What do you think?
Rate this book
Creepin U: Season 2
The Golden Receiver
Kieran
When I got recruited to transfer to Creelin University to play football, I thought this might be my chance. I would be the first human on the team. I would make campus history.
Okay, really, I just liked the full scholarship that came with it. It was a great way to escape the small town I lived in with my Pops my whole life and the not-so-great college I attended.
I didn't expect to feel like a fish out of water. I really didn't expect there to be a werewolf going after the same position as me.
How can I compete with a supernatural creature?
Evander
When Coach Shaw said we were getting a human on the football team, I was excited! Except the human in question is grumpy, surly, and I'm not sure he knows how to smile.
He also wants to be the number one wide receiver on the team, the same position I'm trying to get. I know I'm the better player, but he keeps distracting me.
He smells really good, you know?
I really need to stay focused, and not on the distractingly handsome grumpy human.
You’re formally readmitted to Creelin University, known locally as “Creepin U.” The only things wilder than the monsters prowling around campus are the spicy male/male love stories unfolding between classes. ‘The Golden Receiver’ is a monster romance featuring a golden retriever werewolf and a black cat human. Expect rivals-to-lovers, football, and a himbo werewolf whose whole job is to play catch.
When I got recruited to transfer to Creelin University to play football, I thought this might be my chance. I would be the first human on the team. I would make campus history.
Okay, really, I just liked the full scholarship that came with it. It was a great way to escape the small town I lived in with my Pops my whole life and the not-so-great college I attended.
I didn't expect to feel like a fish out of water. I really didn't expect there to be a werewolf going after the same position as me.
How can I compete with a supernatural creature?
Evander
When Coach Shaw said we were getting a human on the football team, I was excited! Except the human in question is grumpy, surly, and I'm not sure he knows how to smile.
He also wants to be the number one wide receiver on the team, the same position I'm trying to get. I know I'm the better player, but he keeps distracting me.
He smells really good, you know?
I really need to stay focused, and not on the distractingly handsome grumpy human.
You’re formally readmitted to Creelin University, known locally as “Creepin U.” The only things wilder than the monsters prowling around campus are the spicy male/male love stories unfolding between classes. ‘The Golden Receiver’ is a monster romance featuring a golden retriever werewolf and a black cat human. Expect rivals-to-lovers, football, and a himbo werewolf whose whole job is to play catch.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 7, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
October 7, 2026
Unfortunately, this one just never quite hit with me. I love a good grump x sunshine where the grump doesn't like the sunshine up front, but it just never felt like they truly got past that
October 12, 2026
This was a fun, light-hearted read.
Kieran was an absolute terd for almost half the book. His bad attitude really seemed to stem from feeling inadequate and like he had to prove himself because he was the only human playing with monsters.
I really mostly stayed for Evander because his himbo sunshine personality was sweet and fun. I was relieved when he was finally able to snap Kieran out of this unwarranted hostility and crack the shell that hid his more endearing layers. I enjoyed their banter and back and forth.
Tropes:
Paranormal MM
Sports
Teammates
Possesive MC
Warewolf + Human
Grumpy/Sunshine
Golden retriever/Black Cat
Rivals-to-lovers
Slow-burn
Dual POV
The Creepin U series is part of a set of interconnected standalones by various authors.
Thank you, GRR and Essie Sloane, for the opportunity to read this book.
Kieran was an absolute terd for almost half the book. His bad attitude really seemed to stem from feeling inadequate and like he had to prove himself because he was the only human playing with monsters.
I really mostly stayed for Evander because his himbo sunshine personality was sweet and fun. I was relieved when he was finally able to snap Kieran out of this unwarranted hostility and crack the shell that hid his more endearing layers. I enjoyed their banter and back and forth.
Tropes:
Paranormal MM
Sports
Teammates
Possesive MC
Warewolf + Human
Grumpy/Sunshine
Golden retriever/Black Cat
Rivals-to-lovers
Slow-burn
Dual POV
The Creepin U series is part of a set of interconnected standalones by various authors.
Thank you, GRR and Essie Sloane, for the opportunity to read this book.
Review of advance copy
This was a compelling romance, the hate-to-love (for one MC) dynamic had me on the edge of my seat. All the werewolf stuff was fun.
The buildup to the hate crime took up a lot of the book and filled me with dread, which put a damper on the good times.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
The buildup to the hate crime took up a lot of the book and filled me with dread, which put a damper on the good times.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Did Not Finish
October 1, 2026DNF at 16%. Not for me, the pacing is too slow and I feel like there was a lot of unnecessary info dumping and rambling. The first three chapters could probably have been condensed down to a few pages instead.
October 7, 2026
THE GOLDEN RECEIVER is part of the multi-author Creepin U: Season 2 series, and in this one we have the grumpiest grump to ever have grumped and a glass-is-half-full sunshiney boy who never met a stranger. In other words, we have Kieran and Evander.
When Kieran is approached to play at Creepin U, he thinks this is his chance to play professional football. It's never going to happen at his current school, even if he is close to his dad. But Creepin U is offering a full scholarship, so in the end, it's an easy decision. That turns out to be the only easy thing about it, as once he's there, he's up against the other monsters on the team. And boy, does he have a chip on his shoulder about that!
Evander is a werewolf with Golden Retriever energy. Honestly, I've never read a character quite like him. You can almost hear him bubbling away like an effervescent drink as you read. He thinks he's doing the right thing by trying to befriend the lone human, but Kieran wants none of it. Evander isn't the best at signals, so it takes him a while to reach his limits. And I loved it when he did!
I can't call this an enemies-to-lovers because Evander just wouldn't accept Kieran as his enemy. Honestly, he's a better man than I am, because Kieran was seriously getting on my nerves for about the first quarter or third of this book. Once Evander sorted him out, he became a better character.
The build-up to the climax was brilliantly written, with paranoia aplenty. It's one of those moments where you know it's going to happen, just not when. I adored the epilogue and would love to see more of these guys as they follow their futures.
After a dodgy start (Kieran, I'm looking at you!), I did a complete 180 and ended up thoroughly enjoying every moment. I really hope Preston gets a book. I loved him and his highlighters. A great addition to the series and definitely recommended by me.
*I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
**The same worded review will appear elsewhere.**
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian
Oct 7, 2026
When Kieran is approached to play at Creepin U, he thinks this is his chance to play professional football. It's never going to happen at his current school, even if he is close to his dad. But Creepin U is offering a full scholarship, so in the end, it's an easy decision. That turns out to be the only easy thing about it, as once he's there, he's up against the other monsters on the team. And boy, does he have a chip on his shoulder about that!
Evander is a werewolf with Golden Retriever energy. Honestly, I've never read a character quite like him. You can almost hear him bubbling away like an effervescent drink as you read. He thinks he's doing the right thing by trying to befriend the lone human, but Kieran wants none of it. Evander isn't the best at signals, so it takes him a while to reach his limits. And I loved it when he did!
I can't call this an enemies-to-lovers because Evander just wouldn't accept Kieran as his enemy. Honestly, he's a better man than I am, because Kieran was seriously getting on my nerves for about the first quarter or third of this book. Once Evander sorted him out, he became a better character.
The build-up to the climax was brilliantly written, with paranoia aplenty. It's one of those moments where you know it's going to happen, just not when. I adored the epilogue and would love to see more of these guys as they follow their futures.
After a dodgy start (Kieran, I'm looking at you!), I did a complete 180 and ended up thoroughly enjoying every moment. I really hope Preston gets a book. I loved him and his highlighters. A great addition to the series and definitely recommended by me.
*I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
**The same worded review will appear elsewhere.**
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian
Oct 7, 2026
October 10, 2026
This one was a bit of a struggle for me for the simple reason that Kieran spent the first half of the book getting on my nerves with his attitude towards everyone, especially Evander. I usually like a grumpy-sunshine dynamic but this didn't even feel like that because there was no reason for his hostility. He didn't appear that way in the prologue, there was nothing Evander actually did to cause it to such levels and it sort of backfired since he seemed to me to be really self-centred and unfriendly. Evander meanwhile was an absolute sweetheart who was almost too warm and bubbly for his own good. I felt like we really got to know him, I enjoyed the early pack dynamics as well as his relationship with his roommates too.
Around the half way point, Evander finally seemed able to snap Kieran out of his horrendous mood (or personality) and they did become a decent couple. Their chemistry wasn't in question and the pace seemed to pick up too for the last quarter. By the end I was pleased they got a HEA and I always enjoy diving back into this world of Creelin U.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Around the half way point, Evander finally seemed able to snap Kieran out of his horrendous mood (or personality) and they did become a decent couple. Their chemistry wasn't in question and the pace seemed to pick up too for the last quarter. By the end I was pleased they got a HEA and I always enjoy diving back into this world of Creelin U.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
October 19, 2026
Kieran and Evander's romance was an entertaining sports-themed read. I enjoyed the contrast between Kieran's grumpy personality and Evander's golden retriever energy, and their shared passion for football gave them a competitive spirit that never quit. Kieran was struggling to settle into Creelin U as a transfer student, and the majority of the book revolved around his gradual integration with the football team. Kieran had a habit of shutting himself off from others, and it definitely took him a while to understand why Evander kept coming back around. Their romance grew on me slowly, and by the time I reached the end of their journey I was certain they each had forever feelings for the other.
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
October 11, 2026
Kieran was the first human recruited to the Creelin University football team where he became a wide receiver competing with Evander for the number one spot. Kieran's jealousy makes him unfriendly and petty while Evander, a werewolf tries really hard to be his friend. You can understand Kieran's disappointment at not being a starter and wanting to stand out but it doesn't make him admirable, just a grump. Anger leads to a kiss, leading to a hook up and soon they're in a relationship. Grumpy versus sunshine, human and paranormal finally together. I received a copy of this through GRR and this is my voluntary opinion.
October 8, 2026
Kieran was an unexpected grumpy human who was ready to be annoyed right off the bat. It wasn’t the impression I got of him at first, but once he joined Creepin U he seemed unable to people!
And nothing makes him more of a black cloud than the chatty, happy Evander. He is determined to welcome the human to the team and become friends. But boy does Kieran make him work for it!
They are a cute couple once they work through it all, where Kieran starts seeing the lighter side of life, and Evander becomes a little less full-on.
And nothing makes him more of a black cloud than the chatty, happy Evander. He is determined to welcome the human to the team and become friends. But boy does Kieran make him work for it!
They are a cute couple once they work through it all, where Kieran starts seeing the lighter side of life, and Evander becomes a little less full-on.
October 9, 2026
*received as arc copy*
Okay, this book was adorable. Fluffy, funny, relatable, and had juuust enough angst to really keep it interesting!!
I am an absolute sucker for a black cat x golden retriever, and THIS golden retriever just so happened to be an actual big ole golden puppy and I LOVED it.
Evander’s scatter brain-ness was so incredibly relatable, I felt so connected to him from the jump. He’s so ADHD coded, I felt very much seen. 😂 But just because he’s all fun times and bubbly boy, does NOT mean that he isn’t insanely protective of “his human” Kieran. So don’t get that twisted! 🫶🏻
Kieran is the only human on a monster dominated football team, and he’s got a “super annoying” werewolf rival receiver that just will not leave him alone. What could possible go wrong there??
Seriously I loved this book so much. Highly recommend. And the SPICE?? It hits. 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Okay, this book was adorable. Fluffy, funny, relatable, and had juuust enough angst to really keep it interesting!!
I am an absolute sucker for a black cat x golden retriever, and THIS golden retriever just so happened to be an actual big ole golden puppy and I LOVED it.
Evander’s scatter brain-ness was so incredibly relatable, I felt so connected to him from the jump. He’s so ADHD coded, I felt very much seen. 😂 But just because he’s all fun times and bubbly boy, does NOT mean that he isn’t insanely protective of “his human” Kieran. So don’t get that twisted! 🫶🏻
Kieran is the only human on a monster dominated football team, and he’s got a “super annoying” werewolf rival receiver that just will not leave him alone. What could possible go wrong there??
Seriously I loved this book so much. Highly recommend. And the SPICE?? It hits. 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
October 11, 2026
Kieran was so grumpy that he became very unlikable, he had such a chip on his shoulder. Evader, on the other hand, was the most sunshine golden retriever type of werewolf imaginable. Evander was very persevering - otherwise nothing would ever have happened - but sometimes really unaware of going too far. The plot was quite good and some of the other students delightful (the highlighters). The MCs just didn't really appeal to me.
Thanks for the advance copy via Booksprout, I am happy to leave a voluntary review.
Thanks for the advance copy via Booksprout, I am happy to leave a voluntary review.
October 7, 2026
Evander is the BESTEST, he was just so sweet and positive like a ray of sunlight! Kieran on the other hand was like a dark cloud.
I LOVE werewolves so that aspect was awesome. The build up of "romance" between the 2 seemed like it took forever and was pretty one sided throughout the book.
The is book 2 in the Creepin U series.
I LOVE werewolves so that aspect was awesome. The build up of "romance" between the 2 seemed like it took forever and was pretty one sided throughout the book.
The is book 2 in the Creepin U series.
Review of advance copy
I absolutely devoured this book and then realized it is part of a multi author series and promptly went to grab the others because this book has me hooked on Creepin U! Seriously! I loved the MCs and the plot kept me wanting to know more!
October 5, 2026
I struggled with this if I'm honest. It didn't seem to flow and kept getting bogged down in too many details. I didn't really like either of the MC's. The opposites didn't attract and honestly, it might have been better if they'd stayed enemies. Evander was a sweetie, but his complete lack of self awareness was a struggle and Kieran was just obnoxious, self centred and emotionally so immature. The story did pick up a bit around 75%, but not enough to save it overall.
October 9, 2026
What a great play on the idea of sport with a ball. Yes, this is a football story so that tracks but this is also a monster/shifter story and the title's play on the idea of the type of dog who loves to play games with a ball is intentional since one of the primary characters is a shifter whose personality, at the very least, could seem to be that of a golden retriever - energy for miles!
College with a full scholarship and the possibility that a career in football could be real always seemed a dream, a step too far for Kieran but h's spotted, he's recruited and now he's there. The problem is he doesn't see how he can progress as a human playing with shifters and monsters with far more speed and power than he can ever have. Does he simply need a self-confidence boost to realise he was chosen for a reason or is there more to it?
Evander is the golden retriever of the bunch. A shifter with a never-ending sense of joy. He seems to never be able to stop talking, he's really good at playing football and he's quite simply the sunshine to Kieran's cloud. But they're on the same team and, as they soon discover, they are sharing a class too. Can Evander crack through Kieran's exterior walls, can he make the other man smile at the very least? Perhaps beginning to train together will be the start of something, perhaps it will help a friendship form?
It could work, they need to play together and support one another so off the pitch doing the same isn't a bad choice, the only problem could be the growing attraction they both feel and the distraction it brings. Ah, what a problem to have and what a charming story to read. It's fun, funny, will warm your heart and leave you with a good feeling. The vibes are there, they are waiting, now you simply need to tune in!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
College with a full scholarship and the possibility that a career in football could be real always seemed a dream, a step too far for Kieran but h's spotted, he's recruited and now he's there. The problem is he doesn't see how he can progress as a human playing with shifters and monsters with far more speed and power than he can ever have. Does he simply need a self-confidence boost to realise he was chosen for a reason or is there more to it?
Evander is the golden retriever of the bunch. A shifter with a never-ending sense of joy. He seems to never be able to stop talking, he's really good at playing football and he's quite simply the sunshine to Kieran's cloud. But they're on the same team and, as they soon discover, they are sharing a class too. Can Evander crack through Kieran's exterior walls, can he make the other man smile at the very least? Perhaps beginning to train together will be the start of something, perhaps it will help a friendship form?
It could work, they need to play together and support one another so off the pitch doing the same isn't a bad choice, the only problem could be the growing attraction they both feel and the distraction it brings. Ah, what a problem to have and what a charming story to read. It's fun, funny, will warm your heart and leave you with a good feeling. The vibes are there, they are waiting, now you simply need to tune in!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 11, 2026
Kieran and Evander . . .
Kieran Sawyer's college didn't have the best facilities. The track was cracked, the classes weren't very good, the teams were disappointing. But Kieran was determined to do his best. His dream of playing professional sports slowly slipped away. His high school, and even his college now, wasn't noted for any talent either, so scouts didn't bother coming around. Even scholarships were scarce. So when a scout did show up, he noticed immediately. He hadn't ever seen a monster on campus either, and this one had gray undertones in his skin, a blue tint in his lips, and was very tall. Kieran asked if he was looking for someone, and he said Coach Carver sent him over. Finally the man introduced himself as Assistant Coach Bernt Erikkson from Creelin University. Last year was the first time the monsters had opened their college to humans. When no humans signed up, Bernt remembered seeing Kieran play and was impressed. They wanted him on their football (soccer?) team and offered him a full scholarship provided by the athletic department. The college was only a few hours away and he could come home to visit his dad. So he finally signed up.
There were other eight wide receivers on the roster. Kieran stood next to Evander Hemmings and heard him tell the others he would be getting the starting role this year. And he was really talented. Oddly, when the Coach called them in, Evander again stood next to Kieran like they were best friends. Evander thought the human was grumpy; and they both are going for the same spot on the team, number one wide receiver. Evander notices the human smells really good, which is a big distraction for Evander. Which one of them will get the prized position on the team they are hoping for? And will at least the werewolf Evander realize what that delicious scent might mean?
Kieran Sawyer's college didn't have the best facilities. The track was cracked, the classes weren't very good, the teams were disappointing. But Kieran was determined to do his best. His dream of playing professional sports slowly slipped away. His high school, and even his college now, wasn't noted for any talent either, so scouts didn't bother coming around. Even scholarships were scarce. So when a scout did show up, he noticed immediately. He hadn't ever seen a monster on campus either, and this one had gray undertones in his skin, a blue tint in his lips, and was very tall. Kieran asked if he was looking for someone, and he said Coach Carver sent him over. Finally the man introduced himself as Assistant Coach Bernt Erikkson from Creelin University. Last year was the first time the monsters had opened their college to humans. When no humans signed up, Bernt remembered seeing Kieran play and was impressed. They wanted him on their football (soccer?) team and offered him a full scholarship provided by the athletic department. The college was only a few hours away and he could come home to visit his dad. So he finally signed up.
There were other eight wide receivers on the roster. Kieran stood next to Evander Hemmings and heard him tell the others he would be getting the starting role this year. And he was really talented. Oddly, when the Coach called them in, Evander again stood next to Kieran like they were best friends. Evander thought the human was grumpy; and they both are going for the same spot on the team, number one wide receiver. Evander notices the human smells really good, which is a big distraction for Evander. Which one of them will get the prized position on the team they are hoping for? And will at least the werewolf Evander realize what that delicious scent might mean?
October 6, 2026
*I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
I like this story and finished it in one sitting <3
I've read lots of grumpy and sunshine trope stories (no bias, neutral on the trope), but this one is special in that the grumpy MC is truly grumpy. Not just described as grumpy but we never see that in the story. Like they had a sudden, major change we didn't know about. Or it makes me think the character maybe was never really a grumpy, which is fine, but why write that character as grumpy, if they're not. It's small but a common irritation.
The author truly excels in writing internal dialogues and in a way that makes you interested in reading it. The two MCs' internal dialogues are truly two distinct ones, which is rare in stories; authors tend to write internal dialogues that are too similar or sometimes, not distinguishable unless the characters talk or mention a noticeable experience only one experienced in the story. Understandable, since they write from their own experiences, life, thoughts, and such, so it's hard to write multiple, distinct characters, but it does not read realistic for stories with different characters for them to have very similar internal dialogues. In this story, I didn't have to turn back pages or go back to the chapter page to see which character's POV it was. A bonus in this is I enjoy reading about interesting entire side stories in each character's internal dialogues that sometimes don't make it to the book actions. This is especially true for Evader :) it's hilarious reading some of his planning and scheming to get Kieran to talk to and like him.
I like this story and finished it in one sitting <3
I've read lots of grumpy and sunshine trope stories (no bias, neutral on the trope), but this one is special in that the grumpy MC is truly grumpy. Not just described as grumpy but we never see that in the story. Like they had a sudden, major change we didn't know about. Or it makes me think the character maybe was never really a grumpy, which is fine, but why write that character as grumpy, if they're not. It's small but a common irritation.
The author truly excels in writing internal dialogues and in a way that makes you interested in reading it. The two MCs' internal dialogues are truly two distinct ones, which is rare in stories; authors tend to write internal dialogues that are too similar or sometimes, not distinguishable unless the characters talk or mention a noticeable experience only one experienced in the story. Understandable, since they write from their own experiences, life, thoughts, and such, so it's hard to write multiple, distinct characters, but it does not read realistic for stories with different characters for them to have very similar internal dialogues. In this story, I didn't have to turn back pages or go back to the chapter page to see which character's POV it was. A bonus in this is I enjoy reading about interesting entire side stories in each character's internal dialogues that sometimes don't make it to the book actions. This is especially true for Evader :) it's hilarious reading some of his planning and scheming to get Kieran to talk to and like him.
October 7, 2026
This is a standalone book that is part of the Creepin U series. This story is college human/monster romance where one MMC is the super grumpy and the other is the biggest, most determined ray of sunshine ever!
The relationship between the MMCs develops quite slowly and Evander really has to put in a lot of work to get Kieran to open up. They start out as teammates and loose friends and work their way up to more.
I really loved Evander's energy, his positivity, the way he latched onto Kieran and how protective he is of him. He was such a joy to read about. I also liked how adaptable he was depending on the situation, always being what was needed at that moment.
And his found family, the werewolf pack he calls his own, was so supportive and always happy to tease Evander in the way only family can.
And Kieran is definitely a prickly pear and it takes a lot of burrowing to make it past that protective layer and get to the soft parts below. But when that finally happens, things start to get hot and steamy and handsy veeery quickly.
The relationship itself is low-angst, filled with quite a bit of frustration born of assumptions and misunderstandings. However there were a few scenes in the book that were intense and had my pulse pounding and had me feeling nervous.
The ending was super cute and had me grinning from ear to ear.
The relationship between the MMCs develops quite slowly and Evander really has to put in a lot of work to get Kieran to open up. They start out as teammates and loose friends and work their way up to more.
I really loved Evander's energy, his positivity, the way he latched onto Kieran and how protective he is of him. He was such a joy to read about. I also liked how adaptable he was depending on the situation, always being what was needed at that moment.
And his found family, the werewolf pack he calls his own, was so supportive and always happy to tease Evander in the way only family can.
And Kieran is definitely a prickly pear and it takes a lot of burrowing to make it past that protective layer and get to the soft parts below. But when that finally happens, things start to get hot and steamy and handsy veeery quickly.
The relationship itself is low-angst, filled with quite a bit of frustration born of assumptions and misunderstandings. However there were a few scenes in the book that were intense and had my pulse pounding and had me feeling nervous.
The ending was super cute and had me grinning from ear to ear.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When Kieran receives a full scholarship to play football at Creelin University, he can’t turn it down. He might be the only human on the team, but this is his chance to play professional football one day. But being on a team of monsters isn’t easy. He has to work even harder to prove he belongs there and can keep up. He also isn’t the most social person on the team. Making friends isn’t easy for him and he prefers to keep to himself. But no one seems to have told Evander that. Evander is determined to make friends with Kieran. There is something about Kieran that calls to him and while Kieran makes it very hard to be friends, Evander isn’t giving up. And it may be his determination that eventually gets Kieran to warm up to him. Especially after they kiss. And when others on the team threaten Kieran, Evander won’t let anyone hurt his human. This was a fun story! We definitely get some sunshine and grumpy vibes. And I love that Evander doesn’t give up on Kieran. Kieran may be a bit prickly, but he needs someone in his corner. And Evander really truly proves to be a great friend and more. It was fun to see Kieran fall for Evander bit by bit. And vice versa. Another great story in this series! And I’m looking forward to more!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2026
Grumpy x Sunshine Footballers
3.5 Stars
This was everything you expect from a grumpy sunshine romance. Kieran is a very grumpy human trying to make a place and name for himself as the first human on Creelin U’s football team and he’s very hard on himself about it and also not very social with the rest of his team. Unfortunately for him Evander who is a literal golden retriever and sunshine incarnate is determined to be his friend because he smells amazing (ifykyk) and somehow he manages to break through Kieran’s walls. While I adored Evander from his sweet sunshiney personality to his protectiveness of Kieran, I did think Kieran was a little mean to him. Yes he was meant to be grumpy but their relationship had a lot of ups and downs because of Kieran’s grumpiness and being hard on himself about not being the best. I do like how they both had roommates they liked and befriended and while they didn’t spend a lot of time with them it was nice to see them have friends outside of football who they both liked. And although the angsty parts probably could’ve been handled sooner or better I was satisfied with how things turned out and happy for these two getting their happily ever after.
3.5 Stars
This was everything you expect from a grumpy sunshine romance. Kieran is a very grumpy human trying to make a place and name for himself as the first human on Creelin U’s football team and he’s very hard on himself about it and also not very social with the rest of his team. Unfortunately for him Evander who is a literal golden retriever and sunshine incarnate is determined to be his friend because he smells amazing (ifykyk) and somehow he manages to break through Kieran’s walls. While I adored Evander from his sweet sunshiney personality to his protectiveness of Kieran, I did think Kieran was a little mean to him. Yes he was meant to be grumpy but their relationship had a lot of ups and downs because of Kieran’s grumpiness and being hard on himself about not being the best. I do like how they both had roommates they liked and befriended and while they didn’t spend a lot of time with them it was nice to see them have friends outside of football who they both liked. And although the angsty parts probably could’ve been handled sooner or better I was satisfied with how things turned out and happy for these two getting their happily ever after.
October 11, 2026
Review for (Creepin U: Season-2) The Golden Receiver by Essie Sloane
Triggers/Tropes
Death of a parent (off page)
Sports injury
Underage drinking
Bulling
Hate Crime
Violence
I am not a big bully story reader, but I wanted to give this new author to me a chance, and boy, I have to say I'm glad I did. I have grown to see that I love Monster. This one I loved so much because it has a werewolf & human. This story was so up my alley. This story has a football player, Kieran, who has just transferred to Creelin University to play. All he wants is to be the first human on a team. This would make him something that would be new to this football team. Also, it doesn't hurt that he would be there on a full scholarship. He just wanted to start his life, and that wouldn't be in his small town. As he finds out, he isn't the only one wanting that position. Evander is a werewolf; how can he compete with that? Evander was excited when he was told a human was joining the team. He finds out fast that Kieran is a very grumpy human. I loved the banter between the two of them. The battle they had between them was fantastic. I love this world that Essie Sloan has written. I just found that I want more.
Nicole Harvey
Triggers/Tropes
Death of a parent (off page)
Sports injury
Underage drinking
Bulling
Hate Crime
Violence
I am not a big bully story reader, but I wanted to give this new author to me a chance, and boy, I have to say I'm glad I did. I have grown to see that I love Monster. This one I loved so much because it has a werewolf & human. This story was so up my alley. This story has a football player, Kieran, who has just transferred to Creelin University to play. All he wants is to be the first human on a team. This would make him something that would be new to this football team. Also, it doesn't hurt that he would be there on a full scholarship. He just wanted to start his life, and that wouldn't be in his small town. As he finds out, he isn't the only one wanting that position. Evander is a werewolf; how can he compete with that? Evander was excited when he was told a human was joining the team. He finds out fast that Kieran is a very grumpy human. I loved the banter between the two of them. The battle they had between them was fantastic. I love this world that Essie Sloan has written. I just found that I want more.
Nicole Harvey
Review of advance copy
We got to revisit Creepin U in this book. Kieran, a human football player, gets recruited to transfer to Creelin University as the first human to join the football team. With a full ride, Kieran sees this as an opportunity. Evander, a werewolf, is a wide receiver on the Creelin University team. They start out as rivals, but eventually it begins to shift, pun intended.
I had so much fun reading this book. Evander is such a sweet and loyal werewolf. Wide receiver, come on. Couldn't be a better position for a werewolf. He is bound and determined to make the intoxicating smelling human like him. I love the way Evander never gives up and tries to help Kieran become a better football player. Grumpy Kieran definitely has a chip on his shoulder. Which, honestly, understandable given he feels so out of place being the only human on an all-monster football team. He proves himself, with the help of Evander, and natural talent. I enjoyed how gradually their relationship begins to grow. It feels like a real, natural progression rather than moving things along for the sake of story. Very well done for Essie Sloane.
I had so much fun reading this book. Evander is such a sweet and loyal werewolf. Wide receiver, come on. Couldn't be a better position for a werewolf. He is bound and determined to make the intoxicating smelling human like him. I love the way Evander never gives up and tries to help Kieran become a better football player. Grumpy Kieran definitely has a chip on his shoulder. Which, honestly, understandable given he feels so out of place being the only human on an all-monster football team. He proves himself, with the help of Evander, and natural talent. I enjoyed how gradually their relationship begins to grow. It feels like a real, natural progression rather than moving things along for the sake of story. Very well done for Essie Sloane.
October 15, 2026
If you love a good grumpy/sunshine or enemies to lovers book, definitely pick this one up! 😏
The Golden Receiver is a perfect college, sports romance that uses those classic tropes with ease.
From the beginning, you are directly immersed in this competitive universe, where opportunities and chances don’t rely on talent alone. Kieran is a gifted football player but didn’t grow up with wealth, so he attends a rather modest school. He sees his chances to make it big dwindle, until a scout stands in his school with a peculiar offer.
That uncertainty of what to do, oh I felt that! I loved seeing Kieran’s inner monologue and perspective. Though if I have to be honest, Evander is the character that really won me over right away! It was so easy to smile with him! That bubbly, gentle and excited energy was contagious. He made this story even better, seeing all the things he goes through and not giving up.
I loved their interactions, there was so much tension in the air!!
It is a sweet and very entertaining read that I can really recommend, I had a lot of fun!!
Thank you Essie Sloane and GRR for this review opportunity!
The Golden Receiver is a perfect college, sports romance that uses those classic tropes with ease.
From the beginning, you are directly immersed in this competitive universe, where opportunities and chances don’t rely on talent alone. Kieran is a gifted football player but didn’t grow up with wealth, so he attends a rather modest school. He sees his chances to make it big dwindle, until a scout stands in his school with a peculiar offer.
That uncertainty of what to do, oh I felt that! I loved seeing Kieran’s inner monologue and perspective. Though if I have to be honest, Evander is the character that really won me over right away! It was so easy to smile with him! That bubbly, gentle and excited energy was contagious. He made this story even better, seeing all the things he goes through and not giving up.
I loved their interactions, there was so much tension in the air!!
It is a sweet and very entertaining read that I can really recommend, I had a lot of fun!!
Thank you Essie Sloane and GRR for this review opportunity!
Review of advance copy
Come suffer the sweetness that is Kieran and Evander.
The Holden Reciever by Essie Sloane... I honestly don't know what to say about it.
Kieran is a human who get recruited to Creelin U on a Football scholarship. Hes the only human to join the team and while he feels like the odds are stacked against him; he's already gotten the attention of his coaches and some other players.
Especially, Evander. Who bugged Kieran so much the poor man had no choice but to open up and fall in love.
This book seemed slow to me at first. I honestly put it down more than I put down most books. Essie has some kind of magical character writing powers though, because everytime I did I went right back just to see what Evander would do next or how else Kieran could grump.
Those two carried me through the slowness and then the end was amazing! The last two hours of this book had me turning the page faster than I could keep up just to see what happened next.
Overall, it was kind of a wild ride and im glad i took it.
Happy reading
The Holden Reciever by Essie Sloane... I honestly don't know what to say about it.
Kieran is a human who get recruited to Creelin U on a Football scholarship. Hes the only human to join the team and while he feels like the odds are stacked against him; he's already gotten the attention of his coaches and some other players.
Especially, Evander. Who bugged Kieran so much the poor man had no choice but to open up and fall in love.
This book seemed slow to me at first. I honestly put it down more than I put down most books. Essie has some kind of magical character writing powers though, because everytime I did I went right back just to see what Evander would do next or how else Kieran could grump.
Those two carried me through the slowness and then the end was amazing! The last two hours of this book had me turning the page faster than I could keep up just to see what happened next.
Overall, it was kind of a wild ride and im glad i took it.
Happy reading
October 10, 2026
This was a really amazing book. This is part of the Creepin U: Season 2 if you haven't read the others they are just as amazing but this one right here was really amazing as well.
This is about Kieran and Evander who are to amazing characters.
Kieran is a human who got full scholarship to play football for creelin university a whole monster team.
He kind of felt like a fish out of water because he was the only human there which made him the black cat kind of main character.
Then Evander is the absolute sweetest golden retriever werewolf who is just so excited about Kieran but he feels is all the time grumpy and just not very happy and withdrawn.
But they start off as kind of like enemies that turn to lovers and I think this is just an absolutely beautiful book.
I don't like how people treat Evander I will say that because he is a werewolf but he's also like the himbo werewolf kind of chilled kind of cool really sweet got manners and a lot of people don't like that.
But overall amazing book author did a phenomenal job.
This is about Kieran and Evander who are to amazing characters.
Kieran is a human who got full scholarship to play football for creelin university a whole monster team.
He kind of felt like a fish out of water because he was the only human there which made him the black cat kind of main character.
Then Evander is the absolute sweetest golden retriever werewolf who is just so excited about Kieran but he feels is all the time grumpy and just not very happy and withdrawn.
But they start off as kind of like enemies that turn to lovers and I think this is just an absolutely beautiful book.
I don't like how people treat Evander I will say that because he is a werewolf but he's also like the himbo werewolf kind of chilled kind of cool really sweet got manners and a lot of people don't like that.
But overall amazing book author did a phenomenal job.
Review of advance copy
This is story about a very grumpy human, Kieran, and a golden retriever wolf shifter, Evander. Kieran transfers to Creelin U on a football scholarship and is the first human to be on the team. Evander is immediately drawn to Kieran, but Kieran is so grumpy and rude for over half the book. Evander tries to make friends with Kieran but their relationship doesn’t really change until they give into their physical attraction. They become friends and then more, but some monsters on the football team don’ t want Kieran there. There are multiple attacks on Kieran, but luckily with Evander by his side justice is served and they get their HEA. This is a good book but I didn’t like that Kieran had to get hurt several times to further the story.
Story 4, Spice 3
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Story 4, Spice 3
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 10, 2026
The human is the grumpy one, the werewolf sunshiny and a golden retriever type. Book two in the Creepin U season two multiauthor series, is a sweet football romance. Human Kieran receives a full scholarship to play football at the school and will be the only human on the team. Werewolf Evander is welcoming, but Kieran wants no part of it. The nicer Evander got, the nastier Kieran became. Evander finally reaches his limit and the confrontation turns their relationship around. The two become quite cutesy.
Kieran was quite the annoying git. But I also thought Evander with his never ending smile was irritating. The book was a bit tiresome to that point. The story was quite enjoyable after.
Nicely paced. Good resolution and an even better epilogue.
I received an advanced copy of this ebook from GRR and this is my review.
Kieran was quite the annoying git. But I also thought Evander with his never ending smile was irritating. The book was a bit tiresome to that point. The story was quite enjoyable after.
Nicely paced. Good resolution and an even better epilogue.
I received an advanced copy of this ebook from GRR and this is my review.
October 11, 2026
When Kieran gets recruited to Creelin University as the first human to play on the college’s football team, he thought it would be a great opportunity. It was a good college with more visibility for NFL scouts. He did not think he would be sitting on the bench, getting hazed, and competing for a spot with a werewolf who wants to be his friend. Evander, does not know why Kieran is so hostile towards him or why he smells so good all the time.
Essie Sloane brings up back to Creepin U for the ultimate grumpy/sunshine story between the grouchiest football player ever and the sunniest werewolf in the world. While Kieran did get a little tiresome with the epic chip on his shoulder, when he finally let it go, he turned into a great character. This is a fun story and I enjoyed the development of the friendship between Kieran and Evie.
Essie Sloane brings up back to Creepin U for the ultimate grumpy/sunshine story between the grouchiest football player ever and the sunniest werewolf in the world. While Kieran did get a little tiresome with the epic chip on his shoulder, when he finally let it go, he turned into a great character. This is a fun story and I enjoyed the development of the friendship between Kieran and Evie.
October 14, 2026
I really love this university!
Kieran and Evander give us a lovely college football romance, with both of them going for the #1 wide receiver position. Kieran, as a human, is at a distinct disadvantage (and is super grumpy about it). Evander is a werewolf who acts like a giant golden retriever, including a sunshiney personality.
I loved this opposites attract, rivals to lovers story! It has a lot of tropes I love, and I loved the paranormal element of this being a university with monsters. The non-romance plot around Kieran trying to find his footing on a team full of monsters (some of whom don't want him there) was also well done.
I did want to shake Kieran a few times throughout the story (not just for his grumpiness), but picture perfect characters don't make for a good story!
Can't wait to keep reading this new year of Creepin U!
Kieran and Evander give us a lovely college football romance, with both of them going for the #1 wide receiver position. Kieran, as a human, is at a distinct disadvantage (and is super grumpy about it). Evander is a werewolf who acts like a giant golden retriever, including a sunshiney personality.
I loved this opposites attract, rivals to lovers story! It has a lot of tropes I love, and I loved the paranormal element of this being a university with monsters. The non-romance plot around Kieran trying to find his footing on a team full of monsters (some of whom don't want him there) was also well done.
I did want to shake Kieran a few times throughout the story (not just for his grumpiness), but picture perfect characters don't make for a good story!
Can't wait to keep reading this new year of Creepin U!
October 15, 2026
Karloff Hall, lock pick set, plethora of highlighters, acrid scent, αClawΩ, 'whoosh', blood moon, SQUIRREL!, the doggie way, R-G colorblind, Fangstagram, WA Warriors!
Except for the violent parts, this is comfy and cute. So much golden retriever energy! Werewolf Evander is hyper, chaotic, impulsive, and loud. Then again, he's usually happy. Human Kieran is completely opposite--dour, unsociable, and closed off. But, that doesn't stop Evander from trying to befriend him. Kieran is the first human on Creelin U's football team. Creelin U only just recently allowed humans to attend the all-monster college.
The storyline is good, and the even pace makes for a great story. All the characters are wonderful and very likeable, except for the football team's bullies. The book is totally enjoyable and I recommend it.
Except for the violent parts, this is comfy and cute. So much golden retriever energy! Werewolf Evander is hyper, chaotic, impulsive, and loud. Then again, he's usually happy. Human Kieran is completely opposite--dour, unsociable, and closed off. But, that doesn't stop Evander from trying to befriend him. Kieran is the first human on Creelin U's football team. Creelin U only just recently allowed humans to attend the all-monster college.
The storyline is good, and the even pace makes for a great story. All the characters are wonderful and very likeable, except for the football team's bullies. The book is totally enjoyable and I recommend it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews