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For Puck's Sake #8
The Defending Goal
Not only the net should be protected.
Felton
I’m a disappointment, a failure, a shit show. Every decision is wrong. None of my accomplishments are good enough. I don’t do anything right.
This is what I’ve been told my entire life.
For more than thirty years, no one knew. What the world sees is a lie. I do a good job of hiding it.
Until I don’t.
Ren
Sometimes, all it takes is a single moment to realize you’re needed somewhere and in that moment, your entire life changes. Felton has so many broken pieces that he can barely breathe.
But that’s okay. I’m going to show this man what love is. If he doesn’t have the capacity to protect himself, I’ll do it for him. The abuse ends now.
***
This is a LGBTQIA+ story with content not intended for those under 18 years of age due to graphic scenes and situations.
Felton
I’m a disappointment, a failure, a shit show. Every decision is wrong. None of my accomplishments are good enough. I don’t do anything right.
This is what I’ve been told my entire life.
For more than thirty years, no one knew. What the world sees is a lie. I do a good job of hiding it.
Until I don’t.
Ren
Sometimes, all it takes is a single moment to realize you’re needed somewhere and in that moment, your entire life changes. Felton has so many broken pieces that he can barely breathe.
But that’s okay. I’m going to show this man what love is. If he doesn’t have the capacity to protect himself, I’ll do it for him. The abuse ends now.
***
This is a LGBTQIA+ story with content not intended for those under 18 years of age due to graphic scenes and situations.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 15, 2024
211 people are currently reading
469 people want to read
About the author
Crea Reitan
113 books1,124 followersCrea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. When she can't fall asleep at night, she thinks up new scenes for her characters to act out. This, of course, is how most of her meant-to-be-thrown-away characters tend to end up front and center - and utterly swoon-worthy! Don't ask her how many book boyfriends she has...
When not writing, Crea is an avid reader. Her TBR pile is several hundred books high (don't even look at her kindle wish list or the unread books on her tablet). Sometimes, she enjoys crafting; sometimes, exploring nature; sometimes, traveling. Mostly, she enjoys putting her characters on paper and breathing life into them. Oh, and sleeping. Crea loves to sleep!
When not writing, Crea is an avid reader. Her TBR pile is several hundred books high (don't even look at her kindle wish list or the unread books on her tablet). Sometimes, she enjoys crafting; sometimes, exploring nature; sometimes, traveling. Mostly, she enjoys putting her characters on paper and breathing life into them. Oh, and sleeping. Crea loves to sleep!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
September 9, 2025
I think my favourite thing about the Creaverse is that every book is so different. None of them feel formulaic and it really helps every character and their story to feel unique.
Felton and Ren's story is the heaviest emotion wise, and their relationship is more about care than spicy times. I loved how Ren took what Felton needed and created this safe space for him 😍
There's also barely any crossovers in this book, which also makes it standout. The only prominent character from another book is Imry Van Doren and he's one of my favourite characters so it was fun to see him.
Felton and Ren's story is the heaviest emotion wise, and their relationship is more about care than spicy times. I loved how Ren took what Felton needed and created this safe space for him 😍
There's also barely any crossovers in this book, which also makes it standout. The only prominent character from another book is Imry Van Doren and he's one of my favourite characters so it was fun to see him.
August 16, 2024
3,5⭐️
Without the whole gang bang thing, it would have been a 4/4,5⭐️ read, but that’s just too weird for me…
But if I ignore this part, I love the relationship between Ren and Felton.
Felton needs to be wrapped in bubble wrap and protected at all cost. What asshole father he has! As a result, the poor guy a no self esteem, thinks everything he does is crap, while he’s such a good man after the way he was raised.
Ren is just the perfect man for Felton, a protector, a lover, a caretaker. And they just gradually get closer, as it was natural, as it was destined to be. I loved it.
Without the whole gang bang thing, it would have been a 4/4,5⭐️ read, but that’s just too weird for me…
But if I ignore this part, I love the relationship between Ren and Felton.
Felton needs to be wrapped in bubble wrap and protected at all cost. What asshole father he has! As a result, the poor guy a no self esteem, thinks everything he does is crap, while he’s such a good man after the way he was raised.
Ren is just the perfect man for Felton, a protector, a lover, a caretaker. And they just gradually get closer, as it was natural, as it was destined to be. I loved it.
December 25, 2025
2.25⭐️
“Why are you so good to me?
Why do you want all my broken bits?”
“Give me all your broken pieces,” I murmur, pressing kisses all over his face and letting him pretend he’s not crying as I taste his tears. “I will help you put them all back together until you never remember they existed. You’re mine to protect now. Mine to help make happy. Believe me, Felton, there’s nothing I want more in this world than you.”
“Why are you so good to me?
Why do you want all my broken bits?”
“Give me all your broken pieces,” I murmur, pressing kisses all over his face and letting him pretend he’s not crying as I taste his tears. “I will help you put them all back together until you never remember they existed. You’re mine to protect now. Mine to help make happy. Believe me, Felton, there’s nothing I want more in this world than you.”
August 14, 2024
i got an arc of this book and here is my honest review ~
umm crea reitan’s spice always hits. every single time & this was no different. 👏🏽 i was blushing.
“Why are you so good to me?” he whispers. “Why do you want all my broken bits?” “Give me all your broken pieces,”
i just love broken boys. UGH. Felton deserves a never ending hug.
umm crea reitan’s spice always hits. every single time & this was no different. 👏🏽 i was blushing.
“Why are you so good to me?” he whispers. “Why do you want all my broken bits?” “Give me all your broken pieces,”
i just love broken boys. UGH. Felton deserves a never ending hug.
May 5, 2025
So this has become a series about at least one mc coming from a dreadful family. I am totally down for this because Reitan depicts really well all the sorts of family awfulness and the effects it has on a person. It's quite amazing to have it all reflected back to me.
Reitan has a curious habit of addressing the reader before and after the story which is a bit odd.
Reitan has a curious habit of addressing the reader before and after the story which is a bit odd.
October 15, 2025
4,5 stars! really loved this one!
August 15, 2024
I’m rating this one 4⭐️ because Ren and Felton were just amazing 🥹 this was such a beautiful story, I could relate to Felton in so many ways because of the way he grew up and what his family dynamics were.
I loved the way Ren protected him from everything, the way he made anything happen just to see a smile on Felton’s face😍. It is definitely a slow burn story, but it doesn’t lack the emotions that come with it, this story was more about the connection between two people and their growing love for one another.
I enjoyed seeing Ren accept the way he was feeling towards Felton and not be afraid to show it, and the way Ren wanted to and did learn how to anticipate Felton’s needs was absolutely amazing. I adored the characters, but Felton was definitely my favourite, the gentle giant🥹 The story overall was so heartwarming, I enjoyed it a lot!
The only thing I’m slightly struggling with is what happened at the beginning, but then again maybe telling Felton who ‘participated’ was the right choice? Either way it showed Felton’s trust in Ren which I loved. I’m really happy the beautiful soul got his happy ending because he definitely deserved it and needed it❤️ My favourite scene without giving spoilers is definitely the one where Ren asks what bed Felton has towards the end of the book, and once you read this scene you will know what I mean when I say that Ren was ready to do anything in order to have Felton’s needs met, I mean what else do u need in a man?!🫶🏻 I do wish that we got to see more of their relationship, I would have liked to see Felton’s progress and see him become happy again, I just feel like I missed out on seeing that, got to see a glimpse of it in the Epilogue but I loved them and definitely wanted to see more
I loved the way Ren protected him from everything, the way he made anything happen just to see a smile on Felton’s face😍. It is definitely a slow burn story, but it doesn’t lack the emotions that come with it, this story was more about the connection between two people and their growing love for one another.
I enjoyed seeing Ren accept the way he was feeling towards Felton and not be afraid to show it, and the way Ren wanted to and did learn how to anticipate Felton’s needs was absolutely amazing. I adored the characters, but Felton was definitely my favourite, the gentle giant🥹 The story overall was so heartwarming, I enjoyed it a lot!
The only thing I’m slightly struggling with is what happened at the beginning, but then again maybe telling Felton who ‘participated’ was the right choice? Either way it showed Felton’s trust in Ren which I loved. I’m really happy the beautiful soul got his happy ending because he definitely deserved it and needed it❤️ My favourite scene without giving spoilers is definitely the one where Ren asks what bed Felton has towards the end of the book, and once you read this scene you will know what I mean when I say that Ren was ready to do anything in order to have Felton’s needs met, I mean what else do u need in a man?!🫶🏻 I do wish that we got to see more of their relationship, I would have liked to see Felton’s progress and see him become happy again, I just feel like I missed out on seeing that, got to see a glimpse of it in the Epilogue but I loved them and definitely wanted to see more
August 4, 2024
3.5 stars
October 15, 2024
4.6 stars
October 17, 2024
This book was way too short. The ending happened so suddenly.
October 13, 2025
Gangbang - check
Dom/sub vibes - check
The broken boy who meets the man that tells him when to breathe how to dress what to eat - check
I loved this book so hard!
Dom/sub vibes - check
The broken boy who meets the man that tells him when to breathe how to dress what to eat - check
I loved this book so hard!
August 16, 2024
If I could reach into a book and hug/protect a character, then Felton would be it.
He may be a huge goalie, a mountain of a man , but he’s been belittled and terrorised all his life, and not by kids at school, no, far worse! By his own father!! His family, especially his mother didn’t really try to stop it! So Felton has no confidence at all, in fact when hearing his fathers voice, Felton goes into panic/shut down mode (his way of trying to protect himself!)
Then Felton’s world falls apart! His career is on the line. And Felton begins to spiral…..
Ren plays on the same team as Felton, they know each other, but not really friends. Ren has his own set of friends and a loving family. So when Ren begins to notice Felton, it’s firstly as a concerned team member. And the more Ren gets to know about Felton (the one behind the fake smile) the more Ren
It’s a sloooowburn, but watching as Ren slowly comes to realise that Felton is it for him, has me not minding the spice scenes being missing. In fact, if they’d gone at it from the get go, I think we would have lost a beautiful story.
Ren becomes Felton’s friend/confidant/mentor and cheerleader. He becomes the wall that Felton needs against his father. And Ren shows him that family can love each other unconditionally. Felton hands over the reigns to Ren, and lets him make ALL of his decisions. Suddenly a huge weight is lifted, and Felton can finally breathe.
I squealed as a crossover character is mentioned. Puzzled to myself as to who will be in the next book. And sighed, as I close yet another emotional book. I love this series.
I like how the author builds the story and the characters. This one has less crossovers, but it does have a few hockey moments. (Which the last few have been lacking. This one is possibly another “gay for you” as Ren has slept with women, and has never really looked at men “that way”, until Felton.
Felton and Ren are probably my second favourite couple in this series.
No need to read in order. You can dip in and out.
Another recommended read from me 👍🏻
🦋
He may be a huge goalie, a mountain of a man , but he’s been belittled and terrorised all his life, and not by kids at school, no, far worse! By his own father!! His family, especially his mother didn’t really try to stop it! So Felton has no confidence at all, in fact when hearing his fathers voice, Felton goes into panic/shut down mode (his way of trying to protect himself!)
Then Felton’s world falls apart! His career is on the line. And Felton begins to spiral…..
Ren plays on the same team as Felton, they know each other, but not really friends. Ren has his own set of friends and a loving family. So when Ren begins to notice Felton, it’s firstly as a concerned team member. And the more Ren gets to know about Felton (the one behind the fake smile) the more Ren
It’s a sloooowburn, but watching as Ren slowly comes to realise that Felton is it for him, has me not minding the spice scenes being missing. In fact, if they’d gone at it from the get go, I think we would have lost a beautiful story.
Ren becomes Felton’s friend/confidant/mentor and cheerleader. He becomes the wall that Felton needs against his father. And Ren shows him that family can love each other unconditionally. Felton hands over the reigns to Ren, and lets him make ALL of his decisions. Suddenly a huge weight is lifted, and Felton can finally breathe.
I squealed as a crossover character is mentioned. Puzzled to myself as to who will be in the next book. And sighed, as I close yet another emotional book. I love this series.
I like how the author builds the story and the characters. This one has less crossovers, but it does have a few hockey moments. (Which the last few have been lacking. This one is possibly another “gay for you” as Ren has slept with women, and has never really looked at men “that way”, until Felton.
Felton and Ren are probably my second favourite couple in this series.
No need to read in order. You can dip in and out.
Another recommended read from me 👍🏻
🦋
February 15, 2025
okay read
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2024...
***Spoilers here and there***
This book was okay I’ll give it a three star. I was stuck between a three and four. But stuck to a four. It’s an interesting story but a little bit boring; I didn’t invest in it as much as the other ones I did read. This one reminds me of the first two books I couldn’t get into and never finished. But plan to go back and read.
But enough said about that; I did enjoy Ren and Felton Story and how Ren was there for Fel after what he said was saying to him. I was glad when he did got help and saw a therapist and saw how many people did care of him. Plus what I definitely glad about was when Ren told Felton dad how bad of a person he was and how FINALLY Felton got a new number. Because I was saying in my mind when his dad called that one time when Fel friends was there that he needs a new number.
Plus for his dad to show up at his game was a low blow and dead wrong because it put his mood down from where he was after Felton spent time with Ren family who treated him well. But I am glad that Fel got his happy ever after. But also interesting to see that he still don’t know that two of his teammates was Ren friends who “baaa-bam.. him with the other two friends. But I think it was good that he didn’t know because I think that would’ve stressed him out and maybe trigger him a lot.
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2024...
***Spoilers here and there***
This book was okay I’ll give it a three star. I was stuck between a three and four. But stuck to a four. It’s an interesting story but a little bit boring; I didn’t invest in it as much as the other ones I did read. This one reminds me of the first two books I couldn’t get into and never finished. But plan to go back and read.
But enough said about that; I did enjoy Ren and Felton Story and how Ren was there for Fel after what he said was saying to him. I was glad when he did got help and saw a therapist and saw how many people did care of him. Plus what I definitely glad about was when Ren told Felton dad how bad of a person he was and how FINALLY Felton got a new number. Because I was saying in my mind when his dad called that one time when Fel friends was there that he needs a new number.
Plus for his dad to show up at his game was a low blow and dead wrong because it put his mood down from where he was after Felton spent time with Ren family who treated him well. But I am glad that Fel got his happy ever after. But also interesting to see that he still don’t know that two of his teammates was Ren friends who “baaa-bam.. him with the other two friends. But I think it was good that he didn’t know because I think that would’ve stressed him out and maybe trigger him a lot.
August 22, 2024
This one didn’t really work for me. The pacing was super weird, they don’t get together until almost 60% into the story and Ren seems mostly uninterested in their intimacy. He talks about his concerns about if having one partner will be enough for him and then we never revisit it.
Also this book could do with HEAVY editing. Multiple times we have characters repeating the same conversation as if it’s the first time they had it and parts in the beginning contradicted parts in the end. For example, in the beginning of the book the teams owner is already “married to the man he got for Christmas” but in the end of this book there’s a scandal in the news about how he recently got married to a man over Christmas?
I like the content of these stories but the author needs to slow down and have these books more properly vetted before publishing.
Also this book could do with HEAVY editing. Multiple times we have characters repeating the same conversation as if it’s the first time they had it and parts in the beginning contradicted parts in the end. For example, in the beginning of the book the teams owner is already “married to the man he got for Christmas” but in the end of this book there’s a scandal in the news about how he recently got married to a man over Christmas?
I like the content of these stories but the author needs to slow down and have these books more properly vetted before publishing.
August 19, 2024
All the stars. Every single one.
Crea Reitan, a master at unconventional relationships. Always defying the norms. The only norms that should ever be are consent, feelings and doing what is good for the relationship in any way shape or form that is good for those involved. Codependency here is prominent but done so beautifully and eloquently. TPE is explained, wanted and needed in this exchange.
This was a freaking beautiful story. C.R. you never disappoint and always surprise me.
*Oh, wow. My first gay gang bang kink unlocked. 🔓That was sexy AF,🔥mental issues aside, very well written. I would expect no less from Crea Reitan.
Crea Reitan, a master at unconventional relationships. Always defying the norms. The only norms that should ever be are consent, feelings and doing what is good for the relationship in any way shape or form that is good for those involved. Codependency here is prominent but done so beautifully and eloquently. TPE is explained, wanted and needed in this exchange.
This was a freaking beautiful story. C.R. you never disappoint and always surprise me.
*Oh, wow. My first gay gang bang kink unlocked. 🔓That was sexy AF,🔥mental issues aside, very well written. I would expect no less from Crea Reitan.
June 30, 2025
*ugly cries*
I seriously cannot get enough off this series!!! I was admittedly hesitant over come of the content warnings/tropes, but I'm so glad I stuck with it. Felton deserves the whole world!
I seriously cannot get enough off this series!!! I was admittedly hesitant over come of the content warnings/tropes, but I'm so glad I stuck with it. Felton deserves the whole world!
August 6, 2024
“All I can think right now is how much I want Ren.
I want him to be in my life.
In my corner and by my side.”
Felton is a strong big hockey player who seems to have everything anyone could want in life. A great career, money, stability and fame. But the more you get to know him as the story progresses, you see all that is just superficial and not at all true for him. He might have all of that, but he can’t enjoy any of it. His father (and basically his entire family because no one ever speaks up) puts him down again and again. Nothing Felton ever does is good enough; all he does in his father’s eyes is fail. Fail himself, fail his team, his family and especially his father. This has resulted in a man who has no self-worth, no self-esteem and no trust in anyone. All he has had for himself is his little side gig, and when that blows up in his face, he has nothing left.
Ren is Felton’s teammate, and they have never been particularly close. But Felton’s situation with the team has Ren concerned, he steps up as a teammate and friend; to help during a time Felton could really use a helping hand and some compassion.
"Shared blood doesn't make a family," Dasan says. "It makes you related. Family are those who make you feel safe, protected, cared for. Loved."
I had nothing but hate for Felton’s father, that is truly an unredeemable character in my eyes. That’s why I don’t mind the way that storyline ended. It was just done, no closure, and that was exactly what Felton needed.
Ren is such a great character, the way he shows up time and again for Felton. Felton who has no idea why someone would want to be close to him, help him and spend time with him. Ren makes sure he is there to do what Felton can’t: make the hard decisions and the small ones.
They are such a beautiful pair together. How Ren falls so slowly but surely for Felton without even really realizing it. They just fit. Felton and all his broken pieces are perfect in Ren’s eyes. I can’t wait to see more of them in the books to come.
I also loved the Van Doren crossover, this universe just gets bigger and bigger, and I am so here for it.
"Give me all your broken pieces," I murmur, pressing kisses all over his face and letting him pretend he's not crying as I taste his tears. "I will help you put them all back together until you never remember they existed. You're mine to protect now. Mine to help make happy. Believe me, Felton, there's nothing I want more in this world than you."
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 23, 2024
4 Stars!
This book was my first by the author, and I had no issues reading it, even though it is part of a series. The author has a lot of information before the story starts as well as in an author's note at the end. I mention them because I suspect most readers will skip over them completely or start reading and decide there isn't anything important within. Within the information before the story are useful disclaimers, especially since there is a scene or two in the book that may make some readers uncomfortable. So, if you want those insights before you start reading, be sure to read at least the information right before chapter one begins.
Felton and Ren are on the same hockey team and are friendly, but not really friends. Felton is the goalie, and Ren is a defenseman. Felton is a gentle giant with the sweetest heart. I felt so bad for him, the expectations and treatment he receives from his father are appalling. I could understand why he struggled and found an outlet where he could feel good about himself. I was happy with how their coach supported Felton for the most part, but I had some issues with some of the things Ren suspected about the team that just melted out of the storyline.
Ren has a unique set of friends and seeing them interact gave a lot of insight into Ren and his ability to read people and situations. I was glad that he saw some of the cracks in Felton and reached out to him initially. As much as it was mortifying for Felton to have Ren witness the abuse he was receiving, I was glad Ren found out and became determined to find a way to help Felton. Their relationship evolves slowly into friendship and then more, even as Ren worries about the implications of becoming lovers while Felton is so vulnerable. They worked well together, and I loved that Ren never judged Felton and did the best he could to see Felton happy and healthy. I was glad to see Felton get the outside help he needed and cut out the toxic portions of his life.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
This book was my first by the author, and I had no issues reading it, even though it is part of a series. The author has a lot of information before the story starts as well as in an author's note at the end. I mention them because I suspect most readers will skip over them completely or start reading and decide there isn't anything important within. Within the information before the story are useful disclaimers, especially since there is a scene or two in the book that may make some readers uncomfortable. So, if you want those insights before you start reading, be sure to read at least the information right before chapter one begins.
Felton and Ren are on the same hockey team and are friendly, but not really friends. Felton is the goalie, and Ren is a defenseman. Felton is a gentle giant with the sweetest heart. I felt so bad for him, the expectations and treatment he receives from his father are appalling. I could understand why he struggled and found an outlet where he could feel good about himself. I was happy with how their coach supported Felton for the most part, but I had some issues with some of the things Ren suspected about the team that just melted out of the storyline.
Ren has a unique set of friends and seeing them interact gave a lot of insight into Ren and his ability to read people and situations. I was glad that he saw some of the cracks in Felton and reached out to him initially. As much as it was mortifying for Felton to have Ren witness the abuse he was receiving, I was glad Ren found out and became determined to find a way to help Felton. Their relationship evolves slowly into friendship and then more, even as Ren worries about the implications of becoming lovers while Felton is so vulnerable. They worked well together, and I loved that Ren never judged Felton and did the best he could to see Felton happy and healthy. I was glad to see Felton get the outside help he needed and cut out the toxic portions of his life.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
August 10, 2024
♥ Felton and Ren ♥
Genre: M/M Romance
Format: E-Book (ARC)
Series: For Puck's Sake #8
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Character Development: 3.5/5 • My heart broke for Felton. No one deserves to be abused in any way. His emotional distress can be felt throughout the pages. I could feel the relief when Ren wrapped him up.
Plot: 3.9/5 • The plot was engaging and well written. There is a bit more hockey throughout this book but it does not take away from the relationship between Ren and Felton. In fact, those moments need to happen to fully understand the turmoil Felton is going through in all aspects of his life.
Writing Style: 4.5/5 • The book was well written, with no grammatical or spelling errors. Things were explained in a way that didn't feel like overkill. As always her writing made me feel like I was in the heads of the MCs.
Spice Level: 2/5 • There was not a lot of spice in this one however, it made sense for the development of Felton and Ren's relationship.
Overall Rating: 4/5 • Felton and Ren's story felt like wrapping up in a warm blanket after a long day. Just snuggling in and feeling the bone deep exhaustion seep out of every pore. Their love felt like it had been written in the marrow of time, just waiting for them to finally come together. I was so enraptured by their dynamic. There weren't a whole lot of glimpses of other characters in the Creaverse but I didn't find myself missing their interactions. Overall, Felton and Ren's love was so heartwarming I couldn't have imagined their story any other way. ♥
Tropes:
• Teammates to Lovers
• Mental Health Rep
• Slow burn
• Bi-awakening
• Power Exchange
• HEA
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
Genre: M/M Romance
Format: E-Book (ARC)
Series: For Puck's Sake #8
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Character Development: 3.5/5 • My heart broke for Felton. No one deserves to be abused in any way. His emotional distress can be felt throughout the pages. I could feel the relief when Ren wrapped him up.
Plot: 3.9/5 • The plot was engaging and well written. There is a bit more hockey throughout this book but it does not take away from the relationship between Ren and Felton. In fact, those moments need to happen to fully understand the turmoil Felton is going through in all aspects of his life.
Writing Style: 4.5/5 • The book was well written, with no grammatical or spelling errors. Things were explained in a way that didn't feel like overkill. As always her writing made me feel like I was in the heads of the MCs.
Spice Level: 2/5 • There was not a lot of spice in this one however, it made sense for the development of Felton and Ren's relationship.
Overall Rating: 4/5 • Felton and Ren's story felt like wrapping up in a warm blanket after a long day. Just snuggling in and feeling the bone deep exhaustion seep out of every pore. Their love felt like it had been written in the marrow of time, just waiting for them to finally come together. I was so enraptured by their dynamic. There weren't a whole lot of glimpses of other characters in the Creaverse but I didn't find myself missing their interactions. Overall, Felton and Ren's love was so heartwarming I couldn't have imagined their story any other way. ♥
Tropes:
• Teammates to Lovers
• Mental Health Rep
• Slow burn
• Bi-awakening
• Power Exchange
• HEA
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
August 15, 2024
Format: 📱 eBook 📱
Check TWs before reading.
I say this every time I review a book in this series, but Reitan has done it again. She's written an amazing story filled with emotions, drama, spice and characters that you just want to see succeed in the world, and get their happily ever afters, and Felton and Ren are two more of them to add to the list.
I really liked how Felton had that part of his life that was solely for him, and hated that it all blew up in his face. It was the perfect catalyst to get him and Ren together, but I also hated that such a sweet goalie had to go through all that. But as always, Reitan wrote it in the most amazing of ways.
My heart broke for Felton as we learned more about him; of his struggles and his need to have the helping hand that Ren ends up providing for him. It was a unique situation to begin with - especially with that one particular scene - but it worked in the couple's favour, and I love that it was the turning point for Ren to realise that maybe there was more to his feelings for Fel than he thought.
As with all her books, Reitan pulled characters from her wider universe into this one, linking all her MM books into one giant series - I loved the nod to the Van Doren series. She also managed to encompass a found family aspect into this story, despite it being mostly focused on our two leading men.
I truly have a thing for broken boys written by this author, and I'm honestly sitting on the edge of my seat for the next in the series - it's one of the ones I've been anticipating most since we first met the MC in Stick Lessons.
Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
Check TWs before reading.
I say this every time I review a book in this series, but Reitan has done it again. She's written an amazing story filled with emotions, drama, spice and characters that you just want to see succeed in the world, and get their happily ever afters, and Felton and Ren are two more of them to add to the list.
I really liked how Felton had that part of his life that was solely for him, and hated that it all blew up in his face. It was the perfect catalyst to get him and Ren together, but I also hated that such a sweet goalie had to go through all that. But as always, Reitan wrote it in the most amazing of ways.
My heart broke for Felton as we learned more about him; of his struggles and his need to have the helping hand that Ren ends up providing for him. It was a unique situation to begin with - especially with that one particular scene - but it worked in the couple's favour, and I love that it was the turning point for Ren to realise that maybe there was more to his feelings for Fel than he thought.
As with all her books, Reitan pulled characters from her wider universe into this one, linking all her MM books into one giant series - I loved the nod to the Van Doren series. She also managed to encompass a found family aspect into this story, despite it being mostly focused on our two leading men.
I truly have a thing for broken boys written by this author, and I'm honestly sitting on the edge of my seat for the next in the series - it's one of the ones I've been anticipating most since we first met the MC in Stick Lessons.
Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
August 3, 2024
Felton has had on a mask in more than one way in his life. The mask of smiling and being happy around his friends and teams meanwhile his emotionally abusive father tears him down every moment he gets. A mask where he posts adult content because this is the one thing in his life he feels like he has control of. But when a scandal arises and that outlet is no longer available and his father just gets worse and worse each day, he finally breaks as the weight of the world finally crumbles down. Felton is probably the sweetest and gentlest person. A hockey goalie who already has his own quirks (because goalies), everyone agrees he is the nicest guy. But Ren now realizes just how much his teammate has been hurt. Ren and Felton have been playing on the same team for a while, but as he watches Felton crumble, he can’t help but step up and help him. And the more he spends time with him, the more feelings he develops. It becomes more than just helping a teammate. It becomes a friendship and then so much more. Ren is a protector and he won’t stand by and let anyone hurt Felton. Never again. And he is grateful he is finally getting to see the man Felton is. A man he is falling in love with. Man, these two are so sweet together. I love how protective and caring Ren is with Felton. And I love that Felton finally has someone in his corner and likes him for who he is. Quirks and all. They can handle one another at their highs and lows. Felton breaks your heart but I love as he starts to get the help he needs to heal and how great these two fit together. Another great book in this series! And as always, can’t wait for the next one.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 19, 2024
3.5 stars. Felton loves his hockey career and doesn’t want to lose it, but his special side job is his outlet for his high-stress level.
His whole life he heard he wasn’t good, wasn’t enough, and would never make it.
This part of his life, this career is his, he’s the director of it, nobody knows about it, above that he’s wearing a mask, and he got a nickname. Totally safe!
About his stress level, Felton has one of those dads who always complain, and never has something positive to say, ugh! Felton got mentally and physically sick because of his dad’s attitude.
When Felton’s side gig is exposed his world is tumbling down. His already low self-esteem can’t get lower. But there’s one light, and that’s Ren, his teammate.
Ren understands Felton hit rock bottom and needs help, so Ren stands up to help him.
Ren gives Felton all the guidance he needs, and Felton is more than happy to hand over the reins. Felton needs protection, to keep his vicious father/family at a distance.
Oh boy Ren is so good for him, he understands Felton, really really understands him, and knows what he needs, and gives it to him!
It’s inevitable, they are into each other.
Felton’s self-esteem got on a higher level, thank you very much!
I was a bit in doubt about how to rate this story. I enjoyed the story, but not everything, there were things I didn’t feel, there were certain directions I didn’t get or didn’t need, but hey I’m not the director here, I accepted what was given, and finished the ride.
His whole life he heard he wasn’t good, wasn’t enough, and would never make it.
This part of his life, this career is his, he’s the director of it, nobody knows about it, above that he’s wearing a mask, and he got a nickname. Totally safe!
About his stress level, Felton has one of those dads who always complain, and never has something positive to say, ugh! Felton got mentally and physically sick because of his dad’s attitude.
When Felton’s side gig is exposed his world is tumbling down. His already low self-esteem can’t get lower. But there’s one light, and that’s Ren, his teammate.
Ren understands Felton hit rock bottom and needs help, so Ren stands up to help him.
Ren gives Felton all the guidance he needs, and Felton is more than happy to hand over the reins. Felton needs protection, to keep his vicious father/family at a distance.
Oh boy Ren is so good for him, he understands Felton, really really understands him, and knows what he needs, and gives it to him!
It’s inevitable, they are into each other.
Felton’s self-esteem got on a higher level, thank you very much!
I was a bit in doubt about how to rate this story. I enjoyed the story, but not everything, there were things I didn’t feel, there were certain directions I didn’t get or didn’t need, but hey I’m not the director here, I accepted what was given, and finished the ride.
August 8, 2024
The Defending Goal is book eight in the For Puck's Sake Series.
Felton's life is a tragic story. He has so much emotional trauma which you can feel right off of the page. Being constantly belittled and mentally abused by a family member is horrific and I truly felt his pain when he was going through this. The emotional turmoil Felton repeatedly goes through is very painful. I was truly saddened for how he thought of himself. But I was glad he finally realized he had people there for him and fighting in his corner.
Ren was truly a great and kind person. He saw that Felton needed help and stepped up to be there for him. What started as friendship and help turned into something so much more. He really became a great person to take care of Felton in every aspect. He was caring and compassionate. He stood up to Felton's father when no one else would. He was a really great person to be there for Felton.
This was a great addition to the series. I liked this one because it expanded more on caring for someone with very traumatic mental health issues. Low self esteem due to constant bullying is a serious issue and this was shown how low a person can get and if no one is there willing to help, something bad could happen. We all need to be there for each other because everyone is going through something different and coping the only way they can. This was a very good story and I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Felton's life is a tragic story. He has so much emotional trauma which you can feel right off of the page. Being constantly belittled and mentally abused by a family member is horrific and I truly felt his pain when he was going through this. The emotional turmoil Felton repeatedly goes through is very painful. I was truly saddened for how he thought of himself. But I was glad he finally realized he had people there for him and fighting in his corner.
Ren was truly a great and kind person. He saw that Felton needed help and stepped up to be there for him. What started as friendship and help turned into something so much more. He really became a great person to take care of Felton in every aspect. He was caring and compassionate. He stood up to Felton's father when no one else would. He was a really great person to be there for Felton.
This was a great addition to the series. I liked this one because it expanded more on caring for someone with very traumatic mental health issues. Low self esteem due to constant bullying is a serious issue and this was shown how low a person can get and if no one is there willing to help, something bad could happen. We all need to be there for each other because everyone is going through something different and coping the only way they can. This was a very good story and I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
August 3, 2024
Book 8 of the For Puck’s Sake series follows Felton and Ren as Felton’s world starts to crumble and Ren steps in to try and help him. This series of books is one of my favourite to come back to. I feel that the books are written well and the characters are developed so it feels like you’re reading about a real person. This is mostly achieved because you hear about and meet the characters throughout the other books in the series. I loved the story in this book. I liked that it wasn’t an instalove story and that the relationship between the characters grew as they dealt with the circumstances surrounding them. I always love a big teddy bear in a story and that’s exactly what Felton was, he felt deeply but had so much happen in his past that he couldn’t really tell right from wrong in his decision making, even if there was no real right or wrong outcome of a decision. Ren was the perfect complement to this and I loved watching him go from a friend who just wanted to help a friend out, to feeling more. Overall, this was an absolutely brilliant book that I really loved reading. The story was built up from scratch and I loved reading the progression of it. I would recommend giving it a read.
August 12, 2024
“He sees all of me. All the dark corners and bruised edges I’ve tried so hard to hide over the years.”
📖 : The Defending Goal
👩🏻💻 : Crea Reitan
⭐️: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🗓️ : 15th August 2024
🌈 Bi-awakening
🏒 Team mates to friends to lovers
💚 Comfort
❤️ Ice Hockey
🤍 Trauma Rep
In the next instalment of Crea’s “For Pucks Sake” series we have Felton and Ren.
Felton shows one side to the world in his role as a professional hockey player, and yet what no one else sees is what he is hiding, and how much his mental health is suffering due to family, specifically his father.
Ren is one of Felton’s teammates and picks up on something, he makes the move from teammate to friend and throughout the book feelings develop.
“All I can think right now is how much I want Ren. I want him to be in my life.
In my corner and by my side.”
This is a slow burn romance, with all the feels.
Thank you to the author for supplying me with an ARC!
#bookrecomendation #books #booklover #happy #reader #romancebooks #love #Shelfie #bookstagram #ilovereading #romance #BookObsessed #Bookdragon #bookboyfriend #bookboyfriendsdoitbetter #Spicy #ARCReader #CreaReitan #TheDefendingGoal #ForPucksSake #malemaleromance #college #SportsRomance #IceHockey #lgbtq #loveislove
📖 : The Defending Goal
👩🏻💻 : Crea Reitan
⭐️: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🗓️ : 15th August 2024
🌈 Bi-awakening
🏒 Team mates to friends to lovers
💚 Comfort
❤️ Ice Hockey
🤍 Trauma Rep
In the next instalment of Crea’s “For Pucks Sake” series we have Felton and Ren.
Felton shows one side to the world in his role as a professional hockey player, and yet what no one else sees is what he is hiding, and how much his mental health is suffering due to family, specifically his father.
Ren is one of Felton’s teammates and picks up on something, he makes the move from teammate to friend and throughout the book feelings develop.
“All I can think right now is how much I want Ren. I want him to be in my life.
In my corner and by my side.”
This is a slow burn romance, with all the feels.
Thank you to the author for supplying me with an ARC!
#bookrecomendation #books #booklover #happy #reader #romancebooks #love #Shelfie #bookstagram #ilovereading #romance #BookObsessed #Bookdragon #bookboyfriend #bookboyfriendsdoitbetter #Spicy #ARCReader #CreaReitan #TheDefendingGoal #ForPucksSake #malemaleromance #college #SportsRomance #IceHockey #lgbtq #loveislove
August 15, 2024
Another hit by Crea Reitan. If you love MM romance, you need to check her books out they are amazingly refreshing and emotional. The stories are heartwarming and well written while the characters are well thought out and have so much depth. I look forward to every new release that she comes out with, and this one was just as good. This is Ren and Felton's story, and it was an emotional journey from start to finish. Felton is a character that a lot of people can relate to, his self-esteem is low and damaged from his father's emotional abuse since he was a child and the only way he felt good about himself was through doing intimate videos. When that is taken away from him, he is crashing. Ren is his teammate and see's that he is struggling and decides to try and help him. I loved the dynamic that starts with Ren and Felton it's like a Dom/Sub relationship but without the BDSM. Felton needs someone to take his choices away and make decisions and watching Ren fall into that role was beautiful to read. he truly becomes Felton's protector. This book will have your heart melting as they find themselves falling in love. I was given this book as an ARC for my honest review.
August 15, 2024
Where's Felton's dad? I just want to have a quick conversation. Just 5 minutes.
I've noticed that this series definitely tugs at the heartstrings due to the different traumatic situations the characters go through and Felton is no different. He's been so alone his entire life, always trying to get some sort of affection and appreciation from his father, but never being good enough or is always "too much." His own relationships have been sparse until he forms a bond with Ren when his PR scandal surfaces and he falls into a deep depression-like state. After Ren convinces his close friends to be there in a way that they are all used to, but unsure of since it's Felton, the feelings of protectiveness and attraction to Felton start coming in full force for Ren and he isn't sure how to navigate it.
I loved how all of Fel's teammates and Coach had his back and never said an ill thing towards him like he was getting outside his team.
I received an ARC from Chaotic Creatives and this is my honest review
I've noticed that this series definitely tugs at the heartstrings due to the different traumatic situations the characters go through and Felton is no different. He's been so alone his entire life, always trying to get some sort of affection and appreciation from his father, but never being good enough or is always "too much." His own relationships have been sparse until he forms a bond with Ren when his PR scandal surfaces and he falls into a deep depression-like state. After Ren convinces his close friends to be there in a way that they are all used to, but unsure of since it's Felton, the feelings of protectiveness and attraction to Felton start coming in full force for Ren and he isn't sure how to navigate it.
I loved how all of Fel's teammates and Coach had his back and never said an ill thing towards him like he was getting outside his team.
I received an ARC from Chaotic Creatives and this is my honest review
August 16, 2024
This was another great addition to the series. It was probably one of the spiciest and one of my most favorites, but I might say that every time. Lol. Felton is a man who hides behind many masks, his goalie mask, his content creator mask, and his facade of the ‘happy guy’ on the team. Meanwhile he is struggling to overcome a lifetime of emotional and mental abuse at the hands of his father. The only person who seems to realize his world is crumbling is Ren, the teammate who seems to notice everything to be honest. Now that his eyes are on Felton, he’s noticing way too much, and he’s not liking what he’s seeing. Felton is the world’s gentlest giant. He’s the quirky goalie, but he’s becoming a shadow of that person in front of Ren’s eyes. What starts as friendship in an effort to help Felton becomes so much more for both men. Watching Ren take on the world for Felton made me swoon a little. You might get to see Felton break here, but you get to see him fly with the help of Ren’s love. This was perfect, and I can’t wait for the next entry in the series.
August 16, 2024
Everyone deserves a Ren in their life.
I love Felton. He’s that character I just want to hug and never let go.
There is always something very relatable with the characters in the For Puck’s Sake series. Felton is no different. While he puts on a brave face for everyone he is hiding a lot of himself as well. 😬🤔…now how to say this, without giving stuff away. (I’ll keep it very vague.) Something happens and Felton struggles with it. Ren realizes Felton is struggling and steps up to help him. It’s beautiful the length that Ren will go to help Felton. As well as other members of the team. 😏
I enjoyed the slow burn, teammates to friends to lovers progression of this relationship. It wasn’t angsty and their feelings grew naturally. It seemed unexpected to them but as a reader I could see it happening. The evolution of their relationship dynamic felt authentic and the communication was excellent.
I love Felton. He’s that character I just want to hug and never let go.
There is always something very relatable with the characters in the For Puck’s Sake series. Felton is no different. While he puts on a brave face for everyone he is hiding a lot of himself as well. 😬🤔…now how to say this, without giving stuff away. (I’ll keep it very vague.) Something happens and Felton struggles with it. Ren realizes Felton is struggling and steps up to help him. It’s beautiful the length that Ren will go to help Felton. As well as other members of the team. 😏
I enjoyed the slow burn, teammates to friends to lovers progression of this relationship. It wasn’t angsty and their feelings grew naturally. It seemed unexpected to them but as a reader I could see it happening. The evolution of their relationship dynamic felt authentic and the communication was excellent.
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