The Squeezable Orc

When a wandering bard's song awakens more than just the dawn...

Athena Lyric has spent her life chasing stories across the realm, her lute and restless heart leading her from town to town. But when she stumbles into the forge of gentle giant Thrain Ironheart, she discovers something that stops her in her tracks—a blacksmith whose careful hands craft beauty from raw steel, and whose shy smile makes her forget all about the road ahead.

Thrain has always believed he's too much as in too big, too rough, too different for someone as radiant as the auburn-haired muse who fills his forge with music. But when Athena looks at him, she doesn't see an intimidating orc. She sees an artist, a protector, and the home her wandering soul has been searching for.

As hammer meets steel and melody weaves through the morning air, these two unlikely hearts forge a connection stronger than any metal. But when duty calls Athena back to the grand stages of the capital, will their newfound love be strong enough to bridge the gap between her glittering world and his humble forge?

A swoon-worthy tale of found family, artistic passion, and the courage to choose love over fear. Perfect for readers who crave gentle giants, creative souls, and romances that celebrate both following your dreams and finding your home.

Because sometimes the greatest adventure is learning to stay...

Tropes: Gentle Giant Hero • Opposites Attract • Found Family • Small Town Romance • Artist Heroes • Fish Out of Water • Love at First Sight