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When the chemistry between the five men explodes, the stakes get even higher.

Jericho Rowlands has spent most of his life living under different names, doing the dirty work required to keep Sydney safe. His time as Warren Boiler had put him on a collision course with Sebastian Devlin—the lawyer who kept him out of jail when it all went to hell in a handbasket—and also brings him into contact with the three men who are such an important part of Sebastian’s life. Jericho is only supposed to be keeping Sebastian alive; that’s easier said than done when chemistry like he’s never felt before flares between him and all four men—four men that he definitely shouldn’t want to touch so much.

Quinn, Peyton, Will, and Sebastian have the weight of history and mistakes and missed opportunities between all of them, making an already-complicated situation harder. None of them can deny the magnetic pull holding them together as they try to muddle through what their new normal will look like. Jericho isn’t supposed to be part of it, but they can’t ignore their instant connection with him when he falls into their orbit.

The past has led them to where they are, but the threats of the present could end any chance at a future they might have. Sebastian and “Warren’s” names are on a list, and everyone else on it is dying one by one. Quinn is racing against the clock, and unless he can figure out who’s gunning for them from the shadows, the future they're fighting for could be out of reach. Quinn and Will are standing on one side of the law, Peyton and Jericho hold the other, but even that might not be enough to keep Sebastian out of the crosshairs.

Reactant is a 100,000-word MMMMM romance that ends in a HFN. It is Book 2 in an ongoing series that follows the same five men and their relationship. It is not a standalone whatsoever and begins directly after the end of Catalyst (Chain Reaction Book 1).

It contains adult situations, gun use, references to murder, suspense themes, and a character with PTSD. Readers’ discretion is advised.

This is an Aurora Crane novel. That means it's written in third person, there are a myriad of poly characters, it's a sprawling universe with lots of side characters and cameos, and of course, there’s lots of snarky banter and idiots falling in love.

1 pages, Audio CD

First published July 24, 2023

65 people are currently reading
143 people want to read

About the author

Aurora Crane

13 books127 followers
Aurora Crane is an Australian author who loves to write romance with a healthy serving of banter, snark and all the swoon.

Her books are a mix of MM and MM+. She loves to write men in suits, sprawling universes with a plethora of side characters, and an abundance of steamy situations.

You can find all her links here: https://linktr.ee/auroracrane

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48 (11%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
Profile Image for Kati *☆・゚.
1,241 reviews646 followers
July 7, 2025
3*** stars


I don’t think I’ll be going back to this series for the final book, except if I’m craving some more JF Harding in my ear.

Idk, I think the mystery plot and the actual romance got a little left behind with all the sex these guys were having. And it’s not even that it was somehow unbalanced between these FIVE MEN, it just was not enough. Not deep enough, I’d say.


*************
Chain Reaction Series

Book 1 - Catalyst - 4.0 stars
Book 2 - Reactant - 3.0 stars
Book 3 - Cohesion
Profile Image for Aimee .
1,158 reviews12 followers
July 23, 2023
I enjoyed the continuing arc of the story from the first book, however, I would have preferred more story then sex. I know, I know…who says that!! However, I felt that the sex overshadowed the plot line a bit. I understand that the original four - Quinn, Peyton, Will, & Sebastian - were still figuring things out between themselves so why complicate it with a fifth. I admired Jericho and I did like him and his group of guys, I just didn’t see how adding him was essential to the overall arc of the story.

I absolutely adore Will! He is the comedian of the group and keeps them all laughing and smiling. He’s my favorite. We still are left hanging at the end about the man or men out to get Sebastian and so I will read on so I can see these men get their HEA.
Profile Image for Emmy.
548 reviews11 followers
August 7, 2025
3.5 ⭐️

As a poly person myself the most unrealistic thing in this series is them all sleeping in the same bed and not ending up murdering each other 😂 Even a king sized bed is a maximum 3 people kind of deal

Will is such a sweet Himbo and my favourite 🥰

...

Narrator: J.F. Harding
Profile Image for Katie Daniels.
11 reviews
July 19, 2023
I loved this book! 4.75 stars!!!

Beware, ahead thar be spoilers.

The mystery from the first book continues in this one and is well handled. Much like the first book it balances the mystery elements with the spice really well. It’s a perfect mix.

This book adds a fifth member to the dynamic that Quinn, Sebastian, Will, and Peyton built in book one. Jericho is a great addition to the group as he adds something the others don’t: he’s very snarky and pushes boundaries a lot. Not in an unwelcome way, but in a way the others don’t. A lot of the relationships from book one were built on established feelings/previous relationships. Jericho doesn’t have that history with these guys and at first a lot of his interactions are just about flirting and sex. Though it quickly moves beyond that.

Things I liked:

Jericho was a great addition to the group. When I started seeing teasers and found out there would be a fifth I was worried that some dynamics/traits would be duplicated from the other characters, but Jericho is very much his own unique character and adds a great dynamic to the group.

MORE OF MY BOYS. I cannot get enough of these guys and I love them a lot. The easy way they are with each other is so great, the way their relationship is building is beautiful.

More spicy scenes between different characters. It was really great to see more relationship building between the different characters one on one. Or two on one ;) . It really gave depth to their relationship outside of the four of them together. (One particular scene where Sebastian - and Quinn eventually too - show Will just how important he is to them and it was fanTASTIC.)

Things I disliked (or struggled with):

Jericho's intro was a little rushed. Although I liked Jericho, I felt that his intro and the chemistry between the boys was a bit rushed. It felt a little like he pushed his way into the group a little too forcefully. In his POV he talks about never ever getting into relationships or putting himself out there for people… and then he meets all of these guys less than a handful of times, knowing them for only a few days, and decides to jump into bed with them and then very quickly lets his guard down and starts catching feels. For someone as calculated as him it felt a little rushed and I would have liked a teensy bit more development and tension between them before Jericho just ripped off his clothes and jumped in. I really liked where he was at by the end of the book with the headspace around it, but it felt a little rushed at the beginning.

Teensy bit confused. I found all the mystery stuff in this one a little more confusing. We’re starting to get to the heart of the mystery, and there’s so many people involved from different angles who all had different knowledge, and we’re seeing into all of their POVs… so for a little bit in the middle of the book I was little turned around about who knew what and what was going on in terms of the mystery. This is one of those cases when I wish the author hadn’t left quite so much for me to try to puzzle out on my own and had explained a few things a little earlier. Or at least had someone like Quinn (as a detective) do a breakdown with his partner Grady about “what we know,” and “what we don’t” very clearly for the reader. It’s a good mystery, and by the end I knew what was going on, so I wasn't left hanging at the end, but throughout I felt a little lost. (However the beautiful and sexy scenes between my boys were more than enough to keep me sucked in). Also note that I devoured this book and read it pretty quickly so maybe I read it too quick?



Overall this book skews more toward the romance than mystery side. But the mystery still kept me intrigued, especially since our boys are at the heart of it and in danger. I loved it! I will read ALL the books by this author and all the books that follow in this series. I cannot wait for more.


Please note: I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Claire Louisa.
2,064 reviews119 followers
July 25, 2023
So, so good. I can't wait for Cohesion (book 3).

I loved the four guys Quinn, Peyton, Will, and Sebastian in Catalyst (book 1), the chemistry between them was off the charts and I couldn't wait to see how their relationship progressed. In Reactant, which picks up immediately following Catalyst, we are introduced to Jericho who has chemistry with all of the men right from meeting them. Though they are only just working out how their relationship will work between the 4 of them, they all agree there is something about Jericho that draws each of them to him and perhaps they have room for 1 more.

Jericho was flirty from the start with Quinn and Sebastian and though he said he wouldn't want to cause issues in their new relationships, he kept flirting, which was slightly annoying, but I liked that even though Quinn and Sebastian felt the attraction they didn't act on it until they'd discussed it with everyone and made a decision as a group. I really love Will and Peyton's connection, there really is something extra special between them.

The sexy scenes were red hot and I loved how they all came together and found a connection separately and as a group. I'm looking forward to seeing them build on the relationships they've started together.

I enjoyed the crime aspect in Catalyst and was hoping we would find out more about Hunter and we certainly did, as well as his team which included one antagonistic cop who I wasn't expecting to be part of that team. There was a lot going on with the crime aspect and I enjoyed uncovering more about the bad guys and what was going on whilst uncovering more puzzle pieces leading to more questions. Peyton looks like he might join Hunter and Jericho's team, so that will add another dynamic to everything going on.

I was up so late reading this and had to force myself to put it down in order to get a couple of hours sleep, I am really looking forward to November when Cohesion is due to be released.

Profile Image for Molly Otto.
1,346 reviews29 followers
July 30, 2023
Great poly group

What a great poly group it takes a special kind of writer to have 5 individual men stick out sp completely from one another yet work together so harmonious. Add to it the action/mystery aspect keeps you enthralled the entire time as well! A job well done cannot wait to read more of this group.
Profile Image for Danis  ❤️ MM.
755 reviews6 followers
August 5, 2025
A decent series. There are some continuity issues. Will seemingly forgets that at the end of book 1 Quinn tells him he didn't pursue Peyton because he thought Will and Peyton were a couple. Little things like that. Slightly annoying. But not a deal breaker. In this installment you get to delve more into Peyton's PTSD and they add the Jericho character. Again. Love the rich characterization of all the MCs and supporting characters.
1,270 reviews
July 27, 2023
DNF 50% - There's no character/relationship development happening, all the story work is going into the bad guys/murders etc. Jericho's introduction is again just him magically, instantly being OTT attracted to each of the original group in a way he hasn't felt with anyone else blah blah blah yeah right.



Ok fine, I finished it. The above still stands, though.
Profile Image for KJ.
322 reviews9 followers
September 26, 2024
We met a new character (aka the fifth boy), the heat continued to remain spicy (and honestly, I'm always so impressed when an author can write more than two people going at it. I mean...so many
arms and legs!). We had less action and more romance/relationship in this book, and the overall "murder mystery plot" both continued from the previous book but added some other details to develop it into something larger to coincide with the book. On the downside, yes, less action, but also it felt like there simply wasn't enough space to give each character and their growth journey enough time in the spotlight. Still a really enjoyable read though!



Knowing what I know now about this book, would I still read it if I went back in time?
Definitely. Moving onto the third!


See below for the four criteria I use to decide whether and when to read a book



CHARACTERS: Definitely still love the original characters we met in book one. We spent more time with Hunter and Warren/Jericho in this book, and watched as the four became a bewildered five, unable to understand exactly why they were feeling the way they were feeling but in the end deciding to at least give it a shot. I absolutely love watching all the different relationships developing, how they understand what they have is so different but they all truly want to give it a shot. Each of the boys is so different, even Jericho and Hunter as we meet them. I absolutely love how they can truly round out and fill the gaps in each others' strengths and weaknesses. The only drawback to having so many lovable main characters is simply not having the space for them all to shine. And that really occurred here, especially with adding another boy to the mix.




PLOT: We had a lot less action in this book than book one, to my disappointment. There is still a murder/mystery aspect, although we spend less time using the talents of all the boys. Mostly it's handled by Quinn in his role as detective. They're attempting to keep Sebastian safe because he's still being targeted, though whether by the same people or different ones they aren't sure. Honestly, I kept expecting that, like book one, we'd actually see a moment of that, but it never happened. The plot was definitely the weaker aspect this time around, but I also think mostly because it felt very much like a middle book in a trilogy: focusing on getting all the main characters settled and in place on the board before the final showdown of book three.




EMOTIONAL INTENSITY: There is no good/bad here. Sometimes I just want a low-investment entertainment read whereas other times a high-stakes 'I need a therapist to recover' is what I need.

2/5: Low. I mean, don't get me wrong, I love these boys. This book is a great book to binge read in between a lot of those deeper and heavier and more complex reads. I don't worry that they aren't all going to be alright.


CATHARTIC FULFILLMENT: Is the emotional journey worth it? Do I finish this book feeling that I've crested the wave of the climactic moment and everything has been settled, leaving me settled and fulfilled?

60%. The climactic event was definitely not what I was expecting and also very short and too easy in comparison to what the plot has been building up to. That being said, I'm still very excited for book three, because I have a feeling it'll be as exciting as book one!
983 reviews14 followers
July 22, 2023
I don't typically read books that leave off with a HFN, mainly cause I'm really bad with both cliffhangers and waiting for the next book to come out. But, I just couldn't pass up reading the continuation to Catalyst. These men carved a hole in my heart where they fit into, I can't get enough of them!

This book picks up where Catalyst left off, this book focuses on not just who's still after Sebastian but it also focuses on these men trying to figure out their relationship with one another and how they'll work together as a unit. The scene where these guys are throwing around ideas of what to call each other was hilarious!! If you're ever looking for a story that's guaranteed to get you hooked to the characters and make you laugh this is the book for you. Will, Sebastian, Quinn, and Parker all work so well together, they are trying to figure out what a relationship looks like with them all being together but they still work so beautifully together! I haven't read a lot of poly stories but this one is really well done, and believable! They make sure to prioritize communication and trust. Both of which is incredibly important.

Not only are they trying to balance what they are to each other, but now they're all trying to figure out what it means when they all are attracted to Jericho. These men have so much more to figure out and learn relationship wise, along with trying to protect each other from danger that just keeps finding them.

The action scenes in this are incredible! There aren't many, but the ones that are in this story are well done. I also really love how Aurora made it so you can't figure out the overall mystery that is occuring in both books. It's not obvious, and even in this book you can't figure out who's the main 'bad guy'. We do get more information, but that's not all of it, I'm certain there is more we have to learn. I'm really excited to read more books in this series, I love each and every character. Grady, Six, Hunter, Parker, Riley, and obviously Persephone. Who wouldn't love her?!

Overall this is a truly fantastic continuation and extension of the men's relationship along with their personal character growth.
Profile Image for Kristy Lynn.
375 reviews10 followers
July 29, 2023
First and foremost, this is not a standalone. It is a continuation from book 1, Catalyst. If you have not read Catalyst this review will contain spoilers but will not contain spoilers for Reactant. Also, this is a 5⭐️/5🌶️ so you should read Catalyst.

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So, now that I know you’ve either read book 1 or you don’t care about spoilers, let’s get into it. First, holy &!! This book is HOT! I mean poly relationships in books are always hot just because there is so much going on during those steamy scenes. But, Aurora Crane is a force unto herself and this book is gorgeously graphic. Like, don’t skip a single page, have a napkin, and be ready for a shower 😉

Book 2 continues the storyline of Sebastian looking not so good as he is plagued with hit after hit. Dead bodies, attempts to unalive him repeatedly, and new players coming at him. His men are here for him and are trying to help solve what is going on and why.

Will and Peyton’s special bond is only reinforced in this book. Peyton and Quinn are discovering each other now that they have cleared up their misunderstandings. Quinn and Sebastian are working to move forward and not let their past define their future. The trust they are finding is equally easy and difficult. Even though Will and Peyton invited Sebastian as a third, Will is feeling like the proverbial third wheel. He only has a bond with Peyton so he is unsure of his place with Sebastian and Quinn. And Will is the golden retriever to beat all 🦮. As a reader you will love him and it is easy to see why all 3 of his men do, too.

In this book the quad will add another man who we met in Catalyst. The attempts on Sebastian’s life lead to a bodyguard. Jericho is not too happy to play that role but he does think all 4 men are smoking hot so it’s not too much of a hardship. But, if he convinces them for a little fun can it only be just that or will feelings get caught all around?

Reactant is a lot of fun, a lot of well written plot/story, and A LOT of steam in the barely big enough bed.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Profile Image for Angel.
576 reviews8 followers
July 28, 2023
I fell in love with this group of guys in Catalyst, which is the first book and must be read prior since this book picks up right where the first book ends. Also you won't be disappointed cause Catalyst is really good! So of course I was very excited to read Reactant. And let me tell you, not only did it exceeded my expectations but also made me fall more in love with the characters. But I do want to say that sweet Will must be protected at all costs.
Sebastian, Peyton, Quinn, and Will continue to navigate their complex but strong and loving relationship. But now they realize that flirty sexy Jericho might also be an integral part of their lives. You would think that adding a fifth would mess up the dynamics of an already complex relationship but the author does an awesome job of smoothly interweaving all of the delicate strings, in every way possible, to create a beautiful story. Loved that we got to see them interact individually and as a group, showing the different aspects of the relationship. And there was communication between the MCs, with no unnecessary drama. The author also continues to equally represent and make each MC important, giving each their own voice and personality (no cut and paste). And while all 5 are so different, they balance each other perfectly. It also had me laughing cause their banter was hilarious, my heart melting over the tender and loving scenes, and fanning myself cause all 5 men are sexy together practically melted my kindle. And while it is steamy hot 🔥🔥, it isn't all about the "fun times". There's a fully developed and intriguing plot, full of action and suspense. The mystery of who is trying to hurt Sebastian kept me on my toes and glued to the book.
It does end in a HFN, but it does not feel like a slow/dragged read. Quite the opposite in fact, the pacing is perfect for this beautiful intricate story which cannot be rushed to be fully appreciated and told. Now I'm anxiously waiting for the next book 😍😍
Profile Image for Gale MR.
309 reviews21 followers
July 24, 2023
After reading Catalyst and then Reactant, I wonder what are the roles of the guys in solving the mystery- who is a catalyst, who is a reactant and what will be the final product. The book is a fascinating puzzle of personalities, a crossroad of possibilities and variables with riot of emotions thrown into the mix. Once again I had the pleasure to meet characters so perfect in their imperfections which gives the story such a warm buzz of coziness, acceptance and reassurance that a person don’t have to be picture perfect to be loved and wanted.

The second book in Chain reaction series definitely offers a significant increase of the heat between the characters we know from Catalyst. They are still learning how to function as a polycule while the speed of the deadly suspense around picks up testing and pressuring the still new bonds between them. I loved the humour sprinkled through the pages that was lightening the mood and had unforgettable moments learning about their quirks enjoying the banter and snark to the fullest. For me, Jericho is still an unknown piece of the puzzle and I am not sure how he will click with the others as a person but the way he crashed into their already chaotic life, was so much fun to observe.

After reading Reactant, I definitely know that Aurora Crane has cemented her place amongst my favourites.
I received a complimentary copy of the book and this is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Miruru Shouting.
974 reviews2 followers
July 29, 2023
The book unfortunately had to be cut and stopped where it did since it was getting quite long but the chopped off portion fits better with the next book ANDDDDDDDDDDDD that means Book 3 will be coming a lot sooner since 40% (ish) is already written.

The immediate attraction between all of them and Jericho seemed odd but I enjoyed seeing more into the new group of characters that were around the mysterious Hunter. Even though Quinn, Sebastian, Peyton, and Will are still working through their dynamics (and Will had a ton of insecurities regarding his place in the quad), they still tentatively extended an invitation to Jericho after seeing everyone's reaction and attraction to him.

That ending where he finally joined them after trying to keep himself apart and not too emotionally involved, oomph, good ending to this arc of their story, but they're all still not quite solidified just yet.

We finally find out the mystery behind book 1's drug business and the deaths that followed it into book 2. Of course, it's only the tip of iceberg and it's not exactly solved since there's a bigger player still at large.

Kinda confused why they were all staying at Quinn's place in book 1 (which was bigger and more safe/isolated) but now in book 2, it seems they're spending more time at Sebastian's place (which is a safety hazard and paints an easy target for anyone to take them out). Would it not make sense to have them all holed in the fortress that is Quinn's place like previously?

We also see a lot more of Quinn's job and Jericho's back story, but very few scenes of Peyton and Will at their jobs (at Aubrey's bar or Will with his team?), and also reduced scenes of Sebastian at his law office. High heat and I felt like we got a good amount of plot too, but I would've liked a few more mundane slice-of-life scenes for the other characters like we had in Book 1 too.

Can't wait for Book 3 ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Profile Image for Lily Pavenent.
74 reviews1 follower
August 1, 2023
I loved “Catalyst” so much, so I couldn’t wait to read “Reactant”. I don’t usually read MM+ books but I love the way Aurora built the characters’ relationships and their interactions, it’s well-written and the characters are wonderful. I’m glad that the chemistry between Quinn, Will, Peyton and Sebastian is progressing step by step.
My favorite is Will because he’s always optimistic but I still love all of them.

I was sceptic about Jericho’s introduction seeing our men already all have very complicated histories so I didn’t know if I was ready for one addition to their relationship.
Turns out I absolutely love Jericho. He’s a very interesting man and I see the harmony building between all of them.
I was a little frustrated because I waited more emotional connection between them and less physical affection. I also hoped there would be more unity in the group instead of duets like Will and Peyton. So, I can’t wait to read the next book.

Finally, I loved the mystery aspect in this book, it kept me enthralled until the end. The action and the suspense were perfect. I’m curious to see how Quinn, Will, Peyton, Sebastian and Jericho will keep their balance together. And I hope they will fully love each other without doubt in “Cohesion”.
Profile Image for Mandy.
4,731 reviews46 followers
May 15, 2025
This is a summary of a complex, likely romantic suspense story involving five men. Jericho Rowlands, who has a history of working in the shadows to protect Sydney, finds his life intertwined with Sebastian Devlin, the lawyer who once helped him. Through Sebastian, Jericho meets Quinn, Peyton, and Will, who already share a complicated past with Sebastian. 1 Unexpected and intense chemistry ignites between Jericho and all four men, despite Jericho's initial mission to simply protect Sebastian. As they navigate their newfound connections and the weight of their individual histories, a dangerous threat emerges. Sebastian and Jericho ("Warren") are on a hit list, and others are being targeted. Quinn races to uncover the identity of the person behind these attacks. The men, who exist on different sides of the law (Quinn and Will versus Peyton and Jericho), must band together to protect Sebastian and fight for a potential future together, even as the threats from the present jeopardize everything.

I loved this story with the mystery of who was after Sebastian and Jericho and why. Lots of danger and drama as they worked through the others on a kill list only to find bodies. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MMMMM story with mature content.
Profile Image for Juniper.
3,359 reviews24 followers
July 23, 2023
This book picks up where the first one in the series (Catalyst) ended, so you’ll want to make sure that you start there, if you haven’t already. I found lots to like here— the ongoing plot line continues to be immersive and interesting, and the dynamics between the guys are shaping up in some compelling ways. By far my favorite part of this book, however, is Jericho, the new addition who adds a strong personality and his own sensibility/boundaries (or lack thereof) to the relationship(s). Will, Sebastian, Quinn, and Parker are all likable and irresistible in their own ways, but Jericho adds something uniquely his own, and I liked him all the more for it, even as he does seem to get from “just for fun” into “feelings territory” quite quickly, especially for someone whose avowedly not the type. All told, there’s a great blend of action, intrigue, chemistry, and relationship and character development here, and it all makes for an engaging read. 4.5 stars: well worth checking out.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Profile Image for Joyfully Jay.
8,960 reviews512 followers
July 24, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.

4 stars


This second book picks up immediately after the first and jumps us right back into the action. The primary focus here feels like it’s on the relationship, as the guys are still sorting out exactly how things might work among the four of them and where they stand with one another. They seems pretty clearly to want to explore a relationship with all of them together, but the situation is complicated, particularly as their pasts all come into play. Into all of that we add Jericho, who has an attraction to all four men that they return.

Overall, I really am enjoying this series and think Crane has created a really engaging, large poly romance. The characters are great and I enjoy their relationship and the dynamic among them. I am looking forward to seeing what is next!

Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
Profile Image for Traci S.
1,901 reviews12 followers
August 1, 2023
4.5⭐️
First, I loved the combination of fast paced suspense and the unrelenting chemistry between Peyton, Will, Quinn, and Sebastian. Adding Jericho to the mix, should maybe be overkill; but it definitely worked for me. I loved his character, pushing buttons a bit with Sebastian and Quinn. It does pick up fast, building off the first book so there are a lot of characters and plot points to keep track of, but such an engrossing story. I liked the characters individually and in all the various combinations they explore, a wonderfully steamy read. I’ll admit Peyton and Will are my favorite, their connection is quite authentic and sweet. All of the five main characters are well developed and compelling in their own right, I love how their personalities and skill work together. I can’t wait to see what happens next for these guys.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Profile Image for Rūta.
260 reviews
February 8, 2024
This was a fantastic read.
Just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, it got even more amazing 😻

The author really knows how to write Poly romance because this was a beautiful read. When I thought about 5 men in love with each other, I wasn’t expecting such beautiful masterpiece.

Jericho was such an amazing add. From the moment he was introduced, I was in love. He lives in grey area, so self assured & the way he flirted with all 4 of them was amazing.

In the first book, the boys had some type of history with each other but Jericho was a completely new addition & that changed their dynamic to the best way possible.

There were so many amazing moments in the book. From the instant connection of Jericho with Sebastian and then with Quinn, Will & Peyton.
Jericho really wanted to keep it casual but with these men, it could never be casual.
So many jokes, the D-train 😉 to all the flirting, hot sex, this was an amazing read 🥰

I’m super excited for the release of next book.
Profile Image for Abrianna.
Author 40 books267 followers
July 20, 2023
This book exceeded my expectations. When I learned that the four were going to get a fifth I was super excited. I wasn't sure how the author would incorporate him, but I never had any doubts that he would fit right in. This author KNOWS, how to write a poly romance, and damn if she isn't good at it.

I loved watching Quinn, Will, Peyton, and Sebastian find their footing. All four of them are vastly different but they complement each other in amazing ways. And this author just... she gets it. As a polyamorous person, it's very hard to find real and true ways of how to be poly in fiction, but this series... it shows how lovely those relationships can be. It's real and so well done. They don't just work as a foursome but as individuals. Crane managed to show how each relationship, each person, is important to the overall relationship. This includes the insecurity and anxiety that comes with trying to navigate such a complicated relationship.

When Jericho enters the picture... holy hotness. The man is pure sin and sex. He sets the pages on fire and his chemistry with the four is off the charts. While he expects nothing but some one-time fun with the four, he gets far more than he bargains for. These men see through him, and though he has a lot of doubts and even more secrets, he finds himself incapable of denying these men anything.

On top of the romance is the mystery. And what a mystery it is. It's complex and involved and takes a lot of time and skill to pull off, especially as it builds off the plot that was introduced in the first book. I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book, though I am a wee bit scared as the author had my heart in my throat a few times while reading this book.

All in all, this book not only did what it was supposed to as a sequel, but it exceeded every expectation I could have had. It's truly a wonderful book. That was truly everything I wanted and more. The five of them are hot together, but also swoony and vulnerable, and SO sweet. It doesn't get any better than that, honestly.
Profile Image for Julie Yates.
650 reviews2 followers
May 2, 2024
I found Jerico's sudden and intense interest in all FOUR of the original "couple" to be rather unsavory. So, we have the 4 original MCs -and their sudden coupling only believable because they all knew each other and had romantic back story tying them together- and they are still trying to figure things out. [For example, how does Will's romantic attachment bloom with Sebastian? or with Quinn?] And then this 5th guy comes along and ... starts hitting on all of them? And the 4 in a new formed 'fourple' still testing boundaries and of course are all like, why yes, lets add a stranger whose real name we don't know with a sketchy job that maybe will end up killing Sebastian... Yes, lets sleep with him too and see what happens.

This novel felt like the author was adding a guy as a way to move the plot forward. She needed a POV that would allow the reader to see the inner workings of Hunter's shady group and give us some additional insight into why Sebastian is being targeted. That said, I would have preferred to give all of Jerico's plot to Peyton (we really don't get enough of Peyton in the series.)

I have no quotes from this.
191 reviews1 follower
September 15, 2025
Type: Audiobook / Solo Narration

I wish I liked this more than the first book. The spice is worth the read if you're in the mood. But otherwise, it's very insta lust and love for a fifth guy when Quinn, Peyton, Will, & Sebastian are still figuring themselves out.

The mystery is again very basic and just some background noise. But this time I was more prepared for this to be the case and to expect more spice than anything else. I liked our original group of four trying to get used to being in a poly relationship, but while they say that communication is important, we don't actually see them talking about their dynamic or adding Jericho to it.

The audio by J.F. Harding is again a pleasure to listen to. It's still easy enough to distinguish who is talking with so many mcs.
Profile Image for Sarah Thornburg.
201 reviews10 followers
July 25, 2023
'Reactant' is the second novel in the 'Chain Reaction' series and is best read after the first novel. These are not stand-alone novels. I will preface this review by saying that I didn't reread the first novel before I dove into this one.
This novel started a bit clunky with the pacing. The characters' internal thoughts were a bit long and didn't feel organic.
It did smooth itself out after the first chapter, and getting to know these characters better was fun. Jericho is still a wild card for me, but seeing him worm his way into these four men's lives was entertaining. Reading from five different points of view was a little much to get used to, but once the novel found its rhythm and footing, it was a great read.
This novel ends on a happy-for-now note, and I'm excited to see how Jericho fits into these four men's lives and how they fit into each other's lives.
491 reviews2 followers
July 25, 2023
This picks up where book 1 left off. This book focuses more on the relationship between the guys and Jericho than moving forward with the overall plot, but I didn't mind that. The guys with Jericho is a bit like an underlying electrical current, everyone is aware of it and there is no switching it off. Jericho certainly has the capacity to be cocky, but I love that even he isn't 100% sure of himself here because it's important to him. Also a little sad that Will still isn't sure in himself with the guys, but love how the others react to that.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Joanne Mccorkell.
1,619 reviews15 followers
April 13, 2024
While we have Seb, Quinn, Peyton and Will still working out what they mean to each other, the plotline of book one continues. We find Seb on a hitlist, for reasons still unknown.
I liked that we learned more about Hunter and his group of merry mercenaries, but I still dont know enough about them. Then along comes Jericho.... he teases Hunter about Seb being his pet lawyer.... then turns around and falls for him and his three men also.
My fav character has to be Will. Hes like a human puppy dog, feed him and give him pets, and that makes him happy. Though hes got a huge amount of insecurity....I think id love to know more about him.
Profile Image for Demetra Roussakis.
1,446 reviews14 followers
July 24, 2023
Holy hotness. What an amazing book - I couldn’t put it down. This is book 2 in the series and you must read Catalyst first as this book starts at the end of the first. Sebastien is still being targeted but now Jericho is introduced to him. Jericho is right out flirting with Sebastien when they met but he tried to play it cool. Jericho then meets Quinn and the same thing happened. His brother Hunter assigns him to be the bodyguard to Seb. Lots of action and steam with great chemistry between them all. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
Profile Image for Maria.
179 reviews3 followers
July 24, 2023
If you enjoy a intense but full of chemistry Poly this is the story for you, this story line does pick up from BK1 (Catalyst) . Not only are we watching the guys find their footing in the poly relationships but now the attraction and connection with Jericho is just to much for them to ignore, what starts out as a fun time develops into so much more.

This story is filled with action, suspense and steamy time, but it also gives you a look into the full aspects of a male poly relationship that feels very real. I adore these men.
Profile Image for K-Me.
2,693 reviews
July 25, 2023
I absolutely loved the way Jericho was inserted into this foursome! This is a complex story with gritty mystery and suspense but for me the building of this relationship between five men was fascinating and so well written. It cannot be easy to capture and relate to us each of five different men's personalities and the different dynamics between them all. I could feel it and I was so invested. You do need to read the first book as this starts right where it ended, and we have a happy for now ending so I am excited there will be more with these guys!
Profile Image for Andre.
61 reviews
August 8, 2023
Like the first title, this was lovely to read. I love the strength of each man and what they bring to this/their relationship. Their personalities are beautifully written and portrayed in how they interact with eachother. The comfort of the side characters and their teasing/hazing of the mains.

I am curious to read the secondary characters stories as they link into this, and their relationships. That would be a brilliant spin-off.

Thank you so much. I can't wait to see how this concludes, as it's beautiful
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