Jenna Larkin's Plucked By the Orc is a delightful foray into the burgeoning genre of Regency Monster Romance, a subgenre that combines the elegance of Regency-era settings with the fantastical allure of mythical creatures. The novel cleverly intertwines elements of Carnival Row and My Fair Lady, creating a narrative that is both familiar and refreshingly unique. At its core, the book explores themes of societal acceptance, personal transformation, and the complexities of love across cultural divides.

The story introduces us to Iris Gabbert, a spirited flower girl from London's East End. Iris is a character who immediately captures the reader's attention with her sharp wit and unyielding determination. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Duncan Higgins, the Second Duke of Barrington, who is not only an orc but also a man of considerable wealth and influence. The dynamic between Iris and Duncan is the heart of the novel, and Larkin does an exceptional job of developing their relationship with nuance and depth.

One of the novel's most compelling themes is the exploration of societal norms and the rigid class structures of Regency-era London. Iris, with her humble beginnings, represents the marginalized individuals who are often overlooked by society. Her journey from a flower girl to a lady of society is not just a physical transformation but also a commentary on the arbitrary nature of social hierarchies. Larkin uses Iris's character to challenge the reader's perceptions of class and worth, making a poignant statement about the value of authenticity over superficial appearances.

Duncan Higgins, on the other hand, is a character who embodies the struggle of belonging. As an orc, he is caught between two worlds—the human society that he observes with a keen anthropological eye and the hidden realm of his own kind. His initial interest in Iris is driven by a wager, but as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that his fascination with her is much deeper. Larkin skillfully portrays Duncan's internal conflict and his gradual realization that love cannot be dictated by societal expectations or personal insecurities.

The chemistry between Iris and Duncan is palpable, and Larkin does not shy away from exploring the sensual aspects of their relationship. The novel is unabashedly steamy, with scenes that are both passionate and tender. However, the romance is balanced with moments of humor and genuine emotion, making the characters' connection feel authentic and relatable. The tension between desire and societal acceptance is a recurring motif, and Larkin handles it with a deft touch, ensuring that the romance never feels forced or contrived.

In terms of character development, both Iris and Duncan undergo significant growth throughout the novel. Iris's transformation is not just about learning to navigate high society but also about discovering her own strength and self-worth. Her journey is empowering, and readers will find themselves rooting for her as she challenges the status quo. Duncan's character arc is equally compelling, as he learns to embrace his true self and confronts his fears of rejection. Their individual growth is mirrored in their evolving relationship, which is portrayed with a realism that is both refreshing and engaging.

Larkin's writing is both evocative and immersive, capturing the essence of Regency London with vivid descriptions and a keen attention to detail. The world-building is intricate, seamlessly blending historical elements with fantastical ones. The inclusion of orcs and other mythical creatures adds a layer of intrigue and excitement, setting the novel apart from traditional Regency romances. The societal dynamics between humans and the Lords of the Hidden Realm are explored with depth, adding complexity to the narrative and raising thought-provoking questions about acceptance and prejudice.

Comparatively, Plucked By the Orc shares thematic similarities with other works in the genre, such as Gail Carriger's Parasol Protectorate series, which also blends historical settings with supernatural elements. However, Larkin's novel stands out for its focus on character-driven storytelling and its exploration of love across cultural boundaries. The novel's emphasis on personal transformation and societal critique aligns it with works like Pride and Prejudice, albeit with a fantastical twist.

Overall, Plucked By the Orc is a captivating and thought-provoking read that will appeal to fans of both romance and fantasy. Jenna Larkin has crafted a story that is as enchanting as it is insightful, with characters that linger in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned. The novel's blend of romance, humor, and social commentary makes it a standout addition to the Regency Monster Romance genre, and it is sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating Larkin's next literary endeavor.