by Thea Guanzon
- Fiction
- Fantasy
- Critical Role
- Romance
- Smut
- Action
- Adventure
- D&D
Tusk Love is a creation born from Critical Role, the beloved online D&D group, brought to life with the help of a fantastic author. It follows Guinevere, the daughter of a wealthy merchant, and Oskar, a rugged blacksmith’s apprentice. After he rescues her from danger, he sets off to escort her back to her family—and her betrothed. But being stuck together on a long journey means their chemistry quickly ignites, and Oskar soon becomes the kind of twisted love story she never knew she craved.
Set in the world of Critical Role’s Exandria, the story travels through iconic, fan-favourite locations that will be instantly recognisable to anyone familiar with the show.
I pre-ordered this book the second I heard it was being made. Tusk Love started as a fictional romance novel within the Critical Role universe—just a cheeky in-world joke—and now it’s been brought to life as a real story? I was all in. And it did not disappoint. This book is the perfect blend of classic D&D adventure, spicy romance, and witty humour. It draws you in with every chapter and delivers everything it promises.
Honestly, I’ve tried to find a fault… and I can’t. The pacing is spot-on, with short chapters that make it super easy to read. The romantic and steamy moments feel natural and well-balanced, never overdone. And the humour? A perfect nod to D&D storytelling—clever, silly, and full of charm.
This has quickly become one of my favourite reads of the year (though I’ll admit, I might be a little biased as a HUGE Critical Role fan). Guanzon didn’t just write a fun romance—she truly captured the spirit of Exandria and brought it to life in a way that feels both sensual and playful. I can only imagine how proud the cast must be—I just know Jester would be thrilled (Laura Bailey’s Critical Role Campaign 2 character).
Guinevere and Oskar felt so reminiscent of Jester and Fjord, and I loved picking up on the influence. You can really tell that Laura based her character’s romantic energy on this story, which makes the whole concept of turning Tusk Love into a real book even more brilliant.
I’d recommend this to any Critical Role fan, especially those who loved Campaign 2 and are fans of Jester. But honestly? You don’t need any prior knowledge to enjoy it. If you love fantasy romance with a bit of spice, this is a must-read. I already know I’ll be re-reading this again and again.
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