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Graduation No Face
Graduation implies a new beginning…
Jude
It’s unusual that I meet someone who becomes more than a fleeting acquaintance. Of all the places to meet such a person, at my cousin’s graduation party is my last guess. I’m so intrigued with him that I invite him with me to the boat club on Dark Island in Alexandra Bay for the summer.
Conner
I planned my entire future around getting drafted to the NHL but come graduation, no one wants me. Through a series of fortunate events, a frat brother brings me home and his hot cousin - professional hockey player - somehow takes an interest in me and while I’m still floundering for a future, I’m not upset to live in the present for a while.
Joining him at his boat club and staying in the castle is far too good to be true.
Because it is too good. One man takes an instant dislike of me and somehow, I end up inside the wall and before a group of masked people with knives in their hands as they discuss whether I get to live or die.
***
This is a LGBTQIA+ story with content not intended for those under 18 years of age due to graphic scenes and situations.
Jude
It’s unusual that I meet someone who becomes more than a fleeting acquaintance. Of all the places to meet such a person, at my cousin’s graduation party is my last guess. I’m so intrigued with him that I invite him with me to the boat club on Dark Island in Alexandra Bay for the summer.
Conner
I planned my entire future around getting drafted to the NHL but come graduation, no one wants me. Through a series of fortunate events, a frat brother brings me home and his hot cousin - professional hockey player - somehow takes an interest in me and while I’m still floundering for a future, I’m not upset to live in the present for a while.
Joining him at his boat club and staying in the castle is far too good to be true.
Because it is too good. One man takes an instant dislike of me and somehow, I end up inside the wall and before a group of masked people with knives in their hands as they discuss whether I get to live or die.
***
This is a LGBTQIA+ story with content not intended for those under 18 years of age due to graphic scenes and situations.
193 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 5, 2026
About the author
Crea Reitan
131 books1,222 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 42 reviews
Review of advance copy
I am just saying… damn do I love this series. Honestly I can’t wait for the new series to be released because this was just the introduction and it already delivered in a way that made me feral. It opened the door to a whole different series and instead of cautiously stepping through, it kicked the door down and said welcome, buckle up.
This was Conner and Jude’s story, and while it had that instant, intense connection between them, it also carried a thread of protective possessiveness woven through the pages. Conner is lost when we meet him, unsure of his future and just trying to get by. Jude steps in not to change him, but to support him. He gives Conner something to focus on, protects him, and most importantly creates a safe space where he can simply be himself. Their connection is quick, but it grows into something soft, secure, and genuinely beautiful.
There were so many new character introductions and somehow it never felt overwhelming. It felt intentional. Like every single person walked onto the page with purpose. And the way it joined multiple worlds together could have been chaotic, but instead it was layered and clever and absolutely worth every second.
The concept was fun and dark in that slightly unhinged way that makes you lean closer to the page. But it still carried that same care and quiet beauty that always comes from a Crea book. The softness tucked inside the sharp edges.
I am excited. I am seated. I am ready to spiral over the next installment the second it exists
This was Conner and Jude’s story, and while it had that instant, intense connection between them, it also carried a thread of protective possessiveness woven through the pages. Conner is lost when we meet him, unsure of his future and just trying to get by. Jude steps in not to change him, but to support him. He gives Conner something to focus on, protects him, and most importantly creates a safe space where he can simply be himself. Their connection is quick, but it grows into something soft, secure, and genuinely beautiful.
There were so many new character introductions and somehow it never felt overwhelming. It felt intentional. Like every single person walked onto the page with purpose. And the way it joined multiple worlds together could have been chaotic, but instead it was layered and clever and absolutely worth every second.
The concept was fun and dark in that slightly unhinged way that makes you lean closer to the page. But it still carried that same care and quiet beauty that always comes from a Crea book. The softness tucked inside the sharp edges.
I am excited. I am seated. I am ready to spiral over the next installment the second it exists
Review of advance copy received from Author
Graduation No Face
Cream Reitan
Jude & Connor
I really enjoyed this. Also, I just love Creaverse.
I adored hearing so many previous characters' names in this book. And the next gen characters as well.
This was a unique story for sure.
I loved their intimacy and spice.
Connor stumbles upon something he shouldn't and his life changes for the better from it, I'd say.
Secret societies and spoiled rich bois.
These two were sweet.
Interested to read more from
the world and the next gen characters
Love Creaverse so much
So thankful for this arc
Cream Reitan
Jude & Connor
I really enjoyed this. Also, I just love Creaverse.
I adored hearing so many previous characters' names in this book. And the next gen characters as well.
This was a unique story for sure.
I loved their intimacy and spice.
Connor stumbles upon something he shouldn't and his life changes for the better from it, I'd say.
Secret societies and spoiled rich bois.
These two were sweet.
Interested to read more from
the world and the next gen characters
Love Creaverse so much
So thankful for this arc
March 5, 2026
The story begins with Connor standing alone at his graduation, abandoned by his religious family. He once believed hockey would be his future and that he’d be drafted into the NHL, but that never happened. Now he has no plan B and nowhere to go.
When his frat brother Nolan realizes what’s going on, he and his entire family take Connor in. Nolan comes from a big, warm, affectionate family, exactly what Connor needs. And we meet a lot of people along the way.
Jude, one of the family members and a hockey player, immediately catches Connor’s attention. Jude is surprised by his own reaction, he’s attracted to Connor. He wonders whether Connor would be open to a fling, a summer romance, maybe even a one‑night stand. Before long, Jude is completely smitten and invites Connor to join him at the boat club on Dark Island in Alexandria Bay for the summer.
During the boat trip and on the island, we run into many familiar faces. Something strange is happening there, but what exactly? Whatever it is, it involves a secret society.
Jude confesses something sinister to Connor, who initially thinks it’s a joke. The boat club, the secret society, the castle, the secrets, watch how it all unfolds. It turns out darker than expected, though not too dark.
It’s a great story, definitely hot, but also full of meaningful conversations. It isn’t required, but it helps if you’ve read some of the author’s other books, since they’re all connected. Marvelously done, by the way.
This was a super intriguing read: entertainingly written, with a strong plot. And beyond all the wonderful secondary characters, Connor and Jude, the two leads, are compelling and lovable.
Review also on Love Bytes LGBTQ reviews
When his frat brother Nolan realizes what’s going on, he and his entire family take Connor in. Nolan comes from a big, warm, affectionate family, exactly what Connor needs. And we meet a lot of people along the way.
Jude, one of the family members and a hockey player, immediately catches Connor’s attention. Jude is surprised by his own reaction, he’s attracted to Connor. He wonders whether Connor would be open to a fling, a summer romance, maybe even a one‑night stand. Before long, Jude is completely smitten and invites Connor to join him at the boat club on Dark Island in Alexandria Bay for the summer.
During the boat trip and on the island, we run into many familiar faces. Something strange is happening there, but what exactly? Whatever it is, it involves a secret society.
Jude confesses something sinister to Connor, who initially thinks it’s a joke. The boat club, the secret society, the castle, the secrets, watch how it all unfolds. It turns out darker than expected, though not too dark.
It’s a great story, definitely hot, but also full of meaningful conversations. It isn’t required, but it helps if you’ve read some of the author’s other books, since they’re all connected. Marvelously done, by the way.
This was a super intriguing read: entertainingly written, with a strong plot. And beyond all the wonderful secondary characters, Connor and Jude, the two leads, are compelling and lovable.
Review also on Love Bytes LGBTQ reviews
March 5, 2026
Not everything in this novella is what it first appears to be, and I really loved how Reitan kept that sense of uncertainty running through the story as we follow Conner and Jude to Dark Island. There were so many moments where it felt like the ground kept shifting just enough to keep you curious about what was really going on. One of my favourite parts was Nolan stepping in for Conner right at the start and basically adopting him without hesitation, it set the tone for so much warmth and support moving forward. The way Nolan kept reminding him that love is love, no matter what expectations or ideas people might carry, felt especially meaningful considering his own story earlier in the Longwood U series. Conner and Jude together were just genuinely lovely to read about, there’s this really nice mix of sweetness, friendship, and easy chemistry between them that makes their connection feel natural. Even though this is a novella and the romance moves fairly quickly, it never felt rushed to me. Yes, there’s definitely some heat there and it has that fast burn energy physically, but the emotional side develops in a way that feels organic and believable at the same time. The story also works as a next generation piece set in the Longwood U universe and crosses over with the Van Doren, Deth, and Vincent families, which I personally loved. Crea’s books always tend to have a big cast of characters and many of them appear across different stories, so if someone jumped in without reading the earlier books they might feel a bit lost at first, but for readers who already know the world it’s such a treat seeing familiar faces pop up again and watching those connections continue to grow. This one focuses on Connor just after graduating university when things don’t go the way he hoped and he isn’t drafted into the NHL, leaving him feeling a bit lost and unsure about what comes next, especially since going back to his old home isn’t really an option. That’s where Nolan steps in and brings him home with him, and honestly that whole moment with the acceptance, the comfort, and the hugs just filled my heart. Then of course when Connor arrives he meets Jude, and there’s an immediate spark there that makes you curious to see how their story is going to unfold.
March 7, 2026
Graduation No Face by Crea Reitan is the latest installment in the interconnected Longwood U series. In fact most of her series are connected that way. Does it make for confusing reading? No, not really, but it does make your brain work trying to remember where you might have read about them 😉
This romance blends summer fling vibes, secret society intrigue, age gap tension, and high stakes danger in only 193 pages. It felt longer, we get a lot packed into those pages.
The story follows Jude, a professional hockey player who’s typically guarded and doesn’t form deep connections easily. At his cousin’s graduation party, he meets Conner, a recent college grad whose NHL draft dreams have just imploded, no team wants him, leaving him directionless and alone. 😞
Conner ends up tagging along to Jude’s family’s extravagant summer setup, a boat club on Dark Island in Alexandria Bay, complete with a castle like stay that’s luxurious beyond belief. Has something jogged in your mind? (Yes the island is mentioned in another book)😉
What begins as an intriguing, heat filled summer romance, Jude inviting Conner to join him, leading to instant chemistry and scorching encounters, quickly darkens and turns a little more sinister!
The plot weaves in mystery, threats, and revelations as the men navigate attraction, protection, and uncovering hidden truths tied to the island’s elite underbelly.
The writing keeps the pace brisk, intriguing build up and a satisfying unraveling of secrets, while blending lighthearted summer romance with darker edged tension.
If your a fan of MM romance with secret societies, age gap elements, hockey adjacent worlds, and a touch of danger, this hits the spot, intriguing, and emotionally satisfying without dragging us through pointless pages!
If you’re deep in Reitan’s universe, it’s a must read, if you’re new to the “Creaverse”, it’s a good place to start, with plenty of intrigue, and before you know it, you’ll be down this rabbit hole searching for “where did I read him? and what book?” 😜 And yes there are appearances/mentions of previous characters (the Van Doren series) and (For Puck sake series) and it’s also leading us into a new series on the island and Van Doren family.
🦋
This romance blends summer fling vibes, secret society intrigue, age gap tension, and high stakes danger in only 193 pages. It felt longer, we get a lot packed into those pages.
The story follows Jude, a professional hockey player who’s typically guarded and doesn’t form deep connections easily. At his cousin’s graduation party, he meets Conner, a recent college grad whose NHL draft dreams have just imploded, no team wants him, leaving him directionless and alone. 😞
Conner ends up tagging along to Jude’s family’s extravagant summer setup, a boat club on Dark Island in Alexandria Bay, complete with a castle like stay that’s luxurious beyond belief. Has something jogged in your mind? (Yes the island is mentioned in another book)😉
What begins as an intriguing, heat filled summer romance, Jude inviting Conner to join him, leading to instant chemistry and scorching encounters, quickly darkens and turns a little more sinister!
The plot weaves in mystery, threats, and revelations as the men navigate attraction, protection, and uncovering hidden truths tied to the island’s elite underbelly.
The writing keeps the pace brisk, intriguing build up and a satisfying unraveling of secrets, while blending lighthearted summer romance with darker edged tension.
If your a fan of MM romance with secret societies, age gap elements, hockey adjacent worlds, and a touch of danger, this hits the spot, intriguing, and emotionally satisfying without dragging us through pointless pages!
If you’re deep in Reitan’s universe, it’s a must read, if you’re new to the “Creaverse”, it’s a good place to start, with plenty of intrigue, and before you know it, you’ll be down this rabbit hole searching for “where did I read him? and what book?” 😜 And yes there are appearances/mentions of previous characters (the Van Doren series) and (For Puck sake series) and it’s also leading us into a new series on the island and Van Doren family.
🦋
Review of advance copy received from Author
Conner thought he had his future figured out. But when his plan to play pro hockey fails, he has no idea what to do. His parents religious beliefs makes it so he has no where to go. But lucky for Conner, he isn’t alone. Not when his friend, Nolan, takes him under his wing. And under the protection of his very big family. But what surprises Conner more is the intense connection he feels when he meets Jude. How can he not know Jude Vincent? The hockey player not that much older than himself and his father who was a great hockey player. But what really gets to Conner is this connection he feels with Jude that has nothing to do with hockey. And he isn’t the only one. Jude is even more surprised by what he feels for Conner. He’s never connected with someone like that before and so quickly. And he isn’t ready to let go. So when he whisks Conner away to spend the summer with him and his friends at a boat club, he knows the risks. Like what would happen if Conner discovers what else the boat club is part of… Let’s just say it’s more than Conner can handle. This was a fun one! Since Longwood U is set with future generations of characters we know and love, it’s so fun to piece together who is connected to who. We get a lot of new and familiar names. I loved Jude and Conner and getting to know them as they fall harder for one another each day. And of course, I was super intrigued by this secret society and definitely wouldn’t mind learning about that one day! Great and fun story all around.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy
3.5 🌟
Conner and Jude 🖤
There are a LOT of side characters or people mentioned in this to the point I felt a bit out of place at first. It definitely presents like we’re supposed to know 50 characters and their backstories from the very beginning.
As for Jude and Conner, they were fun but not too much depth. Jude is out here revealing secrets during sex as if he actually knows anything about Conner yet?? Beyond their initial attraction to each other, we never really get to see why they were so obsessed with each other.
They were very instalust, and then most of the story revolves around the suspense of the island. There’s some creepy happenings, secrets, tunnels that lead to more secrets and life or death situations, and it was interesting and unique. It felt like a lot to fit in a novella though.
Overall, I would call it intriguing but a bit confusing at times. I am still interested in learning more about the secret society though and the secrets the island holds. There are some extremely unique characters I would love to see more of.
.
.
.
.
‼️⚠️ Potential spoilers ⚠️‼️
Dynamic: MM — vers but mostly strict with Conner bottoming only once
Sharing? No
Cheating? No
Breakup? No
Sex scene with OM or OW No
‼️⚠️ Content ⚠️‼️
— boatclub
— secret society
— creepy island castle
— instalust
— possessive MMC
— dark
— pierced 🍆
— sex w condoms
— oral
— novella
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Conner and Jude 🖤
There are a LOT of side characters or people mentioned in this to the point I felt a bit out of place at first. It definitely presents like we’re supposed to know 50 characters and their backstories from the very beginning.
As for Jude and Conner, they were fun but not too much depth. Jude is out here revealing secrets during sex as if he actually knows anything about Conner yet?? Beyond their initial attraction to each other, we never really get to see why they were so obsessed with each other.
They were very instalust, and then most of the story revolves around the suspense of the island. There’s some creepy happenings, secrets, tunnels that lead to more secrets and life or death situations, and it was interesting and unique. It felt like a lot to fit in a novella though.
Overall, I would call it intriguing but a bit confusing at times. I am still interested in learning more about the secret society though and the secrets the island holds. There are some extremely unique characters I would love to see more of.
.
.
.
.
‼️⚠️ Potential spoilers ⚠️‼️
Dynamic: MM — vers but mostly strict with Conner bottoming only once
Sharing? No
Cheating? No
Breakup? No
Sex scene with OM or OW No
‼️⚠️ Content ⚠️‼️
— boatclub
— secret society
— creepy island castle
— instalust
— possessive MMC
— dark
— pierced 🍆
— sex w condoms
— oral
— novella
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
March 23, 2026
Eh. Kinda meh? Definitely compared to the second book. It is still a typically Reitan book, if anything, her style is getting more concentrated, though part of this was just the length. I forgot too many side characters that were supposed to make me all nostalgic (this book has too many of them) we might be nearing too much at this pointm the world too populated with characters I should know about but mostly don't.
I couldn't get excited about a bunch of rich boys racing boats while also being a secret society that is all hush-hush (compared to say Van Doren where the main character has to accept the murderous side of the Van Doren). I feel like I should clarify that I do respect the writing, I thought "this was well-handled" a few times, but I didn't really enjoy the process, I think? The abrupt beginning where a random guy now becomes chosen for the main cast to see everything the wider world is up to, the community living where the unwashed masses can't intrude, I mean the space where people can be kinky and taboo without outsiders having opinions about it...
I already talked about Reitan's need to monologue (through her character's inner and outward thoughts) so nothing new there, but I am starting to feel... as someone who is constantly arguing about how terrible people judge good people, she is doing a lot of judging and type-casting herself? I am not a fan of Church for many reasons and I still felt preached to.
Yes, I am still going to read these books and we'll see if that changes.
I couldn't get excited about a bunch of rich boys racing boats while also being a secret society that is all hush-hush (compared to say Van Doren where the main character has to accept the murderous side of the Van Doren). I feel like I should clarify that I do respect the writing, I thought "this was well-handled" a few times, but I didn't really enjoy the process, I think? The abrupt beginning where a random guy now becomes chosen for the main cast to see everything the wider world is up to, the community living where the unwashed masses can't intrude, I mean the space where people can be kinky and taboo without outsiders having opinions about it...
I already talked about Reitan's need to monologue (through her character's inner and outward thoughts) so nothing new there, but I am starting to feel... as someone who is constantly arguing about how terrible people judge good people, she is doing a lot of judging and type-casting herself? I am not a fan of Church for many reasons and I still felt preached to.
Yes, I am still going to read these books and we'll see if that changes.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Format: 📱 eBook 📱 (ARC)
Check CWs before reading
Not all is what it seems in this novella, and I really loved that Reitan kept us on our toes as we follow Conner and Jude to Dark Island.
I love how Nolan adopted Conner at the start of the story and set the wheels in motion. I also love that he kept reminding Conner that all love is love, regardless of what preconceived notions we may have (fitting, given Nolan's story earlier in the LU series).
Conner and Jude are great together, and I love the mix of sweetness and friendship between them. Despite this being a novella, their relationship did not feel rushed at all, and I absolutely loved that whilst it was steamy and more of a fast burn in that sense, the emotional side developed beautifully and naturally at the same time.
Reitan certainly has me interested with the Society of No Face, and where this new theme will take us. I adored what felt like paranormal elements with Matty (I hope this gets addressed down the track!), and as always, love that we're looking at the wider Creaverse with the presence of Van Doren's, Deth's and other LU/DIK alums, as well as the FPS/FYL cameos too.
As always, so keen to read more and see where the Creaverse takes us next - so beyond intrigued with all we've found out, and just know there will be so much more to discover.
Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
Check CWs before reading
Not all is what it seems in this novella, and I really loved that Reitan kept us on our toes as we follow Conner and Jude to Dark Island.
I love how Nolan adopted Conner at the start of the story and set the wheels in motion. I also love that he kept reminding Conner that all love is love, regardless of what preconceived notions we may have (fitting, given Nolan's story earlier in the LU series).
Conner and Jude are great together, and I love the mix of sweetness and friendship between them. Despite this being a novella, their relationship did not feel rushed at all, and I absolutely loved that whilst it was steamy and more of a fast burn in that sense, the emotional side developed beautifully and naturally at the same time.
Reitan certainly has me interested with the Society of No Face, and where this new theme will take us. I adored what felt like paranormal elements with Matty (I hope this gets addressed down the track!), and as always, love that we're looking at the wider Creaverse with the presence of Van Doren's, Deth's and other LU/DIK alums, as well as the FPS/FYL cameos too.
As always, so keen to read more and see where the Creaverse takes us next - so beyond intrigued with all we've found out, and just know there will be so much more to discover.
Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
March 3, 2026
My final read for February was Graduation No Face by @creareitan and I was thoroughly entertained by this story. I received an ARC of this from Crea’s Patreon which I love being a member of, great perks!
This book is a next generation story and set in the Longwood U universe and has a cross over with the Van Doren’s, Deth’s and Vincent’s. As with all of Crea’s stories, this book has a large cast of characters, lots of who have appeared in previous books so if you haven’t read any of Crea’s books before you may be a little lost. I however absolutely adore all the connections and appearances from previous (and hopefully future) characters.
This book features Connor, who has just graduated from uni and after he was not drafted to the NHL, is left without a plan. He is unable to return to his awful home so Nolan of course takes him home with him. That scene just filled my heart with love, the acceptance and hugs were everything. Of course when he arrives home with Nolan he meets Jude who is immediately taken with him!
This is a novella so things do move quickly and I enjoyed every minute of it. Jude invites Connor to spend the summer with him on an remote island that has a lot of secrets. Jude stumbles across these secrets, which only leads to more questions he’s definitely not allowed to ask. I love all the characters we met on the island (with one exception) and I’m so intrigued for what is to come with this series. I’m dying for so many of their stories, especially our next generation Van Doren’s!
This book is a next generation story and set in the Longwood U universe and has a cross over with the Van Doren’s, Deth’s and Vincent’s. As with all of Crea’s stories, this book has a large cast of characters, lots of who have appeared in previous books so if you haven’t read any of Crea’s books before you may be a little lost. I however absolutely adore all the connections and appearances from previous (and hopefully future) characters.
This book features Connor, who has just graduated from uni and after he was not drafted to the NHL, is left without a plan. He is unable to return to his awful home so Nolan of course takes him home with him. That scene just filled my heart with love, the acceptance and hugs were everything. Of course when he arrives home with Nolan he meets Jude who is immediately taken with him!
This is a novella so things do move quickly and I enjoyed every minute of it. Jude invites Connor to spend the summer with him on an remote island that has a lot of secrets. Jude stumbles across these secrets, which only leads to more questions he’s definitely not allowed to ask. I love all the characters we met on the island (with one exception) and I’m so intrigued for what is to come with this series. I’m dying for so many of their stories, especially our next generation Van Doren’s!
Review of advance copy
𝙶𝚛𝚊𝚍𝚞𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝙽𝚘 𝙵𝚊𝚌𝚎
𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠
4.5/5 ⭐️
1/5 🌶️
↓↓
What a fun quick read!!
Jude and Conner had a pretty instant connection. They meet at a time when Conner was at a low point in his life and thinks he has no future. He just graduated, wasn't drafted and has no family. He ends up getting "adopted" as Nolan's new brother and ends up going home with him for the summer.
Here he meets Jude who comes in and completely rearranges his entire life. These two form a pretty quick connection and Jude ends up going with Jude to some Island. From here things are pretty intense at times but also allows Conner and Jude to grow on a deeper level.
I loved seeing some past characters as well as some new faces. Crea has such an expansive universe so seeing so many character's intertwine together throughout different series, makes me so happy.
This was a nice intro to Crea's new series Legacy of Deth and the next book, Dead Nights with the mysterious island and castle. Can't wait to learn more about it.
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧
💜 New Adult
🎭 College
💜 Summer Romance
🎭 Secret Society
💜 I Don't Want To Die
𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠
4.5/5 ⭐️
1/5 🌶️
↓↓
What a fun quick read!!
Jude and Conner had a pretty instant connection. They meet at a time when Conner was at a low point in his life and thinks he has no future. He just graduated, wasn't drafted and has no family. He ends up getting "adopted" as Nolan's new brother and ends up going home with him for the summer.
Here he meets Jude who comes in and completely rearranges his entire life. These two form a pretty quick connection and Jude ends up going with Jude to some Island. From here things are pretty intense at times but also allows Conner and Jude to grow on a deeper level.
I loved seeing some past characters as well as some new faces. Crea has such an expansive universe so seeing so many character's intertwine together throughout different series, makes me so happy.
This was a nice intro to Crea's new series Legacy of Deth and the next book, Dead Nights with the mysterious island and castle. Can't wait to learn more about it.
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧
💜 New Adult
🎭 College
💜 Summer Romance
🎭 Secret Society
💜 I Don't Want To Die
March 6, 2026
Ok, so basically this one was a combination between Longwood U and Legacy of Deth ( new series coming soon ) with a sparkle of Van Doren.
I loved almost everything about it, tbh I think this would've been a 5✨️ if it would've been a bit longer. I was not ready to part ways with Jude and Conner...
While this is a relative short book a lot of things are happening. We get glimpses of Princess Daddy V and his men ( did I tear up a bit? ofc... Princess V is one of my fav characters of ALL TIME ), his kids, then the Van Doren's, and new characters are introduced that show us a glimpse of a new part of the Creaverse. I am so here for it.
Jude and Conner's story is basically lust/love at first sight... they met by pure coincidence and luck and never let each other go. Their chemistry is fire and the way Jude is there for Conner is so sweet and beautiful. What started as a one time thing ( or so they thought ) ended up being their forever. Yay.
I hope we will see more of them in future books. I really am not ready to let them go.
4.5 ✨️. Bring the Legacy of Deth... I AM READY.
I loved almost everything about it, tbh I think this would've been a 5✨️ if it would've been a bit longer. I was not ready to part ways with Jude and Conner...
While this is a relative short book a lot of things are happening. We get glimpses of Princess Daddy V and his men ( did I tear up a bit? ofc... Princess V is one of my fav characters of ALL TIME ), his kids, then the Van Doren's, and new characters are introduced that show us a glimpse of a new part of the Creaverse. I am so here for it.
Jude and Conner's story is basically lust/love at first sight... they met by pure coincidence and luck and never let each other go. Their chemistry is fire and the way Jude is there for Conner is so sweet and beautiful. What started as a one time thing ( or so they thought ) ended up being their forever. Yay.
I hope we will see more of them in future books. I really am not ready to let them go.
4.5 ✨️. Bring the Legacy of Deth... I AM READY.
March 7, 2026
I love Crea Reitans books even if they are a shorter read you always get a story full of plot, substance and with this one suspense, along with a great romance. Conner has just graduated and is a little lost on what to do next as his one goal didn't come through for him. When he is invited home with his frat brother when he meets Jude. Jude steps in to help him and support him and as these two spend more time together they get closer. Their connection was beautiful and they each brought something the other was needing into the relationship. When Connor goes with Jude to his boat club all kinds of interesting and suspenseful things happen, we see multiple worlds from Crea Reitans book come together in this story and I jumped for joy as I read. Being introduced into a new society for an upcoming new series was done perfectly. Conner and Jude have a sweet connection that shined bright throughout the story that has given us some dark and twisty feelings. I was given this book as an ARC for my honest review.
March 15, 2026
I knew this was going to be a great story when a whole host of characters from within Creaverse were there at the start! Not only do the stories cross the different series’s but so do the characters creating a real fantastic universe of stories. Connor has graduated but with no hockey draft which has him feeling unsure as to what to do next, all his eggs were in that basket and it did not come into fruition. Not only that, but his parents have disowned him to cap things off. When his friend Nolan “adopts” Connor as a brother and brings him home, his whole family does too. Meeting one of his idols of the ice, Jude Vincent, He is unsure what to do or feel. When Jude decides to take Connor with him to the island, neither of them realises how it will change both their lives. I loved the intrigue of the island, the reader, Along with Connor, discover secrets and weird things in this fantastic well written storyline, the characters are bug crazy and sort of loveable in their own way, steam mystery romance and drama, I really enjoyed this read
Review of advance copy received from Author
Never put all your eggs in one basket, or at least that is what Connor finds out when he doesn't get picked for pro hockey. He isn't really sure where to go, and he definitely doesn't want to go back to his family. His friend Nolan takes him under his wing and instead invites him to spend time with him and the elite at a boating club. There, he comes across Jude Vincent, and of course, he knows who Jude is. The two are drawn to each other, but there is more going on at the boathouse than Connor realises. Will he be able to survive the truths he finds out?
We get a bit of everyone in this story, the Van Doren's, Deth's and the Vincents. I love it when Crea's worlds collide, and they do it so seamlessly, we even get to see a few dads who we haven't seen for a while, so yay! I'm interested to see if we get a little more of the "elite boating club" in future stories.
We get a bit of everyone in this story, the Van Doren's, Deth's and the Vincents. I love it when Crea's worlds collide, and they do it so seamlessly, we even get to see a few dads who we haven't seen for a while, so yay! I'm interested to see if we get a little more of the "elite boating club" in future stories.
March 10, 2026
This was a really interesting Crea read. Conner is graduating and has his whole future planned around playing in the NHL. With that not coming to fruition, he is a little adrift until his friend Nolan invites him home with him, and he connects with Jude. Both men are surprised by the attraction and friendship they feel, and Conner agrees to spend the rest of the summer with his new friend. I found this part of the book fascinating. Dark Island is a character all on its own. The boat club has its secrets, but the island seems to as well. It provided for a dark, twisty read that kept me in engaged in the storyline and the romance. I loved the mix of familiar faces, names tangentially related to familiar characters and families, and intriguing new characters. I loved the HEA for Conner and Jude, and I can’t wait for more from this secret society…
March 5, 2026
"Life might feel like it’s over right now, but it’s only just beginning. I promise. Good things are ahead, no matter how bleak it might seem to you." - Jude
"Life felt really bleak there for a while, so it’s… surreal that this is my life." - Conner
Jude is part of a secret club and Conner accidently finds out after they've been spending a lot of time together and with people who have the same type of tattoo that Jude has. I really liked that it's the start of a new thing, it gives mystery to the series. I love that Nolan immediately introduced his lovely family to Conner and that Jude wanted to be around him from the start. I really enjoyed this book and all the new generations in Crea's world!
I received an ARC copy of this book.
"Life felt really bleak there for a while, so it’s… surreal that this is my life." - Conner
Jude is part of a secret club and Conner accidently finds out after they've been spending a lot of time together and with people who have the same type of tattoo that Jude has. I really liked that it's the start of a new thing, it gives mystery to the series. I love that Nolan immediately introduced his lovely family to Conner and that Jude wanted to be around him from the start. I really enjoyed this book and all the new generations in Crea's world!
I received an ARC copy of this book.
March 6, 2026
Conner put all his eggs in one basket. When his dream of being drafted after college doesn’t happen, he is at a loss about what to do next. When Nolan sees him, he doesn’t hesitate and offers for Conner to come home with him. Nolan introduces Conner to his family as his new brother, and no one hesitates to make him feel included.
When Conner is introduced to Jude, he is instantly mesmerized. Jude also feels a connection to Conner, so much so that he spends more time with the family than he originally intended. When it is time for Jude to leave, he asks Conner to come with him. Soon their attraction toward each other grows, and Jude helps Conner find his place—which happens to be wherever Jude is.
When Conner is introduced to Jude, he is instantly mesmerized. Jude also feels a connection to Conner, so much so that he spends more time with the family than he originally intended. When it is time for Jude to leave, he asks Conner to come with him. Soon their attraction toward each other grows, and Jude helps Conner find his place—which happens to be wherever Jude is.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a story that brings us back into the Longwood University world with our guy Connor. Connor is facing an uncertain future, since he didn't get drafted for the NHL or any hockey league. He put all of his eggs in one basket, and it didn't pan out like he planned. Thankfully, Nolan, his fraternity brother and friend invites Connor to come home with his family for the summer. Especially since Connor doesn't have a supportive family or place to go. Nolan's family is amazing (as we know from previous books), and welcomes him with open arms. Once there, Connor meets some of his hockey idols, particularly Jude Vincent. They hit it off & Jude invites him to stay with his friends and their boat club on a creepy island with a mysterious castle. There are lots of secrets and Connor accidentally stumbles on to some of them. The No Face Society has lots of the next generation of Van Doren's, Deth's, & other elite families. There's boat racing & lots of fun to be had, but also a dark underbelly. Connor ends up finding more than he bargained for with the secret society, but we do have an HEA. Would definitely recommend this book & can't wait to dive into the other characters next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a lot of fun as well as suspenseful and eerie/creepy. I really like the intertwining of a secret society into the Longwood U series. I’m intrigued & ready for more!!!
I also really loved Jude and his personality. The way he came across just really felt good to me. Idk if I’ve ever enjoyed a character’s personality this much? Either way, Jude was great and I really liked Connor. It was such a seamless transition from hooking up to more. They felt like two puzzle pieces.
Another high rated addition to this series & I’m eager for more of No Face and Longwood U.
Received an arc for exchange for honest review.
I also really loved Jude and his personality. The way he came across just really felt good to me. Idk if I’ve ever enjoyed a character’s personality this much? Either way, Jude was great and I really liked Connor. It was such a seamless transition from hooking up to more. They felt like two puzzle pieces.
Another high rated addition to this series & I’m eager for more of No Face and Longwood U.
Received an arc for exchange for honest review.
March 5, 2026
An intense, strong connection that builds quickly but also keeps building throughout the story. Jude is such a protective and supportive boyfriend who allows him to embrace himself and find more pieces of himself.
I also love how much suspense and wondering was in this story. AND the crossovers and familiar faces was such a nice touch.
The heavy theme in this book that I related to so much was the whole idea of what comes next when your plans don’t work out the way you thought they would. And I thought the author did such a good job of navigating Conner through this and letting Jude help him.
I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
I also love how much suspense and wondering was in this story. AND the crossovers and familiar faces was such a nice touch.
The heavy theme in this book that I related to so much was the whole idea of what comes next when your plans don’t work out the way you thought they would. And I thought the author did such a good job of navigating Conner through this and letting Jude help him.
I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved It! We meet Connor whose dream of playing in the NHL has come to an end, he goes on a trip with a friend where he meets Jude who is a star in the NHL. Let’s just say they are smitten from the start. Jude decides to take Connor with him to a remote island where he participates in a boat club. What we end up getting is a remote island with a secret club and a whole lot of buried secrets. Loved everything about Connor and Jude’s story.
March 7, 2026
This book is part of the Longwood U world, but it’s also the start of a new series. The relationship between Jude and Connor was a quick and intense beginning that continued to grow. When Connor finds out about the secret society, what could go wrong? I love the darkness the story brings, but it does have Van Dorens. Their love story was sweet and protective. I can’t wait to read more about this group of friends.
March 11, 2026
I just love reading Crea work. With this Novella, it did not disappoint. Because you get the Insta love with a mystery. I cannot get enough of Connor and Jude story. Very interesting because you want to know more about the island. Also, the characters that make you want more of this book so bad. Overall, I cannot wait to see what else Crea does for this universe. Because I know I’m going to love every single bit of it.
March 14, 2026
Though Conor and Jude’s story is short it still had plenty going on. I loved how these two found each other through a mutual. The instant chemistry and the steamy scenes were plentiful. Even with Jude spilling his guts out to Conor during one of those scenes. There was a bit of mystery with the island and the boat and all that jazz. It was also nice seeing past characters coming into the story. I really enjoyed reading this book.
Review of advance copy
The next generation of the Van Doren’s, Deth’s, and Vincents. They are all grown up. I love it! I also love their one rule. I wish the world would adopt it, too. Love is love. A secret society, with its own meaning of belonging. I could envision the different faces each member had. I am excited to read what this generation gets up to next.
I read and reviewed a copy of this book.
I read and reviewed a copy of this book.
March 5, 2026
Conner and Judes story really brings a lot of mystery and fun to the series. Conners plans didn’t work out when he graduated and gis frat brother brings him home. This family is awesome. Jude invites him to his boat club and we really get some twisted secrets here. Loved the plot seeing old characters and watching this HEA develop. A great read.
March 6, 2026
Dark, mysterious, quick read with a lot of content which is also a segue for a new series in the CR universe! Conner meets Jude at transitional point in his life, pivoting in a direction he would have never imaged but ends up embracing with an open mind. Pretty low angst, hot, and introduction of new characters along with those we've already met.
March 11, 2026
This is a really interesting story. I love the mixing with the next generation of Van Dorens. The secret society gave me the shivers. I can’t wait to find out more about this. I love the way Jude and Conner come together. My heart wept for Conner. The plot was absolutely insane. Those twists were awesome. They added a whole new level to the writing I already adore! I can’t wait for more!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Crea crea crea… you never seem to amaze me!! Connor & Jude Hot dam!! Though it got a bit dark which I love because of course I love the van Doren’s overall this book is simply amazing. I love all the side characters as well but we all love Princess Daddy V!!
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