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Unrequitted love can make you blind.
I’ve crushed on the wrong person for years, all because he showed me kindness in a time when I greatly needed it. But my coach isn’t interested in me and that’s a hard pill to swallow.
The man who is interested turns out to be someone I talk to almost every day. He bids on a date with me at a charity auction and I take him on an adventurous kayaking picnic date on a large remote lake in a valley surrounded by mountains.
As it turns out, I doom our date from the beginning by not taking note of the weather report. A lightning storm strands us on a small island in the middle of the lake with a tiny cabin and only one bed. This could be awkward and disastrous if we manage to survive the storm.
***
This is a LGBTQIA+ story with content not intended for those under 18 years of age due to graphic scenes and situations.
I’ve crushed on the wrong person for years, all because he showed me kindness in a time when I greatly needed it. But my coach isn’t interested in me and that’s a hard pill to swallow.
The man who is interested turns out to be someone I talk to almost every day. He bids on a date with me at a charity auction and I take him on an adventurous kayaking picnic date on a large remote lake in a valley surrounded by mountains.
As it turns out, I doom our date from the beginning by not taking note of the weather report. A lightning storm strands us on a small island in the middle of the lake with a tiny cabin and only one bed. This could be awkward and disastrous if we manage to survive the storm.
***
This is a LGBTQIA+ story with content not intended for those under 18 years of age due to graphic scenes and situations.
104 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 30, 2025
About the author
Crea Reitan
129 books1,285 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 60 reviews
September 9, 2025
Peyton and Dana are so cute!! I loved how shy Dana was and how oblivious Peyton was 😂
Forced proximity and only one bed are always fun tropes to read, but these guys added great chemistry and they're so good together.
I'd read a full length book of these two and I hope they pop up again in future.
Forced proximity and only one bed are always fun tropes to read, but these guys added great chemistry and they're so good together.
I'd read a full length book of these two and I hope they pop up again in future.
July 31, 2025
Read this on release day! And I loved it 😍 Somehow I haven’t liked any of the earlier books in this series as much as I enjoyed all of Crea’s other work, bijt this one was a nice exception. I adored the date Peyton and Dana went on. And I was very happy for Dana that Peyton liked him back when he really noticed him.
That cabin though? Would those places with all the supplies really exist in the real world? I’d hope so, but can’t imagine. Especially with food and fitting clothes 😁 It’s a lovely thought though.
Anyway: recommend (although it was way too short for my taste), and will definitely reread
That cabin though? Would those places with all the supplies really exist in the real world? I’d hope so, but can’t imagine. Especially with food and fitting clothes 😁 It’s a lovely thought though.
Anyway: recommend (although it was way too short for my taste), and will definitely reread
August 7, 2025
I love novellas - they’re the perfect snack between heavier or longer reads. This one was adorable and had several of my fave tropes to help the MCs get to know each other quickly - stuck in a storm, only one bed, forced proximity, etc. This scenario was the end result of an auction date at which Peyton had hoped his longtime crush / the football coach - would bid on him. Alas - or rather fortunately- that did not come to pass. Instead another student, Dana, bid on Peyton and fate intervened in adorable ways. Love their kayak date and how they sweetly come to realize that maybe Fate knows what she’s doing. Another fun read from this author!
August 6, 2025
This book was about Peyton and Dana relationship in a novella and made me feel happy and sweet. My favorite part was them being forced to share a cabin due to bad weather on their trip. My favorite character was Dana because he’s always liked Peyton and finally get a date with him. I recommend this book for people who love MM romance and novellas.
July 16, 2025
Sometimes I'm happy a book is a quick novela, but other times I'm all 'give me more!' This is one of those times - Payton and Dana were pure magic. Dana's adorableness knew no bounds, and Payton was not the typical jock and was just as sweet. Together, they were sizzling hot and crazy cute. 😍
August 2, 2025
Crea Reitan's "Doink" is a tale of unrequited love, friendship, and unexpected adventures, set against the backdrop of Rainbow Dorset University.
The story opens with our main character grappling with his long standing crush on his coach, a situation wrapped in layers of emotional confusion.
This character, whom he converses with daily, becomes the catalyst for a much anticipated adventure. The kayaking picnic date promises both excitement and romance, and the author’s vivid descriptions of the serene lake nestled in the mountains is the perfect spot for what should be the start of something special…
However, the plot takes a turn when Dana neglects to check the weather, leading to an unexpected lightning storm. This twist introduces an element of suspense and anticipation. The cabin on the small island serves as a clever setting for exploring the dynamics between the two characters. With only one bed, the stage is set for both potential awkwardness, but also the beginning of potentially special.
The author writes about the push and pull of the characters' interactions, injecting humor and an underlying tension that kept me engaged. The confined amplifies the romantic stake.
As the storm rages outside, the real storms of their emotions come to the forefront, allowing for moments of candidness, vulnerability, and ultimately, clarity.
The pacing of the story flows well, keeping me invested in both the characters and the situation. The dialogue feels fresh and authentic. And this is what I love about the author’s stories.
Each character is well throughout and we can feel all the emotions that surround this moment in time.
The blossoming relationship, rooted in genuine companionship, it also shows him that maybe his previous unreciprocated love was maybe just a crush! 🤔
In conclusion, "Doink" is a delightful romantic comedy that captures the essence of college life and the complexities of love.
With a mix of humor, adventure, and heartfelt moments, Crea Reitan has written an engaging read.
Perfect for fans of lighthearted romance and coming-of-age stories.
"Doink" is sure to leave readers with a smile and a sense of nostalgia for the chaotic yet beautiful journey of love.
This differs from her usual work, and at first I wasn’t sure. But as usual, by the time I’d finished, I was totally in love with both Dana and Peyton.
Yes, it’s only a novella, but it packed so much in, that I’d gotten to the end far too quick 😝
🦋
The story opens with our main character grappling with his long standing crush on his coach, a situation wrapped in layers of emotional confusion.
This character, whom he converses with daily, becomes the catalyst for a much anticipated adventure. The kayaking picnic date promises both excitement and romance, and the author’s vivid descriptions of the serene lake nestled in the mountains is the perfect spot for what should be the start of something special…
However, the plot takes a turn when Dana neglects to check the weather, leading to an unexpected lightning storm. This twist introduces an element of suspense and anticipation. The cabin on the small island serves as a clever setting for exploring the dynamics between the two characters. With only one bed, the stage is set for both potential awkwardness, but also the beginning of potentially special.
The author writes about the push and pull of the characters' interactions, injecting humor and an underlying tension that kept me engaged. The confined amplifies the romantic stake.
As the storm rages outside, the real storms of their emotions come to the forefront, allowing for moments of candidness, vulnerability, and ultimately, clarity.
The pacing of the story flows well, keeping me invested in both the characters and the situation. The dialogue feels fresh and authentic. And this is what I love about the author’s stories.
Each character is well throughout and we can feel all the emotions that surround this moment in time.
The blossoming relationship, rooted in genuine companionship, it also shows him that maybe his previous unreciprocated love was maybe just a crush! 🤔
In conclusion, "Doink" is a delightful romantic comedy that captures the essence of college life and the complexities of love.
With a mix of humor, adventure, and heartfelt moments, Crea Reitan has written an engaging read.
Perfect for fans of lighthearted romance and coming-of-age stories.
"Doink" is sure to leave readers with a smile and a sense of nostalgia for the chaotic yet beautiful journey of love.
This differs from her usual work, and at first I wasn’t sure. But as usual, by the time I’d finished, I was totally in love with both Dana and Peyton.
Yes, it’s only a novella, but it packed so much in, that I’d gotten to the end far too quick 😝
🦋
August 1, 2025
What a fun surprise to get a whole new series set at Rainbow Dorset University. I really liked the idea behind it — all the novellas are centered around the auction organized to raise money for the sports teams, where students bid on a date. Doink is one of those stories, and it immediately caught my attention. Short but definitely satisfying.
This one follows Peyton, a football player who’s been low-key crushing on Coach Frost for years. He hoped maybe the auction would be his shot, but the coach doesn’t bid. Instead, Dana — a student and the barista at Peyton’s regular coffee spot — wins the date. What I liked was that both had a little crush going on already, even if it wasn’t aimed in the same direction at first.
Their kayaking trip was such a fun choice for a date, but things quickly took a turn with an unexpected storm. Stranded together on a tiny island and forced to take shelter, they get more than just a cute day out. What could have been a total disaster turns into something intense and intimate. I loved that forced proximity vibe — and the way they handled it was hot, sweet, and filled with tension in all the right ways.
For a shorter story, this felt very complete. Dana was a bit shy in the beginning, but as soon as sparks started flying, he really came into his own. Peyton slowly lets go of his coach crush and starts seeing what’s been in front of him the whole time. I liked how the shift in feelings didn’t feel rushed, even with the limited page count.
The chemistry between Dana and Peyton was great, and the moments in the cabin brought the right balance of connection and spice. They worked well together and the story gave us just enough to fall for them. I wouldn’t mind seeing more of them pop up in future RDU books — but this novella stands solid on its own.
🅡🅐🅣🅘🅝🅖
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🅢🅟🅘🅒🅔
🌶️🌶️.5
🅣🅡🅞🅟🅔🅢
🚣MM
🚣Auction Date
🚣Stormed In
🚣One Bed
🚣Forced Proximity
🚣Novella
This one follows Peyton, a football player who’s been low-key crushing on Coach Frost for years. He hoped maybe the auction would be his shot, but the coach doesn’t bid. Instead, Dana — a student and the barista at Peyton’s regular coffee spot — wins the date. What I liked was that both had a little crush going on already, even if it wasn’t aimed in the same direction at first.
Their kayaking trip was such a fun choice for a date, but things quickly took a turn with an unexpected storm. Stranded together on a tiny island and forced to take shelter, they get more than just a cute day out. What could have been a total disaster turns into something intense and intimate. I loved that forced proximity vibe — and the way they handled it was hot, sweet, and filled with tension in all the right ways.
For a shorter story, this felt very complete. Dana was a bit shy in the beginning, but as soon as sparks started flying, he really came into his own. Peyton slowly lets go of his coach crush and starts seeing what’s been in front of him the whole time. I liked how the shift in feelings didn’t feel rushed, even with the limited page count.
The chemistry between Dana and Peyton was great, and the moments in the cabin brought the right balance of connection and spice. They worked well together and the story gave us just enough to fall for them. I wouldn’t mind seeing more of them pop up in future RDU books — but this novella stands solid on its own.
🅡🅐🅣🅘🅝🅖
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🅢🅟🅘🅒🅔
🌶️🌶️.5
🅣🅡🅞🅟🅔🅢
🚣MM
🚣Auction Date
🚣Stormed In
🚣One Bed
🚣Forced Proximity
🚣Novella
July 14, 2025
Peyton has had a crush on his football coach for years. But despite his hints at what he is feeling, his coach has zero interest in him. And when there is an auction for dates to raise money, Peyton is sure that maybe his crush will finally show him he feels something. But to his disappointment, his coach does not bid. But there is someone else who has had feelings for Peyton for a while and now finally has a chance to act on them. Dana has had a crush on Peyton for a while now. Dana works for the coffee shop on campus and he loves when Peyton comes in and flirts with him. But asking him out has been a challenge. But he can’t help but bid on a date with Peyton when this auction happens. Now he has a chance to go out on a date and try to tell Peyton how he feels. But neither expect their kayaking date to be interrupted by bad weather where they are stranded on an island in a small cabin for a few days. A curse? Or a blessing in disguise? Because Peyton is finally waking up to what was in front of him all along and that maybe this man in front of him is actually a better match for him than his crush. And for Dana he finally gets to know Peyton more and realize the more they get to know one another, the more they have in common. A really sweet novella! I liked how these two fit together so well. And how they turned what could have been a disaster into something fun and meaningful. Would love to see them appear in more future books!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 4, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
It was too short!
Very cute, low angst, high spice MM.
Wow, best book I've read in awhile.
Peyton is a football player with a crush on Coach Lemon. Lemon sits him down and tells him to get the fck over it. And he does when Dana, the barista who's had a crush on Peyton for a while, wins a date with him.
They take a kayak day-trip date that turns into a thunderstorm weekend trapped in a cabin, with, of course, only 1 bed.
They get into the spice as soon as they are tucked in for the night, no playing coy, no hesitation, just fcking. They spend their weekend trapped in cabin doing everything sexy. I'm giving it 🌶🌶🌶🌶4/5 chilies on the spicy scale.
They come away from that weekend boyfriends and, even though it takes a lot of work to keep their relationship going with both their busy schedules, they do the work to make it happen. There is definitely an HEA. There isn't an epilogue per se, but there are some bonus scenes that function as epilogues and a very sweet bonus about Dana attending Peyton's football games with a cameo by Lemon.
I listened to the audio book and it is fantastic! Alexander Cendese and Iggy Toma are awesome as always.
DUET, 2 narrators, 2 POVs, first person
🌶🌶🌶🌶
It was too short!
Very cute, low angst, high spice MM.
Wow, best book I've read in awhile.
Peyton is a football player with a crush on Coach Lemon. Lemon sits him down and tells him to get the fck over it. And he does when Dana, the barista who's had a crush on Peyton for a while, wins a date with him.
They take a kayak day-trip date that turns into a thunderstorm weekend trapped in a cabin, with, of course, only 1 bed.
They get into the spice as soon as they are tucked in for the night, no playing coy, no hesitation, just fcking. They spend their weekend trapped in cabin doing everything sexy. I'm giving it 🌶🌶🌶🌶4/5 chilies on the spicy scale.
They come away from that weekend boyfriends and, even though it takes a lot of work to keep their relationship going with both their busy schedules, they do the work to make it happen. There is definitely an HEA. There isn't an epilogue per se, but there are some bonus scenes that function as epilogues and a very sweet bonus about Dana attending Peyton's football games with a cameo by Lemon.
I listened to the audio book and it is fantastic! Alexander Cendese and Iggy Toma are awesome as always.
DUET, 2 narrators, 2 POVs, first person
July 28, 2025
What a delightful novella set in the Rainbow Dorset University Series. The storyline is funny, romantic, and full of sizzling heat. Dana works at the college cafe and coffee shop. It’s there he first saw Payton, a football jock. Dana has crushed on him for years but was too shy to ever say anything. After all, in Dana's opinion, why would a hunk like Payton ever even notice a guy like him let alone go out with him. So when the campus puts on a fundraising auction, auctioning off the various school teams players, Dana goes all in and wins a date with Payton. A date that was supposed to be a fun time Kayaking, picnicking and enjoying the water. Which it was, until a storm rolls in and Payton and Dana get soaking wet while trying to reach the island with a tiny cabin they can hopefully dry off in and wait out the storm. But what happens when the storm doesn’t let up and there is nothing to do but spill long kept secrets.
This is a quick, romantic read that this reader fell in love with. Ms. Reitan gave these two the perfect storyline and an even more perfect start to a future.
2 Thumbs Up and 5 Stars
This is a quick, romantic read that this reader fell in love with. Ms. Reitan gave these two the perfect storyline and an even more perfect start to a future.
2 Thumbs Up and 5 Stars
July 28, 2025
Short, sweet and smoking hot!!
There was honestly more plot than I expected from such a short spicy read but watching these two find their way to each other was really cute. I think Peyton had some realisations about how problematic his behaviour towards coach Lemon has been and finally accepted the no he had been receiving. He opened himself up to new people and had a great time with Dana.
Sweet Dana (who seems like he may quietly be a bit of a beast in bed) has been secretly crushing on Peyton for a while and it seems this date was the perfect opportunity for them to explore this.
I loved the hopeful HFN note this was left on and would really love to see them get some more on page time in future. It would be nice to see their relationship grow and develop. Will Peyton get drafted? Would they stay together since Dana has another year of school? Maybe these questions will be answered in future🤞🏻
There was honestly more plot than I expected from such a short spicy read but watching these two find their way to each other was really cute. I think Peyton had some realisations about how problematic his behaviour towards coach Lemon has been and finally accepted the no he had been receiving. He opened himself up to new people and had a great time with Dana.
Sweet Dana (who seems like he may quietly be a bit of a beast in bed) has been secretly crushing on Peyton for a while and it seems this date was the perfect opportunity for them to explore this.
I loved the hopeful HFN note this was left on and would really love to see them get some more on page time in future. It would be nice to see their relationship grow and develop. Will Peyton get drafted? Would they stay together since Dana has another year of school? Maybe these questions will be answered in future🤞🏻
July 14, 2025
Bid on a date takes a turn, one could say for the worse but in this case, it was definitely for the better. Dana has been crushing on Peyton and when Peyton is up for auction he bids until he gets him.
Their date is a fun kayaking trip with a nice romantic lunch, but not checking the weather beforehand has them stranded on a small little island in the middle of a raging storm. Which seems like the worst thing to happen but in their case it was fun and let’s say: they made the most of it.
What I loved about this was the fact that for a shorter story it was entirely complete. Could I read more of their story and everything that comes with them? Yes absolutely, their dynamic was great and the way Dana was shy until he wasn’t, I would definitely want to read more of that. But this felt complete as it was which I can always appreciate in a short story.
Their date is a fun kayaking trip with a nice romantic lunch, but not checking the weather beforehand has them stranded on a small little island in the middle of a raging storm. Which seems like the worst thing to happen but in their case it was fun and let’s say: they made the most of it.
What I loved about this was the fact that for a shorter story it was entirely complete. Could I read more of their story and everything that comes with them? Yes absolutely, their dynamic was great and the way Dana was shy until he wasn’t, I would definitely want to read more of that. But this felt complete as it was which I can always appreciate in a short story.
July 18, 2025
This was a short but sweet novella!
We first met Peyton in Collide, where he was crushing on his football coach HARD. The book starts with a charity auction and Peyton is so wrapped up in hoping that Coach Lemon will bid on him that he doesn’t even know who had the winning bid.
Dana sees Peyton almost every day at one of the cafes where works as a barista. He’s had a crush on him but can’t seem to work up the courage to just ask him out. So he uses the charity auction to his advantage and wins a date with Peyton.
The two set out on a kayaking date complete with a romantic lunch. But Peyton didn’t check the weather beforehand and a storm has them stranded on a little island seeking shelter in a tiny cabin. You know what a tiny cabin means right? Yup, one bed! This story may have been on the shorter side but the emotional and physical connection between these two was not lacking. I really do hope we get to see some more of these two in future books!
I received a copy from the author and am voluntarily sharing my honest opinion.
We first met Peyton in Collide, where he was crushing on his football coach HARD. The book starts with a charity auction and Peyton is so wrapped up in hoping that Coach Lemon will bid on him that he doesn’t even know who had the winning bid.
Dana sees Peyton almost every day at one of the cafes where works as a barista. He’s had a crush on him but can’t seem to work up the courage to just ask him out. So he uses the charity auction to his advantage and wins a date with Peyton.
The two set out on a kayaking date complete with a romantic lunch. But Peyton didn’t check the weather beforehand and a storm has them stranded on a little island seeking shelter in a tiny cabin. You know what a tiny cabin means right? Yup, one bed! This story may have been on the shorter side but the emotional and physical connection between these two was not lacking. I really do hope we get to see some more of these two in future books!
I received a copy from the author and am voluntarily sharing my honest opinion.
July 30, 2025
Sometimes it’s the thing you aren’t expecting that changes your life. Peyton has been crushing on his coach, and when he auctions off a date, he is sure his coach feels something too and will bid on him. He doesn’t, but enter Dana. Dana has had his eyes on Peyton for awhile now.
When Dana and Peytons date doesn’t go as planned, these two are forced into a remote cabin for a few days. This forces these two together and opens Peytons eyes. Dana’s feelings grow deeper as he finally gets to know Peyton better and is able to act on his feelings. These two were so cute and sweet. Reading their love story unfold was beautiful to watch, especially watching Peyton see what love really feels like instead of just thinking you feel it.
I received an advance review copy, and this is my honest review.
When Dana and Peytons date doesn’t go as planned, these two are forced into a remote cabin for a few days. This forces these two together and opens Peytons eyes. Dana’s feelings grow deeper as he finally gets to know Peyton better and is able to act on his feelings. These two were so cute and sweet. Reading their love story unfold was beautiful to watch, especially watching Peyton see what love really feels like instead of just thinking you feel it.
I received an advance review copy, and this is my honest review.
August 3, 2025
This was a sweet and easy novella that worked well as a quick in-between read. The premise—unrequited love, a charity date gone wrong (or very right?), and a cozy cabin during a storm—had all the ingredients for a swoony, feel-good romance.
Peyton and Dana were likable leads, and I appreciated the shift from chasing the wrong person to finally noticing someone who's been there all along. The kayaking picnic and unexpected overnight stay gave the story a touch of adventure, and the remote lake setting was lovely.
That said, the chemistry between the characters didn’t quite leap off the page for me. It might be due to the short length of the novella, but I struggled to fully believe the emotional shift in such a limited time. Still, the story had heart, and fans of quick, low-angst romances might find it just the right bite-sized escape.
Peyton and Dana were likable leads, and I appreciated the shift from chasing the wrong person to finally noticing someone who's been there all along. The kayaking picnic and unexpected overnight stay gave the story a touch of adventure, and the remote lake setting was lovely.
That said, the chemistry between the characters didn’t quite leap off the page for me. It might be due to the short length of the novella, but I struggled to fully believe the emotional shift in such a limited time. Still, the story had heart, and fans of quick, low-angst romances might find it just the right bite-sized escape.
July 17, 2025
ARC review: 4.5 starsThis is a quick little novella that helps tie up Peyton's unrequited crush from Collide.
I'm hoping we get to see more of these two later because we literally just got a peek at their first date.Granted, it was a forced proximity, one bed only kinda date, but it was cute.
Because this was a novella it just missed the mark for me on the character development. I would have liked to know more about both their backgrounds. Why did Peyton latch onto Lemon so hard (I got the sense there was more home life background there) and I wanted to know whether Dana's parents agreed that it was an emergency!
But it was cute. Very light and fluffy and I loved it. (Also, I kinda thought the missing prophylactic might have been left IN one of the boys. They never did find it...)
I'm hoping we get to see more of these two later because we literally just got a peek at their first date.Granted, it was a forced proximity, one bed only kinda date, but it was cute.
Because this was a novella it just missed the mark for me on the character development. I would have liked to know more about both their backgrounds. Why did Peyton latch onto Lemon so hard (I got the sense there was more home life background there) and I wanted to know whether Dana's parents agreed that it was an emergency!
But it was cute. Very light and fluffy and I loved it. (Also, I kinda thought the missing prophylactic might have been left IN one of the boys. They never did find it...)
August 3, 2025
Doink (Rainbow Dorset University) by Crea Reitan
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Doink going at once, Doink going twice, sold to this happy reader! I had so much fun reading Doink. It was fun, cute, spicy as hell, and full of an open future with so much potential. Peyton and Dana were super cute, I love how even though Payton auction didn't end like he expected. He did try to make the best out of it. The fact that he recognized that life was passion and how he didn't take for granted his connection with Dana was really nice to read. This was such a short novella, I couldn't help but want more of these two. I really hope Crea wants to write another novella about their future wink! Definitely a much needed read this summer.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Doink going at once, Doink going twice, sold to this happy reader! I had so much fun reading Doink. It was fun, cute, spicy as hell, and full of an open future with so much potential. Peyton and Dana were super cute, I love how even though Payton auction didn't end like he expected. He did try to make the best out of it. The fact that he recognized that life was passion and how he didn't take for granted his connection with Dana was really nice to read. This was such a short novella, I couldn't help but want more of these two. I really hope Crea wants to write another novella about their future wink! Definitely a much needed read this summer.
August 3, 2025
I read Doink by @creareitan and I was so excited to read Peyton’s story after he featured in Collide, Book One of Rainbow Dorset University.
This book is set around the auction that the teams participated in to raise money for their particular sporting teams, auctioning pre-determined dates.
Football player Peyton, who hoped his unrequited crush, his football coach, would bid on him, his bid is won by fellow student Dana, who had been crushing on Peyton from a far.
Peyton organised a fun kayaking date and our sweet and shy Dana is just excited to spend time with him. Nature takes a turn and their date turns into quite the adventure, stranded with only one bed, and plenty of time to get to know each other.
This was a fantastic novella, it had it all, a well rounded story, compelling characters, with great emotional connection and chemistry. I cannot wait for the next instalment from the Rainbow Dorset Series!
This book is set around the auction that the teams participated in to raise money for their particular sporting teams, auctioning pre-determined dates.
Football player Peyton, who hoped his unrequited crush, his football coach, would bid on him, his bid is won by fellow student Dana, who had been crushing on Peyton from a far.
Peyton organised a fun kayaking date and our sweet and shy Dana is just excited to spend time with him. Nature takes a turn and their date turns into quite the adventure, stranded with only one bed, and plenty of time to get to know each other.
This was a fantastic novella, it had it all, a well rounded story, compelling characters, with great emotional connection and chemistry. I cannot wait for the next instalment from the Rainbow Dorset Series!
July 23, 2025
Peyton and Dana — the couple you didn’t know you needed until they came together! Dana had been crushing on Peyton and thought there was some flirting going on whenever Peyton came by to pick up his coffee order. So, when the opportunity to bid on Peyton at a charity auction came up, Dana didn’t waste any time.
Peyton had the perfect date planned for himself and his crush — who just so happens to be his football coach. But when Peyton sees that his date is actually the guy from the coffee shop (who he thought was named Dan), he’s still determined to have a good time… if only he had checked the forecast first!
Peyton had the perfect date planned for himself and his crush — who just so happens to be his football coach. But when Peyton sees that his date is actually the guy from the coffee shop (who he thought was named Dan), he’s still determined to have a good time… if only he had checked the forecast first!
July 25, 2025
𝙳𝚘𝚒𝚗𝚔
𝚋𝚢 @creareitan
🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
4.5/5 ⭐️
1/5 🌶️
↓↓
This was such a cute quick little novella.
After a storm leaves them stranded together on a little island during their kayak date. Peyton and Dana make the best they can out of their situation. Their chemistry was just the sweetest.
I really hope we get some more on these two. Since this was a novella, we didn't get much on character development but they both are really interesting characters that I want to know more on.
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
🏈MM Romance
☕Blind Date
🏈Auction Date
☕Secret Crush
🏈Stormed In
☕Only One Bed
🏈Forced Proximity
☕Athlete x Barista
𝚋𝚢 @creareitan
🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
4.5/5 ⭐️
1/5 🌶️
↓↓
This was such a cute quick little novella.
After a storm leaves them stranded together on a little island during their kayak date. Peyton and Dana make the best they can out of their situation. Their chemistry was just the sweetest.
I really hope we get some more on these two. Since this was a novella, we didn't get much on character development but they both are really interesting characters that I want to know more on.
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
🏈MM Romance
☕Blind Date
🏈Auction Date
☕Secret Crush
🏈Stormed In
☕Only One Bed
🏈Forced Proximity
☕Athlete x Barista
July 28, 2025
Doink is part of the Rainbow Dorset University Series.
We met Payton in a previous book in the series and get to see his date from the charity auction he was apart of. Dana bids on him and they go on a date together, but get trapped in a remote cabin together, due to a storm. As they are in close quarters, they grow closer together and build something from this experience.
I liked seeing the thoughts of Payton and how he worked through his unrequited feelings and seemed to grow as a character. He was very caring with Dana and that was exactly what he needed. These two were super cute together.
We met Payton in a previous book in the series and get to see his date from the charity auction he was apart of. Dana bids on him and they go on a date together, but get trapped in a remote cabin together, due to a storm. As they are in close quarters, they grow closer together and build something from this experience.
I liked seeing the thoughts of Payton and how he worked through his unrequited feelings and seemed to grow as a character. He was very caring with Dana and that was exactly what he needed. These two were super cute together.
August 1, 2025
This was a quick read but what a joy it was. Dana is the quiet shy barista who has been crushing on Peyton for a while. Peyton has been crushing on his football coach who teaches him the meaning of No in a nice way. Dana is adorable through out this whole story, so shy until the steam hits then he becomes a different man. When Peyton puts together a date for an auction he was not expecting to find someone so special. These two have amazing chemistry and hit it off right away. I loved how this book center on their first date. I could not get enough and was sad that it ended so soon. I was given this book as an ARC for my honest review.
August 5, 2025
Wait... what? Nooo... I NEED MORE. OMG 😭
If they were not ready for the date to end, I was absolutely not ready to let them go.
OmG, these two are so freaking cute together... AND THAT DATE? HOLD ON, that was actually one of the best dates I've read about. 🥰🥰
The chemistry between Peyton & Dana is off the charts. From the first moment we meet them, we know that there is no other option for those two... together is the way to go.
Ahhh, I loved this short story. The only thing that would've made me love it more would've have been if it was a full book.
I highly recommend reading this one if you like a short, sweet, and smexy book.
If they were not ready for the date to end, I was absolutely not ready to let them go.
OmG, these two are so freaking cute together... AND THAT DATE? HOLD ON, that was actually one of the best dates I've read about. 🥰🥰
The chemistry between Peyton & Dana is off the charts. From the first moment we meet them, we know that there is no other option for those two... together is the way to go.
Ahhh, I loved this short story. The only thing that would've made me love it more would've have been if it was a full book.
I highly recommend reading this one if you like a short, sweet, and smexy book.
August 6, 2025
This was such a cute novella. Jock Payton has had a crush on his coach for ages, although his coach has always shot him down. Payton has finally decided to move on. Shy student/cafe worker Dana has had a crush on Payton for a while but never had the courage to do anything about it. But when the sports departments have a charity date event, it's the perfect chance for Dana to bid on a date with Payton. Payton plans a date kayaking on a local lake, however the weather turns and they end up staying in a small remote cabin. They get on well and quickly realise they have a great chemistry and connection. I really enjoyed reading this story.
August 8, 2025
Just what I needed. Doink was a novella with a sweet romance between a university football player and a barista. The story was realistic, characters perfect and the angst light.
Raising money for the football team the players take part in a date auction. Having crushed on Peyton all year Dana wins the auction for a kayaking date with the footballer.
Peyton strives to plan the perfect date, unfortunately bad weather results in that held up in a small island cabin. Close proximity, admissions of crushing, and more soon happens.
Only thing missing was more. I now want Peyton and Dana’s full story.
Raising money for the football team the players take part in a date auction. Having crushed on Peyton all year Dana wins the auction for a kayaking date with the footballer.
Peyton strives to plan the perfect date, unfortunately bad weather results in that held up in a small island cabin. Close proximity, admissions of crushing, and more soon happens.
Only thing missing was more. I now want Peyton and Dana’s full story.
July 30, 2025
This was a super sweet stranded story. Dana, the barista, has been crushing on Payton even as Payton has been crushing on Coach Frost. The auction/blind dates give Dana a chance to win a date with Payton and get to know him. As disappointed as Payton is that Coach Frost isn’t interested, he plans a romantic/fun kayaking date (his favorite activity) hoping to have a great time with his date, not planning for them to be stranded and have to spend the night in a emergency shelter cabin to ride out the storm. Luckily, it gives him and Dana a chance to make a real connection.
July 30, 2025
4 ⭐
2 🌶️
A sweet quick novella set in Rainbow Dorset University series. I was really intrigued by Parker in Collide. His crush on Lemon was borderline obsessive. I'm glad he realized that it wasn't going to go anywhere. Otherwise he'd miss out on the cutie, Dana.
WHAT TO EXPECT
☕Blind Date
🏈Auction Date
☕Secret Crush
🏈Stormed In
☕Only One Bed
🏈Forced Proximity
☕Athlete x Barista
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
2 🌶️
A sweet quick novella set in Rainbow Dorset University series. I was really intrigued by Parker in Collide. His crush on Lemon was borderline obsessive. I'm glad he realized that it wasn't going to go anywhere. Otherwise he'd miss out on the cutie, Dana.
WHAT TO EXPECT
☕Blind Date
🏈Auction Date
☕Secret Crush
🏈Stormed In
☕Only One Bed
🏈Forced Proximity
☕Athlete x Barista
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
August 2, 2025
Doink is a novella set in the Rainbow Dorset University series. It's a very sweet, very cute story. Made me laugh a lot too. That first date went all kinds of wrong, but it was just perfect like this. It seemed very fitting for Peyton and Dana. It was also fun revisiting the date auction we read about in a previous book. It was a nice change of pace to see Peyton admit he was wrong about how he acted towards Coach Lemon as well. I love everything about this series, this novella did not disappoint.
July 23, 2025
Crea did it again and I’m not even surprised. This spicy little novella came in hot and delivered the goods.
A charity auction. A long-time crush. Dana throws down like a man on a mission and snags Peyton for a kayaking date. Sounds sweet until the weather goes full chaos mode and strands them on a tiny island in the middle of a storm. Tragic for some. For these two, a golden opportunity. They absolutely made the most of being stuck together. Emphasis on together.
Dana starts off all shy and sweet until he flips the switch and shows Peyton exactly what he wants. Their chemistry is off the charts and the storm isn’t the only thing rolling in strong.
It’s short. It’s sizzling. Would I read a hundred more pages of these two being adorable, awkward, and accidentally sexy in the wilderness. Instantly. But this little story hits the spot all on its own.
A charity auction. A long-time crush. Dana throws down like a man on a mission and snags Peyton for a kayaking date. Sounds sweet until the weather goes full chaos mode and strands them on a tiny island in the middle of a storm. Tragic for some. For these two, a golden opportunity. They absolutely made the most of being stuck together. Emphasis on together.
Dana starts off all shy and sweet until he flips the switch and shows Peyton exactly what he wants. Their chemistry is off the charts and the storm isn’t the only thing rolling in strong.
It’s short. It’s sizzling. Would I read a hundred more pages of these two being adorable, awkward, and accidentally sexy in the wilderness. Instantly. But this little story hits the spot all on its own.
July 28, 2025
❤️Blind Date Auction
❤️Stormed In
❤️One Bed
❤️MM Romance
Dana and Peyton 😍
Such a cute, short, HEA story.
Cabin on a lake in the middle of a thunderstorm!!! Thank god for the wet wipes. I'd agree with Dana and say that even though totally unexpected, what a wonderful date.
I really enjoyed the difference between their personalities but the fact that they both also share some aspects of anxiety in different ways.
❤️Stormed In
❤️One Bed
❤️MM Romance
Dana and Peyton 😍
Such a cute, short, HEA story.
Cabin on a lake in the middle of a thunderstorm!!! Thank god for the wet wipes. I'd agree with Dana and say that even though totally unexpected, what a wonderful date.
I really enjoyed the difference between their personalities but the fact that they both also share some aspects of anxiety in different ways.
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