emmelnie 's review for:

Yuled by the Orcs by Finley Fenn

5.0

emotional fast-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Character

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Complicated

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I never thought I’d use the word “charming” in relation to Finley Fenn’s angst-ridden, sly, deceptive, and drama-filled orc world, but I guess there’s always a first time for everything! This novella is a holiday treat for readers.

 

This story of a throuple coming together is unique compared to other books in Fenn’s Orc Sworn series in that the protagonists are all older. It’s wonderful to read about graying hair and damaged bodies and still share a portrait of people falling in and maintaining love. So many times we treat romance as something that happens to someone younger, so it’s a delight to see that aspect of this story.

 

I love the care and concern Tryg shows in his own wild way for Lydia and Ezog. I love how downtrodden Lydia is uplifted by Tryg and by what he gifts her for Yule. And Ezog is a cinnamon-roll orc, possibly the sweetest character Fenn has yet crafted. 

 

While intensely focused on Lydia, Tryg, and Ezog, there are a number of references to other characters and a lovely portrayal of Orc Mountain’s Yule customs. I was particularly thrilled to see concern over baking 1200 cookies for Yule, as the author admitted to me that she took that idea from the number of cookies I baked for Christmas one year!

 

So while I won’t challenge you to bake a thousand cookies for Christmas, I will challenge you to pick up this delightful novella. It’s delicious in the best possible way.