Tag Archives: Van Doren

Vile Acts (Legacy of Deth 2) by Crea Reitan -review tour

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Vile Acts (Legacy of Deth 2) by Crea Reitan -review tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 17, 2026

The missing black paint told of horrors…

Sometimes rescuing someone once isn’t enough to banish their demons. This is something that has haunted the Deth brothers for a decade. Erez can’t let it go.

It took him ten years to prove that his baby sister didn’t die accidentally. Ten years to uncover horrors that he never imagined plagued her behind the smile she wore.

Now that he’s discovered the truth, Erez and his family are ready to usher in the days of reckoning for such vile acts committed against his sister.

***

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

••••••

REVIEW: This is the second installment in the Legacy of Deth series, it picks up the threads of family, grief, and justice that began in Dead Nights and weaves them into something darker, more intimate, and ultimately more devastating.

This book is about Erez Deth and his ten year long refusal to accept that his younger sister’s death was accidental.

The story digs into the horrors that hid behind her smile and the slow, relentless work of uncovering the truth.

What follows is not a simple revenge tale but a careful story of trauma, loyalty, and the kind of love that waits patiently while someone else learns how to see it.

Erez is consumed by what happened to Alice. His grief has shaped him so thoroughly that almost everything else in his life exists in its shadow.

Fade, his best friend of five years, has been right there the entire time, offering quiet constancy without ever demanding more than Erez can give.

Watching that dynamic unfold is both frustrating and deeply moving. Erez’s obliviousness never feels like a cheap plot device, it grows naturally out of the way his trauma has narrowed his focus.

Fade’s patience, seems infinite. He stays, he supports, he softens the edges of Erez’s pain without ever trying to fix him.

And when the shift from friendship to something deeper finally arrives, it feels earned rather than sudden, the natural result of two people who have already built a life around each other without fully naming it.

The revelations about what Alice endured are heavy, sometimes nearly unbearable, yet they were handled with care and a seriousness that never slips into exploitation.

The involvement of the wider Deth and Van Doren circles, along with the unexpected presence of Aven, an AI figure tied to Van Doren technology, adds layers of both practical help and quiet philosophical unease. These elements never overwhelm the central story, instead they expand the world in ways that feel consistent with the larger Creaverse while still keeping Erez and Fade at the heart of the story.

I would say that Vile Acts is one of her darker stories.

I loved how this book shows us that love does not require perfection or immediate clarity, only presence. The banter, the found family warmth, and the moments of genuine tenderness keep the darkness from becoming total, but they never pretend the darkness is not there.

This is not a light read, and it is not meant to be. It is a story about reckoning, about the cost of looking closely at what people suffer in silence, and about the possibility that even the most broken among us can still be met with patience and care.

Vile Acts delivers exactly what her best work always does, characters who feel real, emotions that land hard, and a conclusion that leaves you both gutted and strangely hopeful. I

finished it feeling drained and grateful at the same time, already eager for whatever comes next in this series.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B 🦋

Crea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. All of her RH relationships end up being heavily polyamorous – meaning it’s not just all the men for one woman. There’s also some M/M action going on. 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!

Author Links:

Facebook Group / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Website /

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Rhodes (Van Doren) by Crea Reitan-review tour

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Rhodes (Van Doren) by Crea Reitan-review tour

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Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 27, 2026

Every high school has a bully who has gone unpunished.

Walking the halls of my high school after two decades reminds me why I’ve blocked those years from my memory. The walls hold secrets but perhaps none as potent as the woods behind the school where a life ended too soon.

I wasn’t able to make a difference then. But I’m not a frightened kid anymore. Bullies no longer scare me. It’s time to deliver long overdue consequences to those who have never been held accountable for their actions.

With my pack of wolf dogs and this blindingly bright fake boyfriend at my side, nothing can go wrong.

•••••

REVIEW:Rhodes is a sharp, satisfying little novella that digs into the kind of unfinished business most of us would rather leave buried.

The premise alone had me hooked…. Rhodes now an adult has returns to the halls of his old high school, (school reunion) but he’s no longer that scared kid who once watched something terrible happen in the woods behind the building, and who has decided the people responsible have coasted long enough without consequences. (You need to read to find out what it was 🫣)

That quiet, simmering rage is what drives the whole story, and as usual this author handles it with the same unapologetic edge that runs through the rest of the Van Doren books. And I loved it.

Rhodes arrives with his pack of massive wolf dogs animals that feel less like pets and more like living extensions of his will, and don’t forget Bennett (a fake boyfriend who is clearly there to serve as both cover and complication. 😜)

The dogs are pure chaos in the best way….. they give the quieter moments a feral energy that keeps the tension from ever fully settling. The fake boyfriend setup, meanwhile, starts as pure practicality and slowly reveals itself as something warmer and far more interesting than either man planned, (they remind me a little of Loren/Oakley)

The novella moves quickly, balancing the darker undercurrents of past trauma and present day reckoning with the kind of charged chemistry we have come to expect.

There is heat, there is possessiveness, and there is that particular Van Doren brand of loyalty that borders on the unhinged.

Yet the story never loses sight of the story, a man who has carried guilt and helplessness for twenty years finally deciding he is strong enough to do something about it.

Because it sits inside the larger family web, there are familiar faces and the comfortable sense of an established world, but the book still works as a self contained story.

If you already enjoy the Van Dorens, especially the protective, slightly feral energy that surrounds them, this one will have you smiling.

I finished it wanting more time with Rhodes and his strange, devoted little family of dogs and chosen people, which is exactly the feeling a good novella should leave behind.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B 🦋

Crea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. All of her RH relationships end up being heavily polyamorous – meaning it’s not just all the men for one woman. There’s also some M/M action going on. 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!

Author Links:

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Kairo (Van Doren) by Crea Reitan-review tour

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🩷Kairo (Van Doren) by Crea Reitan-review tour🩷

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Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 25, 2026

Every heart hides something.

He walks into my office like he has a right to be here. Unfazed and unbothered by my sharp words and thorny exterior, Malcolm challenges everything I know. Somehow, he breaks down my walls and I’m laid bare before him.

There’s nothing more terrifying than exposing my vulnerability so when I force him out of my life to protect my heart, I realize there are some things that being a Van Doren alone can’t fix.

•••••

REVIEW:I picked up Kairo right after finishing Arath Van Doren’s book, and it felt like the series had been building toward this one.

If you’ve met Kairo in previous installments, you know him as the sharp tongued, standoffish, sometimes outright abrasive member of the family, the guy who keeps everyone at arm’s length with his thorny exterior. This book flips that on its head in the best way, (and after Lorne I think he might be my favourite Van Doren.)

The story follows exactly what the description teases at…. Malcolm walks into Kairo’s world (and office) completely unfazed by the walls and barbs. He sees through the armor almost immediately and starts gently (and sometimes not so gently) dismantling it. What unfolds is a slowburn MM romance heavy on emotional vulnerability, hurt/comfort, and the kind of deep trust that doesn’t come easily, especially for someone like Kairo, who’s carrying serious childhood wounds and a bone deep fear of never been chosen first.

I went in not particularly liking him based on earlier appearances. By the end, I was fully invested. The author did a great peeling back the layers to show why he is the way he is. The moments where his softer, protective side peeks through, especially with those that aren’t family by blood (both a chosen family) hit hard. It’s so satisfying watching him learn it’s okay to be cared for.

Malcolm (we met him in another Van Doren book) He’s the steady, patient force Kairo desperately needs. His own baggage from the “Creaverse” adds a little more to this story.

Now I love a little DDLG/GB and caretaker/Daddy kink dynamics feel real rather than forced. The way he challenges Kairo without pushing too hard, and the quiet persistence, made their connection so swoony.

The “I have to push you away to protect my heart” phase is painful in the best way, and the reconciliation/rebuilding was definitely not easy. It balances the spice, sweetness, and darker Van Doren style plot threads nicely.

This series does enjoy its crossovers and updates on the growing found family. It slots in well without requiring you to have read every prior book, (though context definitely helps.)

It’s classic Crea Reitan, steamy, emotionally intense, with some darker themes and content warnings you should check. The pacing is slower in the emotional buildup, which worked for me.

This one surprised me by making me genuinely love Kairo. If you enjoy MM romances with prickly characters who get the gentle (yet firm) handling they need, and stories about breaking down walls to find real connection, this delivers.

It’s a solid addition to the Van Doren world, it’s tender, spicy, and healing in places I didn’t expect.

Highly recommend for series fans or anyone who loves a good hurt/comfort redemption stories.

Ready for the next one already!

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B 🦋

 

Crea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. All of her RH relationships end up being heavily polyamorous – meaning it’s not just all the men for one woman. There’s also some M/M action going on. 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!

Author Links:

Facebook Group / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Website /

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Arath (Van Doren) by Crea Reitan -review tour

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Arath (Van Doren) by Crea Reitan-review tour

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Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 18, 2026

Be careful what you ask for.

Elgin Bolingbrook is drunk and in the wrong place at the wrong time. The mistaken target for a gang lands Elgin in my protection. He’s cute, confused, and so ridiculously responsive to me that I quickly become addicted.

As we close in on the gang who’s after Elgin, I realize that once we eliminate the threat, I’m going to lose the man I enjoy playing like a violin.

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

••••••••••

REVIEW: I just finished Arath and damn, Crea Reitan knows exactly how to deliver that addictive mix of dark intensity, protective obsession, and scorching heat that keeps you glued to the page.

This one hit all my favorite spots in the Van Doren series vibe wealthy, dangerous, fiercely loyal family dynamics with a heavy dose of “touch him and die” energy.

The story kicks off with Elgin Bolingbrook in classic wrong place wrong time fashion… drunk, vulnerable, and suddenly the mistaken target of a gang.

Enter Arath Van Doren, who steps in as his protector.

From the blurb’s first person tease, you can feel Arath’s immediate pull toward Elgin, (Ellie) he’s cute, confused, and incredibly responsive, which quickly turns Arath’s sense of duty into straight up addiction. The way Arath describes playing Elgin “like a violin” is spot on for the dominant, controlling energy he brings. It’s possessive without being silly, and the power exchange builds gradually in a way that’s both hot and surprisingly tender.

What I loved most was the tension between the external threat (the gang closing in) and the internal one, Arath realizing he doesn’t want to let Elgin go once the danger is handled. That fear of loss adds real emotional weight to the steam. The chemistry is off the charts, intense, dominant Arath paired with Elgin’s responsiveness makes for some seriously memorable scenes.

If you’re into dominance, protection, and that addictive “mine” possessiveness, this delivers in spades.

The Van Doren world continues to expand in satisfying ways, with that signature blend of suspense, family cameos, and unapologetic spice. It’s fast paced where it needs to be (the action and threat) and lingering where it counts (the developing relationship).

The author balances the darker elements violence, danger, emotional vulnerability with humor and heart, which is why it’s always a one click for me.

If you’re already a fan of the series (Loren, Noaz, etc.), Arath slots in beautifully. If you’re new, it works as a solid entry point too, though the family connections add extra flavor for those caught up.

Just check the trigger warnings there’s gang violence, intense kink/power dynamics, and typical dark romance fare.

It was exactly what I was craving, steamy, suspenseful, and emotionally satisfying.

Be careful what you ask for indeed, once you start with the Van Dorens, it’s hard to stop.

Highly recommend if you like dominant protectors, responsive partners, and that addictive rush of obsession turning into something deeper.

Can’t wait for Kairo’s book and “Daddy” Jalon’s. I love visiting this world!

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B 🦋

Crea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. All of her RH relationships end up being heavily polyamorous – meaning it’s not just all the men for one woman. There’s also some M/M action going on. 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!

Author Links:

Facebook Group / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Website /

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VOSS (Van Doren 4) by Crea Reitan-review tour

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💚 VOSS (Van Doren 4) by Crea Reitan-review tour 💚

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Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK:Release Date January 22, 2026

I’ll stop at nothing to get him back.

Sometimes what you’re waiting for has a funny way of being right in front of you for a long time. Albrecht Holleran is one of those instances. I know that his broody, moody, assholery is the mask of a man struggling. Over two years, I’ve pried that mask off and we became friends.

Nearly coinciding with the birth of my son, Brek and I began to explore something growing between us. Then he vanishes and it’s a race against time to find him before his expiration date. Everyone knows that the longer someone is missing, the chances of finding them alive lessen.

Doing what I do best, I track Brek’s movements and find that I couldn’t possibly expect a worst case scenario. I’m better behind a desk; my weapon of choice is my computer. But nothing will stop me from getting Brek back. Even if we all die in the process.

***

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

••••••••

REVIEW: Voss (Van Doren Book 4) by Crea Reitan is the latest installment in the Van Doren series.

It’s a gripping m/m romance with elements of suspense, hurt/comfort, and high stakes drama, focusing on Albrecht “Brek” Holleran and Voss Van Doren. We’ve met both of these characters from previous books, and although I wasn’t too keen on Brek (he did something that put him on the outside of the group!) I came to understand him more by the end of this book.

The Van Doren series follows a quirky, family group of characters (often with mafia, criminal, or intense action undertones) in interconnected stories. Along with a group of friends that act like family. Previous books like Loren, Noaz, and Imry have built up anticipation for Voss’s story.

This one centers on a slow burn friends to lovers dynamic that’s been brewing for over two years. Voss has patiently chipped away at Brek’s “broody, moody, assholery” mask to reveal the struggling man underneath.

And just as things heat up (around Voss becoming a father), Break disappears, kicking off a tense race against time to find him alive! 😧 (the story of how Voss became a father was introduced in the last story and it ends on this one.)Voss steps out of his comfort zone (he’s more of a computer guy than a field operative) to track Brek, uncovering a worst case scenario that threatens everyone involved. The stakes are life or death, with themes of obsession, protection, redemption, and the fear of losing someone just when you’ve finally connected.

Crea Reitan is probably my favourite m/m writer. She has heartfelt characters, found family feels, chaotic energy, and spicy romance. And I’ve been eager to read Voss’s story, especially after teasers in books like Imry. 😜

If you enjoy m/m romances with a dark edge, slow burn tension turning explosive, and heroes willing to risk everything, this is a strong addition to the series (and probably my favourite after Loren/Oakley’s story) Expect heavy triggers (violence, kidnapping/abduction themes, emotional trauma), graphic content, and some crossover elements (so although not necessarily a must, it’s helpful to know the dynamics reading the prior books.)

If you’re caught up on the series, Voss looks like the emotional and thrilling payoff i have been waiting for. 🥰 Brek not believing he is worthy of love, and Voss patiently showing him that he is. And the other thing I love about the author’s work, she makes no apologies for her “world”, if you don’t like it, then don’t read it. And the insights to her thought process have me hooked.

We know most of the Van Doren’s and we know they will/have hooked up with Brek’s “found” family. But that doesn’t stop the author from introducing more Van Doren’s into the mix (and I can’t wait for their dad Joren, to meet his partner.)

So, will Voss find Brek before it’s too late? Can Brek accept the love and feeling of belonging that Voss offers?

Highly recommend, I love this series probably the most out of all the writers series (with the exception of her “For Puck Sake Series.)

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B.🦋

Crea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. All of her RH relationships end up being heavily polyamorous – meaning it’s not just all the men for one woman. There’s also some M/M action going on. 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!

Author Links:

Facebook Group / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Website /

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Malin (Van Doren 4) by Crea Reitan-review tour

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Malin (Van Doren 4) by Crea Reitan-review tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 27, 2025

I’m haunted by a childhood of abuse.

Ten years ago, the Van Dorens rescued me from a megachurch cult where the leader kept me as his. I’ve spent a decade trying to escape my past.

But that past refuses to let me go. The cult leader’s voice lingers in my mind and his figure is always there in my peripheral vision. He reminds me that I’m his, I’m filled with sin, and I’m going to hell if I don’t join him in death like I should have when he was murdered.

The day Gracen fills my office with phone books, I discover that his presence silences the voice incessantly filling my head. As we get closer, the voice gets louder until one day, Gracen realizes that the cult leader isn’t in my head at all. He’s haunting me—tormenting me—even in death.

***

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

••••••••

REVIEW: Crea Reitan’s Malin, is an emotionally charged story that takes us to the dark corners of trauma and recovery. ❤️‍🩹

The story follows Malin, who has spent the last ten years escaping the demons of his past after being rescued from a megachurch cult. This sad story sets the stage for a gripping tale that dives deep into the struggles faced by this survivor of abuse.

He was raised by two of the Van Doren triplets after rescuing him from the cult he was held prisoner in. It’s not necessary to read that book, as most of the information is given to you in this one, but it does give you insight into the twins (taboo) relationship and their love for Malin (they treat him as a son.)

From the very first page, the author drags us into Malin’s world. His haunting memories of the cult leader and the dark nature of psychological abuse are so sad. I liked how the author uses the cult leader’s voice as a character, for me it just amplifies the horror of unresolved trauma, creating a tension throughout the story. I had tissues ready 🤧

Malin’s journey of healing is written with raw honesty. His struggle to reclaim his identity while dealing with the shadow of his abuser is heartbreaking. Malin has to be one of my favourite characters, he’s, written with flaws and strengths that made him feel real. I found myself rooting for him as he confronts his fears and seeks freedom from his tormentor’s influence.

Gracen adds a refreshing dynamic to the story. His quirky approach, symbolized by the phone books he floods into Malin’s office, serves as an unexpected lifeline for him. I did chuckle when I first read that moment.

Gracen’s character brings warmth and humor to the story, easing the heavy themes with moments of levity. The chemistry between Malin and Gracen develops gradually, and I’m glad it did, I don’t think it would have suited the story if it had been and instalove moment.

The romance blossoms amidst the trauma, showing us how love can be both a sanctuary and a catalyst for healing.

The relationship between Malin and Gracen is not just about attraction, but about understanding and support, making it one of my favourite reads of the author.

Malin (Van Doren)” is a must read. But be prepared to cry 😢

Reading Order and Previous reviews
Loren
Noaz
Imry
Avory / Ellory
Oxley/

Copy supplied for review

🦋 Reviewed by Julie

Crea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. All of her RH relationships end up being heavily polyamorous – meaning it’s not just all the men for one woman. There’s also some M/M action going on. 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!

Author Links:

Facebook Group / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Website /

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Oxley ( Van Doren 5) by Crea Reitan-review and tour

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Oxley ( Van Doren 5) by Crea Reitan-review and tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 20, 2025

His scream changed my life forever.

I clean up the streets of Anaheim from the hate one man left behind. On the surface, I work with the local authorities but in secret, I kill those who hurt others.

During a planned interception, we arrive on the scene too late and a man’s scream fills the streets. The moment I look upon his face, my entire life shifts to make him the center. Instead of going to a hospital, I bring him home.

Now I need to figure out how to nurse him back to health and hope he can accept my quirks so I can keep him.

••••••••

REVIEW: The story centers around Oxley, a vigilante whose mission is to cleanse the streets of Anaheim from the shadows of hatred left by a single man. The novel opens with a chilling moment—an anguished scream that shatters Oxley’s world and sets him on a journey that will change his life!

Oxley is not just a vigilante, he is a deeply flawed but great character grappling with his own moral compass. His motivations for cleaning up the streets stem not only from a desire for justice but also from a personal quest for acceptance and connection.

The moment when Oxley meets Huntley, had me in a grip(the man whose scream reverberates throughout the streets.) Instead of opting for the conventional route of taking him to a hospital, Oxley’s decision to bring Huntley home gave me vibes of protection and vulnerability.

The dynamics between the two characters evolve beautifully, shifting from a moment of crisis to an exploration of healing and intimacy.

I love this author’s work, she excels in writing relatable and layered characters. Huntley, initially a victim, is given the opportunity to emerge as a resilient force in his own right. Their relationship grows from a foundation of trauma to one of mutual support and understanding.
The quirks that Oxley worries may drive Huntley away add a lighthearted touch to the otherwise intense story, providing moments of levity that balanced the story. I love that we also get to see past characters and possible future characters and their stories. This world just keeps growing. 😃

The dialogue is sharp and often infused with humor, making the characters feel authentic and real. The author does an excellent job of creating a vivid setting in Anaheim, allowing me to visualize both the gritty realities of the streets and the intimate spaces Oxley and Huntley occupy.
The relationship between Oxley and Huntley is written with sensitivity and authenticity. There are no clichés or stereotypes here.

In conclusion, “Oxley (Van Doren)” is a captivating read that successfully melds action, romance, and deep emotion. Crea Reitan’s talent for character development and her approach to storytelling make this novel a standout in the LGBTQIA genre.

It’s a story of love blossoming in the midst of chaos, where healing is possible even when the odds seem insurmountable.

If you’re looking for an engaging tale that challenges perceptions of love and morality, look no further than “Oxley (Van Doren).”

Reading Order and Previous reviews
Loren
Noaz
Imry
Avory / Ellory

Copy supplied for review

🦋 Reviewed by Julie B

Crea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. All of her RH relationships end up being heavily polyamorous – meaning it’s not just all the men for one woman. There’s also some M/M action going on. 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!

Author Links:

Facebook Group / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Website /

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Imry / Avory & Ellory (Van Doren 3&4) by Crea Reitan-review tour

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Imry / Avory & Ellory (Van Doren 3 & 4) by Crea Reitan-review tour

IMRY
Van Doren 3
by Crea Reitan
Genre: Genre: adult ,contemporary, LGBTQ+, erotic,romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

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ABOUT THE BOOK : Release Date May 15, 2025

I’ll paint this moment immortal.

Months of texting silly innuendos leads to the hottest moment of my young life. Instead of dealing with the moment like an adult, I ghost him for nine days. Just when I think I’m ready to face him, he’s on his way out to hook up.

I lose my shit.

Coming clean about past heartbreak isn’t easy. Navigating what I promise is a ‘no expectations’ relationship proves impossible – not just because falling for Haze Prosser is far too easy, but because I’m internally freaking out as two thirds of my brothers are off fighting brutal criminals, leaving me home to take care of my unhinged brother’s perfectly safe husband.

It’s all fine until Voss calls in a panic and needs immediate back up. I don’t have a choice but to drag Oakley and Haze straight into the heart of NYC’s mafia families.

Everything will be fine…

••••••

REVIEW: Imry Van Doren is one third of a triplet set. Almost impossible to tell them apart. His love for his brothers has him putting the man he’s coming to love and his brother’s husband in mortal danger…

But I’m getting ahead of myself!

Imry has been texting (rather naughty texts) to a family friend. It all gets a little steamy, and before he knows it, or has time to think about it, Haze turns up and…. 😜 Now, instead of acting like an adult, Imry runs… and ghosts Haze for days! Why? Well, Imry had been in a toxic relationship and this damaged not only his confidence, but his willingness to see that a relationship with anyone else could be good!

But when Imry finds out that Haze is going to a bar to “hook up”, all bets are off! He races over to demand that Haze not go! And things spiral from there!

And the beginning of a tentative relationship begins. (Sort of!)

This story is told from both sides of the relationship. We see both struggle (Haze wants to stretch himself as his past home life kept him in the closet! And doesn’t want a relationship just yet.)

So they agree to just be “friends with benefits”.

Imry is part of the Van Doren family, so his job isn’t a 9-5. He’s an assassin, he usually goes with his brother Loren on any missions, but now Loren has a husband, it’s Imry’s job to look after him. He’s the only one Loren trusts with his husband. 😝

But Avory/Ellory (the rest of the triplets) are sent on a mission with Loren to an island that houses a cult!

This is bad enough, but when another brother asks for his help with another mission that’s turning bad, Imry has to make a choice…. Leave his brother to cope and hope it goes ok, or take his brother’s husband and Haze on the mission (that does not sit well with Imry.) and hopes Haze won’t hate him!

This book runs alongside Avory/Ellory (which sadly isn’t being published anywhere else but the author’s website,)

The painting scenes with Imry show his softer side, the side only family usually see. I loved those parts.

So, will Haze and Imry get to a place they are happy with? Can Imry allow Haze to make choices and find his feet without butting in? And can Imry really let go of his past and left Haze into his life and heart?

I like this family, there is so much going on, and so many characters. The world interconnects with other series the author has written. It’s not necessary to read them all, as I don’t think you’d miss anything, but it is fun when a character is mentioned and you connect the dots 😊

______

AVORY & ELLORY
Van Doren 4
by Crea Reitan
Genre: adult ,contemporary, LGBTQ+, erotic,romance

AVORY / ELLORY is only available at the Author’s Website 

ABOUT THE BOOK : Release Date May 15, 2025

If you think loving him is wrong – f&%k off!

What’s between us is more than just unconventional. It’s wrong. Taboo. Dirty and bad in every conversation. Quite frankly, the world can burn. I’m going to love him until the end of time.

Giving Ellory his every whim has been my sole guiding light for as long as I can remember. He’s my world. My absolute life. We’re happy and content in the life we’ve built.

Now he’s talking about marriage and babies and while I want all that too, there are concerns that I simply can’t shake. How do I give the man I love more than the air I breathe these things when it’s a mountain at every turn?

Then again, maybe it won’t come to the point where we need solutions since we’ve just plunged ourselves into the midst of a megachurch cult unarmed and on a remote island with no escape.

Everything will be fine…

***

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

•••••••

REVIEW: This book sadly isn’t on Amazon, you can only get it from the author’s website due to the taboo nature of the storyline.

Avory and Ellory are in love, they have been in love since they were little. Awww 🥰 you say, that is until you realise they are brothers! And part of a set of triplets! So BIG TABOO!! But you know what? They don’t care! And nor do the family that they come from? The Van Dorens are of the mind,”if it makes you happy, then do it”

We get to discover when their brotherly relationship went further, and why (and that did raise an eyebrow and a chuckle.)

I had to chuckle when describing Ellory, he hums/sings nursery rhymes (his version) whilst on jobs as an assassin! (Not very scary) he loves blood, especially his targets.

Avory on the other hand only wants his other half to be happy.

Oh and the third part of the triplet is Imry, but he doesn’t love his brothers the way they do! (His heart belongs to Haze 😉)

There is intimacy between Avory and his brother. But there is also a love so deep and strong that sometimes you forget they are siblings!

This book could have been added to Imry’s book (but it probably wouldn’t have gotten published!) It runs alongside that one, and the author even gives you a way to read both books at the same time (she gives you a summary of which chapters to read in which order) I didn’t read them that way, but I may go back and try it at some point.

Ok, back to the story….

We have a cult that is definitely dodgy! Contracts are coming in to the Van Dorens, people want the cult investigated and their loved ones “rescued” from the brainwashing that’s going on! Extensive research is done, meetings with the family are held and background checks are triple checked. Then they decide as a family on whether they do the “job” or not.

Avory along with Ellory and Loren are sent to the island to establish a plan and execute it and the cult leader!

It’s bloody 🩸 literally, if you don’t like those scenes then maybe give this book a miss. But it’s also funny (dark humour?) there is lots going on that the boys need to figure out before they serve justice. Q

And the ending…. Well I did like where the idea is heading (gives more options for books 😜)

Copies supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B 🦋

 

Crea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. All of her RH relationships end up being heavily polyamorous – meaning it’s not just all the men for one woman. There’s also some M/M action going on. 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!

Author Links:

Facebook Group / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Website /

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