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How to Fail at Escaping an Alpha Orc
When she met the man of her dreams, she never thought he’d kidnap her.
Omega Daria just wanted a peaceful life running the bakery she managed, reading spicy romance books, and ignoring the voices of the dead. However, when crime increases in her town, Daria knew she had to step up and use the powers she long buried out of burnout. That meant working with the police to solve crimes by raising the dead. However, Daria’s unique powers catch the eye of the criminal underworld who kidnap her with plans to force her to resurrect a long dead evil demon. Now she’s got to find a way to outsmart the handsome, brooding alpha who grabbed her, although he might not be the monster she first feared.
Alpha Orc Marcus, a tattoo shop owner, used to be the hitman for his crime family, but he left that all behind to live a more fulfilling life. Or so he thought. When he’s forced to kidnap and lock up a powerful necromancer in exchange for his younger brother’s life, his violent past soon finds him again. Only he didn’t count on falling in love with the beautiful, quirky omega. Can he protect her from the vicious demon gang who ordered her taking and save the life of his brother or will he have to make a devastating decision?
Omega Daria just wanted a peaceful life running the bakery she managed, reading spicy romance books, and ignoring the voices of the dead. However, when crime increases in her town, Daria knew she had to step up and use the powers she long buried out of burnout. That meant working with the police to solve crimes by raising the dead. However, Daria’s unique powers catch the eye of the criminal underworld who kidnap her with plans to force her to resurrect a long dead evil demon. Now she’s got to find a way to outsmart the handsome, brooding alpha who grabbed her, although he might not be the monster she first feared.
Alpha Orc Marcus, a tattoo shop owner, used to be the hitman for his crime family, but he left that all behind to live a more fulfilling life. Or so he thought. When he’s forced to kidnap and lock up a powerful necromancer in exchange for his younger brother’s life, his violent past soon finds him again. Only he didn’t count on falling in love with the beautiful, quirky omega. Can he protect her from the vicious demon gang who ordered her taking and save the life of his brother or will he have to make a devastating decision?
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 18, 2025
129 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
March 2, 2025
Daria was kind and a bit lonely when Markus came to spice things up. He shook her out of her complacency and she helped him learn to be more emotionally vulnerable. The book had a lot of darkness and its intense scenes, but also had a lot of getting to know each other. Daria moved pretty quickly past her justifiable anger at Markus, which I wish had taken more groveling, but he did live up to her fantasies of a morally gray man.
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: violence, kidnapping, drugging, gore, body horror involving undead, forced claiming, power differential during sex, death, discussion of hitman exploits
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: violence, kidnapping, drugging, gore, body horror involving undead, forced claiming, power differential during sex, death, discussion of hitman exploits
February 19, 2025
The motivation for kidnapping her was weak, the build up to the spicy scenes was unsatisfying & the dialogue was too corny at times. Underwhelming. 2 stars.
April 25, 2025
Had a time, it’s was a cute read 🤭 it’s was more vibes
February 23, 2025
Want a book to get you hooked from the beginning? This one’s for you. If you like a funny quirky read then this one’s for you. You have the right amount of spice. There’s drama, kidnapping. You also have an omgea who is a necromancer this is a first for me in a book. The alpha is an Orc. Combine the two and it’s pretty great. I like how our FMC has to use her powers again after not using them. I like how the MC is doing the bad things for his brother. I like when family is important to a character. Get ready to get kidnapped by a great story.
July 11, 2025
Daria is a Queen. Daria is a simple bakery manager, but shes also from a long line of necromancers, being able to wake the dead. Although she uses her gifts to help police, when kidnapped she understands how dangerous her gift ca be in the wrong hands. I absolutely love how Daria is like yup you're cute but you kidnapped me so there is no chance i won't try to escape. Her optimism and resourcefulness is never ending which mskes her an amazingly strong and entertaining FMC to follow. As for Marcus this big softy might technically be an enforcer / tattoo artist but he makes sure his crush ... oops i mean prisoner is comfortable, after all hes really being firced into this. Follow this love story and the suspense of how they get out of a bad situation. addicting read
February 9, 2025
I'm so glad I got the opportunity to read this book. This was an ARC read for me and my first book by this author. This book arrived at the perfect time. I was in a reading slump and I was immediately hooked when I started reading.
I love me a good alpha romance, some kidnapping, some banter and humor. This book came with all that AND to add icing on the cake the FMC is a plus size black woman.
The MMC Marcus is everything. He's grumpy but loveable. He's very attentive to his Omega even though they are in a less than favorable situation.
I look forward to reading more books in this author's catalog!
I love me a good alpha romance, some kidnapping, some banter and humor. This book came with all that AND to add icing on the cake the FMC is a plus size black woman.
The MMC Marcus is everything. He's grumpy but loveable. He's very attentive to his Omega even though they are in a less than favorable situation.
I look forward to reading more books in this author's catalog!
March 1, 2025
Gleeful Goblin Review: I have so much fun with this author's books every single time! I typically don't read much in the omegaverse romances space but it fits in this universe and doesn't feel like that's the main focus without any plot attached. When you add in fantastic world building, dialogue and inner monologue that feels natural and conversational, and enough steam to fill a bath house I think that's a winning combination. Something that really grabbed me about this book is our FMC is a very powerful necromancer, even though her power is something she's mostly avoided up until the start of this book. The way that the author describes how necromancy works is something I found captivating and I really loved seeing our FMCs inner thoughts about the power and it's overall impacts. Extra bonus fun of our necromancer is that because of her power her best friend is a ghost! "I turned to look at my friend, Angelica “Angie” Scardino. She waved at me with a wide smile. She was dressed in her usual skinny jeans and an old band T-shirt, tied in a knot in the front, along with high-top patterned Chucks. Her long, bra strap-length black hair hung in loose waves around her shoulders. She was tiny and always cheerful, her hazel eyes pleasant despite her circumstances. She shrugged. “Sorry, Dar, I don’t know how to give a warning first before popping up.” I wasn’t mad with her. I knew she couldn’t help it. She was, after all, a ghost. My family’s particular brand of necromancy allowed me to also see and communicate with the undead in any form, including ghostly form. This was a gift I’d also learned about the hard way when playing at the playground and knowing that my new friend Kyle was, in fact, not imaginary but a ghost, as my mother explained. Since then, I’d only been moderately creeped out when ghosts appeared to me. Most didn’t unless I was near a cemetery. Angie was different. She had been a friend. My best friend. We’d gone to culinary school together and lived together. We shared dreams of opening up our own restaurant. And then, three years ago, she was kílled coming home from work by a hit-and-run driver. She should have passed on to the heavenly realm, but I didn’t have expertise in guiding spirits. More importantly, her anger, my anger at her murdèr without finding the culprit, prevented her from moving on. That was typical of ghosts. They didn’t want to leave with unfinished business. Angie was set on finding her murdèrèr, and I tried where I could. It was part of my deal for helping the police. Ensuring they never gave up on her case." Angie and Daria's relationship is funny, sweet, and sad all at the same time which makes it feel believable.
And then our orc alpharoll Marcus. I love how this dude is sweet and thoughtful, even while committing fèlony kídnappíng! "A handsome male alpha had kídnapped me. It would be just my luck that the first time in a long time, I’d see a guy I was remotely interested in, and he was a crímínal. And, aside from the kídnappíng, which was huge, he seemed like he could have been a nice guy. It was almost like the dark romances I read. I mean, he’d even packed some things for me, including my e-reader and my curly hair products as opposed to my straight hair products. And he was right; he had bought the kinds of food I liked to eat. He packed like a considerate boyfriend to whisk me away on a surprise vacation. The only thing he forgot to pack was my heat suppressants, but that wasn’t his fault since I’d forgotten to refill them. But he’d packed my vitamins. What kind of kídnapper was that thoughtful? It was for that reason that I didn’t think he was totally evil. I mean, I was still planning to escape, and I felt bad for his brother, but my mind still wandered slightly to what it would be like to kiss him." This book was a great time. 5/5 Stars
And then our orc alpharoll Marcus. I love how this dude is sweet and thoughtful, even while committing fèlony kídnappíng! "A handsome male alpha had kídnapped me. It would be just my luck that the first time in a long time, I’d see a guy I was remotely interested in, and he was a crímínal. And, aside from the kídnappíng, which was huge, he seemed like he could have been a nice guy. It was almost like the dark romances I read. I mean, he’d even packed some things for me, including my e-reader and my curly hair products as opposed to my straight hair products. And he was right; he had bought the kinds of food I liked to eat. He packed like a considerate boyfriend to whisk me away on a surprise vacation. The only thing he forgot to pack was my heat suppressants, but that wasn’t his fault since I’d forgotten to refill them. But he’d packed my vitamins. What kind of kídnapper was that thoughtful? It was for that reason that I didn’t think he was totally evil. I mean, I was still planning to escape, and I felt bad for his brother, but my mind still wandered slightly to what it would be like to kiss him." This book was a great time. 5/5 Stars
February 12, 2025
Liz E. Cooper's How to Fail at Escaping an Alpha Orc certainly kept me on my toes. While I did enjoy the tropes of the baker and tattoo artist combo, forced proximity via kidnapping, and hitman turned good guy, it was nothing like I expected.
Daria was maybe, sort of, falling for her kidnapper, but not in a Stockholm kind of way. She genuinely liked Marcus. Although that wouldn't be hard for Daria. I liked her quirky, positive personality. She wasn't naive and truly didn't expect people to do anything good or even do the right thing, she just decided that she wasn't going to be miserable, and I appreciated that.
I wish I could say I liked Marcus, but I didn’t. I also didn't hate him either. He was one of those characters that evened out for me. It wasn't the kidnapping thing or that he was a former hitman, I'm a big reader, I run across a lot of shit, so I'm very comfortable with my level of darkness. No, it was that at a certain point, he should have turned back, and that point didn't happen until way too late. Like, What. The. Fudge. Man! He was sort of sweet, but come on. I was overjoyed that Daria didn't cave right away. She stuck to her guns and wasn't afraid to remind him of what he had done. I enjoyed the back and forth between Daria and Marcus. The knotting scene was the funniest/awkwardest scene ever. I am a sucker for a HEA, so I'm glad they got theirs.
The necromancy being such a huge part of the story was pretty awesome. I've only read about them as secondary characters, so to dive into their powers, limits, etc., was interesting. It certainly caused enough conflict in the criminal underworld. The twists and turns were good. They lead to a few surprising turns of events but are still good. As always with the Love and Bonds universe, I found How to Fail at Escaping an Alpha Orc to be a lighthearted, easy-to-read romance that I easily enjoyed.
Daria was maybe, sort of, falling for her kidnapper, but not in a Stockholm kind of way. She genuinely liked Marcus. Although that wouldn't be hard for Daria. I liked her quirky, positive personality. She wasn't naive and truly didn't expect people to do anything good or even do the right thing, she just decided that she wasn't going to be miserable, and I appreciated that.
I wish I could say I liked Marcus, but I didn’t. I also didn't hate him either. He was one of those characters that evened out for me. It wasn't the kidnapping thing or that he was a former hitman, I'm a big reader, I run across a lot of shit, so I'm very comfortable with my level of darkness. No, it was that at a certain point, he should have turned back, and that point didn't happen until way too late. Like, What. The. Fudge. Man! He was sort of sweet, but come on. I was overjoyed that Daria didn't cave right away. She stuck to her guns and wasn't afraid to remind him of what he had done. I enjoyed the back and forth between Daria and Marcus. The knotting scene was the funniest/awkwardest scene ever. I am a sucker for a HEA, so I'm glad they got theirs.
The necromancy being such a huge part of the story was pretty awesome. I've only read about them as secondary characters, so to dive into their powers, limits, etc., was interesting. It certainly caused enough conflict in the criminal underworld. The twists and turns were good. They lead to a few surprising turns of events but are still good. As always with the Love and Bonds universe, I found How to Fail at Escaping an Alpha Orc to be a lighthearted, easy-to-read romance that I easily enjoyed.
February 24, 2025
How To Fail at Escaping an Alpha Orc
“Can you imagine, as he’s rifling through your things, learning about your life, he’s slowly falling in love? Just like in a romance book. He’s probably so torn up inside. We know the guy has a heart because he quit the criminal business, even after it meant losing his family. He’s a good man, Daria.”
Liz Cooper gives us a fun and cute omegaverse romance between a plus size necromancer and her kidnapper exmafia Alpha orc.
Daria is taken by Marcuse, as a chance to safe his brother from the deadly hitman life he used to lead. Daria is a lovely lady, trying to be a positive light and provider of sweet bakery treats. Marcus quickly realizes he is in over his head, as his attraction to Daria makes turning her over to thugs impossible.
A sweet paranormal romance. How To Fail at Escaping an Alpha Orc
“Can you imagine, as he’s rifling through your things, learning about your life, he’s slowly falling in love? Just like in a romance book. He’s probably so torn up inside. We know the guy has a heart because he quit the criminal business, even after it meant losing his family. He’s a good man, Daria.”
Liz Cooper gives us a fun and cute omegaverse romance between a plus size necromancer and her kidnapper exmafia Alpha orc.
Daria is taken by Marcus, as a chance to safe his brother from the deadly hitman life he used to lead. Daria is a lovely lady, trying to be a positive light and provider of sweet bakery treats. Marcus quickly realizes he is in over his head, as his attraction to Daria makes turning her over to thugs impossible.
A sweet paranormal romance.
“Can you imagine, as he’s rifling through your things, learning about your life, he’s slowly falling in love? Just like in a romance book. He’s probably so torn up inside. We know the guy has a heart because he quit the criminal business, even after it meant losing his family. He’s a good man, Daria.”
Liz Cooper gives us a fun and cute omegaverse romance between a plus size necromancer and her kidnapper exmafia Alpha orc.
Daria is taken by Marcuse, as a chance to safe his brother from the deadly hitman life he used to lead. Daria is a lovely lady, trying to be a positive light and provider of sweet bakery treats. Marcus quickly realizes he is in over his head, as his attraction to Daria makes turning her over to thugs impossible.
A sweet paranormal romance. How To Fail at Escaping an Alpha Orc
“Can you imagine, as he’s rifling through your things, learning about your life, he’s slowly falling in love? Just like in a romance book. He’s probably so torn up inside. We know the guy has a heart because he quit the criminal business, even after it meant losing his family. He’s a good man, Daria.”
Liz Cooper gives us a fun and cute omegaverse romance between a plus size necromancer and her kidnapper exmafia Alpha orc.
Daria is taken by Marcus, as a chance to safe his brother from the deadly hitman life he used to lead. Daria is a lovely lady, trying to be a positive light and provider of sweet bakery treats. Marcus quickly realizes he is in over his head, as his attraction to Daria makes turning her over to thugs impossible.
A sweet paranormal romance.
February 25, 2025
I have read all the books in this series so far and I am really impressed. If you follow the series you can see how they are part of a series and some characters pop up from previous books which I absolutely love. However each story is completely different -some are RH, some are M/F, for main characters we have demons, witches, Orcs ... they really are quite diverse and can be read individually or in any order.
This book is about Daria who is an Omega. By day she is a baker but also helps the police on occasion as she has the power of Necromancy. Marcus is an Alpha and an Orc, and is a Tattooist. He used to have a not so reputable job working within his family but has long left those days and ways behind. One phone call and it looks like his past has caught up with him. To save his brothers life he needs to deliver Daria to a gang of demons who want to use her for her powers. But as they get to know each other Marcus realises he can't just hand her over in exchange for his brother and is faced with a new problem. How to save them both.
This had such a good storyline and I loved these characters so much! Out of all the previous stories these characters are my favourites. Marcus is so at odds with himself throughout the story, what he wants to do warring with what he has to do, while Daria is definitely no push over and will not let Marcus get away with taking her without a fight! There were a couple of side characters in this that I really warmed to as well. It looked like there was going to be a sad ending there but you'll just have to read it to see how it all plays out. A brilliant story from this talented author
This book is about Daria who is an Omega. By day she is a baker but also helps the police on occasion as she has the power of Necromancy. Marcus is an Alpha and an Orc, and is a Tattooist. He used to have a not so reputable job working within his family but has long left those days and ways behind. One phone call and it looks like his past has caught up with him. To save his brothers life he needs to deliver Daria to a gang of demons who want to use her for her powers. But as they get to know each other Marcus realises he can't just hand her over in exchange for his brother and is faced with a new problem. How to save them both.
This had such a good storyline and I loved these characters so much! Out of all the previous stories these characters are my favourites. Marcus is so at odds with himself throughout the story, what he wants to do warring with what he has to do, while Daria is definitely no push over and will not let Marcus get away with taking her without a fight! There were a couple of side characters in this that I really warmed to as well. It looked like there was going to be a sad ending there but you'll just have to read it to see how it all plays out. A brilliant story from this talented author
February 18, 2025
4.5* Eeeeeeep wait this book was so good! I have read all of the other books in the series/universe, so I was well familiar with all of the background and lore. At this point I’m pretty much an expert on spotting heats and ruts, and I felt very inside when I predicted them in this book. I think that this book may have had the most epic story and scope of them all so far.
I love Daria. The witch and fae omegas have been wonderful, but something about a necromancer FMC is just so badass. One thing I love about how Cooper writes FMCs is that they are all reasonably amenable to falling in love with the MMCs, even in somewhat…unorthodox courtships. That might just be my personal taste though, as I usually gravitate towards insta-love and cozy romances.
As for Marcus? What a doozy of a character! I mean, how do you turn an ex hitman into a cinnamon roll MMC? He’s a quintessential morally gray kinda guy, but also suuuuuuuch a sweetheart. After Billie and Co. (I’m an OG loyalist, and also poly so I lean toward why choose dynamics) Marcus and Daria are my favorite couple from this universe.
I thought the story expertly balanced spice and plot. Like, there were times that I forgot this was a spicy romance, I got so caught up in the action. This was also the funniest of all the books in this universe. I laughed out loud several times. The whole story had me on the edge of my seat. Quite a few little unexpected moments. I received an ARC, but I am so happy that this book turned out to be an actual banger so that I could give this honest glowing review!
I love Daria. The witch and fae omegas have been wonderful, but something about a necromancer FMC is just so badass. One thing I love about how Cooper writes FMCs is that they are all reasonably amenable to falling in love with the MMCs, even in somewhat…unorthodox courtships. That might just be my personal taste though, as I usually gravitate towards insta-love and cozy romances.
As for Marcus? What a doozy of a character! I mean, how do you turn an ex hitman into a cinnamon roll MMC? He’s a quintessential morally gray kinda guy, but also suuuuuuuch a sweetheart. After Billie and Co. (I’m an OG loyalist, and also poly so I lean toward why choose dynamics) Marcus and Daria are my favorite couple from this universe.
I thought the story expertly balanced spice and plot. Like, there were times that I forgot this was a spicy romance, I got so caught up in the action. This was also the funniest of all the books in this universe. I laughed out loud several times. The whole story had me on the edge of my seat. Quite a few little unexpected moments. I received an ARC, but I am so happy that this book turned out to be an actual banger so that I could give this honest glowing review!
June 26, 2025
I adore this series. I didn’t realize this one had been released, so I was super excited to read it. Read it in one sitting! I absolutely loved Marcus and Daria. The circumstances behind them meeting were curious, at best.
Daria, a necromancer, runs the best bakery in town, and Marcus owns the best tattoo shop. It doesn’t help that he’s an alpha, and she’s an omega. However, her skills are needed for a nefarious deed, and because the group of demons requiring her services knows she won’t come willingly, they task Marcus with kidnapping her. But that’s not really his life anymore. So, he’s gonna need a bit of motivation.
There was humor and spice, and everything nice. Now, there are trigger warnings, which, for me, weren’t a game breaker, but I could see others taking issue (hence the warnings being there). But what I thoroughly loved was seeing Marcus go from being all strong and powerful to being vulnerable, and you know that’s a new feeling for him. He’s not used to needing someone, but being everyone’s problem-solver—so it was nice to see him work through it. There is a couple from book one in the series that you’ll meet (or see again) in this story. While I don’t think you’ll need to read this series in order (I didn’t!) You’ll learn a lot of back story.
There looks to be one in the series, and I can’t wait. This series is available on Kindle Unlimited. There are other alternative ways to read this, however. Please support your local library and request this book. If they don’t have it, request that they purchase it. If you prefer to own it, support your local indie bookshop.
Daria, a necromancer, runs the best bakery in town, and Marcus owns the best tattoo shop. It doesn’t help that he’s an alpha, and she’s an omega. However, her skills are needed for a nefarious deed, and because the group of demons requiring her services knows she won’t come willingly, they task Marcus with kidnapping her. But that’s not really his life anymore. So, he’s gonna need a bit of motivation.
There was humor and spice, and everything nice. Now, there are trigger warnings, which, for me, weren’t a game breaker, but I could see others taking issue (hence the warnings being there). But what I thoroughly loved was seeing Marcus go from being all strong and powerful to being vulnerable, and you know that’s a new feeling for him. He’s not used to needing someone, but being everyone’s problem-solver—so it was nice to see him work through it. There is a couple from book one in the series that you’ll meet (or see again) in this story. While I don’t think you’ll need to read this series in order (I didn’t!) You’ll learn a lot of back story.
There looks to be one in the series, and I can’t wait. This series is available on Kindle Unlimited. There are other alternative ways to read this, however. Please support your local library and request this book. If they don’t have it, request that they purchase it. If you prefer to own it, support your local indie bookshop.
February 21, 2025
💗🧁How to Fail at Escaping an Alpha Orc🧁💗
✍🏼: Liz E. Cooper
(ARC)
📍Ratings
3⭐️
2🌶️
2🖤
📍ARC Review
Hello hello my girly girls!
Whenever I review a book, even if it wasn't for me I try to look for all the good points.
I was definitely excited about this book. It got off to an amazing start, in fact in the beginning as it gave me a break from the dark romance I've been reading this month.
The FMC completely fascinated me. She was beautiful and the most sweet with a power strong enough to raise the dead.
The MMC on the other hand was so different from her. A strong and intimidating exterior with a past to match his looks but with an interior that melts you the more you read the book. As a couple they were a dynamic and humorous thing to read. Just by looking at the title you know will find something amazing that will make you laugh as you read it, and how could you not love something like that.
📍Do I recommend it?
If you are in search of soft fantasy, with a little touch of morally grey or just need a break after a good dark book and need some laughs and the sweetest FMC, well without a doubt this book is for you.
So don't wait any longer and order “How To Fail At Escaping An Alpha Orc” now.
And when you have it come back and tell me.
Wasn't the relationship between Daria and Marcus the most beautiful?
✍🏼: Liz E. Cooper
(ARC)
📍Ratings
3⭐️
2🌶️
2🖤
📍ARC Review
Hello hello my girly girls!
Whenever I review a book, even if it wasn't for me I try to look for all the good points.
I was definitely excited about this book. It got off to an amazing start, in fact in the beginning as it gave me a break from the dark romance I've been reading this month.
The FMC completely fascinated me. She was beautiful and the most sweet with a power strong enough to raise the dead.
The MMC on the other hand was so different from her. A strong and intimidating exterior with a past to match his looks but with an interior that melts you the more you read the book. As a couple they were a dynamic and humorous thing to read. Just by looking at the title you know will find something amazing that will make you laugh as you read it, and how could you not love something like that.
📍Do I recommend it?
If you are in search of soft fantasy, with a little touch of morally grey or just need a break after a good dark book and need some laughs and the sweetest FMC, well without a doubt this book is for you.
So don't wait any longer and order “How To Fail At Escaping An Alpha Orc” now.
And when you have it come back and tell me.
Wasn't the relationship between Daria and Marcus the most beautiful?
February 6, 2025
4.5 *
I like how this series of standalones has a consistent dynamic in every book, while still keeping the storyline in itself original and engaging. As a result, if you like one book, chances are you’ll like them all. The strengths, for me, can be found in how the men (all alpha’s) tend to fall faster and harder, and in the dynamic between the characters.
Specifically for this book, I really enjoyed the necromancer theme. Being a zombie enthousiast, this book provided me with a great and unexpected spin on the trope, and I loved watching some epic zombie experiences. Our relationship building has a forced proximity trope (very close proximity in a single case, if you know what I mean), and a bit of a grumpy / sunshine vibe. I think that might be the one thing I resonated with a little less. The way our fmc just puts things aside and goes with the flow at times was a little much for this pessimistic woman, but I know that’s a personal thing.
All in all, I enjoyed this paranormal MF romance. It was fun to read, and I’m curious to find out how many more stories the author can create in this world.
I like how this series of standalones has a consistent dynamic in every book, while still keeping the storyline in itself original and engaging. As a result, if you like one book, chances are you’ll like them all. The strengths, for me, can be found in how the men (all alpha’s) tend to fall faster and harder, and in the dynamic between the characters.
Specifically for this book, I really enjoyed the necromancer theme. Being a zombie enthousiast, this book provided me with a great and unexpected spin on the trope, and I loved watching some epic zombie experiences. Our relationship building has a forced proximity trope (very close proximity in a single case, if you know what I mean), and a bit of a grumpy / sunshine vibe. I think that might be the one thing I resonated with a little less. The way our fmc just puts things aside and goes with the flow at times was a little much for this pessimistic woman, but I know that’s a personal thing.
All in all, I enjoyed this paranormal MF romance. It was fun to read, and I’m curious to find out how many more stories the author can create in this world.
February 17, 2025
Omega Daria just wanted a peaceful life running the bakery she managed, reading spicy romance books, and ignoring the voices of the dead. working with the police to solve crimes by raising the dead. However, Daria’s unique powers catch the eye of the criminal underworld, Now she’s got to find a way to outsmart the handsome, brooding alpha who grabbed her, although he might not be the monster she first feared.
Alpha Orc Marcus, a tattoo shop owner, used to be the hitman for his crime family, but he left that all behind to live a more fulfilling life. Or so he thought. he’s forced to kidnap and lock up a powerful necromancer in exchange for his younger brother’s life, his violent past soon finds him again. Only he didn’t count on falling in love with the beautiful, quirky omega.
A really fun read, With lots of feelings and dynamic, Daria is a absolute badass, independent and strong , and love the relationship with her bff Angie such a snarky and protective personality. Marcus was sweet and funny, the true gentle giant—but with a backstory, a good read if you want a bit of everything and som mafia romance.
February 21, 2025
Escaping an Alpha Orc by Liz E Cooper is part of the How to Fail series. I read the other books and was pleasantly surprised by the fun quirkiness of them so I had to check this one out. I wasn’t disappointed at all in this book, it had everything to make this an enjoyable read. I loved the idea the Daria was a necromancer but still had a sunshine type of personality. Then Marcus being a tattoo artist who didn’t have the greatest past but was trying to be better just added even more into the mix. Let’s say they don’t have the easiest of roads in this story, but I enjoyed reading them get their happily ever after. There were moments that I chuckled, moments where my heart cracked and then some spicy good times. Plus the epilogue was great… basically I just dug the whole thing. Needless to say I thought the writing was good with interesting characters that had intriguing personalities. The plot for me moved at a steady pace even though at some points it was a little slow. Overall I had fun with this reading and I definitely recommend checking this and the other books by this author.
Final review:
4 out of 5 stars
Final review:
4 out of 5 stars
February 10, 2025
Daria- A necromancer omega whose passion lies in baking sweets, and lives with her ghostly best friend. All she wants to do is own a bakery, occasionally helping the local police, and read her romance books. The last thing she wanted was to live her romance novels by being kidnapped by a tall, tattooed, alpha orc who wants her to raise some dead demon...
Marcus- An ex-enforcer of his family's mafia empire, all he wants to do is live a peaceful, quiet life, creating art on others skin. What he wasn't wanting was to be blackmailed into kidnapping a necromancer to save his little brothers life. He definitely didn't expect to fall for his captive or have to work so hard at keeping the little baker from escaping.
Be prepared for laughs, sparks, and a dash of organized crime in this must-read monster romance, as I couldn't put it down.
Spice: 3/5 ....Can we say K N O T T Y ? 😉
Monster/Human Omega
Triggers: There is a trigger warning page, but compared to some other books this is PG/PG-13 as far as they go. But still read the warning page.
Marcus- An ex-enforcer of his family's mafia empire, all he wants to do is live a peaceful, quiet life, creating art on others skin. What he wasn't wanting was to be blackmailed into kidnapping a necromancer to save his little brothers life. He definitely didn't expect to fall for his captive or have to work so hard at keeping the little baker from escaping.
Be prepared for laughs, sparks, and a dash of organized crime in this must-read monster romance, as I couldn't put it down.
Spice: 3/5 ....Can we say K N O T T Y ? 😉
Monster/Human Omega
Triggers: There is a trigger warning page, but compared to some other books this is PG/PG-13 as far as they go. But still read the warning page.
February 13, 2025
Daria was a necromancer, a lover of spicy romance novels, while eating popcorn and a nice glass of sparkling wine. Daria was a fantastic baker and in her spare time she helped the police with the paranormal crime on the rise in the city. She would raise the dead for the police so they could ask who, what or how they died. On day in to the dinner walked a big handsome orc, that Daria was immediately attracted to Marcus a tattoo artist, however in his past he was a horrible person. Marcus has tried to turn over a new life. His brother has been kidnapped, and he had been told that they would kill his younger brother unless he brought the necromancer to help raise their former leader. Against his better judgement he knew he had to save his younger brother. This story took a turn when Marcus’s kidnapped Daria and then the story turned into a hysterical story of anger, love, bonding, and an unusual turn along with Daria’s best friend a spirit that had not passed over. You really must read this story.
February 17, 2025
Opposites attract with a splash of grumpy/sunshine. In fact, this could be the ultimate definition of grumpy v. sunshine. I mean, a former mafia enforcer and a baker? You kind of can’t get much farther apart on the spectrum of opposites. And that’s not even counting the distance between orc and human. But unlike the typical fairy tale depictions of orcs, Marcus really was a sweetie. I’d like to pull him out of the book and keep him for my own. Daria was so much fun. Spritely and spunky, she may have had a tendency to choose the road more frequently travelled, but she was still and independent boss-babe doing it. I thought these two were completely adorable together and I would have happily kept reading hundreds of pages more about them. However, a bit of a warning while reading, keep the tissues handy. I won’t spoil it by telling you why, just giving you the heads up that you may want them before the end. Now, bring on the next book!
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
February 7, 2025
The cover drew me in because an orc with locs?? Immediate yes.
Also Marcus is freaking yummy. Just look at that cover??? The locs? The lips? The muscles and tattoos? The way he loved his family and made something of himself outside of the family business. I will always love an alpha who is overbearing but knows when to back off to make his omega comfy. Like he kidnaps her but makes sure she has materials to make a nest?? He learns to do her hair, NOTHING beats that it is insanely romantic.
Then the story itself was so good! I always love when the MMC is obsessed with the FMCs body especially when she’s plus sized and it hoped that Daria was confident on her own.
He washes her hair for her, swoon, and he reads her spicy books and discusses them with her. What a man.
This is my first book by this author but I’ve already downloaded the other ones in this series. I can’t wait to read them all. Such a fantastic book!
Also Marcus is freaking yummy. Just look at that cover??? The locs? The lips? The muscles and tattoos? The way he loved his family and made something of himself outside of the family business. I will always love an alpha who is overbearing but knows when to back off to make his omega comfy. Like he kidnaps her but makes sure she has materials to make a nest?? He learns to do her hair, NOTHING beats that it is insanely romantic.
Then the story itself was so good! I always love when the MMC is obsessed with the FMCs body especially when she’s plus sized and it hoped that Daria was confident on her own.
He washes her hair for her, swoon, and he reads her spicy books and discusses them with her. What a man.
This is my first book by this author but I’ve already downloaded the other ones in this series. I can’t wait to read them all. Such a fantastic book!
February 9, 2025
Marcus is a grand a alpha. He was the enforcer for his family business and he started surprisingly young. He came to a point where he found he needed to change lifestyles or his life would change him past the point of no return. When he’s out and satisfied enough he gets pulled back into his old life to save his younger brother Sam.
Then enters Daria. Her family are great necromancers and she worked the business. That is until she couldn’t anymore. So she struck out on her own to do it her way as a side job for the boys in blue. This all while she does what she really enjoys by working at a bakery. She loves to bake and cook. It’s her zen in her life. When she thinks she might be ready to ask to take over the bakery she ends up taken by an orc to save his little brother.
Things get so dang spicy in this book 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🔥🔥🔥🔥 I definitely came to points that needed to be read and you can’t put it down or get interrupted. The fire and spicy these two have. Dang it all.
Then enters Daria. Her family are great necromancers and she worked the business. That is until she couldn’t anymore. So she struck out on her own to do it her way as a side job for the boys in blue. This all while she does what she really enjoys by working at a bakery. She loves to bake and cook. It’s her zen in her life. When she thinks she might be ready to ask to take over the bakery she ends up taken by an orc to save his little brother.
Things get so dang spicy in this book 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🔥🔥🔥🔥 I definitely came to points that needed to be read and you can’t put it down or get interrupted. The fire and spicy these two have. Dang it all.
February 18, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! I knew just from the cover that this book was exactly what I wanted to read. I barely even paid attention to the blurb when I saw it was an omegaverse because I was already all in. So when I started reading and she was a necromancer... I was soooo happy. I haven't gotten to read many books with necromancy in it so this was a treat and I loved getting to see her in action. I loved her BFF and his brothers. I also enjoyed how sweet the ML was under all that tattooed orcishness. I loved getting glimpses of who he was turned into for his family job and who that job tried to destroy. He's the sweetest assassin! There was a bit that felt kind of slow to me, but I think that's hard to get around in a story that basically stays in a single location most of the time so I'm not complaining.
February 19, 2025
Green is my favorite color!
I haven’t read any others in this series, but after reading this book, I plan to. The sweetest kidnapping I’ve ever read. I know I wouldn’t want to escape Marcus. A green tattooed orc and owns his own tattoo shop. A sweet inside with a tough exterior. Yes please! Daria, a real sunshine, despite being a necromancer. They may be sweet to each other but don’t mess with the ones they care about.
This was a fun read. I laughed out loud a few times, like with the dancing bear. Glad to know I am not the only one who has that perspective on pants-less bears. Being stuck together in more than one way. You’ll find out what I mean. Emotional whiplash, one minute your happy, the next crying, than happy again. A spicy adventure you don’t want to miss.
Favorite quote: “I feel like I’m more a UK socket, and you are a US plug, and there is no adapter around.”
I haven’t read any others in this series, but after reading this book, I plan to. The sweetest kidnapping I’ve ever read. I know I wouldn’t want to escape Marcus. A green tattooed orc and owns his own tattoo shop. A sweet inside with a tough exterior. Yes please! Daria, a real sunshine, despite being a necromancer. They may be sweet to each other but don’t mess with the ones they care about.
This was a fun read. I laughed out loud a few times, like with the dancing bear. Glad to know I am not the only one who has that perspective on pants-less bears. Being stuck together in more than one way. You’ll find out what I mean. Emotional whiplash, one minute your happy, the next crying, than happy again. A spicy adventure you don’t want to miss.
Favorite quote: “I feel like I’m more a UK socket, and you are a US plug, and there is no adapter around.”
February 23, 2025
Standalone
MF
Alpha Orc and Omega Necromancer
Our FMC, Daria, is an omega necromancer who just wanted to live her life as a baker who reads spicy books while ignoring those pesky dead voices. However, Daria’s unique powers catch the eye of the criminal underworld….. Darn it.
Our MMC, Marcus, is an Alpha Orc who owns a tattoo shop. He used to be a hitman for his crime family, but has left that all in the past….. Or he thought.. Too bad his younger brothers life is in danger unless he kidnaps a strong necromancer to exchange for his brother.
Annnnnddd…. Marcus meet Daria! She has to try to outsmart the alpha and get away…. Too bad she ends up falling for the not so terrible orc and vice versa. Now they have to save his brother together.
It was a quick and fun read! I couldn’t get enough of these two!! I definitely recommend reading!!
MF
Alpha Orc and Omega Necromancer
Our FMC, Daria, is an omega necromancer who just wanted to live her life as a baker who reads spicy books while ignoring those pesky dead voices. However, Daria’s unique powers catch the eye of the criminal underworld….. Darn it.
Our MMC, Marcus, is an Alpha Orc who owns a tattoo shop. He used to be a hitman for his crime family, but has left that all in the past….. Or he thought.. Too bad his younger brothers life is in danger unless he kidnaps a strong necromancer to exchange for his brother.
Annnnnddd…. Marcus meet Daria! She has to try to outsmart the alpha and get away…. Too bad she ends up falling for the not so terrible orc and vice versa. Now they have to save his brother together.
It was a quick and fun read! I couldn’t get enough of these two!! I definitely recommend reading!!
February 3, 2025
☆Arc Review☆
I was giggling and kicking my feet reading this. Yes, there are some real crazy things happening (hello orc mafia), but damn are the main characters just chefs kiss. The banter, the spice, and the magical world building was top notch. I enjoyed the side characters almost as much as the main characters. They brought so much to the story as well.
I live for how Daria is a strong, independent woman who is also learning more about herself along the way throughout the story. Marcus is such a strong alpha but also learns how to become a perfect orc for his woman. There is violence since Daria is a necromancer, and Marcus is in the crime life, but I enjoyed the arch of the characters overall.
I was giggling and kicking my feet reading this. Yes, there are some real crazy things happening (hello orc mafia), but damn are the main characters just chefs kiss. The banter, the spice, and the magical world building was top notch. I enjoyed the side characters almost as much as the main characters. They brought so much to the story as well.
I live for how Daria is a strong, independent woman who is also learning more about herself along the way throughout the story. Marcus is such a strong alpha but also learns how to become a perfect orc for his woman. There is violence since Daria is a necromancer, and Marcus is in the crime life, but I enjoyed the arch of the characters overall.
February 15, 2025
Thank you Liz E. Cooper for sending me this advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love the curvy girl representation! Daria is so sweet, smart, with just the right amount of sarcasm and snark.
Marcus was okay, but a bit wishy washy. He is a total sweet cinnamon roll, but I didn't really feel that criminal hard edge that he claimed to have.
Angie is hands down my favorite character out of all of them. The snark is delicious, and she had me cracking up the whole time.
Overall this is a somewhat cozy kidnapping, with fun magic, a decent amount of action in the last half, plus lots of spice. They make a great couple in the end, but it took a while to get there. It's a good quick read when you want some tasty brain candy.
February 23, 2025
Liz E. Cooper always finds a way to entertain her readers and How to Fail at Escaping an Alpha Orc is no exception! This short but sweet and highly entertaining orc themed fantasy romance has a unique Omegaverse twist and lots of humor to keep you entertained till the end.
Daria, powerful necromancer, has the ability to hear and speak to the dead however all she wants is to lay low and manage the bakery. However with recent goings on in town she no longer can stay hidden and tries to use her powers to help. Little does she know that only brings her more trouble in the form of tattoo shop owning, sexy alpha orc with connections and a past. Now the question is will he follow through with his plans or set everything aside to save her.
Daria, powerful necromancer, has the ability to hear and speak to the dead however all she wants is to lay low and manage the bakery. However with recent goings on in town she no longer can stay hidden and tries to use her powers to help. Little does she know that only brings her more trouble in the form of tattoo shop owning, sexy alpha orc with connections and a past. Now the question is will he follow through with his plans or set everything aside to save her.
February 26, 2025
Daria just wanted a peaceful life doing the things she loved. When she unexpectedly catches the attention of some unsavory people. Marcus used to be in the life of crime. Now a tattoo artist, he intentionally stays clear. But his past and present come to a head when he’s forced to kidnap a necromancer for his brother’s life.
These characters were so interesting. I love that Daria is a necromancer. Her life revolved around the undead so dealing with people became awkward at times. Marcus is such a gentle giant and the lengths he’d go to protect his family, makes him a true sweetheart.
Their relationship was definitely rocky at times but I enjoyed the road it took for to find their HEA.
Overall, an enjoyable read.
These characters were so interesting. I love that Daria is a necromancer. Her life revolved around the undead so dealing with people became awkward at times. Marcus is such a gentle giant and the lengths he’d go to protect his family, makes him a true sweetheart.
Their relationship was definitely rocky at times but I enjoyed the road it took for to find their HEA.
Overall, an enjoyable read.
March 5, 2025
First off, I absolutely love the cover! Second, I didn’t realize I was such a fan of orc romance until now… This had everything that I wanted out of a monster/supernatural romance book… The action, the tension, the spice, the drama… Not to mention you pulled tears out of me when I didn’t expect that I was gonna cry…Sam… Really? Sam… Instantly was bawling… Daria and Marcus are so cute together… I love how different they are but how well they meshed. Daria is the spitfire I would want to be in a story like this… and she is so bad ass! I would not be sad to get a little novella about Sam’s side story… I would also not be mad about getting a story about the eldest orc brother… Hint, hint, hint *wink wink wink
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2025
Daria’s life as an omega baker who occasionally does necromancy work for the police is livable. She’s happy with her life, if not completely satisfied. Marcus is happy for the lack of action in his life. One phone call changes everything for Marcus and subsequently, Daria.
There is more outward tension with this book in the universe than others, but it helps keep readers drawn in. As Daria and Marcus navigate each other and the turmoil of family and crazy plans, hope stays alive. Readers will vibe with the heart-string pulling, plan making, leaky eye creating that will run them through the wringer. The ending is definitely worth the rest.
There is more outward tension with this book in the universe than others, but it helps keep readers drawn in. As Daria and Marcus navigate each other and the turmoil of family and crazy plans, hope stays alive. Readers will vibe with the heart-string pulling, plan making, leaky eye creating that will run them through the wringer. The ending is definitely worth the rest.
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