Shrek + Spice = a fantastic time GOD

SHES A PRINCESS, AND YOU’RE AN OGRE. THATS SOMETHING NO AMOUNT OF POTION IS EVER GOING TO CHANGE.
BUT I LOVE HER.
IF YOU REALLY LOVE GER YOU’LL LET HER GO

Thank you Del Rey, Random House Worlds, and NetGalley for the advanced galley! As a huge fan of Critical Role, it was so amazing to see Tusk Love come to life in Thea Guanzon's hands. Part of me always wanted Tusk Love to be a real thing, and now here it is! I love finally getting to experience Oskar and Guinevere's romance for real, but it was also an interesting story with a lot of substance and I loved how their characters changed over the course of the book. Jester would LOVE this book. I recommend it to anyone who doesn't know what Critical Role is - it's such a beautiful story with just enough ~spice~. This book has made its way to my top five favorites of all time.

Guess who loved this with every fibre of my being? Now, I’ll say that this is a goofy time so if you’re expecting the seriousness that is The Hurricane Wars, you’ll be disappointed. Think more Kimberly Lemmings on this one and you’ll be gold.

I love Gwen and Oskar and the entire way they came together to overcome who (and what) they are. Give me more on the road adventures where she learns to be more useful for that lifestyle and he learns to relax because I ate that shit up so fast. It took me about 6 hours to read this, and that included actively spending time with the dogs where a kindle wasn’t feasible to hold and cooking dinner- I was a woman obsessed

Guinevere and Oscar have no idea the danger that awaits them when the savvy half-orc agrees to escort the naïve merchant’s daughter to the Coast, where her parents and betrothed await. Volatile magic, steamy attraction, and dark mysteries make this novel a charming addition to the Critical Role world and an engrossing romance in its own right!

This is way more than a gimmick based on a bit; it’s exploded into a heartfelt tale anchored on well developed characters. Both leads are given a chance to grow and change throughout the story, and it satisfies the promises Critical Role made about it before it was written without being stereotypical or sacrificing plot. The tale feels classic fantasy, with steam peppered throughout the second act. A must for Critical Role fans, and a strong suggest for those new to CR.

This is a really cute, cozy, funny, surprisingly spicy, sweet and short read.

I had to educate myself about Critical Role first (and now love the concept), but would have enjoyed this book without the background just the same.

The writing is right on point, and makes the characters sneak right into your heart, all the way to the finale.

Albeit it being quite short and not overcomplicated, it still gives us a great message about love, class and choices.

I can full-heartedly recommend this.

4,5/5 stars

Thank you @netgalley @randomhouse and @delreybooks for the eARC !

#TuskLove #Netgalley #Bookstagram

Guinevere is the daughter of down-on-their-luck merchants. She yearns for freedom and adventure, not the future her parents planned out. When her caravan is attacked, Guinevere is rescued by a grumpy half-orc. Her journey is fraught with obstacles and enemies. Guinevere never anticipated falling for her sullen travel companion. What path would she choose? A vagabond life with Oskar? Or the privileged life Guinevere’s parents arranged?

Oskar is a blacksmith’s apprentice. He intends to visit his deceased mother’s clan in the north. However, Oskar encounters Guinevere when her caravan is set upon by bandits. The woman is sheltered, helpless, and annoying, yet Oskar agrees to escort her to her destination. Something about Guinevere awakens his soft and protective side. Oskar knows he has nothing to offer her. Can he walk away once they reach their journey’s end?

Guinevere is not the usual heroine type that I enjoy. In the beginning, she comes across as the typical, cliché damsel-in-distress – one who feels the need to please her parents. However, Guin starts to change as the story progresses. Her demeanor and personality remind me of an old role-playing character that I used to play years ago. Perhaps that is why I clicked with her so easily. And I also liked how her naivete and kindness charmed even the most hardened souls.

Orcs are not my favorite fantasy creatures. I have noticed a rise in their popularity in both anime and books (there is even an author who writes orc romances). Oskar grew on me. He behaves sullen and grumpy, but that is all an act to hide his cinnamon roll-y insides. What I adore the most about Oskar is his persistence in protecting Guinevere. He even put his vow of visiting his mother’s people on hold to help Guin on her journey. Oskar even got angry for her sake, especially after learning how her parents treat her.

TUSK LOVE is a standalone, romance fantasy set in the Critical Role world. Fans of Dungeons & Dragon type stories will enjoy this book. I am a fan of Vox Machina – thanks to the animation on Prime. When I noticed TUSK LOVE’s title matched the one Pike read in the show, I just HAD to read it too. It did not disappoint.

Tropes in the story: grumpy/sunshine, opposites attract, forced proximity.

I would be interested to read more stories set in the Critical Role world. High fantasy (like D&D’s Forgotten Realms and Dragonlance) is one of my favorite genres. Romance is another. I have a difficult time finding fantasy-romance stories with this level of fantasy. Most of the ones I find center around The Fey or the commonly, overly used fantasy creatures.

This was everything I ever wanted and more. Smuttier than expected but in the best way possible. As a critical role fan, I’ve been hyped about this and was so honored to get an arc to review. I literally devoured this book. Forced proximity, grumpyxsunshine, forbidden romace, what’s not to love!?

“Oh Oskar”

A low-stakes (but enthralling) romantasy following the tale of Gwen and Oskar as they travel the familiar world of Wildemount. Perfect for seasoned Critters and new fans alike, Guanzon perfectly balances paying homage to a fandom beloved by many and weaving her own signature spin into this book. The tropes just scratched the right itches: sunshine x grumpy, bodyguard romance, only one bed, bodice-ripping… I can see how this was a favourite of the Mighty Nein and I know many will enjoy it as well.

Critical Role was there for me when the world was bracing for COVID and I was at my lowest of lows. To think that 5 years later I would be graced with this book is such an honour. Thank you Random House and NetGalley for the privilege to read this.

Tusk Love by Thea Guanzon is such a good book. I couldn't stop reading this book for a bit. I totally recommend everyone to read this book as fast as they can because it's really good.

Going into this book, I had incredibly high expectations. As a longtime fan of Critical Role—especially The Mighty Nein campaign—I was ecstatic to see this infamous novel brought to life. I fully expected to enjoy it, but I also feared that my anticipation would set me up for disappointment. However, I was so wrong. This book exceeded every expectation, delivering a story that was not only captivating but also downright addictive.

One of the biggest surprises? Just how spicy this book turned out to be. Fans of Critical Role often joked about the nature of this fictional in-universe romance novel, but I never imagined it would lean so heavily into the smut. And yet, it absolutely did. The intensity of the romance was breathtaking, and Oskar's filthy mouth? Let’s just say, I actually blushed. I saw a TikTok where Matthew Mercer mentioned that readers would blush, and I scoffed—until I read the book. He was absolutely right.

Beyond the romance, the writing itself is stellar. Thea Guanzon has crafted a novel that can stand entirely on its own. Even if you’ve never watched a single episode of Critical Role, you can dive into this book and become fully immersed in its world without missing a beat. The storytelling, the world-building, and the emotional depth of the characters all contribute to an experience that is unforgettable.

Whether you're a devoted Critter or just someone looking for an enthralling romance, this book delivers on every level. I adored every page and cannot recommend it enough.

This was SUCH a fun book!

My ideal cozy fantasy has the following…
1. swoon-y romance
2. medium stakes adventure
3. laugh out loud funnies
4. fairytale vibes

Tusk Love, has all that and more!

It is cozy romantasy at its finest!

I went into this knowing only that Critical Role was something to do with Dungeons & Dragons and nothing more. I can confirm this is a absolute blast to read if you have no experience or knowledge with the topic.

What’s to love…
- (beginner friendly) monster romance
- the TENSION!
- the PINING
- medium-stakes adventure (a mini quest)
- well-executed tropes
- interesting world + magic
- less than 300 pages + easy to binge

Never has a book had so many tropes and yet felt so NOT-trophy! These were executed flawlessly and felt natural and well placed within the story.

Tropes…
- grumpy/sunshine
- forbidden romance (class differences)
- only one bed
- only one horse
- he washes her hair
- she comforts him
- and i’m sure I’m missing some…

What not to love…
- overall this had great pacing and I felt like the story grabbed my attention and held on tight, but the last 20% got a little slow and a bit overly descriptive.


Thank you NetGalley and Del Rey (Inklore) for the eARC. All opinions are my own.

Thea Guanzon is a master of her craft. Reading every word was pure joy and fun and I could just tell Guanzon had so much fun writing this story. As a fan of Critical Role I was so excited to get my hands on this book. No notes, this is how you do a romantic fantasy adventures. There were moments that were scorching hot to read, a bodice ripping scene, and hilarious moments, all with this believable romance. Who know I'd like a half Orc love interest but Oskar is hot and I stand by it. I wish we could get more of these set in Exandria, please!

Thea Guanzon’s writing is lush, immersive, and dripping with the kind of world-building that makes you want to live in it. The romance is deliciously angsty, the adventure is pulse-pounding, and the emotional depth is just chef’s kiss. I loved it.

I'm not that familiar with Critical Role, but I had such a fun time. It kinda had an anime/animation-like feel to it. It was highly entertaining and the romance was absolutely adorable. The only thing I found was that it was a bit too fast-paced, which affected the emotional impact of several scenes. The plot and world-building weren't very complex. It was straightforward and maybe a bit predictable at times. However, that didn't hinder my enjoyment overall.
Thank you so much Del Rey, Random House Worlds for the arc in exchange for an honest review!

Tusk Love was an adventure to read and reminded me of why I love Critical Role, especially the Mighty Nein! Just like their campaigns, this book had fully developed characters, thrilling action, and heartfelt sincerity.

From the start, this book hooked my attention when Guinevere was set upon by bandits and flees with Oskar. They start on a fast-paced trek to reunite Gwen with her family and run into lots of trouble on the way. There are plenty of references for D&D lovers, but even those without prior knowledge can still enjoy this romantasy!

This book sets the standard of grumpy/sunshine! I loved how Oskar was putty for Guinevere and let down his tough exterior for her. Guinevere was such a lovable main character, being so sweet while also finding her inner strength throughout their journey! Their romance was tender, steamy, and put a huge smile on my face while reading.

Thank you to Netgalley and Random House Publishing Group for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

Tusk Love by Thea Guanzon is an absolute delight—a swoony, adventurous, and surprisingly heartfelt monster romance that’s equal parts spicy and sweet. I went into this book completely blind, I realized this story is set in some other universe that involves D&D but I know NOTHING about that, but don’t worry if you’re not familiar with it, like myself— the world-building is easy to follow, and the story stands perfectly on its own.

What really stood out to me was how much fun this book was. I found myself laughing out loud at the banter and grinning like an idiot during the romantic moments. The pacing is excellent, and the mix of adventure, romance, and mystery kept me hooked from start to finish. Plus, the spice is spicin’.

If you’re looking for a romance that’s equal parts heartwarming and steamy, with a side of adventure and a dash of humor, Tusk Love is a must-read, I loved every minute of it!

Utterly fantastic as I knew it would be!!
I completely geeked out reading all of the Critical Role references- it was so cool reading a book in a world I know with completely new characters.
The book also reads exactly like a DND campaign- an unfortunate event throwing a party together (this time just our main lovers), learning the backstories, shopping in the market to prepare for upcoming travels, adventure with an end destination in mind, and lots of friends made along the way. Several times I caught myself thinking “I wonder what they rolled to make this happen”.

I adored this read- DND with open door monster spice is my new favorite genre.

Thank you Netgalley and Del Rey/PRH for a eArc in exchange for an honest review.

It was cute! Does exactly what it says on the tin. Spicier than I expected but laughed quite a bit and had a silly grin on my face all the way through. Very cheesy and simple but fun.

D&D enthusiasts and monster romance lovers alike will enjoy Tusk Love.

Epic adventure, mysterious treasure, wild magic, forbidden love?? I had a blast reading this! It was witty, charming, wholesome - and with the right dash of sexual tension to boot. Guinevere is the most alluring FMC I’ve read about in some time, with a personality that makes me laugh. Oskar sounds snarky, rugged, and loyal. The grumpy-sunshine trope hit hard for me. Very cute banter here.

If you like some spice in your fantasy romance, but a plot that holds up without it, this is for you! I would recommend this to anyone. I have no background knowledge of Critical Role or Dungeon and Dragons, and I enjoyed every minute. I only wish we got a tiny little bit more at the end. Here is hoping for a novella to come?

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC! I feel lucky.

As a fan of Critical Role and Vox Machina, this was a highlyyy anticipated read for me!! I was even more excited for this book after the cover was revealed!!

The story is told through dual POV bouncing between Guinevere, a sheltered, kind and maybe a little too trusting daughter of a merchant, and Oskar, a half-orc that recently lost his mother and gruff attitude towards life. They meet after Gwen’s caravan is attacked by highwaymen on her way to meet her betrothed, a man she’s never met before, so that she can deliver herself and a trunk carrying precious cargo.

I will always fall heads first for a princess and the pauper situation… something about the other never feeling like they could be enough for the person they love is kinda endearing to me. I love the idea of always wanting to provide enough for the person you love, even if it scares you.

This is most definitely a grumpy x sunshine pairing. Some of my favorite moments during this read was when the characters brought out the best in one another without even realizing it.

Another thing I greatly enjoyed was the personalities of all the side characters the couple met through their journey. From rival gang leaders to an earth spirited mage and little goblins running about, I feel like they showed that change was possible to these characters. That a different life is achievable, where they can be happy.

I loved seeing elements of it’s inspiration take place. A perfect example is after something would happen on page, in my head, I would say “Oh that was probably a high roll” or “Oof I don’t think that attack role went well” which made the story all the more entertaining from my perspective.

I truly enjoyed seeing the MC’s come into their own skin and grow from the experiences along the journey.


Pub Date July 1 2025

ARC provided by Random House Publishing Group- Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore and NetGalley. Thank you.

review posted to NetGalley & Goodreads