Red Lined

For Puck's Sake #12

by Crea Reitan

Coming Soon!

Genres: M M Romance, Hockey, Romance, Sports Romance, LGBT, Sports, Queer

371 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 12, 2025

About the author

Crea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. When she can't fall asleep at night, she thinks up new scenes for her characters to act out. This, of course, is how most of her meant-to-be-thrown-away characters tend to end up front and center - and utterly swoon-worthy! Don't ask her how many book boyfriends she has...

When not writing, Crea is an avid reader. Her TBR pile is several hundred books high (don't even look at her kindle wish list or the unread books on her tablet). Sometimes, she enjoys crafting; sometimes, exploring nature; sometimes, traveling. Mostly, she enjoys putting her characters on paper and breathing life into them. Oh, and sleeping. Crea loves to sleep!

Reviews

[Dani · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5
I'm going to start by saying that I love how Crea has so much Ace representation in her stories and how fierce she is about it. As someone who is Ace, it's really nice to see! But now my review is going to be kinda mean because I didn't like this book at all and I'm shocked that it was so lacklustre compared to the other books I've read (and I've read all but three MM books Crea has written now!)

First up, this book should have been called Flatlined. These MCs are SO incredibly uninteresting, lifeless and honestly quite aggravating. I do love a slow burn, but I need to see the couple getting to know each other during that journey, and we just didn't get that. We had Julian's life and Arush's life and they didn't really merge. They felt like two roommates who didn't really know each other and neither did they make any real effort to get to know each other. Weirdest forced proximity ever.

We see Julian basically going about his life as he always has done. He wanted a mail order spouse so he wouldn't be lonely when he was at home...honestly he should have gotten a pet or a blow up doll instead. I ended up really disliking Julian and thinking he was a self-centred prick. He treats Arush like a body pillow, not the man he wants to spend his life with. I get that he learnt to cook Indian food for Arush, and he does take him on a couple of sweet dates, but it's almost like Arush is a doll that he just picks up and puts down around his hockey schedule - the only positive Julian states about Arush is that he's cool with Julian being Ace... He introduces Arush to everyone as his friend throughout the whole book, and doesn't even realise how hurtful that is! He is not in tune with Arush at all and it was really frustrating because I wanted to shout at him for being so up his own arse he could taste his tonsils!!! By the end of the book I knew more about their 13 year old neighbour than I did about either MC too.

Arush wasn't much better though in all fairness. He refused to have a conversation that was even slightly confrontational and chose to instead sit and wallow in his hurt feelings, and he hid his dissatisfaction from his friends, family and Julian. Internally we know he's pissed at Julian for always introducing him as his friend, or inviting him to things almost like an afterthought, but he won't say anything!!! So, it was hard to sympathise with him because he put himself into that situation and didn't want to put in the effort to find a solution.

Julian's actions when Arush had to go back to India for a family emergency were the final nail in the coffin for me. It was inconsiderate, ridiculous and just plain cruel. To top it off, he doesn't even apologise properly!!! There's absolutely no real discussion or conversation and I was ready to rage quit.

AND THEN they get married OFF PAGE????!!!!! The whole plot of the book is that Arush is a mail order spouse, and we don't even get to see the wedding?? I don't even like weddings but they have it in India and I was SO looking forward to it because Indian celebrations are just epic, but NOTHING!!!! I live in a town with both a Hindu temple and a Sikh temple and their celebrations are STUNNING, but we get nothing...it just skips ahead to after and cements this book as my absolute least favourite in the Creaverse. These are things that should be in the actual book because they're the actual plot and not bonus scenes potentially behind a paywall.

There was way too much hockey in this book (yes it's a hockey romance but this was way more hockey than is usually included and it was extremely repetitive), way too many rants and over explanations about sexualities, identities, cultures and political views, and just not enough relationship development. I was so excited to see another Ace relationship focused on really building a deep emotional connection between the MCs, but it never happened.

The only exciting thing to happen is that Julian moves into Noah's old house and Ibis (the neighbour) gets a mention! I literally squealed when I saw his name, but he doesn't appear so that was the final let down...

[The Naughty Booknook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crea Reitan pens a heartwarming love story that showcases the beauty of a connection built on mutual respect, trust, and emotional intimacy. This uplifting tale is a testament to the power of true love, reminding readers that relationships can flourish without physical attraction being the primary focus.

When Julian encounters Arush, he's surprised but intrigued, and as he gets to know him, he discovers Arush possesses all the qualities he's ever sought in a partner. Arush's kind heart and gentle soul make him the ideal recipient of Julian's love, and their bond grows into something truly remarkable.

[Noa Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I’m definitely happy to watch. Even if it doesn’t appear that way physically." - Julian

"It doesn’t matter how deeply someone hurts me, trying to find the strength to demand a reason or tell them how I feel is far too big." - Arush

Julian and Arush are both Ace, and I really love that they felt safe and comfortable around each other very quickly because they knew that they didn't want to have spicy time. Everyone has different needs, and I'm glad that it matches between them. They really are a perfect match, a dream relationship. Arush is from India, and Julian learned how to make Indian food to make Arush feel seen. That was really sweet and thoughtful of him.

When Julian was away for work, Arush was spending time with their neighbors in the condo building. That was a lot of fun to read; they are all sweet and all have different personalities. The neighbors care a lot about each other. Arush has a hard time telling Julian what he thinks, he is scared of confrontation. That was relatable and realistic. Eventually they started working on that as well. Arush his dad is very sweet and I'm glad that Arush has a close connection with his family and friends. Arush his family is very open-minded and just want their children to be happy in life (that is how you are supposed to love your children!) his dad has his back and that was very clear in the end of the book. It was very beautiful how different cultures come together because of love.

"Every single time I’m in his arms, I realize how desperately I’ve wanted to be held." - Julian

"I don’t want to go home. I chose you too, Julian." - Arush

I really love that Crea Reitan writes about a lot of different kinds of relationships and ways to show love in her books, to make people/reader feel seen and heard but it's also a way to learn more about other people. This books talkes a lot about important subjects.

I received an ARC copy of this book.

[☠︎︎༒︎✞︎ ѕℓιм ☠︎︎༒︎✞︎ · Rating 3 out of 5]

cute

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

***Spoilers here and there***

I can say this book was interesting I enjoyed enough to read it. I’ll give it a 3 star in my opinion. It was slow burn for me like usual with most of the books in this series. Not all though.

I liked Julian and Arush together. I was glad when Arush dad accepted them together. I was about to give me opinion on the new person his dad was going to give him. Until I saw it was actually Julian. I was ahhh don’t be doing them like that.. but in the end Jules got his mad back . Because when Arush left and went to India I was about to say boy if you don’t go and get your man…

[Caroline Forrester · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

[Mal · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️I was excited for the premise of this book and boy did the author deliver. Both characters are sweet, loveable and really know themselves, there is figuring out but more from how they’ll work together since Julian was expecting something a little different when waiting for Aarush at the airport. I thought that whole journey was sweet. The author has written their story beautifully, almost protectively, the world they are in, the found family they have is a lovely accepting place for the most part. I loved how their relationship develops, how they find their rhythm and their rituals and their deepening connection, I love how much trust they go into this with, love the caring gestures, an absolutely lovely read.

[Hannah Richards · Rating 2 out of 5]

Missed the Mark

I think these stories started out incredibly well, but as the series has gone on, they have started to read as more of a Wikipedia article for the sexuality she decided to educate us all on, and less like a realistic and interesting story. The first few books were amazing, but the last few have been overly long, unnecessarily detailed, and, much like the lecture at the beginning of this book, felt more like a lecture than an interesting novel. Crea is so talented, but it feels like this series has lost its spark.

[Viki · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book was fine, I just feel like it lacked some kind of spark to take it from average to something more - and no, Reitan, it wasn't the sex. The asexual part was actually my favourite.

I was just a bit bored. The idea of ordering a husband (thinking you're ordering a wife, no less) sounds scandalous and old-fashioned (America is not the wild west anymore) and a bit risque but it turned out pretty... meh. To make it kinda high-class, maybe, or maybe just because the story was supposed to be carried by other elements but I just did not feel excited to read/return to the story. The culture was mostly about the hockey player cooking indian food and the expectations surrounding wedding/marriage (I didn't need more but I felt like that didn't add that much flavour to the slow-paced but always sweet falling in love). The worst thing that happened (the conflict of the story) was the hockey player (I already forgot his name, cause I am me) being pretty insensitive in a clueless way. There was "some" "excitement" at the end but that was the 3rd act break-up part so that doesn't count.

Mostly, it was just so... bland. The hockey is not my favourite and it was interesting to see such a "bad"-ly playing team but again, it was fine. The random people in his bulding were fine. Arush being interested in space was fine but his lack of activity was worse than his understandable (even if frustrating) conflict avoidance. He was from a loving, well-off family and then he became a mail order bride and he just walked around the house like a lost puppy. I can't decide if it would be better if he at least tried to do the hetero-normative wife things and cooked and cleaned. Like, on one side, no, please, but at least it would be something to do? He was thinking about college and it did give him a chance to meet other residents - the side characters were really trying to make things interesting and it just didn't work on me. Mostly, his lack of activity felt like lack of personality; he was too focused on absorbing hockey and missing Julian (omg, that's his name!) and his characters just added to that feeling of blandness.

I am not ranting about the asexual part, Reitan did that too much already inside and "outside" the book, but I did not walk a mile in her shoes so maybe she has Trauma to explain how passionate she is (though I am also a childless, partner-less woman of 28 so my experience should be similar). There was one "spicy" scene and honestly, I wish it wasn't there? I think I felt the same with Adak, like Reitan wanted to not be sex-centric and her inclusion of such scene negated that for me. Yes, every ace person has their own standards and preferences but I have read books where sex is not included or it's very poetic-metaphorical or fade-to-black so the fact she now made two ace books and both had someone get the O on page? It's probably a me preference but her talking so much about how okay it is to be ace and how people should stop judging and she is going to speak her mind and do her own thing just to "pander" to the sex-positive audience with at least one scene (and more scenes that didn't make it here?). Why?

I am definitely following the series still, I already said not all Reitan books click with me and that's okay, she has enough to find the ones I really like and enjoy the more average-like in the meantime.

[BooksBooksandmoreBooks69 · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Red Lined" is a great addition to the "For Puck's Sake" series, exploring the intricacies of love, cultural expectations, and personal growth.

The story revolves around Julian and Arush, two characters navigating their desires against societal pressures and familial obligations.

Julian's character was interesting, with his introspective nature, revealing a yearning for a genuine connection. His decision to seek a mail-order bride stems from a quest for comfort and understanding.
The way he grapples with emotions when Arush unexpectedly departs creates a compelling tension that drives the story forward. He's an absolute sweetheart who I'd been curious about since “Final Breakaway”, so I’m really happy he got his story.

Despite his initial shock at not getting a mail order bride, rather a “male order one”, Julian takes it all in his stride and steps up. He does everything he can to make Arush feel comfortable. He learns to cook the dishes Arush likes and learns about his culture. Arush in turn throws himself into supporting Julian in his life (hockey) he learns all about it. These two were just so cute together. 🥰
But my heart just melts when Arush would wait at the door for Julian to come home “sigh”.

Arush, on the other hand, embarks on a journey that initially seems straightforward. His agreement to find a husband to thwart his father's plans sets the stage for a cross cultural exploration of love. However, his experience emphasizes the complexity of falling in love, challenging initial assumptions and revealing the depth of emotions that develop over time.

The plot takes a poignant turn with the unexpected car accident involving Arush's sister, leading to a heart wrenching choice between personal desires and familial duty. This emotional conflict adds depth to the storyline. Let me tell you, I was crying buckets!

Crea Reitan skillfully crafts a story filled with rich character development and vivid settings. The writing strikes a balance between humor, longing, and tension, making it a captivating read.

Overall, "Red Lined" is a heartfelt exploration of love's complexities, cultural obligations, and the journey of self discovery. It resonates with anyone who has ever faced the challenge of balancing personal happiness with the expectations of family and society.

This is a low spice book, it focuses on emotional development rather than the bedroom activities, but because it’s such a beautiful story, I didn’t miss nor need those scenes.

This book is a must-read for fans of contemporary romance who appreciate layered storytelling and diverse perspectives.

After “Shiver”, this one has been one a favourite that I’m going to be reading again and again.

🦋

[Sarah Coggins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed every one of the Crea Reitan books that I have read so far and this one was no exception! This is only my second read of the For Puck’s Sake series but I absolutely loved it and it’s now currently on my list of favourite’s.

Julian wants the type of connection that all his friends seem to have with their partners but being Asexual he’s struggled to find someone that wants the same as him and is willing to except him just the way he is. That’s until he comes across Arush’s online profile and is confident he’s found what he’s been waiting for, but when they meet, Arush is not quite ‘The wife!’ Julian expected.

I adored Julian and Arush! Even though things don’t quite go to plan, I love how Julian doesn’t let it phase him, he’s determined to give the connection between them a chance and does what he can to make Arush feel comfortable. The things he did to make Arush feel more at home was so freaking thoughtful, when he attempted to learn about his culture and to make the Indian dishes Arush was used to…Swoon!
I really felt for Arush, the moment in the airport when he realises the error Julian’s made and the emotions that instantly hit him was heartbreaking, especially when he says to Julian “Are you going to return me?” and “Just so you know, I’m still the same person you chose” The way he is determined to show Julian who he actually is by the little things he also does, like meeting him at the door each day and learning about hockey, makes his character equally as special. The two of them are completely and utterly cute together and even though there is a bit of miscommunication between them at first, the journey they go on to build a relationship they both yearn for is just heartwarming.

I do love a bit of spice and Crea Reitan definitely writes it well, but the small amount we got in this story made absolute perfect sense and I can honestly say I didn’t miss it. Instead the main focus of this story was based around Arush and Julian’s building friendship and the exploring of their emotional connection and intimacy, it was so beautifully written and full of emotion, it definitely had me pulled in deep from beginning to end and was absolutely worth the read!

Another thing I love about Crea’s books is the notes section we get at the beginning of all of them, they get me every time and this one was one of the best! I definitely recommend reading it before starting this book.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

•Rating: 5 / 5
•Spice Rating: 1 / 5
•Emotion Level: 3 / 5

•Pace: Slow
•Plot or character driven: Character
•Strong character development: Yes
•Loveable characters: Yes
•Diverse cast of characters: Yes
•Flaws of characters a main focus: Not Particularly

•What to expect:
A sweet set of men who just want to love and be loved exactly as they are without compromising on things that really matter, like their body and what they do with them.

•With these tags:
mail order spouse
surprise!
asexual MCs
hockey
affection hunger
toys over touch
condo of colorful neighbors
found family
maybe he's oblivious
I messed up
sweet
miscommunication
slow burn, light heat

•TW/CW for:
none that I can think of!

•BOOK REVIEW:
Crea is one of my favorite authors for a very important reason: they tell the stories and give a voice to those who need their stories told just as much as everyone else. Unapologetically themself, and they make that known, and tell stories of those from all walks of life (even if a lot of their stories revolve around hockey 😉) they still make a point to tell vastly different stories with a different voice for every character they bring to life.

We get Julian's story here, the sweet, lonely man, who went along on a cake tasting with his friends for their wedding just because he showed up on their doorstep needing friends. After his trade to Chicago, though he'd been there before, he finds himself lonely once more, without the familiarity of the team that felt like family, not friends. A simple movie sets him on a course to solve this, a mail-order bride.

Arush, living in India, also wants to escape his loneliness. He also wants to fast track escaping from an arranged marriage, and move somewhere he can be free to actually marry his special someone legally. A website later and this is where magic happens, right?

Well yes, and no. Arush isn't quite the bride Julian was expecting, though Julian was exactly what Arush was hoping for. Trial and error lead them to trying it out anyway, and… it works!

A funny and diverse cast of characters bring this love story to life, with extra friendly neighbors, friends that are more like family, a home with a view, and some trust and effort it all comes together in the end. They're another couple who will give you cavities with just how sweet they are, and the romance never stops.

[CharlotteAtena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omagad, what a story. What a gem of a story.

What did I expect going into this book? Well, I don't know because I went into it blindly. I just picked it up and waited to see where the story was taking me, and I don’t regret even a single thing. Best decisions.

This is the story of Julian and Arush, the story of two people who struggle to find love in a world that is not inclusive for them. It's a story about finding yourself looking around you and feeling like there is a problem for being different for not accepting the way things are. What a load of... The problem was not them, I can guarantee you that. They were not the ones that needed to change. It was the world around them that needed to accommodate them as well. These two are so special, so precious and amazing. I LOVE THEM.

This is the first book I've read with ACE representation, and while I enjoy reading my smut, reading about people falling in love, and love freely and on their own terms was a breath of fresh air. I LOVE love. I LOVE reading about people falling in love and about people living their lives on their own terms. Love also looks different for each and every one of us, and being able to live your truth instead of subjecting yourself to the expectations of society is something we should all be doing.

What I love the most about Crea's books is how she always finds a way to educate people on different topics while reading about two people falling in love. She has a way of making reading romance an experience from which you leave with a better understanding of the differences between people, cultures, races, and life in general. This book was no exception.

Arush & Julian met in a peculiar way, but the way we got a front row seat to their love blooming, them falling in love and all that was heartwarming. Reading about them made me realize that I'm not so far off when I say that there truly is someone out there for everyone. We just have to be patient and never compromise. Never accept less than what we deserve, because what's ours will always find us. Sooner or later, but it will.

I hope we'll get to see more of these two lovelies in the future books Crea has in store for us in this amazing universe because I know for a fact I will miss them.

5 stars, 10 stars, these are not enough. All the stars out there for my precious boys. Always.

[KS · Rating 4 out of 5]

First I'll start by saying I love Creas writing, they have a way of making you feel and this was no different.

The representation of Asexual in this book was so refreshing especially in the way it didnt waver and or conform to other social constructs but stayed true to it.

Honestly Crea had sold me on this book just in the notes section at the begining of the book.

"If you think it’s impossible for someone to love an asexaul person the way they are - then DO NOT READ MY BOOKS. None of my books. You are not my audience. I do not write for you. I do not want your support. Furthermore, you can just f***k all the way off."
*clap clap* amen 🙏

Okay anyway, got side tracked back to the review.
This was such a beautiful book about finding solitude within someone without the pretense or pressure of what society deems as intimacy... of complete understanding and unwavering love and support from your partner.

Touch starved Jullian meets insecure Asure on a mission to find love and have the life he wouldnt be able to have back home. What started as shock encounter for one and uncomfortable for the other would turn into such a touching story about finding someone who irrevocably fits into your life like they were simply made for you.

The effort and love jullian put into understanding and making Asure felt comfortable in his hom and life, by bringing a india to him, with learning how to cook their cusines and understand aspects of his heritage... while Asure attempted to learned hockey, however terribly that went at first and the way he would always be waiting at the door for Jullian when he got home.. *swoon*

The effort and time put into the fundamentals of each others backgrounds and lifestyle were my highlights throughout out this book. Showcasing how a simple gesture however small or tediously can be everything to another person.

"My stomach flutters at the thought and I wonder if he’ll ever stop waiting for me at the door. I hope not."

This is a slow burn, low heat but absolutely stunning. With a hilarious attempt to learn hockey, colourful neighours and a love so pretty I wanted to hold them myself, would happily read another book about these two.

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Julian has watched a lot of his close friends lately find the the love of their lives. Being traded so often and coming home to no one has really taken a toll on him over the years. Add in his sexuality of being asexual, it makes it harder for him to find the right partner. He doesn’t want to be lonely. He wants someone to come home to and make a life with. So when he comes across a way to find someone, he takes a chance. But it isn’t until Arush arrives from India does he realize that his mail order bride is actually a man. Guess he should have read more carefully, huh? But the thing is, he isn’t disappointed. Especially when he gets to know Arush. They are compatible in the most important of ways. Now Julian just has to figure how to navigate a meaningful relationship. All he knows, he doesn’t want to let go of Arush. Arush knew he wanted to find a husband to build a home with, but it hasn’t been easy. Like Julian, he has his own feelings and preferences when it comes to his sexuality and finding someone to complement that is difficult. Until he comes across Julian’s profile. Could he have found the perfect man? Maybe, except he can’t help by doubt it when he sees Julian’s surprised face. But the more they spend time together, the harder Arush falls and he can’t help but wonder, if this will work out. Because he isn���t ready to say goodbye to Julian. These two were so sweet! Their relationship took this slow and steady pace despite the fact that they found one another online with the intent to get married soon. It was sweet to watch them fall in love and despite both of them having some trouble with communication, they did alright in the end! I loved Arush’s supportive family and getting to see Julian’s friends. Such a fun story overall! And I can’t wait for more!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

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

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

I am genuinely so in love with Julian and Arush's love story. It's unconventional, for sure (though let's face it, we've all been there reading something completely wrong on the internet when we've been excited), but the way these two built on what started as an error was so beautifully written as it unfolded; honestly one of the sweetest love stories I've read in a long time - and proof that there is someone out there for everyone.

From the beginning, I really felt for Julian. Whilst not being ace myself, I understand exactly what he was going through when he made that fated google search, and I absolutely love that he managed to find Arush. Yes, the beginning was rocky, but the fundamentals were there, and I adored how Julian ended up not caring that Arush was another man; that compatibility and emotions would win out in the end. He's an absolute sweetheart who I'd been curious about since Final Breakaway, and his story was 1000% worth it.

I loved Arush. You could tell Reitan put her time and research and sensitivity readers into developing his character. He's such a loving man who just wants to fall in love and have his happily ever after. He tries to do little things for Julian, and the moment he gave him the bear-hug in the entryway to the apartment? That's when I knew we (Julian and I) were done for. Throw in his escapades with Julian's neighbours (a meddling older woman who has to know everything happening in the building, a gifted child who makes up her own language that Arush falls naturally into, two male "roommates" who you just *know* are more) and he's really welcomed into a wider found family.

This is a low spice book; it focuses on emotional development, romance and asexual characters. But it's so beautifully written that you don't miss the spice - if anything, the emotional connection makes it hotter.

Another fantastic read from Reitan in her hockey universe; I say it every time - I can't wait for the next book because they only get better and better.
 
Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.

[lmreadsromance · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

I finished Red Lined by @creareitan and it was a beautiful edition to the Crea universe.

Julian, who we met in the previous book, played hockey for Arizona and was traded to Chicago. He wanted nothing more than to have the kind a connection his friends had with their person, being asexual, he wanted to find someone similar.
He decided to mail order a spouse, he finds a perfect match on paper in Arush, who leaves India to join Julian in Chicago. Julian has a shock when Arush arrives, and discovers he is a he! While Jillian identifies as asexual, he always viewed himself as straight and he really took the time to look into himself and see if that was the case.

I absolutely adored both Arush and Julian, they were both such gentle, kind and considerate characters. They were both so lonely in their own ways and they were so hesitant to share their feelings and thoughts with each other, resulting in some miscommunication and labels used to define their relationship.

I loved the way their relationship developed gradually and how they respected each other and their differences even though they both identified as asexual. This a slow burn romance, with little to no spice, though I loved their affection and the touch they craved from each other.

I absolutely loved the side characters in Julian’s apartment building and the relationships that they developed with Arush. I loved Julian’s relationship with his former teammates and the found family. I also adored the relationship that Arush had with his family and friends and how they kept in touch and watched hockey with him.

I love this world and I’ll eagerly await the next book!

[Naurarwen]

I'm pretty sure I express my love for the author, Crea Reitan every time I read one of their books, but that's because I adore their writing and their characters and the way that stories interconnect with little cameos from either characters we have met in the past, or even sometimes a small hint of who we will see next.

The author has it down when it comes to being able to write a low-spice story that keeps me turning the pages no matter what. Julian and Arush are perfect for each other, and they don't even know it. I honestly feel bad for Julian at the beginning of the story, he is watching all of his friends get together with their partners, and being generally comfortable in their relationships, but Julian has never had that. Every partner he has had has tried to change him, to make him into someone he isn't, and all he wants is to find his special someone.

Julian takes a chance and finds someone he thinks he can spend his life with, but there are a few surprises when Arush finally arrives from India. The two may start as strangers, but they become so much more in the end, and it was beautiful to read their emotional journey and see that exact moment when Julian realises that Arush is the one for him.

Another fantastic read from the author, and I look forward to their next story.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

So, it confused me that one of Arush's big things was that he wanted to be legally married, which isn't allowed in India, but then he and Julian end up having their wedding there and are considering themselves to be husbands afterwards. Okay, fine, they can still have a legal ceremony in America later and still consider themselves to be married before that happens. But when they're moving into their new house in Florida and Julian surprises him with a second ceremony with his family and their American friends in attendance, there's no clear indication that this is also their legal ceremony. I mean, I don't know the marriage license rules in Florida, so maybe Julian could have gotten one without Arush's signature and their second wedding is also a legal ceremony. I know the author was totally ignoring all the legal red tape that would arise when trying to marry someone from a different country who is moving to yours, so maybe she was also ignoring the marriage license issues that would have also existed from them being such brand new residents of Florida. Which is fine, totally ignore real life rules in a fictional story, but when a character makes it known that a legal marriage is important to him, don't leave it out even if it's just a brief scene of them visiting a courthouse to sign papers at some point.

[Lizzy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have loved every book in this series already but for me this one took it to another level.
Let me start by saying that when Crea Reitan writes spice it is always top tier, but with this story it was the absence of it that made it so amazing.
I’m not sure I’ve ever felt so seen by a book before. Arush’s anxiety around confrontation felt very familiar to me and Julian’s feeling on intimacy aligned pretty well with my own.
‘Sex looks fun, but I’d much rather watch than be a part of it.’

Now of course I loved this because I was able to identify with the characters but I also think it’s really special that this author is out there giving such great representation to all the different ways of living your authentic life. Be it Ace, Demi, Poly or any of a number of different sexual identities they are all treated with respect and you can see the time taken to research and understand each of them.

Yes this book is very light on the spice but I’m sure you can imagine that makes sense in a novel about two Ace men. The little there was felt perfect and not at all like it had been crowbarred into the story just to keep the reader happy.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story of two sweet men falling gently in love with each other.

[Dodibook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Red Lined is another gem in the LGBTQIA+ romance world. Julian and Arush are both looking for something real—someone to come home to, to feel safe with. Even though this is a low spice book, I didn’t miss any of it. Their emotional connection is what makes this story so strong.

Julian is searching for love, but not in the typical way. He wants emotional safety, someone to care for and be cared by. I’ve been curious about him since Final Breakaway, and I’m so happy he got his moment. His journey starts with a mail-order bride mishap, but what he gets is exactly what he needs—Arush.

Arush is trying to escape family pressure and chooses a husband instead of a wife. It could’ve gone badly, but from the start, you feel the potential between them. Arush is kind, a bit shy, and just wants to build a life where he can be himself. And together, they do that—step by step.

They match in the best ways. Julian doesn’t like sex. Arush doesn’t like being touched that way. But they still build this soft, beautiful connection through cuddles, shared meals, and showing up for each other. The little things—Julian learning to cook Indian food, Arush learning about hockey—just made it all feel so real.

The neighbors in their building added a fun found-family vibe, and Arush fitting into that group made me smile. But the story also hits hard emotionally, especially when Arush’s sister gets in an accident. It forces them both to choose between family expectations and what they really want.

Crea Reitan always writes with so much heart. This is the kind of book that makes you feel seen. It’s about respect, communication, and building something meaningful—even when it doesn’t follow the usual romance rules. And I love that.

🅡🅐🅣🅘🅝🅖
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5

🅢🅟🅘🅒🅔
0.5🌶️

🅣🅡🅞🅟🅔🅢
🏒MM
🍽️Bi-Awakening
🏒Asexual Rep
🍽️Strangers to Lovers
🏒Hockey
🍽️Friends to Lovers

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

Crea has done it again absolutely nailed it. This book was everything I didn’t know I needed. A male (oops, mail) order bride gone sideways, with an important reminder: always double-check the website before committing or maybe your subconscious knows exactly what you need better than you do.

This isn’t your typical romance packed with spice. In fact, there is none and that’s what makes it so powerful. This is an asexual love story built on emotional intimacy, connection, and understanding. And wow, does it hit deep.

Crea brings her signature magic here: meaningful bonds, found family, banter that had me grinning, and characters on a journey of self-discovery. Sure, there’s a bit of a communication gap between the MMCs, but it only adds to the slow burn tension.

If you're looking for a beautifully written story that explores love beyond the physical, filled with heart, humour, and real depth this one’s for you. Red Lined is a quiet kind of brilliance, and absolutely worth the read.

[Richelle Zirkle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I fell so hard for both Julian and Arush. Julian gave himself a bit of a surprise when he ordered a ‘male-ordered spouse’ and yet he was matched with someone who had the exact qualities he valued. They each want respect, emotional bonds, and connection/quality time. Given that time, they develop trust and a deeper understanding of one another and each other’s needs. Julian is a respectful, thoughtful partner who would do anything to make Arush feel comfortable and at home, and Arush has a big heart and wants to make their home a place of comfort and peace—a retreat for them both. I loved the condo community and Arush’s friends and family who all played a big part whether in person or via video calls. It helped show the blending of cultures and the process these two worked through to get to their HEA. Even though this is very low steam, it is a story that shows the importance of connection and standing strong in your boundaries and respecting yourself and your needs. I loved that each man got exactly what he needed in a partner and found a way to communicate those things.

[Jeanette Buck · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 12th book in this hockey series and I love how different they all are and dealing with different issues, however they are all stand alone but I have loved all the stories. In this story we meet hockey player Julian and Indian Arush. Julian is asexual and Arush doesn't like being touched sexually by other people. Julian is desperate for a partner and companion and signs up to a "mail order marriage" service and starts talking to Arush and they both feel a connection and starts planning Arush arrival to the US but Julian has completely missed the fact that it was a male service and Arush is clearly a man. Although Julian has always thought he was straight he isn't dismissive of the idea of being with Arush. But it is a tricky start for them but Arush settles in well but Julian still hasn't committed to Arush. When Arush has to rush back to India, he doesn't know if they still have a future but Julian realises how much he misses Arush though. I thought it was a very heartwarming story.

[Miruru Shouting · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a different type of romance story with two strangers on the asexual spectrum. Due to a misunderstanding and awkward mistake, Julian got a "male" order spouse instead of a "mail" order spouse.

Arush and Julian tried to make the best of the situation and try to make things work, since they ultimately decide that they both still like each other's qualities and most importantly, that they understand each other about being asexual. The romance part of trying to fall in love is slow because Julian had always thought he was straight. There is no insta-love and both have to navigate the awkward result of Julian's snafu.

A slower and more careful type of romance and falling-in-love journey, and I quite enjoyed it. Especially loved that both Julian and Arush had wonderful parents and families that accepted them for who they are and who they chose to be with. Kinda wished the ending epilogue was longer to see Julian's reactions to meeting Arush, and to see Julian's friends' reactions to finally being introduced as his boyfriend/husband instead of just "friend" even if they kinda knew already.

[bookingcrazzyy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This plot line was new for me and not something I’ve really read before. But the author really knocked it out of the park.

Arush is looking for a better life for himself outside of his home. He has to find a husband for himself or his father will pick one for him and he'll be stuck in his home country. These two do not have the best first meeting, and they both have different reactions to it.

This love story was beautiful and perfect. Julian was the perfect book boyfriend. He knew exactly what Arush needed and went out of his way to make him comfortable in his world.

I also loved how Arush's home country wasn’t lost in this story, and Julian made sure to bring his culture into their life and relationship.

This book does follow an asexual couple and it was beautiful to watch them fall in love without the spice.

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

[Stacey Foss · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was just a joy to read. The emotions that these two had to go through while they struggled to find someone who accepted them for who they are was sad. Julian was tired of coming home to an empty apartment just wanted someone who was there for him. Arush struggled finding someone who just understood him. When these two connected online they found the one who truly was meant for each other. While it was a shock to Julian at first that Arush was a man that soon disappeared, and he discovered that Arush was his soul mate. I loved how they each had adjustments to being together while figuring life out as well as how they each tried to make each other feel accepted. This book was beautifully written and full of emotion. The characters Develpoment and growth was realistic and relatable. Another amazing read. I was given this book as an ARC for my honest review.

[Mayra Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Red Lined (For Puck's Sake Book 12) by Crea Reitan
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
My poor heart, Red Lined has become one of my favorite reads. I comp;etetly loved this amazing story. Julian and Arush are just such sweaties. I love this read because you see the love,and passion between the main characters in a different way. We get to see how much they care for one another in the way they treat each other, understand each other's likes/dislikes, and also in how both try to make things work. Crea did such a wonderful job in creating a story that a lot of people can learn, but also relate to. I for once learned a lot, and it made me understand a lot as well. The spice is rarely there but that's okay, because seeing other types of connections between two people it’s what made this story so great. Definitely a must read story. BTW I loved MM arranged marriages, and Crea did not disappoint.

[June McKibben · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow love the stories Crea creates. We get men that always have something in their past that the must overcome and a journey of true love. This story is no different. Julian just wants to be with someone that shows him their true self and allows him to do the same. He does a mail order bride and meets Arush and thinks he finally got what he has been waiting for that is until Arush just leaves. Arush being told he must marry someone his father chooses does the mail order bride so he can choose who his husband is but when his sister is in an accident and he must leave he is heartbroken that Julian just lets him. If you want to know if they come together and if Julian shows up to stop the arranged marriage you must pick up and read. Love the way you can relate to how each character feels.

[Jordan Fiest · Rating 5 out of 5]

Red Lined is book twelve of the For Puck's Sake Series.

This one might be my favourite of the series so far, as we really see these two develop such an amazing relationship that isn't overly sexual. We really get to focus on a friendship forming and growing until something more comes from it. Yes, there is some communication problems, but a lot of relationships have them when you are unsure of things. But we get to focus on these two becoming stronger over time.

I loved all of the friends and family of these characters. There wasn't anyone that was out to get them or trying to sabotage their happiness. We got a lot of support and love from every character and this made it a more wholesome read for me.

[VicReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

🏒 𝚁𝚎𝚍 𝙻𝚒𝚗𝚎𝚍 🏒
𝚋𝚢 @creareitan

🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆

4.5/5 ⭐️

↓↓
Omg these two were the absolute sweetest. I loved them so much.

Crea really knows how to deliver on diversity. Arush and Julian both offered so much coming from different backgrounds. Both men find themselves lonely and wanting companionship.

The amount of thoughtfulness and effort Julian put in to make sure Arush was comfortable in a new place and surrounded by new things was incredible, I mean that man learned so many new things like Indian meals for Arush 🥺.

You also get so many characters that adds to their story as well, which I really enjoyed.

This was such a slow burn, beautiful story. Well worth the read.

𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
🏒 Hockey romance
🏒 Mail Order Spouse
🏒 ASexual Rep
🏒 Slow Burn
🏒 Found Family