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Game
Brooke’s life is one big lie . . . But she’s not the only one with a dangerous secret.
Most twenty-somethings travel to Berlin in search of the weird, wild, and wunderbar. For Brooke Neville, it’s the perfect place to stage a fantasy; one where she’s just another college student backpacking through hostels on a shoe-string budget.
No billionaire family. No pro-tennis career. No gut-wrenching tragedy.
But remaining anonymous and aloof becomes increasingly difficult upon meeting Patrick, a charismatic Aussie traveler. With his easy grace and killer smile, Brooke isn’t the only woman distracted by his charms.
As she artfully dodges angry calls from back home, Brooke loses herself in Berlin’s nightlife and counterculture, and starts to find herself along the way. Maybe it’s time to come clean, own up to who she is and face the consequences. But the worst deceit of all will be the one she fails to see coming.
“GAME” is the first stirring installment of the coming-of-age Silver Gilt trilogy (GAME, SET, MATCH).
Most twenty-somethings travel to Berlin in search of the weird, wild, and wunderbar. For Brooke Neville, it’s the perfect place to stage a fantasy; one where she’s just another college student backpacking through hostels on a shoe-string budget.
No billionaire family. No pro-tennis career. No gut-wrenching tragedy.
But remaining anonymous and aloof becomes increasingly difficult upon meeting Patrick, a charismatic Aussie traveler. With his easy grace and killer smile, Brooke isn’t the only woman distracted by his charms.
As she artfully dodges angry calls from back home, Brooke loses herself in Berlin’s nightlife and counterculture, and starts to find herself along the way. Maybe it’s time to come clean, own up to who she is and face the consequences. But the worst deceit of all will be the one she fails to see coming.
“GAME” is the first stirring installment of the coming-of-age Silver Gilt trilogy (GAME, SET, MATCH).
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 6, 2025
3 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
P.M. Vance
1 book9 followersP.M. Vance (she/her) is an attorney and an officer in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve. “GAME” is her first work of contemporary fiction and intertwines the pain and honesty of what it means to be human, with the smoldering tension of a fraught romance and scandalous twists. Vance’s love of pop culture, politics, sport, and travel also deeply inspires her stories.
When P.M. Vance isn’t immersed in her latest manuscript, she’s enjoying life in New Mexico with her lovely husband and stepkids, and a growing menagerie of four-legged freeloaders.
“GAME” is the first installment in the coming-of-age Silver Gilt fiction trilogy.
When P.M. Vance isn’t immersed in her latest manuscript, she’s enjoying life in New Mexico with her lovely husband and stepkids, and a growing menagerie of four-legged freeloaders.
“GAME” is the first installment in the coming-of-age Silver Gilt fiction trilogy.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
November 19, 2024
Game tells the story of a talented, wealthy young woman at the end of her college career who finds herself lost (or at least wanting to be) amidst a family tragedy. She embarks on a solo backpacking trip through Europe in an effort to try to figure some things out. Is she running from or confronting her demons?
While the author of this debut novel certainly has her own unique voice, this book will appeal to fans of Emily Henry and Taylor Jenkins Reid. Game has all the glamour and lifestyle of Reid’s novels and all the drama of moving into adulthood found in Henry’s novels.
Two weirdly specific pieces of praise for this debut. Like many others, there’s one certain phrase that makes me cringe when I inevitably read it in far too many novels (read: she let out the breath she didn’t know she was holding). So I literally wanted to cheer at Vance’s creativity when I read this phrase: “. . . as I let out a deep breath that feels like it has been trapped in my chest since I stepped in front of him”! Kudos!
Secondly, there’s a specific piece of artwork that plays a role in the story. The descriptions were so vivid and compelling that I had to stop reading and look up the painting. I love when books make me want to learn more about other pieces of culture.
I’m neither wealthy nor young. I did go to Europe on a budget a couple of times many many years ago but I wasn’t staying in hostels or partying at exclusive nightclubs (or even wanting to). And yet. And yet I did find myself caring about Brooke and her ever widening circle. Furthermore, I want to know what happens next and look forward to the next in this series.
I was fortunate to read an ARC of this novel and believe the book will be available at the beginning of January.
While the author of this debut novel certainly has her own unique voice, this book will appeal to fans of Emily Henry and Taylor Jenkins Reid. Game has all the glamour and lifestyle of Reid’s novels and all the drama of moving into adulthood found in Henry’s novels.
Two weirdly specific pieces of praise for this debut. Like many others, there’s one certain phrase that makes me cringe when I inevitably read it in far too many novels (read: she let out the breath she didn’t know she was holding). So I literally wanted to cheer at Vance’s creativity when I read this phrase: “. . . as I let out a deep breath that feels like it has been trapped in my chest since I stepped in front of him”! Kudos!
Secondly, there’s a specific piece of artwork that plays a role in the story. The descriptions were so vivid and compelling that I had to stop reading and look up the painting. I love when books make me want to learn more about other pieces of culture.
I’m neither wealthy nor young. I did go to Europe on a budget a couple of times many many years ago but I wasn’t staying in hostels or partying at exclusive nightclubs (or even wanting to). And yet. And yet I did find myself caring about Brooke and her ever widening circle. Furthermore, I want to know what happens next and look forward to the next in this series.
I was fortunate to read an ARC of this novel and believe the book will be available at the beginning of January.
January 13, 2025
GAME is the coming-of-age tale of Brooke: potential future tennis star and billionaire heiress. The novel follows her on an adventure to Berlin and later, Prague, where she finds herself and learns who she is.
I really enjoyed this book. It is the best written Indie book I have read so far. I especially enjoyed the final third. Things came together so beautifully and reached a satisfying and well-earned ending.
I am not a DNFer, I always see books through. I didn't love the first half of the book and found it a bit repetitive. I struggled with the frequent flashbacks and wondered why present tense had been chosen as it was such a reflective piece. However, things got truly exciting once Brooke reached Prague.
Brooke, Lauren, Patrick, Brooke's mother, and Liam were really well observed. The dialogue was natural for the most part. Some of the characters, though, felt unnecessary. Each one should have a true purpose in telling the story.
I do feel there are parts that could have been worked on and polished further and at times what the author paid attention to wasn't necessarily the most interesting thing.
Brooke's growth throughout the novel was evident, especially towards the end. I didn't feel all the 'big' moments were big enough but the final third absolutely delivered. As a writer, writing a COA novel, I hold GAME up as a great example of the genre.
I would recommend this book and will be interested in what P.M. Vance writes next (book two in the series).
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed this book. It is the best written Indie book I have read so far. I especially enjoyed the final third. Things came together so beautifully and reached a satisfying and well-earned ending.
I am not a DNFer, I always see books through. I didn't love the first half of the book and found it a bit repetitive. I struggled with the frequent flashbacks and wondered why present tense had been chosen as it was such a reflective piece. However, things got truly exciting once Brooke reached Prague.
Brooke, Lauren, Patrick, Brooke's mother, and Liam were really well observed. The dialogue was natural for the most part. Some of the characters, though, felt unnecessary. Each one should have a true purpose in telling the story.
I do feel there are parts that could have been worked on and polished further and at times what the author paid attention to wasn't necessarily the most interesting thing.
Brooke's growth throughout the novel was evident, especially towards the end. I didn't feel all the 'big' moments were big enough but the final third absolutely delivered. As a writer, writing a COA novel, I hold GAME up as a great example of the genre.
I would recommend this book and will be interested in what P.M. Vance writes next (book two in the series).
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 10, 2025
The Game is the first in the Silver Gilt trilogy (yep, as in Game, Set, Match, and yes, it’s tennis-themed!!). It's a blend of travel fiction, self-discovery, freedom and slow-burn romance.
Brooke, the only daughter in a billionaire family, is backpacking solo through Europe, trying to escape the claustrophobic grip of her controlling mother—and the recent traumatic events that quietly haunt her. She lands in Berlin, where she makes new friends, explores the city’s counterculture, and begins to heal.
She’s also a tennis prodigy, and her grit and mental toughness give real Carrie Soto vibes. She meets Patrick, a gorgeous Australian traveler, who she can't help but get close to. Their friends to lovers romance is fresh, and swoon.
Brooke isn't giving "poor little rich girl vibes", rather her family drama feels heavy and raw. Brooke feels guarded but strong, mature and vulnerable.
The travel setting is excellent (Berlin + Prague), the writing is immersive, and the emotional arc had way more depth than I expected.
It’s adventurous, vibrant, and alive. It's a well-paced read that's easy to get lost in and feels like a summer getaway. This book will be a great YA read for summer 2025! I’m absolutely picking up the next two books (Set and Match) the second they drop.
Brooke, the only daughter in a billionaire family, is backpacking solo through Europe, trying to escape the claustrophobic grip of her controlling mother—and the recent traumatic events that quietly haunt her. She lands in Berlin, where she makes new friends, explores the city’s counterculture, and begins to heal.
She’s also a tennis prodigy, and her grit and mental toughness give real Carrie Soto vibes. She meets Patrick, a gorgeous Australian traveler, who she can't help but get close to. Their friends to lovers romance is fresh, and swoon.
Brooke isn't giving "poor little rich girl vibes", rather her family drama feels heavy and raw. Brooke feels guarded but strong, mature and vulnerable.
The travel setting is excellent (Berlin + Prague), the writing is immersive, and the emotional arc had way more depth than I expected.
It’s adventurous, vibrant, and alive. It's a well-paced read that's easy to get lost in and feels like a summer getaway. This book will be a great YA read for summer 2025! I’m absolutely picking up the next two books (Set and Match) the second they drop.
January 6, 2025
Game by PM Vance
Brooke is twenty something billionaire heiress who is trying to overcome tragedy by solo backpacking through Europe. She is a self isolating loner who struggles in social interactions due to her less than normal upbringing. When she reaches Berlin, there is another group of travelers around her age who reach out and befriend Brooke. Brooke meets and has an instant connection with one of the group members named Patrick. While Patrick shares the instant attraction that Brooke feels, he is guarded and secretive. While Brooke is trying to avoid communication with her family back home, she is also struggling to find her place in the new group of friends and compete for Patrick’s attention. Just as Brooke is starting to feel like she has her feet back on the ground, the worst betrayal of her life happens….
PM Vance is an amazing author and Game is an absolute page turner. I feel like I went on a wild ride and I’m not sure I ever got off. I haven’t been this shocked by the ending of a story since finding out Bruce Willis was dead in The Sixth Sense.
PM Vance promises more twists and turns in book two, and I can’t wait to read it.
Brooke is twenty something billionaire heiress who is trying to overcome tragedy by solo backpacking through Europe. She is a self isolating loner who struggles in social interactions due to her less than normal upbringing. When she reaches Berlin, there is another group of travelers around her age who reach out and befriend Brooke. Brooke meets and has an instant connection with one of the group members named Patrick. While Patrick shares the instant attraction that Brooke feels, he is guarded and secretive. While Brooke is trying to avoid communication with her family back home, she is also struggling to find her place in the new group of friends and compete for Patrick’s attention. Just as Brooke is starting to feel like she has her feet back on the ground, the worst betrayal of her life happens….
PM Vance is an amazing author and Game is an absolute page turner. I feel like I went on a wild ride and I’m not sure I ever got off. I haven’t been this shocked by the ending of a story since finding out Bruce Willis was dead in The Sixth Sense.
PM Vance promises more twists and turns in book two, and I can’t wait to read it.
January 6, 2025
“I might not be able to change the rules, but I can play the game.”
I loved this story: the seeking of freedom, bonding with strangers that grow into friends, hiding your past and learning to break the rules. Each one of us can relate in our own way, which makes the pull to sweet, flawed Brooke such an easy connection. We’ve all made mistakes, we’ve all self-sabotaged, and corrected course, and we’ve all fought our own powers that be. This book makes me want to pack my backpack and find a European hostel to relive the journey of self-discovery. Each chapter unfolded beautifully, revealing just a touch more about Brooke’s character and secrets. I couldn’t put it down! Crossing my fingers for a second book, Brooke’s journey has only just begun!
I loved this story: the seeking of freedom, bonding with strangers that grow into friends, hiding your past and learning to break the rules. Each one of us can relate in our own way, which makes the pull to sweet, flawed Brooke such an easy connection. We’ve all made mistakes, we’ve all self-sabotaged, and corrected course, and we’ve all fought our own powers that be. This book makes me want to pack my backpack and find a European hostel to relive the journey of self-discovery. Each chapter unfolded beautifully, revealing just a touch more about Brooke’s character and secrets. I couldn’t put it down! Crossing my fingers for a second book, Brooke’s journey has only just begun!
January 5, 2025
Game is trope free story telling at its finest. The characters feel real, the settings are vivid, and the story is engaging. Brooke Neville is neither a damsel in distress nor is she a savior. She is flawed while being fierce, sometimes wise and other times naive, full of certainty and also full of doubt… simply put, she is relatable. There is an authenticity to Game that will make you want to keep reading just to find out what happens next. If you’re someone that appreciates a great story with characters and themes that capture the fullness of the human experience then look no further than Game. You won’t be disappointed.
February 17, 2025
Get ready for a fun, introspective read set in Berlin and Prague. All-American girl, Brooke Neville, questions her life of entitlement in this Connecticut mansion to Berlin youth hostel coming of age story. In this brilliant, debut novel, P.M. Vance pulls off the very difficult task of first person point of view in a very unique and original style and voice. Oh, and it's a romance too, but Vance's hand is quicker than the reader's eye and she puts the rabbit back in the hat! I won't say any more. I won't let the cat out of the bag! Or the rabbit! See for yourself!
March 27, 2025
Fast-paced read - I read it in one sitting!
There is a Pride and Prejudice feel to this romcom, which features a billionaire former tennis pro heiress and some snarky characters. I didn't expect the twist at the end, so that made it fresh and fun. It's like a sporty Bridgerton, and I'm looking forward for book #2.
All in all, if you're a fan of Bridgerton, Pride and Prejudice, Emily Henry, and/or Ali Hazelwood, I say give this book a read.
There is a Pride and Prejudice feel to this romcom, which features a billionaire former tennis pro heiress and some snarky characters. I didn't expect the twist at the end, so that made it fresh and fun. It's like a sporty Bridgerton, and I'm looking forward for book #2.
All in all, if you're a fan of Bridgerton, Pride and Prejudice, Emily Henry, and/or Ali Hazelwood, I say give this book a read.
December 22, 2025
Fantastic! While this is a bit outside of my typical genre, I really enjoyed this story. The characters are believable, have real growth and the emotions are relatable. The story building is great with just enough detail for each location to leave you feeling like you got to visit these destinations without becoming burdened with minutia. This is a real page turner and was difficult to put down! I can’t wait for the second book and to travel with Brooke on her continued adventures!
October 12, 2025
There is a Pride and Prejudice/Bodyguard/The Princess Diaries (well in reverse) feel to this romcom, which features a billionaire former tennis pro heiress and some snarky characters. I enjoyed how the author put a spin on travel as a young adult and trying to explore the world and herself. I was rooting for all of the characters. I'm looking forward to book #2!
December 14, 2024
The Game masterfully captures the interplays of loss and love, grief and healing, and confidence and vulnerability. Vance’s writing is deeply reflective, while incorporating clever humor. Highly recommend!
March 7, 2025
It was a good read it enjoyed the book a must read
November 3, 2025
What can I say? I LOVED 🥰 this book. Okay, I’m a little biased because I’m the author. But still, as a writer you write what you love and I LOVE THIS BOOK.
My hope with writing GAME was to create a story layered with emotion and heart, and leave readers with a sense of forward motion on a journey of resilience and reinvention while following the path of aa young woman that is coming into her own.
I could keep gushing about my own feelings about GAME, but more than anything I hope readers will enjoy it and perhaps even find inspiration through Brooke’s story to go big and live the big dream.
This story has my whole heart and I’m so excited to share Book 2, SET.
To readers of GAME: Thank you, I’m so grateful for your support. 🫶
My hope with writing GAME was to create a story layered with emotion and heart, and leave readers with a sense of forward motion on a journey of resilience and reinvention while following the path of aa young woman that is coming into her own.
I could keep gushing about my own feelings about GAME, but more than anything I hope readers will enjoy it and perhaps even find inspiration through Brooke’s story to go big and live the big dream.
This story has my whole heart and I’m so excited to share Book 2, SET.
To readers of GAME: Thank you, I’m so grateful for your support. 🫶
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews