Wicked Confessions

Longwood U #2

by Crea Reitan

What started as a job has led to some frightening confessions.

Edin

One mistake can ruin your life. I learned that at fifteen when my hormones got the best of me and I was landed with an unwanted pregnancy. My parents decided to punish me and forced me out of the sport I love to raise my child and provide for my newly forced-upon-us-both marriage.

One mistake can cost a life. My life. If not for my best friend who rescued me and my daughter, I’d have ended it all.

It’s been three years and all I want is to embrace this new lease I have on life - my daughter, school, and hockey.

One mistake can change your life. When an “adult” job leads to some complications, I realize that maybe I didn’t build my walls high enough to keep everyone out.

Elijah

My obsession started through a screen as I edited the videos my fraternity’s basement project Confessions produces. His name is Edin and I’m enthralled. While I don’t participate in shoots often, I make an exception.

Edin is everything - Beautiful, mysterious, needy. He’s also very clearly broken. The very first time we’re together on screen, he breaks down after the shoot and I hold him for what feels like days as he trembles.

He refuses to let me into his life, no matter how many times I partner with him or run into him completely coincidentally. That is, until he has a hockey accident that leaves him bed-ridden and he needs help with his daughter.

***

This is a LGBTQIA+ story with content not intended for those under 18 years of age due to graphic scenes and situations.

Genres: M M Romance, Mental Health, Sports, College, Hockey, Romance, Contemporary

362 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 13, 2025

About the author

Crea 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!

Reviews

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this!

Edin has such a traumatic back story and seeing him rebuild his life was just heartwarming.

Eli was so good for Edin! Knowing what he needed and being a constant steady presence had me cheering Eli on! Edin meeting Eli's dad and brother was so cute 😂

Mo is such a great kid too. Her enthusiasm and energy made me smile, and the way she takes cues from Edin was adorable. Single Dad is one of my favourite tropes and I loved how strong the relationship between Edin and Mo was.

There's a lot that obviously wasn't realistic - the frat house living situation for one - but it didn't detract from my enjoyment of this book at all.

I'm completely caught up on the Creaverse now and I'm looking forward to what's coming next. I'm most anticipating stories for Zeke, Arek Van Doren, Kylen Whittaker and hopefully Ezlo Latham-Schneider!

[Dodibook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the first book in this series, though the last 20% focused a bit too much on Edin. But now that he has his own book, I don’t mind it as much. He’s been through so much, and even now, he’s still struggling. Some parts hit really hard because I’ve been dealing with my own mental health, too. But this story is just so full of love, acceptance, and raw emotion—it pulled me in completely. It’s not just about romance; it’s about healing, trust, and finding a place where you truly belong.

Elijah is a bit obsessed with Edin, and when he gets the chance to make adult films for money, he doesn’t hesitate. For Edin, this is a shock since he usually dissociates during filming, but Eli doesn’t let him. Instead, he keeps Edin present, forcing him to actually experience everything instead of shutting down. Their connection deepens in a way that feels both intense and necessary. Edin isn’t used to someone prioritizing him like this, and the way Elijah slowly breaks through his walls is beautiful to see.

One of the strongest parts of this book is the found family aspect. It’s not just about Edin and Elijah—their entire support system grows around them. Zeke, Elijah’s brother, is just as lost and searching for his place in the world. There’s this unspoken understanding between him and Edin. Edin sees that Zeke is touch-starved, just like he used to be, and instead of making a big deal out of it, he simply accepts it. That level of understanding without words makes their bond feel so real. It’s those small moments that make the found family dynamic in this book so powerful.

I do wish there had been more about Edin’s past, though. His parents and ex-wife played a big role in shaping who he is, and I kept waiting for more details on what’s happening with them now. How do they feel about who he’s become? Are they still a lingering shadow in his life, or has he truly cut ties? That part felt a little unresolved to me, and I would have loved to see it explored more.

This book isn’t just about love—it’s about survival, about finding people who truly see you and accept you as you are. Every side character adds something meaningful, and I can’t help but hope that the next book will focus on Zeke and Mario… or maybe even Courtney and that quarterback. There are so many interesting dynamics at play, and I can’t wait to see where this series goes next.

🅡🅐🅣🅘🅝🅖
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5

🅢🅟🅘🅒🅔
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5

🅣🅡🅞🅟🅔🅢
🏒MM
🎥Adult Movies
🏒Hockey
🎥Cheerleader
🏒Single Parent
🎥Mental Health

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book

Since I read Rumor Has It I've been wanting Edin's book and it did NOT disappoint. I knew id absolutely love Mo and all her sass. Elijah was perfection too. Now I kinda of want a Courtney and her quarterback to have a book of their own 🥰 and also Mario and Zeek! I know I'm greedy but I love this series so much.

[Sjoukje · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book and I love this author. Her (trigger) warning in the beginning is already entertaining. And I like her honesty: these books are for a special audience. If you don’t like the way she writes and the (unrealistic? inaccurate?) way her world works, don’t read it.
Since I’m European and have no clue how cheer teams and hockey teams, and frat houses work, I really don’t mind (or notice) if things don’t make sense 🤣 47 guys in one house seem like a lot though. And I can’t imagine that in prude America there really would be a porn studio on university premises (not in Europe either btw). However it worked for the story and therefore it worked for me.

I was already attached to Edin in Dak’s book but in this book I loved him even more. And Eli was such a great fit for him. The story gave me all the feels. And Morgan and her frat guys were just so sweet. (And the amount of smut is just enough).

Definitely will read again. And also recommend of course.

I really liked book 1; LOVED book 2 and can’t wait for book 3!

[Ash · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐

Genre: M/M Romance
Format: E-Book
Series: Longwood U #2

Prior reading is not required. However, to get more of Edin's back story, I recommend reading Dak & Sparrow's story, linked below. I have also linked the parent's books but by no means do you need to read them to enjoy Edin & Eli's story. Crea's For Puck's Sake series is really good, so I would suggest adding them to your TBR.
• Dak & Sparrow's book(MM) - Rumor Has It (Longwood U #1)
• Elijah & Zeke's Parent's book(MM) - Wingman Score (For Puck's Sake #5 - Standalone)
• Dak's Parent's book (MMM) - Starting Line (For Puck's Sake #2 - Standalone)

Check your triggers prior to reading. There are heavy topics discussed.

Character Development: 4/5 • I fell in love with Edin in Rumor Has It. I couldn't imagine what person would capture his heart and take care of him. Along comes Eli and he was better than I could have hoped for. They were both such dynamic characters.

Plot: 4/5• The plot was engaging and well written. There was some hockey moments, that included Mo that will melt your heart. The plot was mainly Edin, Eli and Mo becoming a family. Growing together and individually.

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: 3/5 • I have said it so many times now but Crea does an amazing job making sure both MCs feel comfortable in the moment. She is the consent queen. Eli could read Edin better than Edin could. The aftercare Eli provided just melted my heart.

Overall Rating: 5/5• Edin's story did not disappoint. I was waiting patiently for his story ever since Rumor Has It. I loved him and Mo (Edin's daughter). I wanted to wrap them up and hide them away so no more bad could come to them. Then in walks Eli, who just wants to take care of Edin, who accepts his quirks, his daughter and falls in love with both of them. Mo and Eli's relationship melted me into a puddle of goop. The moments they shared were so dang heartwarming. I am a sucker for the single dad trope if done right, and Crea has done it. Also, the frat boys loving Mo as if they were her uncles, total swoon. She kept the side cast small again with this one, but I fell in love with Eli's brother Zeke. I feel like every time I read one of her stories I come out loving a side character almost as much as the main characters. I hope Zeke and Mario get a book with some more Mo content. All in all this was a such good book, with well rounded characters, a sassy 8 year old going on 30, and lots of snuggles. Edin finally got the happy ending he deserves. ♥

Side note: Do yourself a favor and read the tropes for Project FU, the next book in the Longwood series. They can be found at the end of Wicked Confessions. When I tell you I choked. It hints at the next pairing and if my thoughts are correct, it's gonna be a good one.


Tropes:
• Single Dad
• Cheerleader x Hockey Player
• Aftercare
• Frat Boys Raising Kid
• Super Sweet Boys
• Reluctant to Love
• Gay for Pay
• Bi-awakening
• HEA


Cheating: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
KU: Yes (Coming February 13, 2025)
I received an advance review copy, and this is my honest review.

[Manic killer · Rating 5 out of 5]

6⭐️
3🌶️
This series is turning out to be my favourite series by Crea Reitan.

I’ve been eager for Edin’s story ever since I read Rumour Has It, and Crea didn’t disappoint me.
It goes without saying that I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I happen to love it a lot more than Rumour Has It. Don’t get me wrong, I love Dak and Sparrow but Edin and Eli stole the show for me.🥺🥺

The way Eli loves Edin. The support, how protective he is of Edin. Understanding and knowing what Edin needs by just looking at him. Everything about these two felt so damn good.

I feel so much for Edin, for his pain and his trauma associated with sex. Seeing him unravel for Eli and having those meltdowns after sex made my heart ache for him so much. Eli taking care of Edin during every meltdown damn near made my heart burst open.

Something about the progression of their relationship felt very authentic and realistic. At some point, it wasn’t that I was reading a book, it felt like I had Eli and Edin in the center of my bedroom telling me the story of how they met, became friends, fell in love and became each others world.

Another favourite character of mine in this book was Mo. Oh my sweet child, I loved every minute she appeared on page and she loved her dad fierce. Edin is one of the best single dad I’ve ever read about.

I also love Zeke, and I’m rooting for him and Mario 😊☺️

I’m probably going to do a reread of this pretty soon because I already miss Eli and Edin.

I adore them so much.

She doesn’t deserved to be mentioned, but it gave me great joy to see her get what she deserves. I hate horrible parents and Edin’s mom had it coming.

[BooksBooksandmoreBooks69 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series has the children of (hockey series “For Puck Sake”) in it. All grown up and facing their own challenges.

You can read Elijah’s parents books “Wingman Score, the fifth book in the author’s hockey series, For Puck’s Sake.” but it will only give you insight on the parents. So not really necessary to enjoy this book.

Edin was in the last book (Rumor Has It) and although it’s not needed to be read, it does give some insight as to where Edin’s head is at, but it’s repeated in this book, so it’s up to you if you read it. He’s struggled so much! And all you want is for him to be happy. But in order to be happy, he needs to heal. I don’t think his parents needed to force him to marry and be “normal!” They also force him to give up ice hockey, so Edin has nothing to ground him!

Elijah is obsessed with Edin (not in the morally grey way) he’s fascinated and intrigued by the broken man he sees. And the only way to connect with him is through the connections site that Elijah edits. So he books all of the slots and slowly makes Edin see him.

It’s not an easy book, it’s not a cute book. It raises issues that are a big deal into today’s world. It also shows that family doesn’t have to be biological, you can find your people and make them family. And Edin has this, but it takes a while for him to figure this out.

Edin’s daughter is so cute and it made me smile that she has so many people watching out for her.

I love this world. It just gets bigger and bigger.
I love the words the author leaves before and after the book, some are thought provoking, but most of it just explains the book and how she deals with her world.

Please read the trigger warnings that come with the book.

So although not my favourite series in this world, it’s still a beautifully written book and one I’d highly recommend.

🦋

[TipsyMermaid GR · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved book 1 and I wanted to love this one just as much, but it just didn't happen.
I love that this story is a follow up on Edin from book 1 and opened with Elijah being obsessed with him already having both of them being around each other for Rumor.
I did not care for Elijah's twin being in bed and touching Edin and Elijah WHILE they were having s3x. I've read some books before, especially twincest books where they touch each other during s3x but Elijah's brother coming in a couple of different times and crawling in bed with them mid fck was weird and awkward. Totally gave me the ick.
Also, the situation of the school letting Edin have a 5 year old girl live at an on campus frat is just absolutely absurd even beyond fiction. Really the whole situation around him having a child and playing hockey for the college was absurd because of the amount of privileges she got that not even a coach's child would get on the hockey team.
The guys do get their HEA. They also get an epilogue 6 years in the future that was heartwarming but unfulfilling. We don't find out what happened to them after college. We don't find out if Edin made it into the NHL. We don't know where they're living now. Are they still close with the other guys? Do they see them frequently? Etc

I listened to the audiobook.
Dual narration, 2 narrators, 2 POVs, first person

[Viki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay but this rating?? Absolutely deserved. Objectively deserved? Eh, who knows, I think so but then, this book pushed ALL the RIGHT buttons and I had to restrain myself not to immediately cloister myself with this gem and not come up until I am finished.

Where should I start expounding on the amazing features of this book? *cracks knuckles* Let's hope this doesn't immediately devolve into mindless fangirling.

1. Vibe check - cozy, spicy, tragic
We mostly talk about style but I'd say this felt like an atmosphere, an ecosystem, created by putting a lot of yummy, awesome characters, giving them trauma and dumping them into a frat, two frats, actually, one of them producing porn out of their basement. Where the two main characters meet. Also the guy has a daughter and the love interest (second MC) is a cheer guy. He's tall and manly and occasionally wears make-up and loves his twin. He's also mostly tops.

2. TropeS
Because this whole book just feels like eh best mix of all the best themes or topics or elements or themes. It's not just single parent or university student - it's also hockey player, cheerleader, found family, casual intimacy and deep bonds, frat but like wholesome, that brotherhood the frat is supposed to provide, mental issues, "homemade" porn... speaking of.

3. Naked!
I sometimes skip sex scenes. I can like them but it depends on the book and mood and circumstances. I didn't here. This might sound weird but this felt like the sex is actually just an extension of the relationship and it was just as important to watch. Things happened there as well but it didn't feel like they're interrupting the plot to fluff it up with some sex, which sounds a bit dramatic but I am saying that to point out how natural if felt.

4. And keeping it cosy and interesting...
And on the whole the sexy parts just felt like an extension of the plot and the atmosphere and the feelings. Edin has cuddle sechs with his best friends, when the two MC's finished filming, they were given space to decompress... by cuddling. They're just something about that combination of wholesome and... not exactly spicy, kind of exciting or adult that permeated the whole book in the best way.

5. Just living my life
The whole plot was very "mundane"/super special. I found that one of the best impressions you can give is people living. As in art imitates life (in an art way) so one of the hardest and best things you can achieve in a book is to feel like this whole thing is you describing and hand-picking moments from someone's life. Yes, book is someone making fictional characters and putting them through fake drama and love and trauma so being able to make me forget that and feel like this is life happening in front of my eyes (however fictional the circumstances and plot) is super impressive. Edin had his life and Eli had his and you really felt like they found their way to each other.

6. Romance conflict
Recently I've been feeling a little grumpy because the books I have read had the same kind of "conflict" (the thing preventing them from being together). To be impolite, I call it them being idiots. It's hard to root for romance when it feels like the reasons they're not together is stupid and you're just tapping your imaginary watch, waiting for them to get their act together. This is what I was missing, people discovering each other and the possibility they could have more together, finding the time to talk, learning new things about each other, doing nice things... you get what I mean. Instead of establishing the couple in the first chapters and keeping them apart for the rest of the book, this was the real deal.

7. You're mine!
Not that there wasn't a clear indication of interest. One of the things that played into my favourite things is how "obsessed" (in a healthy, nice, romantic way) Eli was with Edin. Again I would mention that mix of intense feelings but tempered by consent and understanding that made their first encounters so amazing. That made me realize I found something to my taste.

8. Family and other books
The story is actually set in a universe. Like a lot of books happened and are connected to the characters of this book. And let me tell you, that can screw things over. Especially when this is the continuation, with a whole cast of characters existing theoretically in the background, well, some books do this thing of just flinging their old favourites into their path to create this big nostalgia blob of emotions and considering this was my first book in the universe, that would have been hella awkward. Instead, even without emotional connection to other characters, I was absolutely smitten. The mentions and appearances were tastefully and only added to the story - Dak and his husband were the most prominent and they just felt like important side characters.

(Please tell me Zeke is going to have his ace-flavoured book next! Please? Pretty please?)

9. Kid!
I have also been a little annoyed with kids. I am not and I am a kid person. But fictional kids are a real wild bunch - they can turn into a mindless tool for plot manipulation or just plain side characters. There are a few times I adored a kid in a romance book and yup, Mo is definitely now one of them. She was unreal but in the best way. Too mature, saying the right things and being the reason for Stuff to happen and for them to get closer but she did feel like her own person and it was great to see her.

I am probably going to come up with many more points after I close this review but suffice to say this book really hit a bullseye when it comes to my tastes and I am now going to trace this complex web to its roots and hope to find something I might like at least half as much as I liked this. Reitan has written a lot of books so I am a bit worried but even if everyone else is whatever, I still heartily recommend this read. What a beautiful ride...

[Emmi (bookish_redpanda) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Format: 📱eBook 📱 (ARC)
Check CWs before reading

Did I devour this in one day and practically the second the ARC landed in my inbox? You bet! And I am not even the slightest bit embarrassed to admit it.

I don't know how Reitan does it with every book she writes, but she makes you fall in love with the characters. I already had a soft spot for Edin after reading Rumors (book one in the series, not required to read but will give background to some other characters), and my heart continued to grow for him during this. Throw in Eli, who's so determined to break down Edin's walls, and little Mo - who let's face it, is the star of the book in many scenes - and I could not put this one down.

This book focuses heavily on mental health. Having dealt with a lot of the feelings Edin has (not the same situation, obviously, but more the depression/SI) I really related to him and felt this need to see him get his happily ever after. It sounds strange, but I enjoyed that Reitan didn't sugar coat aspects of Edin's past/his mental health, because it gave us a true story (this doesn't mean to say everyone's experiences with MH issues are the same).

Edin grows so much through this book. He goes from detached, moving through life where his sole focus is his daughter and his second chance at hockey, to a man who falls so hard for Eli, who opens his heart and accepts the help he's struggled to ask for for so long.

Eli - I love him. I love his obsession over Edin in the beginning, and I loved seeing as it morphed into so much more. He was so subtle to begin with, so careful with Edin, and the relationship honestly progressed so naturally, even if it started off in an unconventional way (I still really enjoy the concept of Rumors/Confessions, even though it would certainly toe the line). I loved his dedication to winning Mo over, and I loved reading that particular relationship bloom, too.

Mo. OMG, this little girl. She's a spitfire who just wants the best for her dad. She's so perceptive and she is honestly the heart of the story. Definitely loved how she had a whole frat house of men wrapped around her finger, and her interactions with Coach and the hockey team were true laugh out loud moments at times.

As always with Reitan's books, this focuses heavily on found family. The frat boys - both at DIK and Omega - the cheerleading team and Zeke, Dak and Sparrow, and Coach, all play such a pivotal role in this story, not just as characters, but in helping Edin (and Mo) grow.

This is spicy. It's definitely up there as being one of Reitan's spiciest, but it works so well. It's also filled with humour, romance, and swoon-worthy moments. There's angst and even a little suspense, but also so many feel good emotions.

I cannot wait for the next book in the series - I'm hoping we get Zeke/Mario, or even a book on Courtney, next. As always, absolutely obsessed with anything Reitan writes in her wider universe, and will patiently wait the next release.

Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.

[Aga Slonina · Rating 5 out of 5]

The excitement I felt when I received this book as an ARC was indescribable! I literally wanted Edin’s book for so fricking long, since seeing him in the last book I needed more, I needed to see the amazing man and his daughter finally happy🥹 And I was not disappointed with their story, this book does not deserve any less than 5⭐️ Sometimes you just need a sweet college romance, with a perfect amount of spice and amazing characters. This story doesn’t include a lot of drama within their relationship as such, it discusses a lot of obstacles that they face but again as Crea’s characters do, they face them together, and there is no 3rd act break up either which I loved🤩 I don’t usually like single parent romances, try to avoid them to be honest, but as soon as I met Edin and the bossy little Mo, I hoped with all my soul we get their story💕

This book had me laughing, blushing alongside Edin, kicking my feet, and also tearing up at the parts where Edin’s mental health was discussed. I love how Crea Reitan’s books almost always (from what I read) discuss mental health and sexuality in such a way that makes me feel very proud that we have given a platform to such an amazing author who will take the time to discuss these subjects rather than brush over them and carry on with the story.

The story itself is all about love, friendships and found family, there isn’t much drama or any angst as such, it’s a perfect ‘feel good’ romance if you will, very easy to read and will definitely leave you wanting to know more about the side characters which literally always happens! (Mario & Zeke PLEASE)

Anyway, I absolutely adored both of the MMCs, they were just perfect, the amount of obstacles Edin has overcome is unbelievable, and he managed it all basically on his own, yes he had people to support him with Mo but no one knew about his mental health, when he spoke about what was actually happening to Eli I literally teared up, I felt so heartbroken for this man, and the way Eli did not see it as baggage he just wanted to support Edin in whatever way he could, I just love them both. And despite everything that Edin has been through he is such an amazing father to his little girl, everything he does is for her, sacrificing himself to make her happy, until Eli shows up and allows both Edin and his daughter to be happy🥹

I mean Eli is just also the perfect man, looking after Mo when Edin is sick? Also looking after Edin on top of that? Letting Edin figure things out without pressure? Oh and absolutely not backing down on making Edin his? ✅✅✅✅ And let’s not forget the fact that he did NOT let anyone else touch Edin when it came to the shoots, he was writing his name as soon as the list came out, and Edin not even being surprised just tops it all lol. And the way he cared for Mo was just also perfect because he was willing to not only put time and effort into Edin but also his daughter too.

Safe to say I adored this book and can’t wait to read more of this series once it’s released 😍

[Mars Rads · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

While I have read many books by this author, I had not read the first book in this series before reading this one. I know that there were little things I was probably missing, as Edin was introduced in that book, I didn’t feel like I was missing too much and was still able to enjoy this book. The characters in this book are what really pull you in. I felt really connected to the discussions about mental health and how past trauma shaped the person that Edin had become. The author did an excellent job of portraying a realistic depiction of how depression and mental health issues can affect a person. I always love a story where the main characters are able to find a strong found family and that’s what we have here. The guys in the frat were so fantastic especially with Edin’s daughter and you could really feel the connection and how important the relationship they had was to the main main characters.

Edin has had a lot happen in his life and it has all had such an impact on him. The one thing that he has, that means everything to him, is his daughter. While getting his child’s mother pregnant and then marrying her was a huge part of his mental health issues, his daughter is still the world to him. She means so much that, in order to support her, he makes gay adult films. He completely compartmentalizes, trying to completely block out gender because both are not for him. But things change with Eli. Eli has been obsessed with Edin. When he finally gets his chance to film with Edin, he makes sure that Edin can’t pull away and retreat from what is happening. He makes sure he is in the moment. And that changes everything for these two. I love the process of growth that Edin goes through throughout this book and how Eli opens him up. Aside from these two, one of the best parts of this book is Mo, Edin’s daughter. She was just fantastic.

Reitan does such an amazing job of creating characters that have so much depth and strong connections. This book obviously has spice to it, as these characters are making adult films and the book begins with one of these scenes. But there is also the scenes where these two characters actually connect. This book does a great job of showing characters that are in a bad place and their growth and healing. It’s not for everyone, but is a great book if you aren’t bothered by the triggers.

[Sarah Coggins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a first Crea Reitan book for me but it definitely won’t be the last, I absolutely loved it and the way she wrote the trigger warning at the start was bloody brilliant!

Edin has had a really tough life and even though he still has his struggles he is trying his best to raise his daughter while still going to college and playing hockey.
Eli has been quietly obsessed with Edin for a while, when he gets the opportunity to finally meet him he jumps at the chance. From their meetings he realises Edin is holding a lot of himself back and wants to help break through the walls he’s built, so quickly inserts himself into Edin’s life, even though Edin tries to push him away at first.

I loved how the relationship between the pair developed, Eli was so patient with Edin, giving him the time to get used to him being around for not only him but his daughter Morgan as well.
The journey Edin goes through with his mental health was written so perfectly well and when he finally starts to open up to Eli and others around him, he realises his support system is so much bigger than he originally thought and it helps him to heal.

Mo’s character was such a great addition to this story, the way she builds relationships with Edin’s frat brothers and the hockey team was so heartwarming and the way they are there for not only Mo but Edin as well bring so much more depth to the story.

This was such an emotional story covering some quite heavy topics but gave us some sweet moments and some laughter too, it had me completely engaged throughout, I absolutely adored every minute!

I’m now looking forward to going back and reading Dak and Sparrows story in Rumour Has It and can’t wait to see who the next story will follow.

[Alix · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I have enjoyed all of this author's books that I have read, there is a strong possibility that this series is my fave. I absolutely loved Rumor Has It, which is the first book in this series, so while it's not necessary to read it in order to enjoy this one, that's where I fell in love with sweet Edin, one of our MCs here. Poor Edin - just want to give him all the hugs!! He has been through so much! I am so glad he get to have hockey in his life again! Best of all, he meets Eli, our other MC, who is a cheerleader at the university. I'll be honest: single dad/kids in books - not my fave thing. However, Mo is a pretty cute, she's a bit of a show stealer, and I enjoyed her as well. Loved how all the boys came together to help out with her. It was pretty cute to see Edin, Eli, and Mo growing together as a family!! For me, this book hits so many of my buttons - hockey, cheerleading, ridiculous frat antics, PORN, great side characters/found family, and of course, cameos from Dax and Sparrow whom I adore. Something else that was a total hit for me? The spice!! OMG the spice was sooooo hot and I am here for every bit of it. Not only does this author write the best found family stories, but the spice is always so good! Lastly - I want to mention that this book really hit me in the feels. I went through the gamut of emotions with this one (please check TW because certain aspects def hit me hard). Not only did I tear because of poor Edin, but also had some happy tears too - Eli and Edin exhibit so much sweetness and love that I'm tearing up just writing this. So glad sweet Edin got this HEA with Eli.....I'm already excited for the next one in the series - please keep these coming!!

[Noa Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I love the way he presses his face into my neck as if he’s using me to shield him from the world, which I happily do." - Elijah

"Maybe the scariest thing that can ever happen to a person is falling in love." - Edin

I love this book so much! Edin is a single dad. His daughter Mo (Morgan), always worries about him, she just feels way to much responsibility for a child. This is because of how her mom treated her and her dad and she saw more of her dad struggling with his mental health then he had thought. She is very protective over her dad so that meant that Elijah really had to work for it. She has everyone wrapped around her finger.

Mo: “Promise you’ll take care of my dad?”
Elijah: “I will do anything at all to take care of your dad, Mo. Anything.”

Edin has his best friend Dak and River (sparrow), he asked them for help, years ago (in book one: "Rumor has it" which ended 3 years before this book started). Elijah was always there for Edin and eventually Edin let him in. This all was with a lot respect and it felt right. Edin has commitment issues and Elijah never pressured him in giving them a label. Eventually Elijah realized that life isn't all about being a dad. ALSO HIS BI-AWAKENING MOMENT!!! Elijah just really made Edin touch starved or maybe Edin has always been touch starved and is Elijah the one that makes him feel safe enough to show that side of himself. Their relationship is so healthy and genuinely it's everything that they both deserve. Elijah is an amazing (step) dad to Mo. Their little family is everything! Also Edin accepting Zeke as a part of Elijah and Elijah accepting Mo as a part of Edin!!! I stared crying around chapter 30, all the way until the last page. 5 stars! This book has everything that I love and need in a book.

I love that the characters Crea writes can be vulnerable around each other and ask for hugs and cuddles from their friends without judgement. Everyone needs love and to be taken care of sometimes. This book also has some of the most beautiful hurt/comfort chapters.

I received an ARC copy of this book.

[Amy Stauffer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will admit two things. One, I have been meaning to read this author for a while now. I’ve gone so far as to buy some of their hockey books and audiobooks with the intention of reading them. Well, we know TBRs are built with books bought with good intentions… I’ve yet to read a single one.

Two, I didn’t know what to expect when I signed up for this ARC. The blurb caught my attention and piqued my interest. I’m happy to report I was not disappointed.

While the start was a little slower than I normally prefer, I felt like it was kind of needed, given just how much pain Edin was hiding under the mask he wore. He was a complex character and the slower start fit the story, in my opinion. I also admit it might just be slow in MY opinion but not to someone else. It is hard to describe how you could both feel what he allowed himself to feel AND the nothing he kept himself anchored to. I credit that to the writing.

I liked the MCs together and how their relationship progressed. I feel like it was appropriate. This book will take you on a journey through emotions you may or may not be prepared for, but I promise it leaves you happy in the end. It is a romance, after all.

I do want to echo what everyone else is saying about the content warning. Everyone is different. Every story is not the same. Even if you share similarities (like I do) we each go through things in our own way. Take care. While this story is one I would recommend, you are more important than a story. I hope you know that.

***A copy of this book was provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review was not required.***

[VicReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

💜🏒 𝚆𝚒𝚌𝚔𝚎𝚍 𝙲𝚘𝚗𝚏𝚎𝚜𝚜𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚜 🏒💜
𝚋𝚢 @creareitan

🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆

4.75/5 ⭐️
3/5 🌶️

↓↓
Edin, what a beautiful broken soul. After having a glimpse of his life in the first book my heart broke for him. After reading this book, my heart completely shattered for him but thankfully by the end of the book, it was put back together again. Crea highlighted his struggles and highlighted it in such a beautiful, delicate way.

Eli could see how broken Edin was and did everything in his power to put him back together again. I LOVE Eli and how he was there for Edin in every way possible, he helped him put his missing pieces back together. Watching these two interact and slowly fall in love was a beautiful thing.

Edin's top priority was his daughter Mo and everything he did was for her. The found family and support system in this book was incredible. I loved how accepting everyone was of Mo and the frat house, how they turned in to a family. Both Mo and Edin needed that in their life.

What a heartbreaking and heartwarming story all at once. I went through all the emotions. Such a great read.

𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
💜Touched Starved
🏒Hockey Player x Cheerleader
💜Single Dad
🏒Mental Health Rep
💜MM Romance
🏒Second Chance
💜Found Family

#CreaReitan #WickedConfessions #LongwoodUSeries #MMRomance #College #Hockey #SingleDad #SecondChance #TouchStarved #mentalhealthrepbooks #bookstagram #newrelease #DarkRomance #books #booklover #instagood #booknerd #bookworm #bookreview #romance #kindleunlimited

[Naurarwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Literally read this in one sitting because I couldn't put it down. We got to meet Edin and his adorable daughter Mo in the previous book in the Longwood U series so I was super excited that he was getting his own book. This book in no way, shape or form disappointed and I loved every minute of it.

Edin is trying to get by at Longwood U, he has to take care of his daughter, keep up his studies and also there's his love for hockey. The easiest way for him to get money is to do the "gay for pay" that runs out of the DIK fraternity. Elijah works mostly as an editor, working on the files that come from DIK's side business, but one subject of the films catches his attention, and when he gets the chance to be the cameraman, there's no turning back for him.

I loved the relationship between these too, yes Elijah was pushy at first but he got his foot in the door and became a really good friend to Edin. It wasn't insta-love, in fact, Edin doesn't even like guys in that way, but trauma in his past puts him entirely off women. They relationship grows throughout the story, and Elijah shows Edin that no matter what he throws at him, he will still care for Edin and Mo.

I really can't wait to see which couple we get next in the Longwood U series but I'm kinda hoping for Mario and Zeke. Zeke, may or may not have stole my heart and I adore him.

[Kierra Hayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Edin and Eli 😍

This book was so good! The growth Edin made in the three years since we last saw him in Dak’s story was incredible. He had built some emotional walls, only really letting in Dak and Sparrow, but as the book progresses, Eli breaks those walls wide open—first through intimacy that allows Edin’s emotions to flow freely for the first time in years, and then through a deepening friendship that grows into a beautiful romantic relationship.

Eli was patient, giving Edin the time and space he needed while offering a shoulder to cry on. I loved how this small found family came together, supported by a close-knit village that helped Edin care for Mo. The side characters who stepped in to help with Mo (Edin’s daughter) added so much warmth. Mo herself was such a bright, sunny character who brought the story to life and reminded us exactly what Edin was fighting and healing for.

The relationship between Eli and his twin brother Zeke was also a standout for me—it reminded me so much of my own relationship with my twin. Sweet, affectionate, and deeply connected.

This book handled heavy topics like depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts in such a thoughtful, healthy way. It’s guaranteed to pull at every heartstring, showcasing love, resilience, and the healing power of found family. I can’t wait to read more in this series!

[lmreadsromance · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read ‘Rumour Has It’ by @creareitan and was obsessed with our broken boy Edin and I needed his story, therefore I immediately picked up ‘Wicked Confessions’ on release and devoured it. It was everything I was hoping for, Eli was the perfect person for Edin. The hurt/comfort of this book squeezed my heart as Edin let down his walls and rebuilt them with love and support.

This story takes places three years later and Edin and his daughter Mo are living in a frat house and Edin provides for her by doing ‘gay for pay’. This is where he catches the attention of our Eli. Edin is still struggling with his past trauma and Eli sees this. Their sexual chemistry is instant and Eli is so patient as he learns what Edin needs and build’s a solid foundation for their relationship.

Relationships were fundamental to this story, not only Edin, Mo and Eli’s, but between Edin and his support systems (new and old), Eli and Zeke (and their family), their sporting teams and coach. I loved Mo’s relationship with her found family as she too finds her place in the world.

I adore the world that Crea has created, her characters have so much depth, their mental health rep are so well written and their search for acceptance, love and the families they find make her stories so special.

[Natiley Holmes · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review

I don’t read many MM books, but Wicked Confessions has reignited my love for them! They offer such a refreshing perspective, especially when I'm feeling fatigued by FM stories.

Edin is such a sweet, soft character, and his devotion to his daughter truly warmed my heart. Morgan, with her bossy and demanding nature, is undeniably my favorite kid in recent reads. She brings a vibrant energy that’s hard to resist!

One of the standout elements for me was Eli being a cheerleader. It's a rarity to see a main male character in that role, and it added a surprising twist to the story. The dynamic between Eli and Edin is fantastic; Eli's obsession with Edin before they even met in person adds a layer of depth to their relationship that I thoroughly enjoyed.

The main plot revolves around Edin, Eli, and Morgan forming a family despite numerous struggles, supported by a cast of characters that felt genuinely invested in their journey. Crea Reitan's writing is engaging and easy to follow, making it a delightful read from start to finish.

I’m definitely eager to explore more of her stories in the future! Highly recommend for anyone looking for a heartfelt and entertaining read.

[Richelle Zirkle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Edin and Elijah are guaranteed to pull on every heartstring. Edin has started college since we left him (post the previous Longwood U book), but his mental health is still a bit of a dumpster fire. He's participating in the DIK extracurriculars to make money and support himself and his daughter, but every time he does, he escapes somewhere in his head, withdrawing from the present moment. Elijah doesn't really participate anymore, editing the footage once it's captured instead, but he's become completely obsessed with Edin, enough so that he steps in front of the camera again just to have a chance with him. He's also the only one to force Edin to be present, and it starts to change Edin's whole world. This is a heartbreaking but beautiful story. There are moments of raw emotion, but there are others where the joy practically leaps from the page. Edin and his daughter live at the Omega house, and they are surrounded by pure goodness there. The support system they have, and the larger one that forms throughout the book, is unparalleled. This one definitely took a village, but luckily these two found themselves the perfect tribe.

[Malissa Hilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Amazing Book

Such an amazing book. Crea Reitan made another world in Longwood U. This story, Wicked Confessions is about Elijah, the son of Owen Vincent and Edin, who is a dad who’s trying to get himself and his daughter’s life back together. The two meet at Confessions. Elijah has always done the edits for the films that are made but with the help of his twin brother, Zeke, he decides that he’s going to be the partner for Edin at Confessions. As time goes on they start having feelings for each other. The walk through of their story about their relationship is fascinating. Crea is an amazing story teller and how she puts these characters and their emotions together is fantastic. I give this book 5 stars ⭐️ without a doubt.
*Please read the Author’s Note and her triggers warning/warnings before you start reading. Also be aware that this is a work of Fiction. It’s not true not matter how it may seem. Can things in this story happen in real life? Sure it can. But remember you are reading for enjoyment. If you don’t agree with what the Author’s note say, then don’t read. But I for one truly enjoyed reading this book. 💜

[Barbara pillole_letterarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Edin è un papà single che ha divorziato da poco più di 3 anni portando via sua figlia da una relazione tutt'altro che sana.
Fa tutto il possibile per dare a sua figlia tutto ciò di cui ha bisogno e con tutto intendo anche lavorare per la casa pornografia Confessions, creata dalla confraternita ormai famosa per il Rumor.
Un ora di sesso senza nessun attaccamento e ha i soldi per sua figlia questo è tutto o almeno doveva essere così.
Elijah ha un'ossessione per Edin perché sa che dietro quel muro di ghiaccio che vede in lui c'è molto di più.
Lui si occupa del post produzione e appena c'è una sua sessione fa di tutto per essere lui ad occuparsene.
Eli fa di tutto per poter agganciare Edin e non lasciarlo nella sua solitudine e poco a poco riuscirà nel suo intento.
Una fuga dal passato che renderà difficile vivere il proprio presente, questo è quello che vive Edin fino a quel momento.
Una storia piena di amore che porterà i nostri protagonisti ad aiutarsi l'un l'altro e soprattutto Edin riuscirà ad accettare i suoi errori riuscendo a capire che non è solo e mai lo sarà.
La Longwood U si riconferma una serie eccezionale che non vedo l'ora di continuare.

[☠︎︎༒︎✞︎ ѕℓιм ☠︎︎༒︎✞︎ · Rating 5 out of 5]

interesting story I enjoyed it

https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2025...

***Spoilers here and there***

What I really want to know is…. Who the next book is about and will Zeke end up with a book. Because I think Mario and Zeke. Might like each other but ‘not there yet’ ….

Besides that love this story and love how we got to learn who Edin was. But I swear Elijah was in Dak book . More so mentioned in it. But I’m not 100% sure. Because Elijah didn’t know Dak so I guess they never met? Plus I wanted a book about Dak other best friend he went to school with “””” his name starts with a ‘E’ his name just not popping in my head.

But anyways I’ll give this between a 5 and 4 star ⭐️ can’t decide. I’m glad that Edin gotten the help he needed and sad to see how he felt when it came to dating and what he liked and how he felt about women and men. Especially Women due to that fact how horrible his mom was towards him. From age 15 to the age he left with his daughter to live with Dak.

I’m also glad that Elijah came into his life love them together.

[bookingcrazzyy · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this book you have Edin and Eli. Both boys have completely different backgrounds and come from two completely different situations. It's a bit of insta attraction for Elias he is just mesmerized by Edin. He takes the opportunities put in front of him to get closer to Edin, but Edin has all of these walls up and refuses to let Eli get close..... Or at least he tries at first. As the book progresses you see Edin's walls start to slowly crumble as he allows himself to get closer to Eli. Watching Edin realize he deserves someone to be there to love and support him is beautiful.

My poor sweet Edin. This book really shows how even when you're struggling with your mental health, most of the time you still have all of these responsibilities to take care of. Edin always made sure his daughter got the very best of him regardless of what was going on inside his head.

Overall this book is beautiful love story but also a personal journey of healing and finding your perfect found family.


I received an advance review copy, and this is my honest review.

[Stacey Foss · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think that I am always saying the but this is one of my favorite Crea reitains books. It is an emotional story that was one hot story. While this book was hot you get all the emotions from the story and fall in love with these characters with every turn of the page. Edin has been through so much and is doing everything he can as a single father even going as far as doing gay for pay and other videos. Edin has so much PTSD that he doesn't think he will ever be able to be emotionally able to give himself to someone again. Elijah has been attracted to Edin for a while and puts himself in front of him when he sees that something is wrong. He pushes and comforts and gives Edin someone he can lean on. The relationship between these two forms was heartwarming and beautiful. Elijah gives him the pace and space Edin needs. you will also love Mo Edin's daughter she brings so much to this story as well, so protective of her father. The bond that she formed with Elijah was beautiful. Another exceptional read. I was given this book as an ARC for my honest review,

[Ami (Amireadsitall) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crea has once again delivered an incredibly emotional yet breathtakingly beautiful story. Wicked Confessions is a book that will tug at your heartstrings and leave an imprint on your soul.

This story showcases love, resilience, and the true power of human connection. Edin is doing everything he can to provide for his daughter (Morgan), despite the pain and hardship he has endured. Then comes Eli strong, patient, and unwavering willing to do anything to be the anchor that Edin never knew he needed. His presence is life changing, offering not just support but a glimpse of happiness.

Morgan is an absolute delight wise beyond her years who has a heart of gold. Her bond with her father is incredibly touching, adding even more depth to this emotional story.

With themes of mental health, healing, and found family, Wicked Confession is a powerful and heartfelt read.

Tropes:
Mental Health & Healing
Sports Romance
Single Dad
Hurt/Comfort
Slow Burn
Found Family
Bi awakening

[Jeanette Buck · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such an emotional and heartfelt story. Since meeting Edin in Dak and Sparrow's story I have been waiting to read his story and it didn't disappoint. Edin got his friend pregnant when they were 15 and were forced to get married. It was a toxic marriage which really affected Edin mentally. Eventually his best friend managed to leave with his daughter. Fast forward to present day and after a lot of therapy he is at college and playing hockey. He lives in a frat house with his daughter. To earn money he films gay porn videos despite being straight. He's able to not be fully present mentally when filming but that changes when cheerleader Eli starts filming with him. He has been crushing on him for ages and is keen to get Edin to be present and be there for him. Edin fights it but they do grow closer slowly. It takes Edin a while to understand how much support he has got from everyone but he needs the support when his toxic mum tries to kidnap his daughter. This was a really emotional and hard fought hea. I loved reading it.

[S.K. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was pretty gut-wrenching. Having read Dak and Sparrow’s story, I knew who Edin was and wondered what happened. And it was just as awful as I thought – I was in tears listening to some of Edin’s thoughts about the situation he was in because of circumstances and his parents. The only bright light was Mo – even sex was fraught with difficulty, hence him working for a gay porn company – no chance of a second accidental pregnancy there! Elijah absolutely fascinated me – as did his brother Zeke and their relationship – he was just so ready to be there for Edin in whatever way he needed. The sex scenes were hot but it was actually the after-care and cuddling that really worked for me. I enjoyed watching the two of them fall in love, especially since Edin slowly opened up and began to accept happiness. A worthy addition to the Longwood University series that I enjoyed reading and appreciated the nuance and sensitivity.