Blood Branded is about a mixed-blood orc (half human) who has been looked over due to his heritage. This also includes denial to the guard that is sent out to give tribute to their not so nice orc cousins. This all changes when Frafnar's father (who is a part of the guard) forgets his horn- an action that launches Frafnar into more action than he would anticipate.

This was a quick read, having very short chapters. I enjoyed how there wasn't too many details that needed to be absorbed, and the novel was very straight forward and easy to follow. I appreciate the low commitment style (those super lush books that beg for your attention can be so draining).

However, the writing style just wasn't for me. Within the work there was a lot of telling and not enough showing, such as "He did this" "He looked sad" "HE" "HIM" etc. There were also some details that should have been followed up on, and then in some cases not enough detail, if that makes sense.

Overall I thought it was simple and entertaining. Perhaps if was longer I could have had more time to get to love Frafnar, I did like his character. I wouldn't give it 5 stars, but you may find yourself enjoying it more than myself if you are into novellas and orc themed stories.