Cadence

by Crea Reitan

Love can sneak up on you at the most inconvenient time.

I’ve sacrificed everything to build Rainbow Dorset University into the beacon of safety and excellence that it’s become. While my university thrives, all I have to show for my personal life are three grown kids who barely speak to me and an ex-wife who screams at me every chance she can get.

Almost ex-wife. She’s been stalling on signing our divorce papers for the past six months.

That’s fine. I have a new program to kick off with a small group of student ambassadors and staff heading to Iceland. Imagine my surprise when the person who fills me with a purpose to rival that of my dedication to RDU is among the students.

This time, everything is different. I won’t give up my heart if the Board of Trustees can’t find it in them to support my relationship. Not this time.

***

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

Genres: M M Romance, Sports, College, Romance, LGBT, Found Family, Football

333 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 9, 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 4 out of 5]

It was so good to finally get Brevan and Kendrick's story! They've popped up a few times in other books but the Van Doren series is my favourite and Briar is Kendrick's son, so having that gap in the timeline filled made my brain very happy!

I love how genuine and sweet the relationship between Brevan and Kendrick is. Yes there's a huge age gap, and there's a grey area around whether their relationship is 'allowed', but they're just so good together. It's about actually getting to know each other and building Brevan's confidence more than lust and spicy scenes, and I'm always a big fan of that approach.

This story just feels like a gentle hug and I enjoyed all of the history talk as well as the sister university plot. Iceland is so pretty so it was really nice to see it featured as the main location for this story.

Excited for what comes next in this series!

*****
I received an ARC of this book from Crea Reitan, and this is my honest review

[Caroline Forrester · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.75 ⭐️

🏈 Provost/Student
👨‍🏫 Football Player
🏈 Traveling Abroad
👨‍🏫 Secret Relationship
🏈 Age Gap
👨‍🏫 Father of adult kids

🖤 No breakup
🩶 No OM drama
🤍 Strict on page (implies vers)

As a whole this book was generally relatively enjoyable, but I didn’t think it compared to Crea’s earlier books. It feels like some of them have gone downhill for me and that’s sad considering I love some of her earlier stories. I had high hopes for this one since it’s a trope I LOVE, but the execution fell short. I rarely wish books were, but this one didn’t have enough length to develop the relationship. My biggest issue was it claiming to be a slow burn. That is simply not the case. Yes, the first kiss happens after 50% but it also happens after the characters have had maybe two conversations. Within two weeks of meeting for the first time, one character is already thinking about how he wants to marry the other. A more accurate trope would be insta-love.

This story also had a few info dumps similar to what the author referenced in the introduction (see below for my thoughts on that) but they weren’t as bad as the last book I read because it surround information most people wouldn’t know, like nuggets about Iceland.

There was no real tension about the relationship or push and pull when choosing to pursue it which is a key competent to the forbidden relationship. It felt unrealistic (or just dumb) for a provost not to give serious consideration before pursing a relationship with a student. Lastly, I love a good engagement/marriage to end my romance books. Sometimes I’m disappoint not to get that. This was one of the few times (maybe only time) I wish that hadn’t happened. It felt rushed and like they hadn’t fully gotten to know each other and discussed their futures in depth.

Overall, it’s a cute story but I wasn’t able to enjoy it as much as I’d hoped.

Pre Review:

Crea added a section to her content warnings at the beginning and I had some thoughts on it shared below.

It’s okay to enjoy a book and still provide critiques. I love this author but I don’t love when authors respond to reviews with a rebuttal. Readers can enjoy a book and still share things they don’t like about it. That doesn’t mean they should be ostracized from reading it. I agreed that one book in particular has sections that read like an informational fact sheet but that’s also true for me because I was familiar with that content so it felt over explained. I can still enjoy a book and be a fan and point that out in a review. It can come off as combative to tell a reader to go away because they don’t like one piece of a story.

Saying they don’t like an overly descriptive section of a book with definitions isn’t not wanting to know that characters experience. I think it means a lot of people already have a deeper understanding of certain content, so the explanation might feel like overkill when they would rather read about the characters feelings than the character explaining the definition of something. It’s okay for readers to share opinions like this. I’m not saying, the author isn’t totally entitled to share their response, but readers shouldn’t feel bad for sharing critiques/opinions in reviews.

[Mirjam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love can sneak up on you at the most inconvenient time; and this story proves it with warmth, depth, and just enough tension.

Kendrick Keller, university leader who has sacrificed personal happiness for the success of Rainbow Dorset University, is instantly compelling. His voice is mature, layered with regret, determination, and a quiet yearning for more than just professional achievements. The setup of an ambassador trip to Iceland is both refreshing and atmospheric, giving the romance an adventurous backdrop that feels unique and alive.







Brevan Skeeter has poured his heart and soul into football, and with graduation looming, he’s holding out hope that the next call he gets will be from the NFL. The last thing he expects in his final year at the university is to be chosen as an ambassador on a trip to Iceland—especially since he never thought he was smart enough to even be considered.
What surprises him even more, though, is the unexpected attention he’s receiving from Kendrick.







The heart of the book lies in its emotional honesty: the weight of family estrangement, a stalled divorce, and the fear of risking everything for love again. The central relationship, unexpected and full of sparks, is handled with care, balancing tenderness with the tension of whether the world around them—especially the Board of Trustees—will allow their happiness.








That said, the pacing sometimes lingers a bit long on the setup, and secondary conflicts (like family drama and institutional politics) could have been explored more deeply to give the resolution even greater impact. Still, the romance itself is heartfelt and rewarding, with enough intensity and vulnerability to make you root for the characters.
This is a beautifully written, emotionally rich romance about second chances, self-discovery, and the courage to choose love even when it’s inconvenient.



While part of the Rainbow Dorset University series, each book is about a different couple and can be read as a standalone:




ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Sabrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Back at RDU and we actually move a little back in time considering we are in book 3 of the series. So this story follows Brevan and Kendrick, names that you may be familiar with in this big Crea universe! But if you’re not, that is more than okay! Kendrick has sacrificed a lot of his personal life to build RDU. In doing so, he has been in the process of divorcing his wife for the last year. Something she hasn’t taken that well considering their relationship has been nonexistent for the last two decades. And though he doesn’t speak with his grown children often, he can only hope they know he loves him and that he does try to connect with them while also respecting their space. But in the meantime, Kendrick has set up a new program for a small group of students to go to Iceland! And it’s finally all coming together. But what he doesn’t expect is to meet the person meant for him on this trip. Or that that person would be a student. Brevan is in his final year at RDU and hoping he will get that call telling him he is gonna go pro in the NFL. He works hard and has been through a lot growing up. It’s really only him and his brother now and having a secured future is something he craves. But he is floored when he gets a letter accepting him as a student ambassador and gets to go to Iceland. He didn’t apply and Brevan’s low self-esteem tells him that he isn’t smart enough to be part of such a trip. However, he would be wrong! Because he is more than smart and is perfect for the role. One thing about Brevan is that he is also a little oblivious when it comes to reading people and understanding when they flirt. He needs someone to be straightforward. And through the years, not many people have caught his interest so he is more than surprised when he finds himself attracted to Kendrick. A student/faculty relationship may be in the gray area at RDU but when it comes to their connection? It is anything but. It’s clear these two have strong feelings for one another and they both more than deserve a piece of happiness. I absolutely adored watching them slowly fall in love. Brevan is one of the absolute sweetest characters and the way Kendrick treats him is exactly what he deserves. I loved getting to know them and watch them get their happy ending!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[BooksBooksandmoreBooks69 · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Candence" by Crea Reitan is a story of love and sacrifice, set against the backdrop of Rainbow Dorset University (RDU).

The story revolves around a university leader, who has dedicated his life to making Rainbow Dorset University a safe haven for students. His relentless commitment to this mission, however, has resulted in a strained personal life with his nearly ex-wife and distant children.
We’ve met Kendrick through different books in this Creaverse (Crea’s Universe) and although surprised he got a book, I fell in love with the characters. (But then with most of her books I’ve loved the characters 😝)

Kendrick’s conflict between his professional responsibilities and his feelings for a student ambassador were just spot on. Knowing what you should do and doing it was tying the poor man in knots!!
The tension this sets off adds to the story, as Kendrick grapples with his duty to the university, the expectations of the Board of Trustees, and the genuine connection he feels towards Brevan

Brevan has put his heart and soul into his chosen career. It’s his last year here at the University, and fingers crossed he gets a call telling him he’s off to play pro football in the NFL.
So, not only is he surprised to find out he’s been chosen as an ambassador for the Uni to go to Iceland. (He didn’t think he was smart enough to apply) He’s taken aback at the attention he’s receiving from Kendrick.

The author’s writing as always is engaging and vivid, capturing the picturesque setting of Iceland, where a pivotal program unfolds.

The tension of "forbidden love" is spot on, and i found myself rooting for this surprising romance.
Will Kendrick prioritize the potential of new love while attempting to disentangle himself from his past? Or will he make the same mistakes?

For those who appreciate stories that balance romance with challenges and growth, this book is a worthwhile addition to any reading list.

I love how this world continues to grow, More characters are added, and most will get a story at some point. Trying to work out who gets one next is part of the fun.

🦋

*copy supplied for review

[CharlotteAtena · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not going to lie... it was hard for me to connect with this book. It is not the books fault, tho' or the authors. It was mine.

I've been waiting for this book to finally read about the Provost who has a relationship with one of the students. This story was mentioned in other books, and I was excited... until I found out about Kendrick and his story. As I said, it is not the authors fault, the story, or anything. It is me. I have a dad like Kendrick, and I can not connect with him. No one who abandons their kids is someone I can connect with. It was personal. When a character has 0 plausible reasons for which he abandoned his THREE kids and cares more about his dog... idk. Why have so many kids if you weren't going to be there for them? The trauma is real, and I feel like I personally couldn't believe Ken and be sorry for him.

The story is sweet and beautiful, just like any other Crea book. The issues she talks about in these books are real, and it is nice to see that in books, if you ask me. It just shows how much of an impact certain things have, and when you don't see that happening irl because you live in your bubble, it is nice ( or not nice, but idk what other word to use ) to read and learn.

I love the RDU part of the Creaverse. It is a beacon of hope and a place I wish existed irl, just like Kala. I liked how the story took us outside of the US and the campus into the big world, and I loved seeing them try to expand this program.

The story between Brev and Kendrick was cute, but since I couldn't connect with Kendrick and couldn't care less about him, it was kind of hard for me.

As I said a few times now, like a broken record, it is NOT the book, it's me. I'm the problem.

This is a good addition to the whole universe, and I bet a lot of people will love this one.

It was not for me. 3.75✨️

[Emmi (bookish_redpanda) · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

This was honestly such a sweet read from Reitan! Don't let that comment fool you - there is spice, angst, and emotional turmoil, but overall, Brevan and Kendrick's story is full of sweetness, of learning to understand who you are, to love yourself, and that love can be found in the most unexpected of places.

I love that Reitan took us not only on a journey of discovery with these two men in terms of self- and romantic- discovery, but that we got to explore somewhere outside of North America. Absolutely LOVED going on the trip to Iceland with our characters, and all the information she injected into the story - now it makes me want to have a holiday there!

But back to the story. This was a beautiful romance to read about, and it felt so natural as it happened - it was sweet yet softly spicy (you'll understand) and filled with swoony moments from Kendrick. I (not so secretly anymore) love that Brevan was a bit of a himbo; it made his character even more endearing and made me love him all that much more. The lengths his friends - both old and new - and Coach would go to in supporting him and helping him to navigate life was the epitome of found family in this book, and I loved it.

As always, loved the links back to other Creaverse books - the link to the Van Doren's (even though chronologically this happens before Noaz), and the nods to Kendrick and Brevan in previous RDU books, as well as Kendrick's presence in FYL and FPS.

Another amazing read from Reitan, one that felt like a warm hug. Excited for the next book from her!

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

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an outstanding, age-gap romance that I found to be not only refreshing but oftentimes throughout it left my heart soaring and me simply breathless. Ms. Reitan gave us a well written book with absolutely perfect characters for one another. Our two main characters are Kendrick and Brevan, absolutely melted my heart. Kendrick is Rainbow Dorset's Provost. He has sacrificed his personal life for years to fulfill his dreams of making the University all it can be, to the point his kids, now grown, barely know him and his soon to be ex wife resents him. As for Brevan, he is a college senior and star football player. He has been dealt some personal blows growing up, the loss of his parents, then his grandma who raised him. Now it’s just Him and his older brother. Brevan is a smart young man, he just lacks confidence and social graces. He is chosen to be one of the University’s Ambassadors on a trip to a College in Iceland. It’s there he meets Kendrick. Kendrick notices several things about Brevan and decides to keep an eye on him to guide him through this marvelous experience. But the more the two get to know one another, the more the electricity between them flames and they bring out the best in one another. Things neither actually knew or at least didn’t admit were missing in their lives. But due to their age and current occupations is this a week-long relationship or will these two find a way to spend time together back at the Uni.?

This is a very romantic, coming into one's own read, that this reader highly recommends. It will have you smiling, laughing and swooning throughout.

2 Thumbs up and 5 Stars

[Sara Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A surprise love story

In this Crea Reitan book we get acquainted more familiar with Kendrick and Brevan. Both struggling to survive their demanding lives and facing loneliness. Kendrick hasn't been in a relationship since he left his family to be at Rainbow Dorset University. His passion for the school has driven him for almost 20 years. Brevan is a college student with confidence issues, a wide-eyed innocence, and a talent that surpasses other on the football field.

In Iceland they discover a new budding friendship growing between them. It isn't long before they both realize their is a mutual attraction. There is an age gap, but they don't focus on that, iinstead they see each other as amazing members of RDU.

Kendrick is provost who focuses on growing the mission at RDU and expanding opportunities and acceptance. Brevan is a senior who focuses on his studies and football. He fails to notice when people are flirting with him but when Kendrick sees him for who he is Brevan feels acknowledged.

This story made me feel so much. At times I was reminded of the difficult divorce of my parents as Kendrick was dealing with his ex-wife and children. I remember that chasm that grew between my father and me because of what my mom was telling me. With Brevan I felt the conflict, sadness in his soul, the struggle to make it through difficult circumstances, and the lack of self-confidence. He is a strong individual with a unique view on life.

Reitan's book evokes emotion, desires, and warm fuzzy feelings. I loved this book and their story. I hope others enjoy it as much as I did.

[Naurarwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

We've already come across Brevan and Kendrick in Crea's universe, but it's nice to finally get how their story started. That and they went to Iceland, and while I've done layovers there, I've never had a chance to really see it properly. Did I finish this book and start looking at how much flights were to Iceland, I sure did.

Kendrick has put a lot of his life on hold for the university, staying away from home for long periods of time until he pretty much lives there full-time and has drifted away from his kids and his wife, whom he asked for a divorce months before. Sadly, his soon-to-be ex-wife has been dragging her heels when all he wants is a clean break. Making it worse by trying to turn their kids against him.

Brevan is hoping to get picked for the NFL, but before that, he is chosen as an ambassador for the university on a trip to Iceland. Something he didn't sign up for and something he's not entirely sure he deserves. Luckily, the people around him help to convince him that he is more than deserving of the role. He's smart and talented, but really does lack confidence.

These two are honestly perfect for each other; neither of them cares about the age gap, or the fact that Brevan is a student at the university and Kendrick is one of the staff, though that does come up later on. I loved the Icelandic setting and just the way their relationship grows over the week that they are there.

Honestly, wish I could give this more than five stars cause I loved everything about it. Can't wait to see what comes next in the Creaverse!

[Jessie Coughlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cadenence by Crea Reitan completely swept me off my feet and left me absolutely smitten. I thought I knew what to expect from the Creaverse, but this book surprised me in the best way possible. Kendrick, the steadfast university leader who has sacrificed so much of his personal life for RDU, and Brevan, the sweet, hardworking student with NFL dreams, are a pairing I didn’t know I needed until now. Their connection is magnetic, tender, and beautifully forbidden in a way that had me glued to every page. The tension of “should we or shouldn’t we” practically crackles off the page, and when these two finally let themselves fall—oh my god, it’s breathtaking. I adored every stolen glance, every moment of resistance, every soft unraveling of their walls.

Crea Reitan has truly outdone herself here. The Iceland setting is gorgeous and immersive, the emotional stakes are sky-high, and the way Kendrick and Brevan balance duty, passion, and vulnerability had me utterly obsessed. Brevan is such a sweetheart who doesn’t even realize how amazing he is, and Kendrick treats him with the reverence he deserves. Their romance is tender and fiery, complicated yet so right—it’s everything I want in a love story. By the end, I wasn’t just rooting for them; I was living for them. This book is pure magic, a slow-burn forbidden romance that will steal your heart and not give it back. Five stars isn’t enough—I’m head over heels for Cadence and already desperate for the next Creaverse story!

[Noa Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

"My brain is always filled with worry! Kendrick is the first person I’ve ever met who’s quieted the fretful thoughts and allowed me to unwind." - Brevan

"I can never express how much I love you being here with me. Sharing your body and your heart." - Kendrick

Kendrick went on a trip with Brevan and other students and teachers to learn more about other schools. They focused on learning from each other and thinking of new ideas to inspire each other. That was very interesting! Brevan is such a sweetheart with a lot of great ideas. It takes longer for him to understand information, and I love that his friends and Coach Lemon understand that and help him by saying things more directly and making sure that he fully understands the information. I especially really liked Xile. Kendrick hasn't done something for himself in a very long time; he has put a lot of work into RDU to make it a safe place for everyone. And now he's working on the relationship that he has with his children (Tabby, Seth, and Briar - Briar's story is "Noaz") While being on this trip, he also formed a connection with Brevan. Brevan builds up his confidence and self-esteem along the way. They both learned a lot about themselves and each other. I really loved this book. They are so sweet for each other.

I received an ARC copy of this book.

[Richelle Zirkle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this as a slight ‘flashback’ story, sharing the details of how Kendrick and Brevan fell in love. This was a book that felt like a warm hug at times. I struggled really hard with Brevan and how he dealt with his lack of self-esteem/self-worth at times. It broke my heart. I was glad at the shining stars in the story who stepped up to buoy him and make him see his value. Kendrick felt solid to me. He was such a presence on campus, even in indirect ways, making sure that the school was a beacon for the values he believed in and a place that was inclusive and welcoming to all, while at the same time feeling unwanted and unnecessary in his own family. The connection the men forge couldn’t come at a better time while Kendrick is on the cusp of divorce from the woman he hasn’t been with in decades. While the relationship with her had withered, he would like to nourish any opportunity of a relationship with his three grown children. Following as these two navigate figuring out who they are to each other, what that means for their future, and how they can still be together without risking the friends, family, and future they see for themselves was perfect. I have to mention Lemon… Because I adore Coach Frost!!! This was another great read.

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

The Rainbow Dorset University series will always hold such a special place in my heart it consistently gives us a diverse cast of characters who feel so real, so layered, and so easy to love. This newest addition is no exception. Brevan is such a tender, dear soul he’s been through so much and yet continues to move forward with quiet strength. He’s not your typical jock, which feels wonderfully refreshing. Instead, he carries a vulnerability, a quiet uncertainty, and a lack of self-esteem that makes you want to wrap him in the biggest hug and never let go. And yet, despite it all, he still somehow manages to see the good in everyone around him.

And then there’s Kendrick the perfect balance to Brevan in every way. Their connection is beautifully crafted with so much care and emotion. The tension between them leapt right off the page, equal parts heartwarming and breathtaking. Watching the way they fit together, heal together, and fall in love is something truly special. What I admire most is how hard they both work not just for their own happiness, but for each other’s. If I could, I would happily give this book ten stars.

Once again, Crea has delivered a stellar story filled with heart, hope, and unforgettable characters. This book is tender, romantic, and deeply moving it’s everything I adore about this series and more.

[Stacey Foss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rainbow Dorset University is a special place, and I loved how Kendrick and Brevan fell in love with each other. Kendrick has given up everything for the school and is going through a divorce that is anything but easy, he has been on his own for years. Brevan is amazing at football but feels that the is just not smart even though he gets good grades, he has always felt he just doesn't have the smarts most people do, he has to try hard for the grades he gets. When he is accepted into the ambassador CAP program to go to Iceland, he is positive it's a mistake. Kendrick notices Brevan right from the start and he finds himself just watching him. When these two connect it is like two souls found their match. It was beautifully written and emotional. They have a connection that just is heartwarming, but they also have electric attraction. They support and protect each other, and it was just so sweet to watch them fall. I was given this book as an ARC for my honest review.

[VicReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝙲𝚊𝚍𝚎𝚗𝚌𝚎
𝚋𝚢 @creareitan

🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆

4.25/5 ⭐️
1/5 🌶️

↓↓
I love this series so much. It hits on some tough subject and the inclusivity that is shown is mind blowing, phenomenal.

Brevan and Kendrick were just the sweetest. I enjoyed watching their relationship progressed, it was slow, it was steady and it worked perfectly for them.

I wanted to give Brevan a giant hug and never let him go. He was just so oblivious to so many things but the support he had was endless. Kendrick trying to move on from his divorce, realized that he will do anything and everything to make sure to put Brevan above his career and I loved that.

I cant wait to see what else is in store for this incredible series.

𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
📖Contemporary Sports
🏈Large Age Gap
📖Athlete Himbo x Provost (University)
🏈Forbidden
📖Slow Burn
🏈Second Chance

[Avery · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was like a sweet, warm hug. Brevan might be a “jock” but he is so far from the stereotype that you cannot label him as such. He is insecure in ways and oblivious in others, he sees the good in people until they prove otherwise. I felt so much for him and his backstory. Kendrick had his own issues with his divorce and reflections on his past choices. Both these men had tough times and choices but when they find each other, they just fit. Their story builds together slowly but surely. Kendrick feels so drawn to Brevan and he is so protective of this person he barely knows. So when they do give into those feelings it is hot but so sweet. You can feel the care for each other. It was another amazing story in this beautiful world Crea created.

[Seraphina Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cadence
Rainbow Dorset University
Crea Reitan

Brev & Kendrick
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶

Large Age Gap
Forbidden romance
Slow Burn
Second chance
Himbo / Provost
Contemporary sports

Oh, my poor heart, sweet Kendrick has been through and sacrificed so much. He is in the last leg of his divorce, his wife not wanting to let go. He stayed for his children so he would not disrupt their lives.

Not only that, but he has put so much of himself into RDU and set something up for students to go to Iceland. His passion project if you will.

With all of this going on Kendrick did not expect to meet Brev, a student at RDU and a recipient of the Iceland trip. Sweet Brev, he has such low self-esteem, and he too has been through so much in his past. He is such a sweet cinnamon roll Teddy bear.

Both these men deserve everything!

This was a sweet, beautiful story.

They both found their person.

Brevan has put his everything into his sport, hoping football pans out, and he can make it at his career into the NFL.

Kendrick must break the cycle and decide if his new love is worth change in his life.

It takes some time in this story to get to their HEA, but they do eventually get there.

Both men struggle to accept they deserve happiness and positive things, especially Brev.

This was a great story.

So thankful for this arc

[Jordan Fiest · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cadence is part of the Rainbow Dorset University Series.

There is a bit of a warning at the start that this could be a potential cheating storyline, however, I did not find that to be so. But please read the warning just in case this is a trigger for you.

Brevan is a bit unsure of himself and lacks some confidence. He also doesn't understand some social cues, like flirting. So when Kenrick shows some interest in him it kind of goes over his head. However, he does return that interest and we get to see these two become closer while on a trip together. Kendrick does have a bit of a moral dilemma as he is a member of the faculty at the same school Brevan goes to. But these two make it work and it is beautiful.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in this impressive series, and this is Kendrick and Brevan’s story.
Kendrick has sacrificed so much to built Rainbow Dorset University, with three grown kids who hardly speak to him, and an ex-wife who did not make their divorce easy. Taking a small staff and students to Iceland brings Brevan in close contact with Kendrick.
No spoilers: this is a must read.
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn romance, with family, dynamics, friendships, emotions, sacrifices, angst, turmoil, second chances, an age gap, determination, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, sweet, and heartwarming page turner.
I look forward to reading more from these talented authors’ whose work I highly recommend.

[eebabek reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It was sweet and soft with just the right amount of spice.

Kendrick, Provost of Rainbow Dorset University, has given everything to the university that he loves so much. Almost literally. As his marriage is ending after so long being separated, he finds the chance to do things right this time. He finds Brevan - the kindest, sweetest, most oblivious football player. Brevan, who is chosen for a task that he doesn't feel he deserves or will be good at.

The sweetness of their love story was adorable. Watching Kendrick let go of the reins and start to enjoy life. Watching Brevan grow in his self-confidence. It was all so beautiful.

Such an adorable addition to the RDU universe!

[Cassandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been waiting for this story for so long, it feels so good to finally have it! We've heard about Brevan and Kendrick in many books of Crea's. This story is an age-gap with a dean/student relationship. Half the book happens in the unicorn of universities, Rainbow Dorset, while the other is spent in Iceland. It was a nice change of scenery and it definitely opens up many doors for new books, maybe even a new series :o It's a very sweet story (save for the abominable ex-wife), I just want to wrap Brevan in bubble wrap so he never gets hurt again. As usual with this series, the LGBTQ+ representation is very strong and done so well with a diversity of unique characters. This one is especially touching as some tough discussions takes place.

[Velvet Wrapped Smut · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review.

Well this one was just a sweet story. Lovable, innocent Brevan is just trying to navigate the world, which has been full of loss, and make it to the nfl draft.
Secretly nominated for a role as university ambassador, he meets Kendrick the schools Provost. What follows is a young man finding his confidence, an older man learning to find joy in life again, and a sweet pairing where they grow together.
While the age gap and slightly forbidden romance tropes are at play, you just want to hug them both and smile along on their journey
Also, they travel to Iceland. Such a magical setting for this love story and one that brings back my own travel memories to this beautiful country.

[June McKibben · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me completely feeling for the characters. Kendrick having a soon to be ex wife that is stalling the devorce and children that don't seem to want anything to do with him. He has put a lot of his efforts into getting his university up and running the way he wants and his goals are almost completely met. He starts a ambassador program that will take him and a select few of students to Iceland. Brevan is a student that just doesn't understand how he made it into such a program but the chemistry you feel between him and Kendrick will have you panting for more. I loved their dynamic and the care that Kendrick shows for a slef conscious and low self esteem Brevan. What a great read.

[thatbeccagirl_reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first Crea Reitan book but definitely not my last! Cadence is such a tender, heartwarming story about finding love when you least expect it. Brevan, the sweet and hopeful student-athlete, and Kendrick, the university provost navigating divorce and regrets, are so easy to root for.

Their connection is slow-burn, full of care, and just the right mix of sweet and steamy. Add in the stunning backdrop of Iceland, and this age gap/forbidden romance had me smiling, swooning, and wanting to hug them both. Such a beautiful, feel-good read!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Rukayya · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was selected for an arc for Cadence by Crea Reitan and i rate it four stars and 2 chili spices it was a super cute and fun read pretty low angst for the most part has mentions of parents and grandparents deaths just check you’re trigger warnings! I loved Brevan he’s our athlete and he has a lot of self confidence issues but is really bright overall but i loved how Crea gave him supportive friends i really loved those moments. Kendrick is our divorced staff member at the college Brevan attends and he has his flaws but he owns them which i think is really great and i loved the chemistry between them both this book is a fast burn if you’re into that.

some of my favorite quotes were: “ “I love you, sweetheart. I’m so damn proud. Go get your jersey.”

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet beautiful Brevan. I loved him so much. He is so soft and innocent while also being a beefy football player. I really enjoyed reading his book. I loved that he is smart but not so good at social cues. I think that made me love him even more. He's just a genuinely pure character. I really loved the Iceland storyline as well. It was fun to read about and enjoy the interactions with characters from a country without the discrimination in America. I loved Kendrick as well. These two were so cute together. This was a large age gap and it never really felt that way unless Kendrick mentioned his kids. These two connected on such a beautiful level that age wasn't even a factor.

[The Naughty Booknook · Rating 4 out of 5]

Welcome back to Rainbow Dorset University
If you have loved the books before, I have no doubt you're going to love Brevan and Kendrick story just as much. Brevan’s is as humble and sweet as you're going to find. He has no idea what a wonderfully sweet person he is. But on a school trip to Iceland, everything changes for out sweet Brevan.
Kendrick is the school provost and at the end of an almost year divorce battle. The last thing he expects is to find a relationship, especially with a student at the university, but that's exactly what happens, and he doesn't regret it.

Always enjoy reading Crea Reitan's books as you get to see pop-ups of past characters we fell in love with.

[bookingcrazzyy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has been “teased” for quite awhile. This relationship was so sweet and wholesome. This book was definitely softer than other books by this author, but that’s perfectly okay!

Kendrick has been working towards his mission for awhile now and his mission trip is finally here. In walks Brevan as a student ambassador, and these two are drawn to each other.

The book was definitely more character driven and focused a whole lot on building the characters up and showing the growth they make throughout the book.

Teacher/students books always have to be done carefully and I think the author did a wonderful job with this.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[L Cam · Rating 5 out of 5]

The sweetest read I've ever had

I think this is probably one of the sweetest romances I've ever read. Crea makes the regular fiction so relatable that I both love and hate that. This however Brevan is a wonderful soul and that came across rather spectacularly. I like that this wasn't an insta-love, the problems are real and humane. The cross world between this and other series is a bit confusing as the characters differ but don't make it hard to keep track, but I knew this was a good read that I reread the other 2 in this series. So much love for to type of real and damaged characters in this.