humilde opinión:
Este es mí primer libro sobre romance paranormal de monstruos, orcos en este caso, y tengo que decir... LOVE IT!!! Me encantó de principio a fin!
La trama fue interesante, llamativa. Me gustó la idea de los tributos (mujeres que se ofrecen voluntariamente están escapando de una situación difícil) y los orcos buscando novias que les den herederos. Ese es el trato que tienen los orcos con las autoridades de la tierra luego de que los científicos abrieran un portal al mundo de estas criaturas y los arrastraran fuera de su mundo iniciando una guerra.
Ahora las hordas están esperando a que los científicos arreglen la máquina para devolverlos a su dimensión.
El capitán Vorgak El Cruel está en busca de una novia pero teme que con su nombre y lo que ha hecho en el pasado ninguna se quede con él. Candice quiere escapar de un marido abusivo y su única alternativa es convertirse en tributo para un orco, solo así estará a salvo. Pero cuando Vorgak ve a todas las mujeres y a Candace solo se da la vuelta sin escoger a ninguna. Candice toma la decisión de ponerse en su camino sin darse por vencida para que la lleve con él.
Vorgak y Candace llegan a las cuevas de las montañas dónde está la horda que él lidera. Candace se va adaptando a los orcos y su nueva situación como mujer de uno, lo que no es fácil cuando él no se abre emocionalmente con ella pero poco poco se van acercando con momentos calientes y dulces, los dos van construyendo una fuerte relación. Pero su ex marido y un enemigo de Vorgak amenazarán su felicidad encontrada.
Los protagonistas me encantaron, él era un orco gruñón y daba miedo algunas veces pero a pesar de ser llamado como 'El Cruel' siempre protege y es dulce con Candace. Ella era una heroína dulce, fuerte y valiente, decidida a todo. Me gustó que no tuviera miedo a los orcos y quisiera llevarse bien con todos, aprender sobre su cultura.
Estaba esperando el momento en que se arreglara la máquina y pudieran ir al mundo orco porque estaba curiosa por cómo sería pero me dejaron con las ganas!
En definitiva este libro me dejó encantada, tuvo un romance a fuego lento con protagonistas de diferentes mundos, pasión, drama, acción y peligro. El final fue genial.
Ya quiero leer el próximo de orcos de Cara Wylde!
July 25, 2021
Mismatched couple - warrior alien orc hero and wimpy passivist human heroine. Bad sex. Boring plot. No world building.
November 5, 2021
I think this could have been a relatively decent story, but the complete lack of worldbuilding and the numerous typos did it in.
March 24, 2022
Could have been ok
The main female.character killed this book. For an abused house wife she was pretty comfortable doing and saying whatever she wanted to these huge orcs. She didn't act like a woman abused ,not in manner or mind ,trying get him to have sex with her basically everything a abused woman would shy away from. She was judgemental.AND her constant thoughts on " teaching the ocs" better ways of.living got annoying. She was callous not caring about personal feelings only about herself and she kept comparing her orc to her ex... Yea she killed it for me . At around 60% I started skimming and didnt.care if she got her kid back or anything else😒
The main female.character killed this book. For an abused house wife she was pretty comfortable doing and saying whatever she wanted to these huge orcs. She didn't act like a woman abused ,not in manner or mind ,trying get him to have sex with her basically everything a abused woman would shy away from. She was judgemental.AND her constant thoughts on " teaching the ocs" better ways of.living got annoying. She was callous not caring about personal feelings only about herself and she kept comparing her orc to her ex... Yea she killed it for me . At around 60% I started skimming and didnt.care if she got her kid back or anything else😒
August 30, 2022
CW for book: domestic abuse
Why didn't I DNF this? It's short enough that I kept hoping it would get better. The concept- orcs pulled through a portal into our world, and tribute brides- has potential. But it's clear that no research went into domestic abuse survivors, and I can't keep overlooking that when the plot of the book hinges on FMC escaping this marriage and her new mate protecting her from ex's ongoing threats.
Female Main Character escapes a deeply abusive marriage where she's beaten to the point of being unable to get out of bed for several days, and isolated from friends and family. She escapes and hops over to being a bride tribute; she experiences little to no ongoing trauma, and receives no psychological counseling. Her only expressed fear is at not being chosen as an orc bride. What appears to be a couple weeks later, the impoverished and austere center she's at for bride tributes has hired a lawyer to get the world's fastest divorce. This abused woman picks the biggest and most powerful orc in the room, and basically chases him until he chooses her. Not everyone processes their trauma in the same way, but I wish I had this woman's power to compartmentalize.
Ex-husband shows up, physically attacks her, and tries to carry her off in his car- new mate punches him, and FMC is all, "oh that's plenty of revenge, he'll probably move to a new state now that you hit him! My abuser's control over me isn't actually that important to him. Not to worry!"
You see where that's going.
I'm not even going to wade into the heavy mediocre sex scenes. Make a donation to your local domestic violence organization, and give this one a miss.
Why didn't I DNF this? It's short enough that I kept hoping it would get better. The concept- orcs pulled through a portal into our world, and tribute brides- has potential. But it's clear that no research went into domestic abuse survivors, and I can't keep overlooking that when the plot of the book hinges on FMC escaping this marriage and her new mate protecting her from ex's ongoing threats.
Female Main Character escapes a deeply abusive marriage where she's beaten to the point of being unable to get out of bed for several days, and isolated from friends and family. She escapes and hops over to being a bride tribute; she experiences little to no ongoing trauma, and receives no psychological counseling. Her only expressed fear is at not being chosen as an orc bride. What appears to be a couple weeks later, the impoverished and austere center she's at for bride tributes has hired a lawyer to get the world's fastest divorce. This abused woman picks the biggest and most powerful orc in the room, and basically chases him until he chooses her. Not everyone processes their trauma in the same way, but I wish I had this woman's power to compartmentalize.
Ex-husband shows up, physically attacks her, and tries to carry her off in his car- new mate punches him, and FMC is all, "oh that's plenty of revenge, he'll probably move to a new state now that you hit him! My abuser's control over me isn't actually that important to him. Not to worry!"
You see where that's going.
I'm not even going to wade into the heavy mediocre sex scenes. Make a donation to your local domestic violence organization, and give this one a miss.
March 22, 2021
This monster romance definitely caught my attention & kept it all the way until the end and to be quite honest, I really enjoyed reading it. I found the plot to be well-written & entertaining. The world building is splendidly well done & there are some excellent scene descriptions. The main characters (a leader & warrior orc, Vorgek the Cruel) & (a human female, Candace) are well-developed with complex personalities & have realistic flaws with some personal issues. I was actually quite fascinated by their influences on each other as they continued to develop throughout the story-line. There is good support from the secondary characters.
There is: a despicable ex-husband (Chris), an institute for tribute brides, Orcs, humans, action, drama, suspense, intrigue, danger, threats, violence, conflict, abduction, vengeful feelings, friendship, comradery, determination, happiness, love, contentment & a beautiful happy conclusion for this couple.
There is: a despicable ex-husband (Chris), an institute for tribute brides, Orcs, humans, action, drama, suspense, intrigue, danger, threats, violence, conflict, abduction, vengeful feelings, friendship, comradery, determination, happiness, love, contentment & a beautiful happy conclusion for this couple.
April 9, 2021
i really great start for a new series.
Loved the concept of the series and i do want to read more .
I was a bit weirded out by the sex scene though not put out to continue reading the book.
I want to read more of this series.
Loved the concept of the series and i do want to read more .
I was a bit weirded out by the sex scene though not put out to continue reading the book.
I want to read more of this series.
July 5, 2024
As stories go,not much happened …it seemed slow and a bit too boring for me 🤷🏻♀️
July 18, 2021
The couple: Vorgak and Candy
Romance genre: Fantasy/monster-lover
Series: Orc Mates
Length: 170 pages
Plot: Candace is in an abusive marriage, and finally gets the courage to leave. She goes straight to the nearest Orc bride tribute institute (see. there was a portal that opened and orcs came through and there was a war and as part of the treaty orcs can take human tributes as brides). The institute procures her a divorce and she offers herself as bride to Vorgak the Cruel, and he takes her back to his horde. She's confused at first, though, because he doesn't seem to want to mate her, even though the one purpose of the tribute program is to provide mates and children for the orcs. However, that's only one of her problems. Her ex-husband is still around causing trouble, and Vorgak might have some old enemies popping up as well.
Character development: I really liked the premise of this story, but there was one thing that kinda bugged me. Obviously, the orcs have their own culture that has worked well for them for however long they've existed. They're not dumb creatures, for all that they're more physical than humans (when resolving their problems). But many times throughout the book, Candy (he calls her Candy, which is cute) "teaches" them someone new and amazing - how to use spices in their food, the purpose of furniture, that sort of thing. It feels a little like the missionaries/colonizers teaching the natives the "right" religion/culture. The orcs were not originally from this world, but she's still the outsider in their community - she married into them, not the other way around. She seems a little superior sometimes, and it just struck me a little wrong. I'm sure it was meant to be played as comic relief, or to see how well she's integrating. Really, the story was a 3.5 for me, with that one thing a bit of an irritant.
Grammar/formatting: some grammar/usage errors, needed one more edit
Next book in the series: Rogan the Gray
Romance genre: Fantasy/monster-lover
Series: Orc Mates
Length: 170 pages
Plot: Candace is in an abusive marriage, and finally gets the courage to leave. She goes straight to the nearest Orc bride tribute institute (see. there was a portal that opened and orcs came through and there was a war and as part of the treaty orcs can take human tributes as brides). The institute procures her a divorce and she offers herself as bride to Vorgak the Cruel, and he takes her back to his horde. She's confused at first, though, because he doesn't seem to want to mate her, even though the one purpose of the tribute program is to provide mates and children for the orcs. However, that's only one of her problems. Her ex-husband is still around causing trouble, and Vorgak might have some old enemies popping up as well.
Character development: I really liked the premise of this story, but there was one thing that kinda bugged me. Obviously, the orcs have their own culture that has worked well for them for however long they've existed. They're not dumb creatures, for all that they're more physical than humans (when resolving their problems). But many times throughout the book, Candy (he calls her Candy, which is cute) "teaches" them someone new and amazing - how to use spices in their food, the purpose of furniture, that sort of thing. It feels a little like the missionaries/colonizers teaching the natives the "right" religion/culture. The orcs were not originally from this world, but she's still the outsider in their community - she married into them, not the other way around. She seems a little superior sometimes, and it just struck me a little wrong. I'm sure it was meant to be played as comic relief, or to see how well she's integrating. Really, the story was a 3.5 for me, with that one thing a bit of an irritant.
Grammar/formatting: some grammar/usage errors, needed one more edit
Next book in the series: Rogan the Gray
October 28, 2021
it would be a good book in my opinion if she wasn't so boring, all that whining "what will i do if he's like this" bla bla bla, she's a boring and tiresome selfish character who wants to have her way, I forced myself to read it all the book because I don't like to leave it unfinished. ⭐⭐/5
March 27, 2021
Escaping the Monster . . .
After years of battle, both the Orcs and humans are willing to negotiate peace if the scientists will rebuild the machine between their worlds and will allow human volunteers for mating with the Orcs. Vorgak the Cruel has been looking for his mate among the human women at the institute. Candace West had been in an abusive marriage and her husband would not give her a divorce. Her only way out was to volunteer for the Orc program and they would take care of the divorce. She would also be kept safe by her new Orc mate. When Vorgak came, she wanted him and tried to convince him to choose her. But he is afraid of the human’s frailty. Will he give her a chance? And as her mate it will be his duty to protect her and keep her safe.
It’s nice to see Orcs with honor to erase our preconceived notions. It’s sad to see, however, that the cruelty is committed by the human male who was supposed to love his wife. And a vicious Orc is kind and protective. I always knew we had more “monsters” than the paranormals have!
After years of battle, both the Orcs and humans are willing to negotiate peace if the scientists will rebuild the machine between their worlds and will allow human volunteers for mating with the Orcs. Vorgak the Cruel has been looking for his mate among the human women at the institute. Candace West had been in an abusive marriage and her husband would not give her a divorce. Her only way out was to volunteer for the Orc program and they would take care of the divorce. She would also be kept safe by her new Orc mate. When Vorgak came, she wanted him and tried to convince him to choose her. But he is afraid of the human’s frailty. Will he give her a chance? And as her mate it will be his duty to protect her and keep her safe.
It’s nice to see Orcs with honor to erase our preconceived notions. It’s sad to see, however, that the cruelty is committed by the human male who was supposed to love his wife. And a vicious Orc is kind and protective. I always knew we had more “monsters” than the paranormals have!
March 27, 2021
Candace became a tribute - a possible mate for an Orc warrior to escape her abusive husband. When Vorgak sees her, he is prepaed to walk away - but she follows him and convinces him to choose her.
But Chris isnt giving up so easily - he is determined to get her back and punish her for leaving and divorcing him.
Candace has a baby - and Chris and an accomplice take him from her, just after his birth. Will Vorgak be able to find them and save his son? Or will the strange Orc get the revenge he is seeking, and cost Candace everything? A good read with lots of twists.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But Chris isnt giving up so easily - he is determined to get her back and punish her for leaving and divorcing him.
Candace has a baby - and Chris and an accomplice take him from her, just after his birth. Will Vorgak be able to find them and save his son? Or will the strange Orc get the revenge he is seeking, and cost Candace everything? A good read with lots of twists.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 30, 2021
This was such a great read and a fab intro to a new series! I loved how the orcs were - and yes, they are waaay better than any you've likely read about or seen in the movies ;P Expect a sweet and steamy romance that doesn't follow a smooth path. Both Candace and Vorgak have baggage and need to find a way to let go of the past to embrace their future. It was an entertaining read and I can't wait for more :)
September 22, 2022
2.5 rounded up
Cw: abusive ex, pregnancy, stolen baby.
Just wasn't doing it for me. Personally I think the abusive ex came back too many times. There was a miscommunication trope which just wasn't doing it for me. Candy was so boring oh my god. I know nothing about her except that she missed fast food.
Cw: abusive ex, pregnancy, stolen baby.
Just wasn't doing it for me. Personally I think the abusive ex came back too many times. There was a miscommunication trope which just wasn't doing it for me. Candy was so boring oh my god. I know nothing about her except that she missed fast food.
March 27, 2021
This turned out to be wonderful! I enjoyed the characters and they flowed though the book. Really good book, her play on words is really good! I enjoyed this orc story and am on the lookout for more!
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.
August 28, 2021
Vorgak and Candy
Loved this book. Candy ran away from an abusive marriage and eventually found love with the Orks. Some twists within the story that makes you want to read the ending first to know what happens. Great read, don't miss out.
Loved this book. Candy ran away from an abusive marriage and eventually found love with the Orks. Some twists within the story that makes you want to read the ending first to know what happens. Great read, don't miss out.
February 17, 2023
Their major conflict was created by the female lead not being accepting of different cultural norms, holding the male leads past against him, and lies of omission. The male ends up apologizing. I almost threw the whole book out. Instead, I just tapped my kindle through the whole ordeal.
April 22, 2021
3.5 stars.
For an orc romance, it's... cute. As cute as an orc can be when it comes to finding a mate. The males aren't into discussing emotions. (Ignore them if they state they don't have any because they do deep down inside.)
This story may or may not be a templated story line. It's difficult to say because it reads more like (insert monster name here). Because it's that nondescript unfortunately. And it shows. We are introduced to a variety of orcs within Vorgak the Cruel's inner circle, but despite how much time we spend with them, they hardly become anything more substantial than some 2D characters. Alog the Mage is the closest to a side kick for Vorgak, but don't call him stupid!
The world building was interesting... but it just didn't get far enough along to make it worthy of a good story. Which is sad because there was so much potential! If one has read the Orc Sworn series by Finely Finn, you will instantly see the difference. Orc Sworn was rich in detail whereas Vorgak the Cruel was more like stick figures. I think this is directly linked to lack of editorialship, pure and simple. I found too many misspellings that bogged me down way too much.
What's so sad is that this story (and writer) shows so much potential!! Vorgak the Cruel isn't a bad idea at all. It was just poorly executed. It needed more exposition and devotion to the characters within its pages. It needed a better, more realistic means of a driving force to execute the storyline appropriately. This writer needed a kick-butt editor, something far more than a glorified proofreader.
I read this story via KU. I might see how Book 2 goes, but it depends on whether or not I want to take a risk to devote my limited reading time.
For an orc romance, it's... cute. As cute as an orc can be when it comes to finding a mate. The males aren't into discussing emotions. (Ignore them if they state they don't have any because they do deep down inside.)
This story may or may not be a templated story line. It's difficult to say because it reads more like (insert monster name here). Because it's that nondescript unfortunately. And it shows. We are introduced to a variety of orcs within Vorgak the Cruel's inner circle, but despite how much time we spend with them, they hardly become anything more substantial than some 2D characters. Alog the Mage is the closest to a side kick for Vorgak, but don't call him stupid!
The world building was interesting... but it just didn't get far enough along to make it worthy of a good story. Which is sad because there was so much potential! If one has read the Orc Sworn series by Finely Finn, you will instantly see the difference. Orc Sworn was rich in detail whereas Vorgak the Cruel was more like stick figures. I think this is directly linked to lack of editorialship, pure and simple. I found too many misspellings that bogged me down way too much.
What's so sad is that this story (and writer) shows so much potential!! Vorgak the Cruel isn't a bad idea at all. It was just poorly executed. It needed more exposition and devotion to the characters within its pages. It needed a better, more realistic means of a driving force to execute the storyline appropriately. This writer needed a kick-butt editor, something far more than a glorified proofreader.
I read this story via KU. I might see how Book 2 goes, but it depends on whether or not I want to take a risk to devote my limited reading time.
April 29, 2022
Great first book of a new series for me💖💖
I have found that I do really enjoy an Orc as a leading man🔥🔥 in this timeline on Earth scientists messed with mother nature again but this time open a portal to another dimension one that had orcs not humans as the primary alpha civilization. When they realize they screwed up it was too late the device sucked many unwilling unsuspecting Orcs into our dimension. They were already warlike, and turned their anger on humans. For two years they fought until a peace was settled. There will be no more war if we can have human brides. This is where our story begins. Most of the volunteers are women running from something or offered away out of a bad situation. Candace is one of these. She's in a terribly abusive relationship and wanted to get away and the only way she believed she could safely. When it's time for the choosing she meets Vorgak a captain lethal, strong and surprisingly handsome. Vorgak, just wants to go home but he is unable and don't know if he ever will do he's decided to acquire a bride and hopefully start a family. He has many situations in his last that he doesn't want to remember and as he looks around he sees Candace and wants her desperately but feels unworthy and decides to leave. Candace is having none of that and that's when the true adventure begins. Together they navigate cultural differences, traumatic pasts and others trying to separate them. But as they work through their differences and problems they call in !I've and create a true bond. It's a Great read and has me hooked enough that I'm definitely going to read more in the series. I encourage you to check it out for yourself.🔥💖🔥💖🔥🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥🔥
I have found that I do really enjoy an Orc as a leading man🔥🔥 in this timeline on Earth scientists messed with mother nature again but this time open a portal to another dimension one that had orcs not humans as the primary alpha civilization. When they realize they screwed up it was too late the device sucked many unwilling unsuspecting Orcs into our dimension. They were already warlike, and turned their anger on humans. For two years they fought until a peace was settled. There will be no more war if we can have human brides. This is where our story begins. Most of the volunteers are women running from something or offered away out of a bad situation. Candace is one of these. She's in a terribly abusive relationship and wanted to get away and the only way she believed she could safely. When it's time for the choosing she meets Vorgak a captain lethal, strong and surprisingly handsome. Vorgak, just wants to go home but he is unable and don't know if he ever will do he's decided to acquire a bride and hopefully start a family. He has many situations in his last that he doesn't want to remember and as he looks around he sees Candace and wants her desperately but feels unworthy and decides to leave. Candace is having none of that and that's when the true adventure begins. Together they navigate cultural differences, traumatic pasts and others trying to separate them. But as they work through their differences and problems they call in !I've and create a true bond. It's a Great read and has me hooked enough that I'm definitely going to read more in the series. I encourage you to check it out for yourself.🔥💖🔥💖🔥🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥🔥
August 16, 2021
Candance quiere escapar de su marido abusivo pero sabe que las probabilidades de que la acabe encontrando y matándola son muy altas. Así que elige la única manera segura de escapar: apuntarse como tributo para los Orcos. Cuando finalmente consigue que uno de los capitanes la elija (ejem, después de mucho insistir) lo último que espera es que éste la ignore. Pero pronto las cosas cambiarán de mil maneras que estos dos no esperaban.
NO ES UN LIBRO CORTO. Y lo pongo así para que se vaya con toda la información cuando se empiece a leer. No es un mal libro pero la historia, tal y como está escrita tiene los tintes de una historia corta porque va muuuuuuy muuuuuuy rápido. No me entendáis que estoy diciendo que el libro es demasiado extenso, está sobre las 200 y algo páginas, algo normal pero simplemente creo que la historia debió estar pensada como algo corto. Vorgak y Candance alias Candy no son malos personajes pero... Meh. Tampoco es que saque mucho de ellos, a parte de que Candy es una desesperada, al principio lo entendí pensando que era su manera de sobrevivir pero ella insistió e insistió en que no era por eso y entonces ahí ya pensé que era una arrastrada 🙄. A ver que yo creo que una solo puede soportar el rechazo hasta cierto punto yo es que ya no rogaría más que queréis que os diga... En fin, que la historia está bien para pasar el rato pero no me parece ni profunda, ni algo para hacer un libro de este tamaño ni así, para mí hubiera sido una gran historia corta y me habría tenido más sentido.
NO ES UN LIBRO CORTO. Y lo pongo así para que se vaya con toda la información cuando se empiece a leer. No es un mal libro pero la historia, tal y como está escrita tiene los tintes de una historia corta porque va muuuuuuy muuuuuuy rápido. No me entendáis que estoy diciendo que el libro es demasiado extenso, está sobre las 200 y algo páginas, algo normal pero simplemente creo que la historia debió estar pensada como algo corto. Vorgak y Candance alias Candy no son malos personajes pero... Meh. Tampoco es que saque mucho de ellos, a parte de que Candy es una desesperada, al principio lo entendí pensando que era su manera de sobrevivir pero ella insistió e insistió en que no era por eso y entonces ahí ya pensé que era una arrastrada 🙄. A ver que yo creo que una solo puede soportar el rechazo hasta cierto punto yo es que ya no rogaría más que queréis que os diga... En fin, que la historia está bien para pasar el rato pero no me parece ni profunda, ni algo para hacer un libro de este tamaño ni así, para mí hubiera sido una gran historia corta y me habría tenido más sentido.
August 28, 2025
GREAT ART OF THE CHARACTERS!
I always appreciate it when an author includes artwork of their characters. I loved the pictures and great art Nomad Raccoon created.
I still can't figure out how they kiss with those tusks.
I didn't like Candy very much. I felt sorry about her being in an abusive relationship but once she arrived in the Horde I didn't like very much. She seemed immature, selfish, and communication skills weren't very good. I liked Vorgak more than Candy.
Because she was a physical abuse victim who was badly beaten and almost killed she didn't seem to suffer mentally once she was in the Horde. I mean no nightmares, no physical reactions she was fearful only.
I know why they needed to consummate their relationship but jeez she was all over Vorgak. He was treating her more gently and giving her time to be ready for a sexual relationship.
The foolish thought that her ex-husband wouldn't return made her look like a fool. That didn't need to be in the book because we all knew he would return.
I liked Candy more after giving birth she seemed a different person.
I really liked Sedga a lot. She was different from the other orcs she liked what the human world offered her.
I didn't feel much love for one another, in this book, not until the very end. I felt Vorgak loved her more and Candy was just along for the security only.
This is the first book I've read where the character’s name Candy and Candace were used which is my name. Thank you.
I always appreciate it when an author includes artwork of their characters. I loved the pictures and great art Nomad Raccoon created.
I still can't figure out how they kiss with those tusks.
I didn't like Candy very much. I felt sorry about her being in an abusive relationship but once she arrived in the Horde I didn't like very much. She seemed immature, selfish, and communication skills weren't very good. I liked Vorgak more than Candy.
Because she was a physical abuse victim who was badly beaten and almost killed she didn't seem to suffer mentally once she was in the Horde. I mean no nightmares, no physical reactions she was fearful only.
I know why they needed to consummate their relationship but jeez she was all over Vorgak. He was treating her more gently and giving her time to be ready for a sexual relationship.
The foolish thought that her ex-husband wouldn't return made her look like a fool. That didn't need to be in the book because we all knew he would return.
I liked Candy more after giving birth she seemed a different person.
I really liked Sedga a lot. She was different from the other orcs she liked what the human world offered her.
I didn't feel much love for one another, in this book, not until the very end. I felt Vorgak loved her more and Candy was just along for the security only.
This is the first book I've read where the character’s name Candy and Candace were used which is my name. Thank you.
February 11, 2023
Couldn’t Put It Down
… seriously, the story was awesome! I struggled a bit with the point of view - being third and omnipresent meant a lot of detail was glossed over. POV aside, the story was lovely.
Escaping an abusive jerk human husband, Candace the Human utilises an orc-mate volunteer initiative to secure safety for herself. While she is described as “kind and sweet”, more often than not I found her bland - BUT having survived 2 years of horrendous abuse, she has definitely earned all the bland she wants.
Orcs were yanked through dimension tunnels created by dumb scientists (think The Mist, but with less horrifying monsters) and this book takes place four years later. There were four years of war, between the two factions of orcs and then between the orca and humans - but, because of a stalemate, there’s tentative and uneasy peace. Poor or convicted females volunteer to be orc mates! What a way to clean up half of society’s unwanted members! SMH.
I’m not obsessed with the omnipresent third person, so that knocked a star off. There were too many passages of “telling me what happened” instead of letting my experience it in an engaging way. Still, I couldn’t put it down and the promise of future books is there!
Spice 2/5 peppers - cause again, 3rd person omnipresent… just feels like an out of body observer rather than experiencing it.
… seriously, the story was awesome! I struggled a bit with the point of view - being third and omnipresent meant a lot of detail was glossed over. POV aside, the story was lovely.
Escaping an abusive jerk human husband, Candace the Human utilises an orc-mate volunteer initiative to secure safety for herself. While she is described as “kind and sweet”, more often than not I found her bland - BUT having survived 2 years of horrendous abuse, she has definitely earned all the bland she wants.
Orcs were yanked through dimension tunnels created by dumb scientists (think The Mist, but with less horrifying monsters) and this book takes place four years later. There were four years of war, between the two factions of orcs and then between the orca and humans - but, because of a stalemate, there’s tentative and uneasy peace. Poor or convicted females volunteer to be orc mates! What a way to clean up half of society’s unwanted members! SMH.
I’m not obsessed with the omnipresent third person, so that knocked a star off. There were too many passages of “telling me what happened” instead of letting my experience it in an engaging way. Still, I couldn’t put it down and the promise of future books is there!
Spice 2/5 peppers - cause again, 3rd person omnipresent… just feels like an out of body observer rather than experiencing it.
November 20, 2021
Cute story for Vorgak and Candace
I have read two of these books in this series so far and found them entertaining. It’s the human bride troupe. Each couple slightly varies, but overall easy to read. I have to mention that the bride in this story was not my favorite character. It was odd to me how she begged Vorgak the Cruel to choose her. Candace blocked him from the exit and she got him to agree. Several chapters in the horde Mage reveals to Candace how Vorgak got his name. Out of nowhere Candace becomes judgmental because her Orc mate killed people in wars viciously. Candace even had the audacity to compare war time killing to he ex-husband abuse of her as a count to say that the abuser was better than Vorgak. At that chapter, I lost all interest in Candace, the character and strongly considered not finishing this book The main requirement for signing up to the tribute is that you go to school to learn about the orcs. In those lessons, it is taught that the Orcs are warriors and in their dimension there are two factions fighting over control. Disappointed.
I have read two of these books in this series so far and found them entertaining. It’s the human bride troupe. Each couple slightly varies, but overall easy to read. I have to mention that the bride in this story was not my favorite character. It was odd to me how she begged Vorgak the Cruel to choose her. Candace blocked him from the exit and she got him to agree. Several chapters in the horde Mage reveals to Candace how Vorgak got his name. Out of nowhere Candace becomes judgmental because her Orc mate killed people in wars viciously. Candace even had the audacity to compare war time killing to he ex-husband abuse of her as a count to say that the abuser was better than Vorgak. At that chapter, I lost all interest in Candace, the character and strongly considered not finishing this book The main requirement for signing up to the tribute is that you go to school to learn about the orcs. In those lessons, it is taught that the Orcs are warriors and in their dimension there are two factions fighting over control. Disappointed.
July 19, 2022
Orcs and babies
So I really struggled to decide how to review this book. On the one hand, it is well written and edited and the story was well paced. There is good world building and character development. My only issue is that I just don't like the female MC. Candace is fleeing from an abusive relationship and decides that offering herself as an Orc tribute bride will protect her from her ex-husband. She basically bullies Orc Captain Vorgak into taking her and then proceeds to treat him rather badly from the start. She's either throwing herself at him and being pissy because he doesn't immediately jump her bones, or she's keeping herself emotionally closed off by assuming that he'll be no better than her ex. I could go on but, suffice it to say, I just didn't like her. I didn't think she treated him fairly and I found her to be a bit petty! However, I did like Vorgak's character and most of the background characters. It's a decent story and I'm glad I stuck with it. I'll probably read the next book in the series, as I'm sufficiently curious about the other women and Orcs. 3.75* stars!
So I really struggled to decide how to review this book. On the one hand, it is well written and edited and the story was well paced. There is good world building and character development. My only issue is that I just don't like the female MC. Candace is fleeing from an abusive relationship and decides that offering herself as an Orc tribute bride will protect her from her ex-husband. She basically bullies Orc Captain Vorgak into taking her and then proceeds to treat him rather badly from the start. She's either throwing herself at him and being pissy because he doesn't immediately jump her bones, or she's keeping herself emotionally closed off by assuming that he'll be no better than her ex. I could go on but, suffice it to say, I just didn't like her. I didn't think she treated him fairly and I found her to be a bit petty! However, I did like Vorgak's character and most of the background characters. It's a decent story and I'm glad I stuck with it. I'll probably read the next book in the series, as I'm sufficiently curious about the other women and Orcs. 3.75* stars!
March 24, 2021
Candace has been suffering abuse from her husband for years, when she can't take it anymore she plans her escape. Scientists were experimenting with the theory of alternate dimensions when the opened a door to the orcs world. The orcs came through and waged war against the humans of Earth for years, but now humans and orcs have agreed to peace. The conditions for the cease fire are simple. The human scientists must rebuild the machine that brought the orcs to Earth, and human women will agree to mate with orc males and bear their young. Vorgak the Cruel is looking for a human mate, but so far all the human females are beautiful, but far to breakable. He is leaving the institute once again without a mate when Candace pursues him and convinces him to take her with him.
Wonderful characters, I thought they were fascinating, well written, and even compelling. Sizzling hot interactions, a little suspense, and some surprising twists in the plot made this a page turner for me. I can't wait for the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Wonderful characters, I thought they were fascinating, well written, and even compelling. Sizzling hot interactions, a little suspense, and some surprising twists in the plot made this a page turner for me. I can't wait for the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
November 10, 2021
DNF
The dialog was weirdly stilted and unnatural. Author, mid page, would switch between the male and female perspective without warning or any transition, this would be for like a paragraph, then switch right back as if nothing happened. Made it hard to follow as a reader. This girl was BEATEN, on the daily, for 2 years.... she takes a month off and is now ready to ride some other dudes disco stick???? Cringe worthy. STOP WRITING TRAUMA SO GOSH DANG DISMISSIVELY!!! There are so many other ways to add angst to story, that will allow for a push and pull but when an author writes like this it drives me insane. These things should be handled with care, love and more understanding because when they aren't, it undermines what your actual readers might have gone through.
All that said. I liked the world that the author built. Seems to be pulling from a few different author series I am reading, or have read, to make it their own. That is the only thing that kept me reading but it just couldn't get me to stay.
The dialog was weirdly stilted and unnatural. Author, mid page, would switch between the male and female perspective without warning or any transition, this would be for like a paragraph, then switch right back as if nothing happened. Made it hard to follow as a reader. This girl was BEATEN, on the daily, for 2 years.... she takes a month off and is now ready to ride some other dudes disco stick???? Cringe worthy. STOP WRITING TRAUMA SO GOSH DANG DISMISSIVELY!!! There are so many other ways to add angst to story, that will allow for a push and pull but when an author writes like this it drives me insane. These things should be handled with care, love and more understanding because when they aren't, it undermines what your actual readers might have gone through.
All that said. I liked the world that the author built. Seems to be pulling from a few different author series I am reading, or have read, to make it their own. That is the only thing that kept me reading but it just couldn't get me to stay.
March 29, 2021
3 1/2 Stars!
Not my usual genre but I liked the blurb and I do like protective alpha heroes and thought maybe I’d like an alien one as well.
Vorgak needed a mate and Candace needed saving.
I appreciated the way the author started the storyline without lingering on the abuse and painful history Candace shared with Chris. I also loved the way Amanda and her boyfriend were ready and willing to intervene and support Candace in her escape.
I also liked the way the author included several points of view included in the storyline without breaking it up into chapters. I thought this method made for a smoother storytelling.
Not being a frequent reader of this genre, it was nice to learn about Vorgak’s alien race s as no culture along with Candace as she navigated through her new marriage, intimacy , and subsequent love for her alien husband.
Sweetly romantic even though it was a far fetched tale.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Not my usual genre but I liked the blurb and I do like protective alpha heroes and thought maybe I’d like an alien one as well.
Vorgak needed a mate and Candace needed saving.
I appreciated the way the author started the storyline without lingering on the abuse and painful history Candace shared with Chris. I also loved the way Amanda and her boyfriend were ready and willing to intervene and support Candace in her escape.
I also liked the way the author included several points of view included in the storyline without breaking it up into chapters. I thought this method made for a smoother storytelling.
Not being a frequent reader of this genre, it was nice to learn about Vorgak’s alien race s as no culture along with Candace as she navigated through her new marriage, intimacy , and subsequent love for her alien husband.
Sweetly romantic even though it was a far fetched tale.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 29, 2021
I love a good paranormal, steamy fairy tale and this was a good one. Cara Wylde's book was recommended to me by Booksrpout and I'm so glad I read it. Candace is a survivor of domestic abuse and has divorced her ex. To get as far from him as possible, she enters the volunteer program to be become a bride to the orcs, who were brought to Earth through a portal accidentally created by some scientists. The Orcs are a a monstrous species and although giant, brutal, and warlike creates, they are possessive, protective, and kind to their families. When Vorgak comes looking for a mate Candace begs him to take her. And so their story begins. They were well written, interesting characters, although Candace annoyed me a lot at times. The book was well paced, great action, some drama, and steam. Overall, a compelling story and I cant wait for more
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.
December 3, 2021
Okay this is going to seem harsh but in this book lacks development at least in the world building department. I don't know if it's because it's technically on earth and she felt it wasn't needed? It really was because these hordes have made their homes in caves they dug. I wanted to know more about holes for bedrooms because that was interesting but again I wanted more development. Vor was a mystery but extremely likable. Candy had it rough and I liked her although she was a little unfair to Vor sometimes. Often comparing him to her ex-husband and judging him on a past without even giving him a chance to talk to her. She was scared and I understand but still she was fast to judge especially when he was nothing but kind and protective of her. She even knew this but sat there and made him grovel on a past he had. He couldn't change it. It was years ago before her. So a little unfair. Once she got over herself it was good. I enjoyed the book and look forward to more.
March 23, 2021
Happiness
Vorgak the Cruel is book one in the series Orc Mates by author Cara Wylde. Ok so firstly when I read what this book was about I was a bit skeptical- I mean Orcs- only time I’ve seen them is in Lord of the Rings and that wasn’t a good look for Orcs. With that being said this book completely changed my mind - I want a Orc of my very own (wink-wink).
Anywho, Vorgak the Cruel, is definitely entertaining and incredibly intriguing- there are moments of humor, which I didn’t expect but gladly accept. There’s action- definitely some drama and oh the naughty bits are delicious.
All in all this book is about overcoming obstacles and others preconceived conceptions. I love the lesson it tells- teaches. Most absolutely definitely one for your private library.
Enjoy!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Vorgak the Cruel is book one in the series Orc Mates by author Cara Wylde. Ok so firstly when I read what this book was about I was a bit skeptical- I mean Orcs- only time I’ve seen them is in Lord of the Rings and that wasn’t a good look for Orcs. With that being said this book completely changed my mind - I want a Orc of my very own (wink-wink).
Anywho, Vorgak the Cruel, is definitely entertaining and incredibly intriguing- there are moments of humor, which I didn’t expect but gladly accept. There’s action- definitely some drama and oh the naughty bits are delicious.
All in all this book is about overcoming obstacles and others preconceived conceptions. I love the lesson it tells- teaches. Most absolutely definitely one for your private library.
Enjoy!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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