When I tell you this was my number 1 anticipated book for this year so it was so exciting to receive an advance edition (which I promptly inhaled in the following two days). I think this month alone I've listened to more than 3000 minutes of Critical Role, and I'm a big Hurricane Wars fan (pls Thea Guanzon go on tour with this book so I can get a copy of this signed to go with my Hurricane Wars copy I beg).

My general take-away from this book was if you're a big Critical Role fan then there are a whole load of little name drops and I loved that the landscape all felt familiar. The fight scenes also felt D&D styled, although no dice rolling or stats involved. Guanzon being a DM herself has a thorough understanding of the turn taking, story-telling rhythms that make the game (and the book!) so much fun.

And for those who have no idea who Critical Role are, or what D&D is, I think this book still succeeds in being a light-hearted romantasy that wraps the reader up in fighting mercenaries and falling in love with your accidental bodyguard. Super fun characters, absolutely recommend!

I am such a HUGE fan of Thea Guanzon – truly, to me she can do no wrong. Tusk Love was steamy, a little bit silly, very heartfelt and most of all, an ode to Critical Role. Guinevere’s personal journey, from how she gained confidence and came out from her oppressive parent’s control was refreshing and sweet, and at no point did I feel like she was too much or too little. Like Oskar, I fell head over heels for her! And grumpy but earnest Oskar has my heart too! He deserves such a happy life and I love that by the end he and Guinevere would seek one out together, on the road for as long as they want, happy in one another’s arms. I will say I wished for more from them – maybe an epilogue? – but I was ultimately satisfied with the end we got.

As a diet DnD fan, it was so nice seeing familiar aspects of the lore and the history scattered throughout the book! Thea Guanzon’s writing shone and made the world shine. I was enamoured by the new descriptions of each city Oskar and Gwen visited on their way to the Menagerie Coast. Above all, this made me want to start a new BG3 save, which is exactly what I was looking for when I requested this book. I wish I could reread it again already and can’t wait until I have my final copy in my hands.

Tusk love [critical role]



Author Thea Guanzon

Release July 1st 2025

Rating 5 stars [10 on CAWPILE]



“Oh Oskar…”

I had to say it.

When I saw this pop up on NetGalley I knew I had to request it as a huge critical role fan and someone who has been in love with Tusk love since the moment Laura Bailey uttered it at the table. I was so excited for this and I am so happy to report I was not disappointed this has everything about it and Thea looked after our Gwen and Oskar so well.



I was swept into the world and captivated by these to and how much the world had little nods for us critical role fans but I also think that this book is going to invite all the people who just loves a bit of romantasy in their life because they are everything and more.



I would lay down my life for these to as much as I would for Vaxleth and if you know me at all that is the highest compliment I could give anyone.



The world was so immersive that I could see it all and where they were in each part. And don’t worry I am getting there. There was Smut are we shocked hell no we knew that there would be smut for this book just on how it was created and now I wait until I can yap about this with the CR peeps as well as my bookish friends because I predict this will blow up.



I will say even if you have read from this author before this book is so different and if I could give it a higher rating I would.


So let’s head in Exandria and say to Guinevere and Oskar AKA captain Tusktooth How do you want to do this? And capture the heart of the masses.


Review going up today 29th March

This heartwarming adventure follows an orc and the girl he saves as they travel to deliver her to her betrothed. Along the way, they form an unexpected bond.

While the plot isn’t complex, the story is sweet and character-driven, making it an easy, binge-worthy read with plenty of charm.

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House UK, Cornerstone for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Having followed Thea since her fanfic days, and been a fan of Critical Role for many years, I was delighted when I was picked for this ARC.

Tusk Love follows Guinevere, a high-born, merchants' daughter, woefully ignorant of the ways of the world, and Oskar, an apprentice blacksmith, who stumble upon each other quite by chance when Guinevere's caravan is attacked by bandits.

After realising how innocent she is of the world, Oscar reluctantly agrees to help her reach Nikodranis, where he learns Guinevere is to be married, all the while fighting their growing attraction to one another.

Fans of Thea Guanzon, Critical Role, Dungeons and Dragons, and fans of a certain trope will adore Tusk Love.

What to expect:
Rich x Poor
🔮Hidden Magic
Travelling
Grumpy x Sunshine☀️
⚔️ Half-Orc Warrior
He Falls First 💕
Secret Softie
Only One Horse 🐴

⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

What a cosy fantasy romance to settle down with. Pick up your tea, burrow under those blankets, and get ready for a delightful adventure.

Two worlds collide when Guinevere and Oskar meet, though the apprentice blacksmith doesn’t know what’s coming for him when he saves the prim damsel from blazing fire. Little did Oskar know that in rescuing Guinevere, he’d end up so tightly wrapped around her finger.

Tusk Love was such a delightful read. The action is non-stop, never once did the story drag it was simply a cosy, spicy and sweet story that was such fun to read.

This was a really fun read and exactly what I needed after finishing a heavy emotionally devastating book beforehand.

I loved seeing Gwen develop throughout the book and come into her own. There some really funny moment and over all it felt light, cosy and full of joy with just the right amount of threat to keep things interesting.

I had no previous knowledge of critical role and I dont think this hindered my enjoyment at all.

For me some aspects of the spicier scenes didn't seem to fit the characters and although I like a "good girl" as much as the next person it didn't feel authentic to the character.

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

5.0 STARS

As a fan of Critical Role, this book was an immediate add to my TBR and I am so grateful to be given an eARC by Random House UK. The origin of the book Tusk Love starts early in Critical Role's DnD Campaign 2 but you definitely do not need to be aware of any lore to read this!

Tusk Love is the quintessential cozy fantasy. It was so enjoyable I read it in a few hours. I'm normally someone who enjoys high stakes/epic fantasy but this was a great change of pace.

If you are looking for a fast paced read with cozy vibes, adult romantasy, forbidden love/opposites attract, yearninggggggggggg and grumpy/sunshine this is a must read!

i had high hopes for tusk love by thea guanzon, especially after enjoying the hurricane wars, but i found myself somewhat disappointed. the story moved too quickly for my taste - i wanted more world-building and deeper character development. the fast pacing made it hard to fully connect with the characters and their journey

the novella follows guinevere, a merchant’s daughter expected to marry into nobility, but she dreams of adventure. when bandits attack her caravan, she’s rescued by oskar, a guarded half-orc traveling in search of lost family. though reluctant, he allows her to accompany him, and despite their differences, a slow-burning romance begins to form. as their feelings grow, they must decide between their planned futures or the unexpected bond between them

despite my issues with pacing, tusk love is a cute, whimsical read. it’s short length makes it a quick, enjoyable escape, even if it didn’t fully meet my expectations

Tusk Love is a cosy, low stakes, romantasy and I really enjoyed it.

This story has a grumpy half-orc who ends up playing chaperone/guard and a sunshine merchants daughter who needs to get herself and a mysterious trunk home to her parents after all of her guards are murdered when bandits want her and this trunk.

This book has one bed, one horse, forced proximity, forbidden romance, spice, secrets, magic, found family and some classic sword fights.

5⭐️ This was so much fun!!!!! D&D meets cosy monster fantasy romance in Tusk Love.

sunshine fmc x grumpy cinnamon roll mmc
insta love
forced proximity
he falls first

I absolutely loved the chemistry between Guinevere and Oskar and how their characters developed alongside their relationship. This served as a great little palate cleanser from intricate and epic fantasy - and I loved it for just what it was, fun.

Tusk Love felt like being wrapped up in a warm cosy bed with a cup of tea that you know you just don’t want to crawl out of, I didn’t put this book down until it was over.

Thank you so much to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advance copy.

— 4.5 stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

“Fear was a natural state, neither gift nor curse. But everyone possessed the ability to overcome it. It was just a matter of when and how.”

📖 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 384 pages
👤 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: Thea Guanzon
🏢 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫: Del Rey, UK
📅 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: 1 July 2025

What you can expect:
— Cosy Adult Romantasy
— Third Person X Dual POV
— Wealthy Merchant’s Daughter X Half-Orc Blacksmith
— Opposites Attract
— Forbidden Love
— Only One Bed & Horse
— Caretaking
— Heart Vs Duty
— Angst & Yearning

𝐖𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:
‘Tusk Love’ by author Thea Guanzon was a delightfully cosy tale surrounding an endearing cast of characters who find themselves on an impactful journey filled with adventure, mishaps and the discovery of oneself. I had such a wonderful time with this book as it delivered on everything I had hoped it would. A grumpy-meets-sunshine dynamic paired with forbidden love and yearning? An atmospheric setting filled with magic and the consistent themes of growth and hope? Sold. I’m a huge fan of Guanzon’s work in ‘The Hurricane Wars’ and I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction into the world of Critical Role which has falling in love with the characters of Guinevere and Oskar. I was pleasantly surprised by the masterfully written delicate balance between the cosy atmosphere paired with the relatively high-stakes plot that introduces new dangers at every turn. The overall pacing of the story felt consistent as it seamlessly balanced the undeniable forbidden chemistry between our two main characters with the ongoing threat that darkened their every step. I genuinely didn’t want to put the book down as I found myself immediately immersed into this charming and swoon-worthy romantic tale that is perfect for both fans and those newly-introduced into the world of Critical Role.

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬:
Guinevere was such a delightful character to get to know as the journey we get to follow her on is one filled with discovery and growth. At the beginning of her journey she comes across as a kind yet spoiled young woman who has only known a life of luxury and wealth. And yet there is no denying that it is Gwen‘s selfless heart and kind nature that makes her a such magnetic and charismatic woman that leaves many vying to be around. Her innate need to comfort and bolster the moods of others was admirable as it made her an immediately likeable and sympathetic character to cheer for. When the wealth and comforts of her family is shown to be at risk of being no more, Guinevere is prepared to perform her duty as an only child by marrying an unknown Lord who can save her family’s fortune. Unfortunately for Guinevere that duty must mean she has to forsake the wants and desires within her heart that wish to travel the world and experience all it has to offer. I loved how much of a positive and uplifting spirit she was in this book despite the dire circumstances Gwen had unfortunately found herself in. I found her reactions to life on the road to feel relatable as a reader and a great source of comical banter which lightened the dreary mood that often threatened the peace of our two main characters. It was definitely a rough journey that Gwen found herself on, but I loved how she kept surprising her broody travelling companion with her (mostly) positive outlook and almost childish awe of the wonders around her. The way she happily, yet desperately, soaked up as much of the world around her as she could was both endearing and heart-breaking as it was clear that Guinevere expected this to be her only opportunity to experience life outside of her world of seclusion. Her adventurous spirit and ability to take every unknown within her stride was easily one of Gwen's best qualities that added so much life and vibrance to her character. I felt as if I was discovering the world and its inhabitants by Guinevere‘s side and it was such a joy to find myself within her POV. I loved how her strength and resilience were undefinable with its unexpected yet no less impactful nature. Guinevere is perfect example of a sunshine character who is often misunderstood and undermined by her peers, and I had the best time getting to watch this wonderful young woman flourish in confidence and self-assurance.

Oskar was the token grump of this tale with his gruff exterior and often surly mood to match. Grief is an ever-present entity within his life after the sudden and tragic loss of his mother finds him stumbling through his days in pursuit of what comes next. I really loved Oskar’s character and deeply empathised with how the loss of his only parent shaped his often bleak outlook in life. His grumpy and often intimidating demeanour was merely a mask for a deeply loving and lonely man who yearned for connection and companionship. His quiet intimacy and heartfelt actions made him an easy character to relate to and fall in-love with as a reader. I adore how steadfast Oskar was with his strength and commitment towards keeping his promises. His words were never without merit and there’s no denying that Oskar takes great honour in staying true to his word to his every capability. His sheer determination and ability to adapt was a great asset on the journey that we find both characters on, and I loved how dependable Oskar remained from beginning to end. His fear for the future and reluctance to accept the love that he deserved out of fear for social class differences and not being enough truly broke my heart. I yearned to give this sweet and loyal man a pep talk alongside a well deserved hard shove for his sheer stubbornness and hard-headedness. This man was the master of pining from afar and my goodness did his words during intimate scenes leave me swooning and fanning my face in my want to hear more. There’s nothing I love more than to read about a man who is a devout lover in their worship for their partner. Oskar is the whole package and I honestly don’t blame Guinevere for saying ‘to hell with it all’ in exchange for a happy life filled with love and adventure by her surly half-orc’s side. I would too.

𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭:
The development between Guinevere and Oskar was written to perfection as misunderstanding and unmistakable tensions blossomed into a beautiful tale of love and acceptance with apparent patience and care. I loved the contrast between both characters as they seemed to contradict yet somehow complement one another seamlessly as they approached their conflicts as a team. Opposites attract is such a wonderful trope and dynamic to explore as no two characters are the same which offers a fresh outlook from both POVs. The way Oskar and Gwen recognised not other each other’s strengths, but also their flaws, with nothing but understanding and respect was such a beautiful development to experience as they learned of the intimate and unspoken truths through trust and patience. The trust that grew from day one was unmissable as it acted as the foundation of their relationship and I had a great time getting to see this unfurl one selfless act at a time. The way Gwen and Oskar encouraged the best from one another whilst offering a safe space to fall truly tugged on my heartstrings. The softness to be found between the pair left me feeling emotional by the innate innocence of it all. Both characters were lonely and emotionally vulnerable people who yearned to find their person who would proudly tackle a world often burdened by hardship by their side. In spite of their opposing social classes, I truly believe Guinevere and Oskar found their equal within one another and I had the best time getting to see their love story develop before my very eyes. The ending made me feel so happy as a reader and I’ve gladly ended ‘Tusk Love’ with a great sense of resolute finality and joy.

𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
‘Tusk Love’ was a such a wonderfully-written tale built on the promise of the future and the emphasis on living within the moment of today. The cosy atmosphere and compelling narrative voice made for an unputdownable reading experience that I would gladly relive time and time again. I’m selfishly hoping to see more from this world and characters as that ending definitely left an opening for more adventures to be discovered. I’d love to follow Guinevere and Oskar on their journey towards the homeland of Oskar’s mother, and the dynamics that exist within his family clan. There is so much potential that I truly hope to see become utilised into a series, but for now this is an unmissable story for all Romantasy fans alike that I could not recommend any more.

𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰. 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐦𝐲 𝐨𝐰𝐧.

4.5⭐

I loved this book so much, it was such a fun and quick read. I had a feeling I would love this book as I am such a fan of the authors writing and it didn't disappoint. The perfect mix of a cosy romantasy with a sweet and spicy story that starts straight away with action and keeps you engaged throughout, for a shorter book there is nothing missing the pacing was amazing and the story was so well developed, such an adorable read.

Grumpy/Sunshine is always one of my favourite things to read about so the way I adored the slow burn relationship between Oskar and Guinevere was everything. These two have my whole heart 🥹 Highly recommend!

Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read and review this book before publication, these are my honest thoughts and opinions.

This one was such a cute, cosy and sexy read. a breath of fresh air between more serious fantasy novels.
I hope Thea writes more books like this one because it was such an enjoyable read!

Tusk Love is a novel based on Critical Role and it follows Guinevere and Oskar. Guinevere’s caravan is attacked by bandits leaving Guinevere stranded. Oskar is half orc and saves Guinevere during the attack. Guinevere has responsibilities and Oskar is on the way to meet family he has never met before. Oskar is thoughtful and Guinevere longs for freedom. Sparks fly but it won’t be easy for Oskar and Guinevere to choose their romance.

To a certain extent this was enjoyable but I can’t say I loved this. I’m not familiar with Critical Role but I think this is fine to read without that knowledge. The romance was fine and this whole book felt very whimsical. I can see fans of the romantasy genre enjoying this. I didn’t love it but I’m not a huge romantasy lover. This was written well and I would recommend this.

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

Tusk Love is a fun read. I was drawn to this book because I love Critical Role and dungeons and dragons, I also really enjoy Thea Guanzon's writing.
Guinevere is so naive, but she's also really endearing.
Oskar is a grump, and I love it.
This is 100% grumpy x sunshine with spice.
The interactions between these two are great, I loved their chemistry.
I loved the effect that Guinevere had on Oskar.
I would also love to have more Guinevere and Oskar stories.
100% you need to read this book.

Guinevere & Oskar are super cute 🥰

This is such a cute and fun Cozy Fantasy.

I really enjoyed the story and how oblivious Guinevere was, yet she was much more capable than she thought she was, while Oskar was just a brilliant protector from the start.

Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an eARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

PERFECT. Thea Guanzon understood the assignment and nailed it. Sweet, fun, adventurous, a book that doesn’t take itself too seriously but somehow still drives its point about love, social class, greed, and freedom, home.

THIS is what makes a book 5 star. I absolutely fell in love with the characters from the start.
You are thrown straight into the action and from there, a fast paced and thrilling romantic adventure takes place. I was obsessed with Gwen, she is just the cutest and so endearing. She has some naïveté and vulnerabilities which in other stories might come across as annoying but they made her such a charming and funny character.
The way Thea can put me in hysterics from her writing is something I love about her as an author and this was so hilarious. I was so happy with the plot and the pace, it was nail biting but really fun at the same time.
The ending had me laughing and crying. I was so invested in the drama. This is one of my favourite reads of the year. Exceptional!