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The Games We Play
On Thin Ice
As captain of the LA Grizzlies, Ryan ‘Ry’ Bennett’s life is all about hockey and pushing himself to the limit. A future in the major leagues would fulfill his life-long dream, but at 32, it seems like a far-off goal, especially as he watches younger, more promising players earn their chance.
Then he skates into Ry’s life.
Twenty-two year-old Alexander ‘Xander’ Harrison, a ray of sunshine, turns Ry’s world upside down. From their first clash at training camp to the late-night conversations that reveal the man beneath the surface, Ry finds himself drawn to Xander in ways he can't explain. Xander’s everything Ry’s not - carefree, optimistic, and unapologetically himself.
Ry never thought he'd find love, especially with a man. But Xander shows him that love doesn't care about expectations or pasts.
It just is.
When a league shake-up threatens to tear them apart, Ry knows he can't let go without a fight. Because in the end, love isn't about the games we play. It's about the person we choose to stand with, no matter what.
What to dual first person pov, slow burn, double bi-awakening, grumpy/sunshine, opposites attract, found family and a guaranteed HEA.
The Games We Play is a multi-author minor league hockey romance series! All titles run concurrently through the same hockey season and the books can be read in any order, so jump in anywhere!
Then he skates into Ry’s life.
Twenty-two year-old Alexander ‘Xander’ Harrison, a ray of sunshine, turns Ry’s world upside down. From their first clash at training camp to the late-night conversations that reveal the man beneath the surface, Ry finds himself drawn to Xander in ways he can't explain. Xander’s everything Ry’s not - carefree, optimistic, and unapologetically himself.
Ry never thought he'd find love, especially with a man. But Xander shows him that love doesn't care about expectations or pasts.
It just is.
When a league shake-up threatens to tear them apart, Ry knows he can't let go without a fight. Because in the end, love isn't about the games we play. It's about the person we choose to stand with, no matter what.
What to dual first person pov, slow burn, double bi-awakening, grumpy/sunshine, opposites attract, found family and a guaranteed HEA.
The Games We Play is a multi-author minor league hockey romance series! All titles run concurrently through the same hockey season and the books can be read in any order, so jump in anywhere!
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 3, 2024
69 people are currently reading
168 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
June 25, 2024
4 stars
First time for this author to write a hockey romance and she delivered.
Ryan, Ry, "Bullet" Bennett and Alexander, Xander, "X-Man" Harrison are rival players who, at some point, become teammates.
I liked very much the first chapters, when they go to rivals to tentative friends, when they start discovering things about each other and find out that they actually like spending time together.
I appreciate that they become friends first and that there's no rush into love.
While Xander knew he wasn't straight, it's more difficult for Ry to acknowledge his emotions: at 32 he didn't expect to have such big feelings for his friends. I really liked how they were honest with each other and their first kiss was so so romantic!
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
While I loved how the author handled Ry's emotional turmoil when he realized he was attracted to Xander, I think that the physical side of their relationship went too fast after their first kiss. Especially because neither of them had any experiences with men.
The side characters are great: the teammates are more than a family for the two of them and Ry's parents and sibling are just as welcoming and supportive.
I particularly loved the Instagram pictures and the sport news inside the book, they made the reading very pleasant.
The epilogue is sweet and romantic and so so perfect for them.
Lastly I loved to see West and Shane again and I can't wait for Declan's story in When The Stars Align.
Recommended
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review
First time for this author to write a hockey romance and she delivered.
Ryan, Ry, "Bullet" Bennett and Alexander, Xander, "X-Man" Harrison are rival players who, at some point, become teammates.
I liked very much the first chapters, when they go to rivals to tentative friends, when they start discovering things about each other and find out that they actually like spending time together.
I appreciate that they become friends first and that there's no rush into love.
While Xander knew he wasn't straight, it's more difficult for Ry to acknowledge his emotions: at 32 he didn't expect to have such big feelings for his friends. I really liked how they were honest with each other and their first kiss was so so romantic!
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
While I loved how the author handled Ry's emotional turmoil when he realized he was attracted to Xander, I think that the physical side of their relationship went too fast after their first kiss. Especially because neither of them had any experiences with men.
The side characters are great: the teammates are more than a family for the two of them and Ry's parents and sibling are just as welcoming and supportive.
I particularly loved the Instagram pictures and the sport news inside the book, they made the reading very pleasant.
The epilogue is sweet and romantic and so so perfect for them.
Lastly I loved to see West and Shane again and I can't wait for Declan's story in When The Stars Align.
Recommended
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review
July 3, 2024
I like that even though the story starts out with our MCs as rivals/enemies, they shift to friendship before they become lovers. Often, it's explosive emotion between two enemies that moves their story forward, and that doesn't happen here. After a fun & successful team-building day, Ry & Xander subconsciously choose to spend more time together outside of the team and their connection is forged & grown there first.
In this story, we're given the chance to explore how a loving relationship can be maintained among changes and difficulties added to their lives. Ry & Xander spend most of the story in love, and we get to see how that has an impact on their lives, rather than the story ending shortly after their love is admitted and announced.
I found myself tearing up more than once while reading this book as well. Its emotional moments were profound and powerful; and not always pertaining to the MCs relationship at all. There were several circumstances where outside sources or situations prompted those emotional outbursts -- with both the characters and myself.
The multiple epilogues we're given for the MCs were very fun too. I love a story that seemingly doesn't end; and each time I started another epilogue, it made me smile all over again.
I can only hope that Denver Shaw continues with this series of characters, because although Ry & Xander have moved to a new team, there are still some great Grizzlies that sound like they deserve their love story too. There were a couple possibilities I noticed, so fingers crossed we'll get some more romance on the ice!
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
In this story, we're given the chance to explore how a loving relationship can be maintained among changes and difficulties added to their lives. Ry & Xander spend most of the story in love, and we get to see how that has an impact on their lives, rather than the story ending shortly after their love is admitted and announced.
I found myself tearing up more than once while reading this book as well. Its emotional moments were profound and powerful; and not always pertaining to the MCs relationship at all. There were several circumstances where outside sources or situations prompted those emotional outbursts -- with both the characters and myself.
The multiple epilogues we're given for the MCs were very fun too. I love a story that seemingly doesn't end; and each time I started another epilogue, it made me smile all over again.
I can only hope that Denver Shaw continues with this series of characters, because although Ry & Xander have moved to a new team, there are still some great Grizzlies that sound like they deserve their love story too. There were a couple possibilities I noticed, so fingers crossed we'll get some more romance on the ice!
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
December 13, 2025
Somehow this book was super short and the longest thing I've ever read. I didn't enjoy the very beginning. The writing irked me? I can't explain it. But then I got into the Xander Harris(from Buffy the Vampire Slayer)on and Ryan relationship developing. The biawakening wasn't as gradual and engaging as I like them to be but it's still one of my favorite tropes. Just that "man, this guy is really cool and also I want to kiss him maybe?" Always does it for me.
And then we reach the overly saccharine desert of "omg I love you baby forever and don't forget it's always", "hell yeah NICKNAME forever because we're strong"
Or whatever.
Also the team has four other players?
Idk. This series of interconnected standalones have all been lowkey messes but I'm having fun.
And then we reach the overly saccharine desert of "omg I love you baby forever and don't forget it's always", "hell yeah NICKNAME forever because we're strong"
Or whatever.
Also the team has four other players?
Idk. This series of interconnected standalones have all been lowkey messes but I'm having fun.
June 27, 2024
As a huge hockey fan and romance reader the blurb was very enticing and it did not disappoint. The descriptive language and descriptions of hockey rinks down to the smell set of memories just as the book started set it off to a great start and I soon fell in love with the main and side characters.
Most hockey romances don’t usually actually include much hockey described in them, however this one did which was great. It may not have been perfect and much of the story idealised but I want fantasy romance and happy ever afters which this provided. I happily fell into the world of Ry and Xander and loved it. It ticked all the boxes and left me not wanting to put it down. The spicy scenes were enjoyable although for first times it felt a little bit quick following their first kisses and sexual awakenings. Introducing a Demi sexual character was good to read too.
I have never read any of this authors books before but do plan to read more now!
I received an ARC of this book for free but have since preordered a paid for copy as I enjoyed it and want to reread! My review is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Most hockey romances don’t usually actually include much hockey described in them, however this one did which was great. It may not have been perfect and much of the story idealised but I want fantasy romance and happy ever afters which this provided. I happily fell into the world of Ry and Xander and loved it. It ticked all the boxes and left me not wanting to put it down. The spicy scenes were enjoyable although for first times it felt a little bit quick following their first kisses and sexual awakenings. Introducing a Demi sexual character was good to read too.
I have never read any of this authors books before but do plan to read more now!
I received an ARC of this book for free but have since preordered a paid for copy as I enjoyed it and want to reread! My review is my honest and unbiased opinion.
July 15, 2024
Xander and Bennett are rivals in the Hockey League and then Xander is traded to Bennett's team. Now they have to work together but the friction is still felt until that friction becomes something else. In a sweet love story these two guys go through wins and losses, playing on different teams and only seeing each other on Facetime but it's all worth it in the end. I received a copy of this book through Booksprout and this is my voluntary opinion.
June 26, 2024
Ry and Xander can’t help but clash when they are on the ice. Xander just has a way of getting under Ry’s skin. All Ry wants is that chance to play in the majors for good. He just needs to keep focusing and work hard and ignore Xander. But things get complicated when Xander is traded to his team. Their coach may think that they can turn their rivalry into something brilliant when on the same team. But Ry isn’t so sure. But there is something about Xander that Ry can’t shake. His sunshine personality has a way of thawing the gruffness of Ry. Xander wants to show Ry that they can be a great team. He just needs to give Xander a chance to prove it. Little by little he knocks Ry’s walls down and is surprised by how alike and how well they can get along when their guard is down. And then suddenly, the two of them are feeling something way more than rivalry and their new budding friendship. Instead, they are falling in love and realizing just how important they have become to one another. But can they keep their relationships and their dreams of playing the majors one day? These two were just so fun. I loved their rivalry and the sunshine vs. grump vibe they had going on. Ry is so used to being serious, he has forgotten how to have fun until Xander comes charging into his life. And Xander has never felt an attraction to someone before or just someone caring so much for him, but with Ry, he can feel the love once they let their guards down. They bring out the best in one another and they were just so sweet! I loved watching them fall in love and fight their future together.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 4, 2024
On Thin Ice
Ry and Xander are truly relatable and great MC’s. They had great communication which is a big plus for me. Overall. It was a great book!
Ry and Xander are truly relatable and great MC’s. They had great communication which is a big plus for me. Overall. It was a great book!
September 23, 2025
This book was okay to be honest but it did drag on. Xander and Ry were sweet together but that’s it, I didn’t really feel anything more for them.
Their tension at the beginning was so good but as soon as they got together nothing really happened. I got so bored half way through because they were way too happy already and I saw that the book was nowhere near finished. This made me anticipate that things were going to go wrong, but the only thing that happened was Xander getting called up to the big leagues. Even though I’m sure the author tried to make it seem emotional that they were no longer on the same team I didn’t feel anything. I wish there was more angst in this part of the book and I would’ve eaten it up but once again I felt nothing.
I’m happy that Ry ended up getting called up later in the book as well even if it was a different team to Xander. I was also happy to see that once that contract was up he got traded to Xander’s team.
I wasn’t a big fan of the writing either.
Their tension at the beginning was so good but as soon as they got together nothing really happened. I got so bored half way through because they were way too happy already and I saw that the book was nowhere near finished. This made me anticipate that things were going to go wrong, but the only thing that happened was Xander getting called up to the big leagues. Even though I’m sure the author tried to make it seem emotional that they were no longer on the same team I didn’t feel anything. I wish there was more angst in this part of the book and I would’ve eaten it up but once again I felt nothing.
I’m happy that Ry ended up getting called up later in the book as well even if it was a different team to Xander. I was also happy to see that once that contract was up he got traded to Xander’s team.
I wasn’t a big fan of the writing either.
May 11, 2025
I love Denver Shaw. However, this one did not live up for me. It was still a good story, but I felt like I was reading a summary, not the book. There were moments that should have been on page but weren't, and it just didn't work as well for me. That being said, I loved the characters and acknowledge this is entirely a me thing.
May 8, 2025
Hockey, a competitive sport and not only on the ice. Almost every player dreams that one day they might make the big time, many don't and yet their love of the game never diminishes, it must be the adrenaline rush! So, on the ice there is competition, sometimes there is off the ice too, in the changing rooms, in public and private lives but most players simply want to make the most of their experiences, and of course win!
Ry is captain of the LA Grizzlies, a team he has been with a long time, so long in fact that though at 32 he still feels he has more play in him and at a higher level he doubts himself. He loves the game and loves his family, hoping that one day he can earn the money they need for his twin siblings to follow their college dreams. For now he has to focus on the new sign-up and the upcoming charity auction. The new sign-up is taking up most of his time and energy however, much of it negative to begin with. If you were to ask him why it's unlikely he could explain.
Xander has joined the Grizzlies as an up and coming player. Only 22 he has a whole career still ahead of him and coming from a wealthy family, having had a very big inheritance, he doesn't need to worry about money. He can just play the game he loves and he is quickly loving being with the Grizzlies. He is a ray of sunshine, he can't help himself, and he brings his sunshine with him to every game, to the locker room and it is seeping into Ry's life too. After all coach has paired them up for training. But no matter how charming, how sunny, how well he plays he can't seem to get through to Ry. At least not at first, the grumpy man seems to have a chip on his shoulder and is making assumptions about Xander.
All too soon matters come to a head and when they do these two men, these two players, who we might feel we have been getting to know, show us another side of themselves. What follows is an incredibly sensitive and beautiful romance that unfolds quickly, in part, and yet slowly. We discover Xander has never had a kiss, never had an anything, never found anyone, until Ry, that he wanted to have an anything with. And Ry, he is discovering a new side to himself in the process. Together these two men are about to show us how beautiful love is when we let go, when we forget about notions and barriers and just be. They will also show us what true friendship and family are, from the team to Ry's incredible family, how to tackle the hurdle of homophobia and misunderstanding and through it all Ry helps his Grup discover there can be sunshine in every day.
Denver Shaw once more delivers a sensitive, beautiful story where the ferocious love hockey players have for their game is always present and where we see people finding themselves, showing the world that being who you want to be, loving a person, not labeling anything, it is all as it should be. Outstanding.
Ry is captain of the LA Grizzlies, a team he has been with a long time, so long in fact that though at 32 he still feels he has more play in him and at a higher level he doubts himself. He loves the game and loves his family, hoping that one day he can earn the money they need for his twin siblings to follow their college dreams. For now he has to focus on the new sign-up and the upcoming charity auction. The new sign-up is taking up most of his time and energy however, much of it negative to begin with. If you were to ask him why it's unlikely he could explain.
Xander has joined the Grizzlies as an up and coming player. Only 22 he has a whole career still ahead of him and coming from a wealthy family, having had a very big inheritance, he doesn't need to worry about money. He can just play the game he loves and he is quickly loving being with the Grizzlies. He is a ray of sunshine, he can't help himself, and he brings his sunshine with him to every game, to the locker room and it is seeping into Ry's life too. After all coach has paired them up for training. But no matter how charming, how sunny, how well he plays he can't seem to get through to Ry. At least not at first, the grumpy man seems to have a chip on his shoulder and is making assumptions about Xander.
All too soon matters come to a head and when they do these two men, these two players, who we might feel we have been getting to know, show us another side of themselves. What follows is an incredibly sensitive and beautiful romance that unfolds quickly, in part, and yet slowly. We discover Xander has never had a kiss, never had an anything, never found anyone, until Ry, that he wanted to have an anything with. And Ry, he is discovering a new side to himself in the process. Together these two men are about to show us how beautiful love is when we let go, when we forget about notions and barriers and just be. They will also show us what true friendship and family are, from the team to Ry's incredible family, how to tackle the hurdle of homophobia and misunderstanding and through it all Ry helps his Grup discover there can be sunshine in every day.
Denver Shaw once more delivers a sensitive, beautiful story where the ferocious love hockey players have for their game is always present and where we see people finding themselves, showing the world that being who you want to be, loving a person, not labeling anything, it is all as it should be. Outstanding.
July 1, 2025
This is an enemies-to-lovers (3.5*) MM romance. Ryan (Berry) has been striving for years to become a professional hockey player and has little time for relationships, other than the occasional one-night stand. His focus is solely on the game, aiming to earn money to support his parents and siblings. When an unexpected trade lands his biggest on-ice rival as his new teammate, his life is thrown into chaos, and things do not start well. Xander (Sunshine) has been traded to the team of his hockey hero, even though they are more rivals on the ice than teammates. He needs to concentrate on achieving his goals, but an unexpected spark between him and Ryan complicates matters, especially since Ryan seems to be ignoring him. As their relationship evolves and feelings are explored, they must figure out if they can adjust to this new dynamic or if everything will fall apart when one of them realizes their dreams, leaving the other facing uncertainty.
This story is part of a multi-author series but can be read as a standalone. I enjoyed the chemistry between the main characters and appreciated their strong friendship and communication. The supporting characters, including their teammates and family, added depth through humor and drama. While the beginning felt slow-paced, their relationship developed rather quickly, making it hard for me to believe that neither experienced a significant internal crisis. I enjoyed the epilogues that tied the story together, though I found the conclusion of their careers and the season a bit hard to swallow. Overall, it’s a good read about finding the person who completes you, even if the journey looks different than expected. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story is part of a multi-author series but can be read as a standalone. I enjoyed the chemistry between the main characters and appreciated their strong friendship and communication. The supporting characters, including their teammates and family, added depth through humor and drama. While the beginning felt slow-paced, their relationship developed rather quickly, making it hard for me to believe that neither experienced a significant internal crisis. I enjoyed the epilogues that tied the story together, though I found the conclusion of their careers and the season a bit hard to swallow. Overall, it’s a good read about finding the person who completes you, even if the journey looks different than expected. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 12, 2024
Xander and Ry became rivals when they were playing on opposite teams, but a year later they find out that they are going to be teammates. Talk about tension! I thought the tension between the two MC's was written well, it really felt as though these two really disliked each other in the beginning. It helped add a bit of angst to the story as a whole. I liked that these two men slowly got to know one another, it wasn't insta-love or even insta-lust, rather they took their time to become friends first, then they started becoming something more.
The first date they went on was so cute, it made me want to 'aww' out loud, if someone took me a picnic date that is exactly what I would be doing. The relationship building between Xander and Ry was excellent, feelings developed gradually overtime, and I found their characters to work quite well together. Both on and off the ice.
I loved Jester and Tank's characters, I hope they each get their own story at some point. Both of them were so supportive of Ry and Xander, in addition to them being goofy and adding great dialogue.
When these two had to do long distance I was worried for them wondering how they would make it work, but they figured it out and learned what was best for them.
The ending was so sweet, it was a terrific way to end this book. Something else I loved was the texting commentary, as well as the news articles. I found those scenes to be really interesting and they added a fun way to breakup the story a bit, (in a good way.) Overall a really terrific book about two men who love hockey, who were once rivals but became so much more.
The first date they went on was so cute, it made me want to 'aww' out loud, if someone took me a picnic date that is exactly what I would be doing. The relationship building between Xander and Ry was excellent, feelings developed gradually overtime, and I found their characters to work quite well together. Both on and off the ice.
I loved Jester and Tank's characters, I hope they each get their own story at some point. Both of them were so supportive of Ry and Xander, in addition to them being goofy and adding great dialogue.
When these two had to do long distance I was worried for them wondering how they would make it work, but they figured it out and learned what was best for them.
The ending was so sweet, it was a terrific way to end this book. Something else I loved was the texting commentary, as well as the news articles. I found those scenes to be really interesting and they added a fun way to breakup the story a bit, (in a good way.) Overall a really terrific book about two men who love hockey, who were once rivals but became so much more.
June 24, 2024
To Ry, hockey is life. At 32, he still dreams of making it to the majors, so he plays his heart out every game. He keeps seeing younger players get their chance, and he tries to not let it get to him. When Xander, ten years his junior, joins his team, he is determined to not let him get in his head. He will do whatever it takes yo make it to the majors and finally be able to support his family like they deserve.
Ry is such a good man. He wants to help his family, but his pay in the minors barely supports him. I love how he is so committed to being the best hockey player he can be. Is he a bit grumpy? Sure, wouldn’t YOU be? All the pressure and watching all the young talented players get their shot while you’re still in the trenches. But then he lets Xander in…
Xander is great, what a character! He’s talented and he knows it. He also knows he wants to make it work with his new team, especially with Ry. The older man sure doesn’t make it easy haha, but I love how Xander gradually wears him down. When they finally accept each other and their spots on the team, sparks fly!
I really enjoyed this. Seeing Ry’s walls begin to crumble and watching him begin to smile and laugh more was incredible. He deserves the world and Xander is never afraid to tell him. Even with all the ups and downs of hockey as their career, they stay true to each other. I admire that.
…I LOVED seeing West and Shane! Miss them so…
3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ry is such a good man. He wants to help his family, but his pay in the minors barely supports him. I love how he is so committed to being the best hockey player he can be. Is he a bit grumpy? Sure, wouldn’t YOU be? All the pressure and watching all the young talented players get their shot while you’re still in the trenches. But then he lets Xander in…
Xander is great, what a character! He’s talented and he knows it. He also knows he wants to make it work with his new team, especially with Ry. The older man sure doesn’t make it easy haha, but I love how Xander gradually wears him down. When they finally accept each other and their spots on the team, sparks fly!
I really enjoyed this. Seeing Ry’s walls begin to crumble and watching him begin to smile and laugh more was incredible. He deserves the world and Xander is never afraid to tell him. Even with all the ups and downs of hockey as their career, they stay true to each other. I admire that.
…I LOVED seeing West and Shane! Miss them so…
3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 13, 2024
3.5 stars
"You’ve changed my life, Xander. You’ve shown me what it means to love and be loved.”
“I can’t imagine my life without you. You’re my home, Ry.”
“And you’re mine. Always.”
Denver Shaw's On Thin Ice, which is part of the multi-author series The Games We Play, is a sweet, low-angst hockey romance.
Ryan Bennett and Xander Harrison go from being the fiercest of rivals to teammates to forming a fantastic friendship and finally developing a truly beautiful love that transforms their lives.
Both men are hoping to make it to the big leagues of their sport, and with Ry now being in his 30s, his time is running short to fulfil not only his dreams, but to be able to provide for his parents and younger siblings.
As they learn to get along, these two protect each other, and when they work together on charitable causes, they coax out new sides of each other, with Ry showing his vulnerability, and even belying his 'Grumpleberry' nature to smile and laugh with his 'Sunshine'.
Xander, meanwhile, is demi, and we see that represented as he traverses his first relationship.
This is a quick, easy read that is enjoyable. Ry and Xander have a great relationship, I really liked some of their teammates from the Grizzlies, too, and they could have interesting stories if Denver continues them, and I loved seeing Berry and his Sunshine find their happiness together.
'He felt like the missing piece I'd been searching for my entire life.'
'First we were rivals, then teammates, and friends, and now he was the love of my life.'
"You’ve changed my life, Xander. You’ve shown me what it means to love and be loved.”
“I can’t imagine my life without you. You’re my home, Ry.”
“And you’re mine. Always.”
Denver Shaw's On Thin Ice, which is part of the multi-author series The Games We Play, is a sweet, low-angst hockey romance.
Ryan Bennett and Xander Harrison go from being the fiercest of rivals to teammates to forming a fantastic friendship and finally developing a truly beautiful love that transforms their lives.
Both men are hoping to make it to the big leagues of their sport, and with Ry now being in his 30s, his time is running short to fulfil not only his dreams, but to be able to provide for his parents and younger siblings.
As they learn to get along, these two protect each other, and when they work together on charitable causes, they coax out new sides of each other, with Ry showing his vulnerability, and even belying his 'Grumpleberry' nature to smile and laugh with his 'Sunshine'.
Xander, meanwhile, is demi, and we see that represented as he traverses his first relationship.
This is a quick, easy read that is enjoyable. Ry and Xander have a great relationship, I really liked some of their teammates from the Grizzlies, too, and they could have interesting stories if Denver continues them, and I loved seeing Berry and his Sunshine find their happiness together.
'He felt like the missing piece I'd been searching for my entire life.'
'First we were rivals, then teammates, and friends, and now he was the love of my life.'
July 27, 2025
3-3.5*
This starts as an enemies-to-friends and turns to lovers with a apprx. 10 year age gap.
I like that the book is mainly about the minor league, often totally ignored by authors. There is plenty of on-ice action.
Ry's dreams of moving up start to become more and more unrealistic the older he gets. Adding a new teammate, someone he clashes on ice with, is just the icing on the cake.
I like how they slowly become friends, how they discover a different side to each other and how the attraction develops. It's a slow bi-awakening on Ry's side and some surprices on Xander's.
I love the team mates and Ry's family, these are great supporting secondary characters.
The story gets quite flowery in the writing and I found it a bit over the top, while I think Ry and Xander do have chemistry and they work as a couple, I felt it sometimes a bit hard to read, I prefer my dialogues less sweet.
There are also a bit too many topics at the same time, you have Ry's dreams he fears they will never come true and will also mean he can't help his family, Xander's parents, a bi-awakening, a demi? virgin, trades. Each of it on its own would have been a good story but none were really explored enough.
I found Ry's acceptance of him being not-so-straight a bit too easy, there was hardly any awkardness or wondering.
The ending was quite fairytale.
It's a good book for a rainy afternoon or sitting at the pool on holiday.
This starts as an enemies-to-friends and turns to lovers with a apprx. 10 year age gap.
I like that the book is mainly about the minor league, often totally ignored by authors. There is plenty of on-ice action.
Ry's dreams of moving up start to become more and more unrealistic the older he gets. Adding a new teammate, someone he clashes on ice with, is just the icing on the cake.
I like how they slowly become friends, how they discover a different side to each other and how the attraction develops. It's a slow bi-awakening on Ry's side and some surprices on Xander's.
I love the team mates and Ry's family, these are great supporting secondary characters.
The story gets quite flowery in the writing and I found it a bit over the top, while I think Ry and Xander do have chemistry and they work as a couple, I felt it sometimes a bit hard to read, I prefer my dialogues less sweet.
There are also a bit too many topics at the same time, you have Ry's dreams he fears they will never come true and will also mean he can't help his family, Xander's parents, a bi-awakening, a demi? virgin, trades. Each of it on its own would have been a good story but none were really explored enough.
I found Ry's acceptance of him being not-so-straight a bit too easy, there was hardly any awkardness or wondering.
The ending was quite fairytale.
It's a good book for a rainy afternoon or sitting at the pool on holiday.
June 26, 2024
This is a clever collaboration of hockey books, that are linked by all being based in the minor league during the same season. Therefore they can be read as standalones. I read this book firat, and would love to read the rest of the series. It is hard to believe this author hasn't written hockey romance before, you would never guess. This book brings Xander and Ry together, which doesn't go as well as the tram hope. Xander is the sunshine to Ry's grumpy and he isn't sure why the guy riles him up. This is an awakening for both men in different ways. Both aggressive and hard hitting on the ice, it eas such a contrast with how soppy and tender they were together in private. There was no mistaking their feelings, both very honest and open and fell deep fast. I adored the notes Xander would leave for Ry. Everything is ticking alongnucely, until hockey gets in the way.
I hope this author writes spin offs for the teammates; there was definitely tension coming from Coach Mack. For those who like to know how the relationship has moved on, the epilogue will please you. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I hope this author writes spin offs for the teammates; there was definitely tension coming from Coach Mack. For those who like to know how the relationship has moved on, the epilogue will please you. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 25, 2024
An enjoyable hockey romance that brings two men on opposite teams together at the start of the new season. Going from enemies to teammates proves a little difficult but a little work and interference from the coach helps them work towards the dream forward pairing that they can be.
Ry Bennett is always working towards making it to the top of hockey and now he has to work towards working alongside Xander Harrison, the frustratingly amazing talent that is now on his team.
The two men together are entertaining, first in their animosity and then in their slow build friendship. The confusion that is experienced by Ry in his attraction for the first time towards a man pulls on your heart but it's a fairly low angst story and so makes for a wonderful romance to read. The only trouble with being teammates is the possibility of being traded, and it's something they have no control over.
The hockey content of the story gets quite intense as we follow the team across the whole season, from training, to games, to the chance of making it to the playoffs. Ry is determined to help his team make it but he also wants a spot in the top league in order to help his family financially.
Ry Bennett is always working towards making it to the top of hockey and now he has to work towards working alongside Xander Harrison, the frustratingly amazing talent that is now on his team.
The two men together are entertaining, first in their animosity and then in their slow build friendship. The confusion that is experienced by Ry in his attraction for the first time towards a man pulls on your heart but it's a fairly low angst story and so makes for a wonderful romance to read. The only trouble with being teammates is the possibility of being traded, and it's something they have no control over.
The hockey content of the story gets quite intense as we follow the team across the whole season, from training, to games, to the chance of making it to the playoffs. Ry is determined to help his team make it but he also wants a spot in the top league in order to help his family financially.
July 2, 2024
This was a lovely hockey romance. I especially enjoyed the mix of some of my favorite tropes- age gap, grumpy sunshine, and a really lovely double bi-awakening. For me, the characters were definitely the stars of the book. Ryan was such a strong character. He is a wonderful grump, anxious to care for his family, he’s really feeling the pressure to make it to the big leagues before it’s too late. He finds Xander, his former rival and new young teammate both fascinating and infuriating. I loved that the author spent time developing their friendship because it really made their connection so believable and strong. I loved this couple, who share one of the sweetest first kisses I’ve read in a long while. The hockey side of the plot was pretty good. For me, it was not quite as strong as the romance but I liked the stress over trades and making it to the big leagues. I really enjoyed this one, the characters are exceptionally well written and the romance really shines.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
May 13, 2025
Hockey is more than just a sport—it’s a way of life, and no one embodies that more than Ryan and Alexander. One is seasoned and experienced, the other young and full of energy. When their paths cross, it’s more than just a meeting—it’s a collision of passion, drive, and undeniable chemistry.
As the story unfolds, we see Ryan and Alexander move beyond the rink, spending time together and discovering parts of themselves they hadn’t before. The more they get to know each other, the more their connection deepens, revealing a powerful blend of respect, admiration, and growing affection.
But love, like hockey, isn’t always smooth skating. The novel explores the challenges that come with opening your heart and the effort it takes to build and maintain a relationship. Misunderstandings, insecurities, and personal growth all play a part—but what stands out is the message that love, when nurtured, always finds a way to win.
I received this ARC from BookSprout and voluntarily leaving my review.
Monica
As the story unfolds, we see Ryan and Alexander move beyond the rink, spending time together and discovering parts of themselves they hadn’t before. The more they get to know each other, the more their connection deepens, revealing a powerful blend of respect, admiration, and growing affection.
But love, like hockey, isn’t always smooth skating. The novel explores the challenges that come with opening your heart and the effort it takes to build and maintain a relationship. Misunderstandings, insecurities, and personal growth all play a part—but what stands out is the message that love, when nurtured, always finds a way to win.
I received this ARC from BookSprout and voluntarily leaving my review.
Monica
May 26, 2025
3,5*
Bennett and Xander their story is an age gap, different backgrounds, hockey player MM story.
I do not find it a grumpyy/ sunshine story since very early in the book that description becomes mood. The slow burn part stops at that point as well.
There are some things to be said about the description of their first intimate interactions. I would love to have had a proper dialogue/ discussion instead of mostly internal dialogue about how, what and why.
I found the characters very supportive of each other after their initial not so great start.
They both find they are queer, one from a demi perspective, which in books, I could use more off.
Xander is finding chosen family with his teams and Bennett his family. Bennett is learning to not eant to do everything on his own. Whilst still wanting and being a huge financial help to his family.
This story shows for me, oftrn live does not give you what you want, but sonetimes it gives you what you need. Of course they find their hfn/ hea.
Bennett and Xander their story is an age gap, different backgrounds, hockey player MM story.
I do not find it a grumpyy/ sunshine story since very early in the book that description becomes mood. The slow burn part stops at that point as well.
There are some things to be said about the description of their first intimate interactions. I would love to have had a proper dialogue/ discussion instead of mostly internal dialogue about how, what and why.
I found the characters very supportive of each other after their initial not so great start.
They both find they are queer, one from a demi perspective, which in books, I could use more off.
Xander is finding chosen family with his teams and Bennett his family. Bennett is learning to not eant to do everything on his own. Whilst still wanting and being a huge financial help to his family.
This story shows for me, oftrn live does not give you what you want, but sonetimes it gives you what you need. Of course they find their hfn/ hea.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2025
'His presence was like a warm sunbeam melting away my icy exterior layer by layer.
It was strange yet liberating at the same time... The more time I spent with him, the more these unfamiliar feelings began to seem natural.
And the more I thought about it, I realized that aside from my family, Xander was one of the few individuals who could draw me out and make me laugh so freely.'
I really enjoyed this book. I loved both Xander and Ry and the way their relationship evolved over the course of the story. They really did make such a great match and I loved how they supported and encouraged each other. Some of my favorite scenes were visiting the breast cancer patients at the hospital and the podcast. But chapter 20- that was beautiful.
"You’ve changed my life, Xander. You’ve shown me what it means to love and be loved.”
“I can’t imagine my life without you.” His voice broke slightly. “You’re my home, Ry.”
He hugged me tighter, our foreheads touching. “And you’re mine. Always.”
I think my heart burst! A very sweet romance. 5 stars
It was strange yet liberating at the same time... The more time I spent with him, the more these unfamiliar feelings began to seem natural.
And the more I thought about it, I realized that aside from my family, Xander was one of the few individuals who could draw me out and make me laugh so freely.'
I really enjoyed this book. I loved both Xander and Ry and the way their relationship evolved over the course of the story. They really did make such a great match and I loved how they supported and encouraged each other. Some of my favorite scenes were visiting the breast cancer patients at the hospital and the podcast. But chapter 20- that was beautiful.
"You’ve changed my life, Xander. You’ve shown me what it means to love and be loved.”
“I can’t imagine my life without you.” His voice broke slightly. “You’re my home, Ry.”
He hugged me tighter, our foreheads touching. “And you’re mine. Always.”
I think my heart burst! A very sweet romance. 5 stars
July 16, 2024
3.5 stars
I needed something to engage me quickly so I gave this new-to-me author a try. And it honestly did just pull me in. I really liked the characters and the story. Ryan is hockey vet in the minor leagues and still plugging away trying to make it in the major hockey league and Xander is a hot-shot rookie who is exploding on the scene. It's a rivals-to-friends-to-lovers, opposites-attract, grumpy-sunshine, demi-awakening, hockey romance. I enjoyed seeing them go from dislike and competition, to friendship and camaraderie, and then to lovers with big feelings. I liked seeing them be vulnerable and supportive of each other and how these guys had their priorities straight.
It was light, sweet, low angst, and easy to read. It stood alone fine for me, but I know it’s part of a multi-author series and I liked it enough that I would pick up more from the series or even more from this author. I thought the insets with photos and news articles were cute in the interior.
I needed something to engage me quickly so I gave this new-to-me author a try. And it honestly did just pull me in. I really liked the characters and the story. Ryan is hockey vet in the minor leagues and still plugging away trying to make it in the major hockey league and Xander is a hot-shot rookie who is exploding on the scene. It's a rivals-to-friends-to-lovers, opposites-attract, grumpy-sunshine, demi-awakening, hockey romance. I enjoyed seeing them go from dislike and competition, to friendship and camaraderie, and then to lovers with big feelings. I liked seeing them be vulnerable and supportive of each other and how these guys had their priorities straight.
It was light, sweet, low angst, and easy to read. It stood alone fine for me, but I know it’s part of a multi-author series and I liked it enough that I would pick up more from the series or even more from this author. I thought the insets with photos and news articles were cute in the interior.
July 9, 2025
I loved this book, it's sweet, easy to read, entertaining and I couldn't put it down. Both characters are very lovable, are very good together, and have good chemistry. I particularly enjoyed the open communication, and the fact that almost half of the book is their struggles once they are an established relationship. I am often frustrated when books finish even before or just after they confess their love for each other and we don't have that here.
What prevented me to give it 5 stars is that I have the impression we miss some parts of the story with some time gaps that are not totally clear, and also the lack of realism maybe of their physical interactions taking into account one is a virgin and the other has never been with a man before. But this did not prevent me to enjoy the book, and I recommend it.
While it's part of a series, it can completely be read as a standalone.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
What prevented me to give it 5 stars is that I have the impression we miss some parts of the story with some time gaps that are not totally clear, and also the lack of realism maybe of their physical interactions taking into account one is a virgin and the other has never been with a man before. But this did not prevent me to enjoy the book, and I recommend it.
While it's part of a series, it can completely be read as a standalone.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
December 22, 2025
I want to scream ‘I did it. I finally got through it.’
The storyline is great but there are too many word, like too many words. Many chapters are irrelevant to the story and just feels like filler, words on words.
The podcast could have mattered had it taken are more prominent place in the story and had it been a more frequent thing in the story. But finished it feel like the author needed something to write.
Also the news about Xander moving up is completely unrealistic described. Of course they would have told him first. He would have signed a contract for Christ sake before the announcement was made.
Would have loved more about the dynamics between Xander and his family, mind you that some other chapters had to go.
I almost didn’t finished it but ended up skimming my way through a lot of it.
The storyline is great but there are too many word, like too many words. Many chapters are irrelevant to the story and just feels like filler, words on words.
The podcast could have mattered had it taken are more prominent place in the story and had it been a more frequent thing in the story. But finished it feel like the author needed something to write.
Also the news about Xander moving up is completely unrealistic described. Of course they would have told him first. He would have signed a contract for Christ sake before the announcement was made.
Would have loved more about the dynamics between Xander and his family, mind you that some other chapters had to go.
I almost didn’t finished it but ended up skimming my way through a lot of it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2025
This heartfelt hockey romance shines with its slow-burn progression from rivals to friends to lovers. Ry and Xander’s relationship is built on emotional growth, mutual support, and real connection, rather than explosive drama.
Rather than ending with a love confession, the story explores what it means to stay in love through life’s changes and challenges. The hockey setting is richly described, adding authenticity.
Their sunshine-and-grump dynamic is sweet and compelling, with chemistry, friendship, and communication at its core.
Denver Shaw delivers a tender, hopeful story about love, identity, and belonging—with just the right touch of spice. It beautifully captures the idea that the right person might come along in a way you never imagined.
A truly satisfying read.
Rather than ending with a love confession, the story explores what it means to stay in love through life’s changes and challenges. The hockey setting is richly described, adding authenticity.
Their sunshine-and-grump dynamic is sweet and compelling, with chemistry, friendship, and communication at its core.
Denver Shaw delivers a tender, hopeful story about love, identity, and belonging—with just the right touch of spice. It beautifully captures the idea that the right person might come along in a way you never imagined.
A truly satisfying read.
December 5, 2025
Ry (32) and Xander (22) know each other as rivals on the ice but then in a turn of events they have to get to know each other as teammates and eventually they find themselves sharing parts of themselves they didn't think they would and they create a bond and a connection based off the love of the ice, respect, admiration and friendship that later turns into so much more. Add on to the fact that this is a slow burn and neither have been with another man before plus their age gap and there's plenty of story to be told. I enjoyed Ry and Xander's solo journey and then their later journey together and navigating what love and passion and their careers mean to them. Another good book by Denver Shaw.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 18, 2025
A nice enemies to friends to lovers low angst bi-awakening.
This was an easy meandering book, sharing blips of time in Xander and Ry’s developing relationship. There was a lot of internal dialog of the sticky sweet and overly cheesy variety. I felt like it went from first kiss to sex really fast for two men who had never been intimate with a man before. Some of what I would think of a key moments in their relationship we learn about after the fact through internal dialogue. I wished we could have experienced that with the characters.
Overall this is a nice read when you need a calm day.
Thank you to Booksprout and Denver Shaw for the advanced copy. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
3.0 ⭐️
This was an easy meandering book, sharing blips of time in Xander and Ry’s developing relationship. There was a lot of internal dialog of the sticky sweet and overly cheesy variety. I felt like it went from first kiss to sex really fast for two men who had never been intimate with a man before. Some of what I would think of a key moments in their relationship we learn about after the fact through internal dialogue. I wished we could have experienced that with the characters.
Overall this is a nice read when you need a calm day.
Thank you to Booksprout and Denver Shaw for the advanced copy. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
3.0 ⭐️
July 8, 2024
This was a really sweet low angst, double bi-awakening, grumpy/sunshine hockey story. At 32 Ryan Bennett still has the dream to play in the major league and his life is all about hockey and being in control. But when his younger rival Xander joins the team it disturbs his control. They are forced to spend time together and after the initial problems they find they actually like each other and that's the start for something new for both of them. They explore their new sexuality and connection. When Xander gets pulled up into the major league they are forced to have a long distance relationship for a while but it only makes them stronger. I really enjoyed reading this story.
August 5, 2024
If you are looking for a sports romance written by the love child of Cheer Bear and Strawberry Shortcake, you have found the right book. The story makes every attempt at being berry happy. I jumped into The Games We Play series because I was looking for something to keep me entertained during the off season. Hockey isn't exactly famous for a cheerful puppies and kittens and rainbows atmosphere. I don't really like cheerful, bouncy, happy stories so this book didn't work for me.
This will be a good read if you are looking for a fluffy sports romance with some over-the-top internal dialog.
This will be a good read if you are looking for a fluffy sports romance with some over-the-top internal dialog.
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