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Van Doren #2
Noaz
Sometimes stars grant you wishes that come covered in blood.
I've wanted one thing for as long as I can remember—someone to love, a family, and a happily ever after. I finally found it with the least likely person across the street. Our life together has been dipped in espresso and given a massive jolt forward, but we couldn't be happier.
That is, until someone threatens that happiness and I'm forced to respond in order to protect my family that's barely begun. I didn't mean for this relationship to begin bathed in blood, but I will do anything to protect the love I've waited decades for.
This is an LGBTQIA+ story. Contains mature content. A complete list of content warnings can be found on the author's website.
I've wanted one thing for as long as I can remember—someone to love, a family, and a happily ever after. I finally found it with the least likely person across the street. Our life together has been dipped in espresso and given a massive jolt forward, but we couldn't be happier.
That is, until someone threatens that happiness and I'm forced to respond in order to protect my family that's barely begun. I didn't mean for this relationship to begin bathed in blood, but I will do anything to protect the love I've waited decades for.
This is an LGBTQIA+ story. Contains mature content. A complete list of content warnings can be found on the author's website.
440 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2025
277 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
About the author
Crea Reitan
113 books1,112 followersCrea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. When she can't fall asleep at night, she thinks up new scenes for her characters to act out. This, of course, is how most of her meant-to-be-thrown-away characters tend to end up front and center - and utterly swoon-worthy! Don't ask her how many book boyfriends she has...
When not writing, Crea is an avid reader. Her TBR pile is several hundred books high (don't even look at her kindle wish list or the unread books on her tablet). Sometimes, she enjoys crafting; sometimes, exploring nature; sometimes, traveling. Mostly, she enjoys putting her characters on paper and breathing life into them. Oh, and sleeping. Crea loves to sleep!
When not writing, Crea is an avid reader. Her TBR pile is several hundred books high (don't even look at her kindle wish list or the unread books on her tablet). Sometimes, she enjoys crafting; sometimes, exploring nature; sometimes, traveling. Mostly, she enjoys putting her characters on paper and breathing life into them. Oh, and sleeping. Crea loves to sleep!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
September 8, 2025
Totally different tone to Loren but equally enjoyable.
The romance in this book is like super old school, as in courting and taking things super slow, no sex before marriage, and it worked perfectly for who Noaz and Briar are. Briar is absolutely swoonworthy 😍
I also really liked Noaz's conflict around gender when it came to their baby and I'm of the same mindset that they reached. My son is my son unless he tells me otherwise in future, but he wears pink, floral print, neon and camo, has long hair, plays with dolls and cars... I'm never going to tell him he can't wear something/do something/be something just because of his genitals!! Society doesn't claim that girls will 'become' lesbians if they wear blue or trousers so I've never understood the deal with boys and things that are perceived to be feminine by society.
I'm so intrigued by Kairo too - dude is mysterious!! I loved his blanket gift though, it was the most thoughtful gift I've ever heard of and I'm kinda envious.
The whole Van Doren family are just so interesting and I can't wait to get their stories. I'm still undecided on who I think Voss, Jalon and Kairo will end up with though...I keep doubting myself 😂
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HRCYED2: Bigger Queer Alphabet
The romance in this book is like super old school, as in courting and taking things super slow, no sex before marriage, and it worked perfectly for who Noaz and Briar are. Briar is absolutely swoonworthy 😍
I also really liked Noaz's conflict around gender when it came to their baby and I'm of the same mindset that they reached. My son is my son unless he tells me otherwise in future, but he wears pink, floral print, neon and camo, has long hair, plays with dolls and cars... I'm never going to tell him he can't wear something/do something/be something just because of his genitals!! Society doesn't claim that girls will 'become' lesbians if they wear blue or trousers so I've never understood the deal with boys and things that are perceived to be feminine by society.
I'm so intrigued by Kairo too - dude is mysterious!! I loved his blanket gift though, it was the most thoughtful gift I've ever heard of and I'm kinda envious.
The whole Van Doren family are just so interesting and I can't wait to get their stories. I'm still undecided on who I think Voss, Jalon and Kairo will end up with though...I keep doubting myself 😂
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HRCYED2: Bigger Queer Alphabet
January 16, 2025
Briar is a freelance editor, who dreams of love and family. So far that hasn’t happened.
Across the street lives the large Van Doren family. His eyes fall on one particular attractive person.
Noaz desperately wants to start a family and move out. He wants to retire from his clean-up job.
You can’t raise children and come home with blood on your hands, now can you?
It’s not that easy.
Briar is instantly attracted to Noaz. Noaz can’t believe their luck. Could Briar be the one?
Noaz is the warm touch in the Van Doren household. Very lovable.
The story is way softer than I expected, even sweet. Until… yeah read that yourself.
It’s a widely written story, and quite entertaining. Never a dull day with the Van Doren’s.
Add some friends and partners, add some typical Van Doren events, and voila you have a more than 400-page super duper interesting story!
Across the street lives the large Van Doren family. His eyes fall on one particular attractive person.
Noaz desperately wants to start a family and move out. He wants to retire from his clean-up job.
You can’t raise children and come home with blood on your hands, now can you?
It’s not that easy.
Briar is instantly attracted to Noaz. Noaz can’t believe their luck. Could Briar be the one?
Noaz is the warm touch in the Van Doren household. Very lovable.
The story is way softer than I expected, even sweet. Until… yeah read that yourself.
It’s a widely written story, and quite entertaining. Never a dull day with the Van Doren’s.
Add some friends and partners, add some typical Van Doren events, and voila you have a more than 400-page super duper interesting story!
January 8, 2025
Briar almost always uses wife and husband together. I’m not sure I can recall a time when he uses one and doesn’t use the other in these moments. It doesn’t feel like he does it for any reason but reflex. Like he means them. I’m both. I’m neither." - Noaz
"My home is where you are. Wherever you breathe and your heart beats. Where you smile. Where you’re happy. That’s my home, love. Not walls and furniture. You." - Brair
I love this book and this Serie so much, the characters are so meaningful, they understand each other so good and the found family is everything. This book/serie is dark but there is also enough time to get to know the family, to understand that this family will do everything for each other and that makes me feel so happy. Crea Reitan created the perfect balance between darkness and all the good vibes
This book has so many beautiful and important moments and conversations! For example Honey Bee paying attention to what Noaz likes to wear and her finding different options that are totally their style. They all make Noaz feel so seen. Yes, I also cried while reading it!!! At this point I'm not even surprised by that. I really love the (found) family and the friends that turned into one big family. I'm so glad that they all stay living close to together. Also that moment when Briar was painting Noaz nails without asking is a perfect example of Briar fully accepting Noaz! Noaz wasn't fully accepted in their past relationships and it made me so happy for them, to get everything they always wanted and deserved.
"We’re a small village all our own."
Both Noaz and Briar wanted to have a partner and children, they were looking for the perfect person to start a family with and they found that with each other! Noaz is Genderfluid and I'm so glad that they finally found someone that loves every part of them. Briar has so much respect for Noaz, it's so easy for him, Having respect for someone is the minimum but sadly that is still something not everyone has naturally in the real world. Their relationship just feels so warm and safe. Their child/children are so lucky to grow up with two amazing parents and into this family. This book is focused on starting a family. Noaz and Briar their relationship moves fast but felt right for them. They were both so ready to become parents and definitely did everything to make that happen.
"Our family and friends took care of everything while we were gone."
___ Update ___
After writing my review a 4.5 stars , I couldn't stop thinking how amazing this book is, so this book is also a 5 star. This is already a 5 star serie for me, and I'm only on the second book! I also gave the first book (Loren) in this serie 5 stars!
Make sure to check the trigger warnings for this Serie. I really love the way Crea Reitan uses her books to teach people new ways of thinking and to educate people. I received an ARC copy of this book. Thank you so much!
"My home is where you are. Wherever you breathe and your heart beats. Where you smile. Where you’re happy. That’s my home, love. Not walls and furniture. You." - Brair
I love this book and this Serie so much, the characters are so meaningful, they understand each other so good and the found family is everything. This book/serie is dark but there is also enough time to get to know the family, to understand that this family will do everything for each other and that makes me feel so happy. Crea Reitan created the perfect balance between darkness and all the good vibes
This book has so many beautiful and important moments and conversations! For example Honey Bee paying attention to what Noaz likes to wear and her finding different options that are totally their style. They all make Noaz feel so seen. Yes, I also cried while reading it!!! At this point I'm not even surprised by that. I really love the (found) family and the friends that turned into one big family. I'm so glad that they all stay living close to together. Also that moment when Briar was painting Noaz nails without asking is a perfect example of Briar fully accepting Noaz! Noaz wasn't fully accepted in their past relationships and it made me so happy for them, to get everything they always wanted and deserved.
"We’re a small village all our own."
Both Noaz and Briar wanted to have a partner and children, they were looking for the perfect person to start a family with and they found that with each other! Noaz is Genderfluid and I'm so glad that they finally found someone that loves every part of them. Briar has so much respect for Noaz, it's so easy for him, Having respect for someone is the minimum but sadly that is still something not everyone has naturally in the real world. Their relationship just feels so warm and safe. Their child/children are so lucky to grow up with two amazing parents and into this family. This book is focused on starting a family. Noaz and Briar their relationship moves fast but felt right for them. They were both so ready to become parents and definitely did everything to make that happen.
"Our family and friends took care of everything while we were gone."
___ Update ___
After writing my review a 4.5 stars , I couldn't stop thinking how amazing this book is, so this book is also a 5 star. This is already a 5 star serie for me, and I'm only on the second book! I also gave the first book (Loren) in this serie 5 stars!
Make sure to check the trigger warnings for this Serie. I really love the way Crea Reitan uses her books to teach people new ways of thinking and to educate people. I received an ARC copy of this book. Thank you so much!
January 19, 2025
Good
It started off slow i was expecting the same level of crazy as Loren but this was entirely different. It gets exciting towards the last quarter of the book and although i was expecting more i did enjoy it.
It started off slow i was expecting the same level of crazy as Loren but this was entirely different. It gets exciting towards the last quarter of the book and although i was expecting more i did enjoy it.
Read
January 26, 2025DNF @ 7%. The moment I realized I recognized none of the characters because I failed to finish Loren was the moment I knew this would be a DNF.
January 25, 2025
I wasn't sure what to expect going into this one, being the first book after Loren's. I have to say, I agree with a lot of the comments already made on this; not a whole lot going on, (which I suppose the author warned us about going into it), focus is mainly on insta-lust to babies and living in marital bliss for 80% of this book. It was just a bit underwhelming after Loren. Now that we've had two polar opposite books, I'm not sure what to really expect for Imry, although I'm still curious enough to read it.
I did really love how much Noaz and Briar love each other and accept each other completely. Their romance was very swoon-worthy in the best way. Not a whole lot of sex either, just wholesome romance. I would have loved a deep-dive into Noaz's team over in NYC. Like, if the other brothers get books, I would love more info on their operations in Chicago, Cali, etc. I feel like Noaz came home from a job and promptly quit. Not a whole lot of POV from the business side of things. We also never really got closure on the supposed baby farm situation (Was that guy operating that whole thing alone? Who were the other buyers? What about the adoption agency? No answers)
Looking forward to seeing where the author goes with this, but it seems to be all over the place.
I did really love how much Noaz and Briar love each other and accept each other completely. Their romance was very swoon-worthy in the best way. Not a whole lot of sex either, just wholesome romance. I would have loved a deep-dive into Noaz's team over in NYC. Like, if the other brothers get books, I would love more info on their operations in Chicago, Cali, etc. I feel like Noaz came home from a job and promptly quit. Not a whole lot of POV from the business side of things. We also never really got closure on the supposed baby farm situation (Was that guy operating that whole thing alone? Who were the other buyers? What about the adoption agency? No answers)
Looking forward to seeing where the author goes with this, but it seems to be all over the place.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2025
Ok, people of the internet - what exactly about this was slow?? Briar sees Noaz. He gives them a compliment. They go on a date - which, might I just stress, happens off-page. They are dating! They are getting married! We're still at page 80 or something. They are SPOILER getting a baby! This wasn't just insta-romance, this was insta-old-married couple.
I talked about the ways Reitan can really hit all the right elements/tropes to make a book really make me enjoy it. I do believe that. But the opposite is true as well - the story, the tropes, the characters (main ones, the rest still has potential) were not to my taste - I didn't click with basically any aspect of the story and while I did "finish it", I skipped so much fluff I am just going with DNF.
Why? Oh, let me count the reasons...
A romance book with no romance - I didn't feel their chemistry and that insta-lust Loren used wasn't working because of Noaz and her/their/his gender spiel. The first date was skipped. They just... suddenly dated. Super seriously.
I've seen Briar described as bland (because I wanted to know why everyone else was praising the book and read some reviews) and honestly, I get what you mean. It feels like Noaz is the star of the show and what happens here is just his wish-fullfilment fantasy. Briar is only the perfect husband, giving him his own personality is not necessary. His icon is boxing gloves and it plays exactly 1% part in the whole book. He has nothing defining while Noaz has nothing but intense, character defining moments. His work, his gender identity, his love for his family... I am actually running out of characteristics, actually.
Noaz is a lot but mostly, he's his gender. Because he just won't stop talking about it. How people are mean and closed-minded. Repeating how he relates to his gender and to gender as a concept and how Briar should react... it's Adak all over again. Noaz has Trauma and so Briar is guilty until proven innocent and he sure makes sure to be overcompensating-ly innocent - he says all the right words, does all the right things that you would normally need mind-reading to accomplish. Because this book is called Noaz because it is very much about him. (I was super happy with Confessions, because both MC's had their own lives and you didn't feel like they stopped living it when they met. This is the opposite.)
Other than feeling preached to, I will say I prefer show than constantly telling. Do you know Murderbot chronicles? I don't know why I keep referencing this series but this is another area it really shines - sexuality and gender in that universe is much more diverse than Noaz is and he sure talks about his differences a lot. In Murderbot (who is also neither gender, FYI) these things are just... there. They exist, no one cares, no one makes a big deal about it... In gay romance, you usually see it with homophobia. Some books focus on that negative aspect (probably because they see it around) while other books just have characters live their life and no one comes in any way on their sexuality because there's nothing to comment on, it's so normal it doesn't bear mentioning/disecting. Well, personally, I really like that - showing how you want the world to behave instead of bashing my head against all the ways humanity is lacking. Okay, rant over.
Van Doren is supposed to be this super-rich, super scary and not entirely legal enterprise. That's the draw of this series. So why not just gloss over it in Noaz? Or wait until the very last part of the book when the reader is falling asleep to spring some unexpected action! When it's too late to save the book!
I was already feeling disinterested with their whirlwind, emotionally kinda flat romance and with how Noaz insisted on testing Briar but than they got - spoiler - a baby and I was really gone. It's nothing against the book, to be fair, but there are stuff I don't experience but can still relate to - getting a baby and by getting a baby I mean talking about it and buying furniture and stuff and talking baby names? NO. I have seen good kid representation (and hey, I count Confessions, Reitan's book, to be one of them so she is capable of it) but this was the worst baby-fever and I am not here for it.
You know what? I think I complained enough. Let's just say Noaz was not my cup of beverage and hope Imry is going to go back to Loren's awesome-sauce-ness.
I talked about the ways Reitan can really hit all the right elements/tropes to make a book really make me enjoy it. I do believe that. But the opposite is true as well - the story, the tropes, the characters (main ones, the rest still has potential) were not to my taste - I didn't click with basically any aspect of the story and while I did "finish it", I skipped so much fluff I am just going with DNF.
Why? Oh, let me count the reasons...
A romance book with no romance - I didn't feel their chemistry and that insta-lust Loren used wasn't working because of Noaz and her/their/his gender spiel. The first date was skipped. They just... suddenly dated. Super seriously.
I've seen Briar described as bland (because I wanted to know why everyone else was praising the book and read some reviews) and honestly, I get what you mean. It feels like Noaz is the star of the show and what happens here is just his wish-fullfilment fantasy. Briar is only the perfect husband, giving him his own personality is not necessary. His icon is boxing gloves and it plays exactly 1% part in the whole book. He has nothing defining while Noaz has nothing but intense, character defining moments. His work, his gender identity, his love for his family... I am actually running out of characteristics, actually.
Noaz is a lot but mostly, he's his gender. Because he just won't stop talking about it. How people are mean and closed-minded. Repeating how he relates to his gender and to gender as a concept and how Briar should react... it's Adak all over again. Noaz has Trauma and so Briar is guilty until proven innocent and he sure makes sure to be overcompensating-ly innocent - he says all the right words, does all the right things that you would normally need mind-reading to accomplish. Because this book is called Noaz because it is very much about him. (I was super happy with Confessions, because both MC's had their own lives and you didn't feel like they stopped living it when they met. This is the opposite.)
Other than feeling preached to, I will say I prefer show than constantly telling. Do you know Murderbot chronicles? I don't know why I keep referencing this series but this is another area it really shines - sexuality and gender in that universe is much more diverse than Noaz is and he sure talks about his differences a lot. In Murderbot (who is also neither gender, FYI) these things are just... there. They exist, no one cares, no one makes a big deal about it... In gay romance, you usually see it with homophobia. Some books focus on that negative aspect (probably because they see it around) while other books just have characters live their life and no one comes in any way on their sexuality because there's nothing to comment on, it's so normal it doesn't bear mentioning/disecting. Well, personally, I really like that - showing how you want the world to behave instead of bashing my head against all the ways humanity is lacking. Okay, rant over.
Van Doren is supposed to be this super-rich, super scary and not entirely legal enterprise. That's the draw of this series. So why not just gloss over it in Noaz? Or wait until the very last part of the book when the reader is falling asleep to spring some unexpected action! When it's too late to save the book!
I was already feeling disinterested with their whirlwind, emotionally kinda flat romance and with how Noaz insisted on testing Briar but than they got - spoiler - a baby and I was really gone. It's nothing against the book, to be fair, but there are stuff I don't experience but can still relate to - getting a baby and by getting a baby I mean talking about it and buying furniture and stuff and talking baby names? NO. I have seen good kid representation (and hey, I count Confessions, Reitan's book, to be one of them so she is capable of it) but this was the worst baby-fever and I am not here for it.
You know what? I think I complained enough. Let's just say Noaz was not my cup of beverage and hope Imry is going to go back to Loren's awesome-sauce-ness.
January 17, 2025
Now, i absolutely loved the first book in this series “Loren”, and I mistakenly thought Noaz was a brother to Loren. He’s not, he’s an uncle! But with that mistake sorted I inhaled this book. It was totally worth reading past my bedtime.
Characters were just so adorable, catching up with previous characters and finding out that this world is connected to the “For Puck’s Sake series” is an added bonus, it makes me want to reread that series to see if I can spot any Van Doren’s 😉 I know of one.
Noaz Van Doren is an uncle, they control New York City with their crew. But lately they’ve been feeling that they need to step back and begin their next phase/journey. Noaz isn’t your typical contract killer, they answer to either he/she/they, all depends on how they are feeling that day. They also dress accordingly.
Briar is friends with a group of people that moved recently. (Due to one of the characters in these books.) They are all the best of friends, which makes relationships a little tricky. But Briar is not sure where his life is taking him! He’s non committal about his job and he’s in between relationships at the moment, and he’s in no hurry to change either status!
What Briar secretly yearns for is a family of his own!
You don’t need to read this series in order. Other characters do crop up, but as they are family and apparently they will all get involved with the Van Doren’s at some point! and I love this series already, so I’m looking forward to seeing more of them.
It is a slow burn romance, and for one I’m glad. We needed to see how Briar, who has only ever dated girls copes with Noaz. And I loved how he just accepted them. All the shows of affection were just so sweet.
Their relationship goes from 0 to 100 in a matter of weeks…. Noaz had always planned to have a family, and adoption was really the only option (they didn’t want a surrogate, just a baby to love.)
And when the opportunity arises, Noaz is faced with a dilemma! Do they go ahead and possibly lose the love of their life? Or can Noaz have both Briar and a baby?
Things don’t go smoothly though! And Noaz is left with choices, return to being the cold killer they were, and loosing their unborn baby, or ignoring the baby’s plight to keep Briar!
What happens next? 🤫 I can’t tell you, you’ll have to read the book to find out 😉
The only problem I now have…. I have to wait for the next book. 😜
🦋
Characters were just so adorable, catching up with previous characters and finding out that this world is connected to the “For Puck’s Sake series” is an added bonus, it makes me want to reread that series to see if I can spot any Van Doren’s 😉 I know of one.
Noaz Van Doren is an uncle, they control New York City with their crew. But lately they’ve been feeling that they need to step back and begin their next phase/journey. Noaz isn’t your typical contract killer, they answer to either he/she/they, all depends on how they are feeling that day. They also dress accordingly.
Briar is friends with a group of people that moved recently. (Due to one of the characters in these books.) They are all the best of friends, which makes relationships a little tricky. But Briar is not sure where his life is taking him! He’s non committal about his job and he’s in between relationships at the moment, and he’s in no hurry to change either status!
What Briar secretly yearns for is a family of his own!
You don’t need to read this series in order. Other characters do crop up, but as they are family and apparently they will all get involved with the Van Doren’s at some point! and I love this series already, so I’m looking forward to seeing more of them.
It is a slow burn romance, and for one I’m glad. We needed to see how Briar, who has only ever dated girls copes with Noaz. And I loved how he just accepted them. All the shows of affection were just so sweet.
Their relationship goes from 0 to 100 in a matter of weeks…. Noaz had always planned to have a family, and adoption was really the only option (they didn’t want a surrogate, just a baby to love.)
And when the opportunity arises, Noaz is faced with a dilemma! Do they go ahead and possibly lose the love of their life? Or can Noaz have both Briar and a baby?
Things don’t go smoothly though! And Noaz is left with choices, return to being the cold killer they were, and loosing their unborn baby, or ignoring the baby’s plight to keep Briar!
What happens next? 🤫 I can’t tell you, you’ll have to read the book to find out 😉
The only problem I now have…. I have to wait for the next book. 😜
🦋
January 17, 2025
I can’t even describe the excitement I felt when I received the ARC for this one! I absolutely loved Loren & Oakley’s book and could not wait to read this one, and it definitely did not disappoint ❣️4⭐️ I had a good time reading this one, I always do when reading any book by Crea but this one was such an adorable story I was just constantly smiling at how much love there was between the two characters, but also how neither were afraid to show it, there was no hiding from anyone, just a very loving and healthy relationship💕
I adored Briar and Noaz, they were literally perfect for each other, and the way I kicked my feet when Briar found out who Noaz is and still blurted out “Can I take you out?” His attraction towards Noaz was so strong he literally couldn’t help himself but get a date the first time they properly met🥰 Noaz deserved all of the love they received from Briar, the things they went through while trying to figure themselves out was heartbreaking to read about, especially how they described being treated by others just because they weren’t strictly male or female, very glad they had the Van Doren clan to support them🥹 And Briar was definitely their top supporter, my gosh that man!! He is literally now one of my top book boyfriends, he was literally perfect, that man can do no wrong!! Just a side note… I NEED Kairos book NOW, I just know that man has a soft side to him and I need to see it! We got a glimpse of it and I just need more😭
Anyway… I will be sharing some of my fave quotes and parts of the story that may be spoilers so if you want to avoid those then please don’t swipe along❣️
“Their hands remain on me as a guide. I can feel their body heat at my back. Good fucking lord, how am I still standing?” —
The reason why this is one of my fave scenes is because in Loren’s book, Briar was getting lessons from another Van Doren and Oakley was in awe at how there was no reaction from Briar at having a hottie behind him, we that DEFINITELY changed and it made me laugh because Oakley was so right to be confused about the no reaction
“ ‘Lift your hips, my love,’ he says, his lips at my ear. His voice is low and deep, hitting a tenor I can feel in my bones.” - no comments needed really just Briar being HOT
“My partner is a killer. I’m trying to make peace with the idea because they kill the bad guys. That makes it okay, right?” - yeah babe stay delusional ❣️
“Let me breed my beautiful wife, my sweet, sexy husband.” - yes pls
I adored Briar and Noaz, they were literally perfect for each other, and the way I kicked my feet when Briar found out who Noaz is and still blurted out “Can I take you out?” His attraction towards Noaz was so strong he literally couldn’t help himself but get a date the first time they properly met🥰 Noaz deserved all of the love they received from Briar, the things they went through while trying to figure themselves out was heartbreaking to read about, especially how they described being treated by others just because they weren’t strictly male or female, very glad they had the Van Doren clan to support them🥹 And Briar was definitely their top supporter, my gosh that man!! He is literally now one of my top book boyfriends, he was literally perfect, that man can do no wrong!! Just a side note… I NEED Kairos book NOW, I just know that man has a soft side to him and I need to see it! We got a glimpse of it and I just need more😭
Anyway… I will be sharing some of my fave quotes and parts of the story that may be spoilers so if you want to avoid those then please don’t swipe along❣️
“Their hands remain on me as a guide. I can feel their body heat at my back. Good fucking lord, how am I still standing?” —
The reason why this is one of my fave scenes is because in Loren’s book, Briar was getting lessons from another Van Doren and Oakley was in awe at how there was no reaction from Briar at having a hottie behind him, we that DEFINITELY changed and it made me laugh because Oakley was so right to be confused about the no reaction
“ ‘Lift your hips, my love,’ he says, his lips at my ear. His voice is low and deep, hitting a tenor I can feel in my bones.” - no comments needed really just Briar being HOT
“My partner is a killer. I’m trying to make peace with the idea because they kill the bad guys. That makes it okay, right?” - yeah babe stay delusional ❣️
“Let me breed my beautiful wife, my sweet, sexy husband.” - yes pls
January 17, 2025
One of my biggest issues with reading as many romances as I do is that there are so few that have good trans/non-binary representation. I am always on the lookout for these stories that do a good job portraying these characters. One thing I can say about this book is that the author did a fantastic job portraying a genderfluid character and how Noaz is simply on his own path, doing what feels right for them. I really appreciated in the author’s note how Reitan identified that there are very different journeys for trans/non-binary people, and just because Noaz has a different path than someone else, it doesn’t mean it is wrong. As a trans person whose path is different from others, I very much appreciated the author recognizing this. I thought that this was such a fantastic story that touched on love and attraction and how people don’t always fit into a one category or the other.
I loved the characters in this book so much. Noaz is one of my favorites. Discussion of their gender dysphoria both made me so happy and made my chest tighten. It is so hard for someone to grasp the concept that someone is crushed from the inside out when they can’t understand why their physical body doesn’t match what they know to be who they are. Noaz simply wants to be the person that they know that they are and have the life, including the family, that they yearn for. Briar was perfection. From the very beginning when he realized that Noaz was not who he thought they were to the very end, he was so accepting and there for Noaz. I adored when he would call Noaz “his husband, his wife”. He respected Noaz enough to ask their pronouns and to understand the person that Noaz is. The journey that these two go on made for such an amazing story.
I didn’t expect to love this story as much as I did. I didn’t read the first book in this series, so I went in blind. But this book hit me so hard, and I really have to applaud the author for the fantastic job writing a genderfluid character. There is a little spice, but this story is more about their journey to being a family. It isn’t just a cutesy love story though. There are some darker parts and some unaliving (I am fascinated by pressing now). But I really felt this book and would absolutely recommend it.
I loved the characters in this book so much. Noaz is one of my favorites. Discussion of their gender dysphoria both made me so happy and made my chest tighten. It is so hard for someone to grasp the concept that someone is crushed from the inside out when they can’t understand why their physical body doesn’t match what they know to be who they are. Noaz simply wants to be the person that they know that they are and have the life, including the family, that they yearn for. Briar was perfection. From the very beginning when he realized that Noaz was not who he thought they were to the very end, he was so accepting and there for Noaz. I adored when he would call Noaz “his husband, his wife”. He respected Noaz enough to ask their pronouns and to understand the person that Noaz is. The journey that these two go on made for such an amazing story.
I didn’t expect to love this story as much as I did. I didn’t read the first book in this series, so I went in blind. But this book hit me so hard, and I really have to applaud the author for the fantastic job writing a genderfluid character. There is a little spice, but this story is more about their journey to being a family. It isn’t just a cutesy love story though. There are some darker parts and some unaliving (I am fascinated by pressing now). But I really felt this book and would absolutely recommend it.
January 20, 2025
i really enjoyed this book!
i enjoyed the first book in this series as well, but i felt it was a little flat at some points. i think this book really fleshed out this world and these characters for me. i couldn’t remember a ton from the first book when i headed into this one, but it quickly came back to me and i think the characterizations got even better in this book. i love this found family dynamic between the van dorens and briar/oakley’s friend group, and i can’t wait to see the rest of the characters all fall in love with each other.
i think this was a lot different than the typical books i read on kindle unlimited. first of all, it was very low spice, which i actually enjoyed. i wish there had been a biiiit more and that those scenes were a bit less vanilla and sweet, but i think it suited the story very well. first and foremost, this was a story about briar and noaz building the life together that they’ve always dreamed about. i love how like three quarters of this book was set after they officially got together and quickly got married. it was so sweet to see their love deepen for each other as they got to know each other more and to see them prepare to welcome their baby. i loved all the sweet, soft moments and gestures of love in this book so much, and i’m so glad that they both got the relationship they were craving their entire lives. it was beautiful to witness.
i loved both of the main characters so much. noaz was so strong and vulnerable and caring, and briar was so hot and nurturing and loving. he was a literal dream man. i really loved the discussions in this book about noaz’s gender fluidity and how conflicted they were about how to raise their child. i thought these were really thought-provoking, sensitive, and useful discussions.
i also loved the action at the end of this book. it was nice to get some actual plot away from the relationship.
i also love the way the van doren world expanded in this book. first of all, moving to the estate was so insanely fun. i loved learning about how incredibly rich they are and everything they have at the estate, and i loved getting to know jalon’s brothers more. the van dorens are such a sweet and fun family, and i can’t wait to read more books about these characters.
i enjoyed the first book in this series as well, but i felt it was a little flat at some points. i think this book really fleshed out this world and these characters for me. i couldn’t remember a ton from the first book when i headed into this one, but it quickly came back to me and i think the characterizations got even better in this book. i love this found family dynamic between the van dorens and briar/oakley’s friend group, and i can’t wait to see the rest of the characters all fall in love with each other.
i think this was a lot different than the typical books i read on kindle unlimited. first of all, it was very low spice, which i actually enjoyed. i wish there had been a biiiit more and that those scenes were a bit less vanilla and sweet, but i think it suited the story very well. first and foremost, this was a story about briar and noaz building the life together that they’ve always dreamed about. i love how like three quarters of this book was set after they officially got together and quickly got married. it was so sweet to see their love deepen for each other as they got to know each other more and to see them prepare to welcome their baby. i loved all the sweet, soft moments and gestures of love in this book so much, and i’m so glad that they both got the relationship they were craving their entire lives. it was beautiful to witness.
i loved both of the main characters so much. noaz was so strong and vulnerable and caring, and briar was so hot and nurturing and loving. he was a literal dream man. i really loved the discussions in this book about noaz’s gender fluidity and how conflicted they were about how to raise their child. i thought these were really thought-provoking, sensitive, and useful discussions.
i also loved the action at the end of this book. it was nice to get some actual plot away from the relationship.
i also love the way the van doren world expanded in this book. first of all, moving to the estate was so insanely fun. i loved learning about how incredibly rich they are and everything they have at the estate, and i loved getting to know jalon’s brothers more. the van dorens are such a sweet and fun family, and i can’t wait to read more books about these characters.
January 18, 2025
I love the Van Dorens and can't wait for more. Noaz's story was compelling for so many reasons. You have Briar, who is so similar to Noaz. Both characters want a family and have a kinship in their desire to create a family unit that they can nurture, grow, and commit to fully. When Briar sees Noaz for the first time, he sees a stunning female and doesn't realize that this person is Uncle Noaz, who identifies as gender fluid. The way Briar is respectful and seems to understand how Noaz feels and makes Noaz feel seen is a beautiful thing. Really, the entire Van Doren family (even the black sheep) makes sure Noaz knows how important he/she is on any given day to their family unit. Being with the rest of the family is all Noaz has ever wanted, choosing an early retirement and raising kids just supports the desire to make his/her dreams a reality. The way Briar jumped right in painting Noaz's nails, target shooting, and never just addressing Noaz as one gender but always as both during intimate moments reinforced that he saw every facet of the person he was falling in love with. There's also this decision that has to be made that forces the Van Dorens to make a life choice, and I was swooning at how the choice was made. This group is truly one big family. The suspense part, and Briar realizing the family role Noaz is retiring from, happens in the latter half of the book when their unborn child and surrogate are put in danger. Even though Loren hinted at Noaz's dark side, Briar sees it for himself. Their HEA made my heart happy, and I can't wait for the releases that are coming next.
January 23, 2025
Most of the books I've read by this author have been hockey related in one way or another, so this is quite a change for me and I am here for it! I didn't have time to read Loren first, but I'm definitely going back to it asap while we wait for the next book! One thing I knew already is that this author writes a wide variety of characters and I love that. This book features Noaz, who is part of the huge Van Doren clan and supervises the New York area. Noaz is genderfluid, so it is really great to see a nonbinary MC in a book. Noaz is ready for some life changes, including stepping down from the role in New York and maybe finding a partner and starting a family. Alas, not everyone in their family or around them is accepting of Noaz' identity and it's hurtful. But then Noaz meet Briar, who is part of Oakley's friend group (from Loren), and things change quickly. It's pretty insta-love, insta-lust, but I love that - sometimes love just takes a person by storm! I love the bond between Briar and Noaz!! Another thing this author does really well is romantic bonding and swoony moments and those are definitely here. Beware, though, because just when the reader is lulled into complacency....there is a major twist and SO MUCH HAPPENS. I was expecting it, but I wasn't expecting THIS! Briar eventually sees that Noaz has darkness inside....but they get to their HEA and I melted. This book is on the longer side, but as usual with books from this author - I can't put them down! Can't wait for the next one!
December 28, 2024
Noaz has always wanted to find someone to love and start a family. It’s been the dream for a while now and they have been moving toward stepping away from their job to really settle down and do this. But finding someone who loves them for them is a little harder. Until Briar. Briar takes one look at Noaz and he knows that Noaz is who he has been waiting for. He knew as a kid he wanted someone to love and care for and have a family with. He’s dated in the past but no one seems to fit right. Not when they don’t understand the love he has for his friends who live with him. They are tighter than most friends and are his family. But Noaz. Noaz understands since their family is essentially the same. Together, they both find what they are finally looking for. It’s a dream come true and perhaps that is why they fear something is about to happen to their happily ever after. But once you are loved by a Van Doren, you gain a family willing to do anything for you and protect you. So when trouble finds them, Noaz and Briar have the best back up. I adored these two!! They were just the absolute sweetest and could not be more perfect for one another. Throw in the drama and vigilante-ness that are the Van Dorens and it just makes one hell of a combo for an interesting story. I couldn’t put this down and it just makes me more excited for more books to come out in this series.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2025
🩸 𝙽𝚘𝚊𝚣 🩸
𝚋𝚢 @creareitan
🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
4.75/5 ⭐️
1.5/5 🌶️
↓↓
OMG I loved these two so much.
Briar was the absolute sweetest and soo accepting, it made my heart melt for Noaz. He never had any doubts. The things that Briar would do for Noaz and to show them that they cared, was incredible. These two had a whirlwind and fast paced relationship in the beginning but they had such a strong connection, it was bound to happen, it just happened sooner rather than later.
My heart hurt for Noaz a little bit, to hear what they struggled with growing up with their gender and identity. It's such a real thing that people deal with and this was handled in such an incredible beautiful way to highlight the struggles and finding one's true self.
I WAS NOT expecting that twist. I was set on it being related to previous events in the book, but then when everything came out, my mouth was on the floor, SHOCKED!!
All of the Van Doren's are soooo interesting and intriguing. I can't wait for more in this series.
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
🩸Found Family
🩸Age Gap
🩸Bi-Awakening
🩸Non-Binary MC
🩸Instant Family
🩸Slow Burn
#Noaz #VanDorenSeries #CreaReitan #LGBTQIARomance #FoundFamily #NonBinaryMC #AgeGap #BiAwakening #InstantFamily #MMRomance #bookstagram #books #booklover #instagood #booknerd #bookworm #bookreview #romance #kindleunlimited
𝚋𝚢 @creareitan
🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
4.75/5 ⭐️
1.5/5 🌶️
↓↓
OMG I loved these two so much.
Briar was the absolute sweetest and soo accepting, it made my heart melt for Noaz. He never had any doubts. The things that Briar would do for Noaz and to show them that they cared, was incredible. These two had a whirlwind and fast paced relationship in the beginning but they had such a strong connection, it was bound to happen, it just happened sooner rather than later.
My heart hurt for Noaz a little bit, to hear what they struggled with growing up with their gender and identity. It's such a real thing that people deal with and this was handled in such an incredible beautiful way to highlight the struggles and finding one's true self.
I WAS NOT expecting that twist. I was set on it being related to previous events in the book, but then when everything came out, my mouth was on the floor, SHOCKED!!
All of the Van Doren's are soooo interesting and intriguing. I can't wait for more in this series.
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
🩸Found Family
🩸Age Gap
🩸Bi-Awakening
🩸Non-Binary MC
🩸Instant Family
🩸Slow Burn
#Noaz #VanDorenSeries #CreaReitan #LGBTQIARomance #FoundFamily #NonBinaryMC #AgeGap #BiAwakening #InstantFamily #MMRomance #bookstagram #books #booklover #instagood #booknerd #bookworm #bookreview #romance #kindleunlimited
Read
January 25, 2025NFM
Not rating because it wasn’t for me and a low rating may not be fair due to that
I was so excited for this book and have no idea what this thing is. I adored Loren. Absolutely loved it and rated five stars. The first chapter of this book fit along with the series. I was ready and invested. Then everything went sideways.
It was like a harlequin billionaire romance. It also has a love at first sight sort of theme. Except again it doesn’t make sense. They’ve not even said I love you and yet agree to get married. This story was so damn boring. Literally nothing happens until 79%. That’s so many pages of nothing. Again if this was marketed as syrupy sweet romance then it would fine. I would have skipped it. The first chapter was fine. The last 20% was good. But over 70% was just not good to me.
Did you know the family is rich? Don’t worry the author will describe it with so much detail over and over and over again. The estate was so over the top I couldn’t take it seriously. Main house was bigger than the White House. Eye roll.
Noaz referring to their genitals as a magic wand and elephant trunk and what not came off so immature. They were so concerned about not being accepted that they waited to have any form of sex until after marriage? It made no sense. I’m glad there is more representation of gender fluid characters but this was a fail for me personally.
Not rating because it wasn’t for me and a low rating may not be fair due to that
I was so excited for this book and have no idea what this thing is. I adored Loren. Absolutely loved it and rated five stars. The first chapter of this book fit along with the series. I was ready and invested. Then everything went sideways.
It was like a harlequin billionaire romance. It also has a love at first sight sort of theme. Except again it doesn’t make sense. They’ve not even said I love you and yet agree to get married. This story was so damn boring. Literally nothing happens until 79%. That’s so many pages of nothing. Again if this was marketed as syrupy sweet romance then it would fine. I would have skipped it. The first chapter was fine. The last 20% was good. But over 70% was just not good to me.
Did you know the family is rich? Don’t worry the author will describe it with so much detail over and over and over again. The estate was so over the top I couldn’t take it seriously. Main house was bigger than the White House. Eye roll.
Noaz referring to their genitals as a magic wand and elephant trunk and what not came off so immature. They were so concerned about not being accepted that they waited to have any form of sex until after marriage? It made no sense. I’m glad there is more representation of gender fluid characters but this was a fail for me personally.
February 1, 2025
MM🌈
Dark
Bi/fluid gender
Bi awakening
Instalove
Briar sees a beautiful woman out his window. He thinks it’s daddy Jalon’s new girlfriend. It turns out it is Uncle Noaz. Noaz is bi or fluid gendered. He lives dressing in feminine clothing but he loves his manly parts.
Noaz is getting tired of his job and is ready to hand over the rings to someone else. He is ready to settle down and start a family. Briar has been looking for his wife since he was six. When he goes over to introduce himself to “Jalon’s girlfriend”, he is pleasantly surprised with Noaz. Even though he has never been attracted to men, he instantly falls for Noaz.
They start dating. Then Noaz gets the call about being selected as the future recipient of an adopted baby. He has had his application in for five years and had given up hope he would be selected. He lets Briar know and they decide to get married and move everybody back to the Van Doren estate. There are enough houses for everybody.
The pregnant mom gets kidnapped, so the family swoops into the rescue, revealing some secrets Noaz wasn’t ready to reveal.
Still can’t wait for Avory and Ellory’s book!
I think the couple will be Brek and Voss, Haze and Imry, Levis and daddy Jalon or Kairo. 🤷🏼♀️ Or does one of them join Avory and Ellory?
Dark
Bi/fluid gender
Bi awakening
Instalove
Briar sees a beautiful woman out his window. He thinks it’s daddy Jalon’s new girlfriend. It turns out it is Uncle Noaz. Noaz is bi or fluid gendered. He lives dressing in feminine clothing but he loves his manly parts.
Noaz is getting tired of his job and is ready to hand over the rings to someone else. He is ready to settle down and start a family. Briar has been looking for his wife since he was six. When he goes over to introduce himself to “Jalon’s girlfriend”, he is pleasantly surprised with Noaz. Even though he has never been attracted to men, he instantly falls for Noaz.
They start dating. Then Noaz gets the call about being selected as the future recipient of an adopted baby. He has had his application in for five years and had given up hope he would be selected. He lets Briar know and they decide to get married and move everybody back to the Van Doren estate. There are enough houses for everybody.
The pregnant mom gets kidnapped, so the family swoops into the rescue, revealing some secrets Noaz wasn’t ready to reveal.
Still can’t wait for Avory and Ellory’s book!
I think the couple will be Brek and Voss, Haze and Imry, Levis and daddy Jalon or Kairo. 🤷🏼♀️ Or does one of them join Avory and Ellory?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2025
Wow, no me ha gustado nada este libro.
Cero desarrollo en la relación de los personajes, no se conocen siquiera y ya están casándose y esperando un hijo.
Noaz dice que el sexo es importante para elle, que ha estado con gente que le decía que sí y luego no quería tocarle por lo que había entre sus piernas, Y SE CASA CON BRIAR ANTES DE SABER SIQUIERA SI VA A QUERER TOCARLE LA POLLA. Es que Briar se casa DUDANDO de si va a echarse atras al tocarle. Y A NOAZ SE LA SUDA CUANDO DOS SEGUNDOS ANTES LE ESTABA EXPLICANDO QUE LE HABÍA PASADO TANTAS VECES QUE YA NO CONFIABA. Y POR QUÉ CONFIAS AHORA?????? A partir de aquí ya solo he visto fallos porque iba leyendo con negatividad total.
Ha sido un rollo, me ha costado terminarlo pero me he forzado porque quería leer los siguientes. Se pone un poco más interesante al final pero lo resuelven super fácil.
Me da mucha mucha rabia porque Noaz me encantaaaaaaaa. Y Briar es adorable. Pero no me han hecho sentir nada, no tenía ningún sentido lo que estaba pasando. Ambos llevan toda la vida soñando con tener una familia, con casarse, Y NI SIQUIERA QUIEREN PARTICIPAR EN PLANEAR SU BODA???? Es que no.
Imry, Ellory y Avory, os tengo fe para arreglar esto.
Cero desarrollo en la relación de los personajes, no se conocen siquiera y ya están casándose y esperando un hijo.
Noaz dice que el sexo es importante para elle, que ha estado con gente que le decía que sí y luego no quería tocarle por lo que había entre sus piernas, Y SE CASA CON BRIAR ANTES DE SABER SIQUIERA SI VA A QUERER TOCARLE LA POLLA. Es que Briar se casa DUDANDO de si va a echarse atras al tocarle. Y A NOAZ SE LA SUDA CUANDO DOS SEGUNDOS ANTES LE ESTABA EXPLICANDO QUE LE HABÍA PASADO TANTAS VECES QUE YA NO CONFIABA. Y POR QUÉ CONFIAS AHORA?????? A partir de aquí ya solo he visto fallos porque iba leyendo con negatividad total.
Ha sido un rollo, me ha costado terminarlo pero me he forzado porque quería leer los siguientes. Se pone un poco más interesante al final pero lo resuelven super fácil.
Me da mucha mucha rabia porque Noaz me encantaaaaaaaa. Y Briar es adorable. Pero no me han hecho sentir nada, no tenía ningún sentido lo que estaba pasando. Ambos llevan toda la vida soñando con tener una familia, con casarse, Y NI SIQUIERA QUIEREN PARTICIPAR EN PLANEAR SU BODA???? Es que no.
Imry, Ellory y Avory, os tengo fe para arreglar esto.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2025
I realised I had not read yet after rereading Loren, in preparation for Imry and Avory & Ellroy. You don't need to but I definitely recommend reading Loren before picking up this book, as a lot of the characters feature heavily in this book.
This book features Noaz, uncle to Loren, and supervises New York for Van Doren Enterprises. Noaz identifies as gender fluid and is ready for a change in their life, retiring and beginning a family. He visits his family in Arizona were he meets Briar, Oakley's friend, who is a kindred spirit and immediately taken with Noaz.
This is relationship focused, they have an instant connection and though their relationship moves quickly due to circumstances, it's quite low-spice as they learn about each other, they have such a beautiful bond and shared ideals.
Iloved the representation of Noaz as a non-binary person in the book and how respectful Briar was is getting to know them and accepting his own developing pansexuality.
The action and Noaz past job with the Van Doren clan happens towards the end of the story and I could not put the book down, needing to know what happens!
Highly recommend this series, such unique characters, and I adore the found family aspect between the Van Doren's and Oakley/Briar's friendship groups.
I'm ready for the next two books!
This book features Noaz, uncle to Loren, and supervises New York for Van Doren Enterprises. Noaz identifies as gender fluid and is ready for a change in their life, retiring and beginning a family. He visits his family in Arizona were he meets Briar, Oakley's friend, who is a kindred spirit and immediately taken with Noaz.
This is relationship focused, they have an instant connection and though their relationship moves quickly due to circumstances, it's quite low-spice as they learn about each other, they have such a beautiful bond and shared ideals.
Iloved the representation of Noaz as a non-binary person in the book and how respectful Briar was is getting to know them and accepting his own developing pansexuality.
The action and Noaz past job with the Van Doren clan happens towards the end of the story and I could not put the book down, needing to know what happens!
Highly recommend this series, such unique characters, and I adore the found family aspect between the Van Doren's and Oakley/Briar's friendship groups.
I'm ready for the next two books!
January 4, 2025
Briar is the sweetest man! as Oakley said "He’s the kind of love little girls and boys dream about." 😍
Noaz finds their soulmate in Briar, despite their poor luck with love and their ex-partners.
Since he was six years old, Briar has desired a family. He has dated in the past, but none of them seem to be a good fit, not accepting of his close relationships with his friends.
He is mesmerized when he sees a stunning woman at the Van Doren residence across the street. Only to discover that Uncle Noaz is the stunning woman in question. But this individual is his, regardless of gender.
Combine the Van Dorens' drama and vigilante nature, and it makes for an incredibly captivating story. This had no nonsense love, slow burn and low spice, but the sweetness and romance is just so yummy!
(The only draw back for me was that there are ALOT of names dropped in the 1st chapters and I found it hard to place everyone 🙈. I haven't read the 1st book in the series so not sure if that's why it felt like a lot.......but I will be going back to read Loren!)
Noaz finds their soulmate in Briar, despite their poor luck with love and their ex-partners.
Since he was six years old, Briar has desired a family. He has dated in the past, but none of them seem to be a good fit, not accepting of his close relationships with his friends.
He is mesmerized when he sees a stunning woman at the Van Doren residence across the street. Only to discover that Uncle Noaz is the stunning woman in question. But this individual is his, regardless of gender.
Combine the Van Dorens' drama and vigilante nature, and it makes for an incredibly captivating story. This had no nonsense love, slow burn and low spice, but the sweetness and romance is just so yummy!
(The only draw back for me was that there are ALOT of names dropped in the 1st chapters and I found it hard to place everyone 🙈. I haven't read the 1st book in the series so not sure if that's why it felt like a lot.......but I will be going back to read Loren!)
January 8, 2025
The Van Doren name is synonymous with blood and a wee bit of obsession. And wealth, don’t forget the wealth.
NOAZ is a Van Doren. His pronouns are she, him, and they. Not caring how people see the physical, just that they see the true person behind the words. Noaz loves and respects his family. Taking out the human trash is a family affair and Noaz willingly follows that tradition.
Briar just wants to give, and have, an all consuming love. From the moment he first set eyes on Noaz he was intrigued, entranced, and in awe of such a perfect person. His person. (Briar to Noaz) “You captured my attention the moment you existed in my world.”
Having read Loren, I was expecting a much darker story. This book (for the most part) was caring and tender. Their courtship was a (sugary) sweet slow burn that did turn very spicy.
It wasn’t really till almost the end of the book that the Van Doren’s came out to play. I enjoyed Noaz and Briar’s story, but I think I prefer the blood and guts version of the Van Doren’s better.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
NOAZ is a Van Doren. His pronouns are she, him, and they. Not caring how people see the physical, just that they see the true person behind the words. Noaz loves and respects his family. Taking out the human trash is a family affair and Noaz willingly follows that tradition.
Briar just wants to give, and have, an all consuming love. From the moment he first set eyes on Noaz he was intrigued, entranced, and in awe of such a perfect person. His person. (Briar to Noaz) “You captured my attention the moment you existed in my world.”
Having read Loren, I was expecting a much darker story. This book (for the most part) was caring and tender. Their courtship was a (sugary) sweet slow burn that did turn very spicy.
It wasn’t really till almost the end of the book that the Van Doren’s came out to play. I enjoyed Noaz and Briar’s story, but I think I prefer the blood and guts version of the Van Doren’s better.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
January 21, 2025
This is definitely one of the slower burn stories for the author, but the characters are as well-developed as any of the other stories and enjoyable to read about. Briar is one of Oakley's roommates and Noaz is one of the Van Doren's.
I actually adore Noaz, for an unaliver they are really sweet and thoughtful. Briar is not the roommate I was expecting in this book but I'm all for it. When he first meets Noaz, he thinks Noaz is one of the other Doren's girlfriends, even if he finds himself attracted to them from a distance. Briar is super accepting and as equally sweet as Noaz.
The spice is on the lower end of the scale for the majority of the book, but even then the touches and kisses are brilliant.
For me personally, it was a much slower read than other books by this author but the plot does have a slower pace as Noaz and Briar get to know each other. The action is mostly in the later part of the book and is a sudden change of pace from the sweet nature of the earlier parts.
Enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to seeing who is paired up next.
I actually adore Noaz, for an unaliver they are really sweet and thoughtful. Briar is not the roommate I was expecting in this book but I'm all for it. When he first meets Noaz, he thinks Noaz is one of the other Doren's girlfriends, even if he finds himself attracted to them from a distance. Briar is super accepting and as equally sweet as Noaz.
The spice is on the lower end of the scale for the majority of the book, but even then the touches and kisses are brilliant.
For me personally, it was a much slower read than other books by this author but the plot does have a slower pace as Noaz and Briar get to know each other. The action is mostly in the later part of the book and is a sudden change of pace from the sweet nature of the earlier parts.
Enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to seeing who is paired up next.
May 27, 2025
DNF. Got 42% of the way through and it’s just boring. There isn’t much in the way of plot and it’s just dragging. Loren, the previous novel, had some of the same plot issues but Loren, as a character, is a good and interesting enough to anchor the book and see you through. Sadly, Noaz and Briar are not. I like both of them. I just find them interesting enough to care about their happily ever after.
I was hoping the slowness of the first novel was due to set up. It wasn’t this book is just as slow. Which is a shame because some of the characters and the general set up of these novels are good. The lack is in the execution.
If you are looking for a dark romance, this is not really it. Most of the darkness is off screen and the characters are mostly presented on screen as family centric “nice” guys. If you are looking for a fluffy romance, not really it either because it’s tinged with just enough problematic themes to be off putting for those who just like the fluffy stuff.
I’d pass on this one.
I was hoping the slowness of the first novel was due to set up. It wasn’t this book is just as slow. Which is a shame because some of the characters and the general set up of these novels are good. The lack is in the execution.
If you are looking for a dark romance, this is not really it. Most of the darkness is off screen and the characters are mostly presented on screen as family centric “nice” guys. If you are looking for a fluffy romance, not really it either because it’s tinged with just enough problematic themes to be off putting for those who just like the fluffy stuff.
I’d pass on this one.
December 28, 2024
This had such a home vibe, a finding forever and no nonsense love for each other vibe. Noaz is so ready for the next step in his life, so ready that he is going to adopt on his own. He has the means and the want.
Briar has wanted the family since he was six. But every relationship failed due to his close bond with his friends. When he spots a beautiful woman across the street at the Van Doren household he is entranced. Only to find out that the beautiful woman is none other than Uncle Noaz. But he doesn’t care, man or woman, this person is his.
The biggest part of this book is slow and tame while fast in the relationship aspect. They build a solid bond and grow closer. All the action in the last 25% is 100% Van Doren and I loved it.
This family is amazing and I just need all their stories yesterday. I love the family and how they all care deeply for one another. They will stand by each other at every turn.
Briar has wanted the family since he was six. But every relationship failed due to his close bond with his friends. When he spots a beautiful woman across the street at the Van Doren household he is entranced. Only to find out that the beautiful woman is none other than Uncle Noaz. But he doesn’t care, man or woman, this person is his.
The biggest part of this book is slow and tame while fast in the relationship aspect. They build a solid bond and grow closer. All the action in the last 25% is 100% Van Doren and I loved it.
This family is amazing and I just need all their stories yesterday. I love the family and how they all care deeply for one another. They will stand by each other at every turn.
January 11, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Genre: M/M Romance
Format: E-Book
Series: Van Doren # 2
Character Development: 3.5/5
Plot: 3.5/5
Writing Style: 3/5
Spice Level: 1/5
Overall Rating: 4/5
Noaz is such a sweet human. I did not expect Briar to be the other MC of this book, but I was not disappointed. This one definitely gave us more insight into the Van Doren empire. It was a lot of world building for the series. However, it was also a very sweet romance between 2 lovely humans. In the end, we get a wee bit of murder that I've come to expect from the Van Doren's.
I can't wait to see how the rest of the books come along. ♥
Tropes:
• Slow burn
• First Times
• NB Character
• Swoony
• HEA
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
KU: Yes (Releasing 01/16/2025)
I received an advance review copy, and this is my honest review.
Genre: M/M Romance
Format: E-Book
Series: Van Doren # 2
Character Development: 3.5/5
Plot: 3.5/5
Writing Style: 3/5
Spice Level: 1/5
Overall Rating: 4/5
Noaz is such a sweet human. I did not expect Briar to be the other MC of this book, but I was not disappointed. This one definitely gave us more insight into the Van Doren empire. It was a lot of world building for the series. However, it was also a very sweet romance between 2 lovely humans. In the end, we get a wee bit of murder that I've come to expect from the Van Doren's.
I can't wait to see how the rest of the books come along. ♥
Tropes:
• Slow burn
• First Times
• NB Character
• Swoony
• HEA
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
KU: Yes (Releasing 01/16/2025)
I received an advance review copy, and this is my honest review.
January 16, 2025
The Van Doren family has a secret. On the surface, they appear to be wealthy businessmen, but their work often leaves them dealing with dirty deeds. Noaz has always known that life wouldn’t always be this way. One day, he dreamed, he’d have a family—partner or not. After making a wish upon the stars, Noaz’s dream suddenly begins to come true.
Briar would say it was love at first sight. However, at first, he thought Noaz was someone else’s girlfriend and, therefore, off-limits. Once Briar realized Noaz was available, he made it his mission to ensure Noaz knew exactly where they belonged—by Briar’s side. Nothing was going to keep them apart.
But when they receive a call from the adoption agency saying the pregnant mother of the baby they were in the process of adopting has gone missing, Briar discovers the truth about what the Van Doren family really does. Even that revelation isn’t enough to stop him from fighting for his happily ever after with Noaz and their child.
Briar would say it was love at first sight. However, at first, he thought Noaz was someone else’s girlfriend and, therefore, off-limits. Once Briar realized Noaz was available, he made it his mission to ensure Noaz knew exactly where they belonged—by Briar’s side. Nothing was going to keep them apart.
But when they receive a call from the adoption agency saying the pregnant mother of the baby they were in the process of adopting has gone missing, Briar discovers the truth about what the Van Doren family really does. Even that revelation isn’t enough to stop him from fighting for his happily ever after with Noaz and their child.
January 19, 2025
Oh all the swoony feels. Noaz and Briar were perfect for each other in every sense of the world. I think Briar is literally just the perfect book boyfriend I've read. This is an insta-attraction book, but their love for each other is shown throughout the book.
Noaz has literally been waiting his whole life for Briar. He wants to be loved and have a family. When Briar comes into the picture, he honestly thinks it's too good to be true. All of the characters start to intertwine more as Noaz and Briars plans get a tad fast tracked. I love the found family vibes in this series and how close Oakleys friends are with the Van Dorens.
One of the biggest things I love in this book however is how Noaz is so unapologetically himself. And Briar loves every part of him.
There is some darker parts of the book so do read your trigger warnings but everything works out in the end. And of course I love all the teasers about what's to come!
Noaz has literally been waiting his whole life for Briar. He wants to be loved and have a family. When Briar comes into the picture, he honestly thinks it's too good to be true. All of the characters start to intertwine more as Noaz and Briars plans get a tad fast tracked. I love the found family vibes in this series and how close Oakleys friends are with the Van Dorens.
One of the biggest things I love in this book however is how Noaz is so unapologetically himself. And Briar loves every part of him.
There is some darker parts of the book so do read your trigger warnings but everything works out in the end. And of course I love all the teasers about what's to come!
January 22, 2025
This is the second book in the Van Doren series and I absolutely love this family. They are so quirky and odd but in a good way. All they care about is making the world a better place and family is everything. This story follows uncle Noaz and Briar. Noaz isn't what you would expect from a tough killer. He's stunning and embraces his feminine side, however he is sure of his masculine side too. He is ready to leave the family business to have a family. Straight Briar has been watching Noaz from across the road and initially thought Noaz was a woman but he finally goes over to talk to Noaz. It's literally love at first sight. They start dating and they find out they both want to settle down. Although their romance is slow burn, it quickly get pushed forward when the adoption agency calls to let Noaz know he has been chosen to get a baby. They decide to get married and adopt together. It comes with some drama but it all ends well. I really loved reading this.
January 16, 2025
Briar has always dreamed of love and having his own family from the age of 6. He’s beginning to wonder if it’s ever going to happen for him. Until one day he lays eyes on the most beautiful person he has ever seen. He assumes it’s one of the Van Doren’s girlfriends.
Then we have Noaz that desperately wants to start his own family. He wants to have a parter and children and quit his clean-up job. You can’t raise children and come home with blood on your hands, now can you? It’s not that easy.
Briar is instantly attracted to Noaz. Noaz can’t believe their luck. Could Briar be his true love? Noaz is the sensitive one in the Van Doren bunch. Until his family is threatened then watch out. Pick up this book and immerse yourself in this entertaining world of the Van Doren’s. You won’t be disappointed!!
Then we have Noaz that desperately wants to start his own family. He wants to have a parter and children and quit his clean-up job. You can’t raise children and come home with blood on your hands, now can you? It’s not that easy.
Briar is instantly attracted to Noaz. Noaz can’t believe their luck. Could Briar be his true love? Noaz is the sensitive one in the Van Doren bunch. Until his family is threatened then watch out. Pick up this book and immerse yourself in this entertaining world of the Van Doren’s. You won’t be disappointed!!
January 17, 2025
I cannot say enough about Crea Reitan and her beautifully written books. She truly knows how to write amazing MM romances and Her Gender fluid character portrayals are truly betrayed amazingly. Noaz has always wanted a family and to settle down and feeling like it will never happen. Briar has always pictured having a wife and kids and his future, Until one day he sees the most beautiful person standing outside the Van Doren house. This book has a fast pace and the journey Noaz and Briar take was perfect. Their relationship moved fast but I loved how loving, caring and swoon worthy Briar was in showing Noaz what love really is. Together they truly find what they both have been dreaming for and it was so magical to read. We also get a mystery since it is a Van Doren book but it all was fantastic and exciting to read. I was given this book as an ARC for my honest review.
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