A review by transientmeow
The Orc and the Innkeeper by Cora Crane, Cora Crane

lighthearted relaxing fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

Cute and cozy! Not really a second chance romance, as Thorak bullied Mariah in high school - doesn't seem like he physically harmed her, but he and his friends made fun of her. That gets forgiven pretty easily, and it's very clear from the beginning of the book that Thorak just picked on her to hide his feelings, which is a trope that I know is problematic, but sometimes you can't help but eat it up. 

Fake engagement leads to real feelings, the evil ex storms back in and mucks it all up and there's a small time hop to give everyone time to grieve before the big romantic gesture.