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The Sweetest Risk
Brooke Beckett hates breaking the rules and taking risks. But most of all, she hates NHL star and poster boy for the Dallas Storm, also known as her brother’s best friend, Tristan Lawson. Guys like him are the reason for her one rule: never date a hockey player. Brooke has played it safe her entire life–from her career to her love life, which has led her to constantly doubt her worth and stay stuck in the shadow of her older brother, Bradley. After a breakup and encouragement from her best friend, she is ready to make a change and pursue her dream of owning a bakery. She is even considering breaking the one rule she set for herself on a fateful night ten years ago.
She just never expected her archnemesis to be the person to help her break out of her shell.
Tristan Lawson is the hottest and most talented NHL player in the league, who is never afraid to up the stakes and take chances in his career. Besides pushing Brooke’s buttons, hockey has always been the joy of Tristan’s life. Eager to clinch the captain’s spot, he is willing to do anything–even go so far as to make a deal with his on-the-ice nemesis, Dean Hastings, who is also vying for that elusive leadership position and is very interested in pursuing a romantic relationship with Brooke. Tristan is about to risk two things that matter most to him: one is the captain’s spot, the other is the one girl who has been off-limits for the past decade.
In the midst of snarky banter, sweet ice-skating lessons, steamy cupcake-making shenanigans and a tension-filled casino night gala, the line between love and hate becomes blurry. Will Tristan and Brooke continue to push each other away with their chemistry-ladened loathing? Or will they finally let down their guard and fall for the one person they never expected?
Because falling could be the sweetest risk of all.
She just never expected her archnemesis to be the person to help her break out of her shell.
Tristan Lawson is the hottest and most talented NHL player in the league, who is never afraid to up the stakes and take chances in his career. Besides pushing Brooke’s buttons, hockey has always been the joy of Tristan’s life. Eager to clinch the captain’s spot, he is willing to do anything–even go so far as to make a deal with his on-the-ice nemesis, Dean Hastings, who is also vying for that elusive leadership position and is very interested in pursuing a romantic relationship with Brooke. Tristan is about to risk two things that matter most to him: one is the captain’s spot, the other is the one girl who has been off-limits for the past decade.
In the midst of snarky banter, sweet ice-skating lessons, steamy cupcake-making shenanigans and a tension-filled casino night gala, the line between love and hate becomes blurry. Will Tristan and Brooke continue to push each other away with their chemistry-ladened loathing? Or will they finally let down their guard and fall for the one person they never expected?
Because falling could be the sweetest risk of all.
Unknown Binding
First published March 18, 2025
36 people are currently reading
449 people want to read
About the author
Leslie McElroy
4 books87 followersLeslie McElroy was raised in Santa Fe, New Mexico but currently resides in Dallas, Texas. She loves her family, cozy, rainy days, and spreading kindness. Leslie has always dreamed of becoming a writer since she was a teenager, but she finally wrote her first novel, Stuck with Me, after being inspired from reading other contemporary romance novels and knowing that she had a story to tell. Leslie loves coffee, reading, and is an introvert at heart. Leslie is a mom of two boys and is married to her college sweetheart. Leslie hopes that through her writing, she can connect with people around the world and spread happiness with the characters and stories she creates.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
March 6, 2025
First of all, I ABSOLUTELY LOVE a good hockey romance, add in brothers best friend and enemies to lovers & IM DONE FOR! When I saw that ARC readers were needed for this book, I immediately signed up. I AM SO GLAD I DID.
The banter, the spice, the love, the story line, all of it KEPT me hooked until the very end.
I adored Tristan and Brooke's story. It was definitely fast paced which can make for a quick read. I loved that he called her cupcake, the ice skating lessons, and when he comes to her defense during the anniversary party.
“You know, someone told me tonight that it sometimes pays off to take risk. So, I’m taking a risk right now and I’m hoping it pays off.”
Spice : 4/5
Enemies-to-lovers
Brothers best friend
Hockey Romance
Teacher/Baker
Text banter
Sneaking around
He teaches her how to Ice skate
He brings her soup when she's sick
He defends her to her family
The banter, the spice, the love, the story line, all of it KEPT me hooked until the very end.
I adored Tristan and Brooke's story. It was definitely fast paced which can make for a quick read. I loved that he called her cupcake, the ice skating lessons, and when he comes to her defense during the anniversary party.
“You know, someone told me tonight that it sometimes pays off to take risk. So, I’m taking a risk right now and I’m hoping it pays off.”
Spice : 4/5
Enemies-to-lovers
Brothers best friend
Hockey Romance
Teacher/Baker
Text banter
Sneaking around
He teaches her how to Ice skate
He brings her soup when she's sick
He defends her to her family
June 29, 2025
The Sweetest Risk ~ hockey player x teacher/baker.
There’s a lot of stuff I liked about this book, the brothers best friend trope, the possessiveness, the sneaking around, the lack of any actual miscommunication. (THANK YOU.)
While the romance is great, the love story is cute; one of the best parts of this book is Brooke feeling like she’s stuck standing in her brothers shadow- feeling like she can’t do enough to make her parents proud of her own accomplishments. The authors note at the end of the book words it perfectly, “Success manifests differently for everyone and it is hard when you don’t feel validated in your accomplishments while others are receiving peace for theirs. We all want you to feel seen…” I wasn’t expecting this when I first signed up for the ARC and it made me really happy to see this sort of thing talked about as someone who has struggled with those kinds of feelings my entire life!
My only complaint about this book? The amount of times nicknames were used. It pulled me out of a lot of moments that should have been really sweet and consuming. That might just be me though!
There’s a lot of stuff I liked about this book, the brothers best friend trope, the possessiveness, the sneaking around, the lack of any actual miscommunication. (THANK YOU.)
While the romance is great, the love story is cute; one of the best parts of this book is Brooke feeling like she’s stuck standing in her brothers shadow- feeling like she can’t do enough to make her parents proud of her own accomplishments. The authors note at the end of the book words it perfectly, “Success manifests differently for everyone and it is hard when you don’t feel validated in your accomplishments while others are receiving peace for theirs. We all want you to feel seen…” I wasn’t expecting this when I first signed up for the ARC and it made me really happy to see this sort of thing talked about as someone who has struggled with those kinds of feelings my entire life!
My only complaint about this book? The amount of times nicknames were used. It pulled me out of a lot of moments that should have been really sweet and consuming. That might just be me though!
March 19, 2025
After devouring the author's previous release, The Expiration Date, I was so looking forward to this hockey romance, especially when I was perpetually in my hockey romance era, since her writing was flawless. However, this book ended up being way too sweet for my liking. There was supposed to be an enemies-to-lovers trope as pitched, and yet, when the main characters, Tristan and Brooke, got all intimately involved, both of them became extremely sweet and inseparable to each other, which happened already somewhere between 20% to 30% of the book. I would certainly appreciate more if there were more establishment of Tristan and Brooke's background story as well as character development. Of course, I'd still recommend this book if you were looking for something sweet and spicy or simply wanted to have a good time!
***Thanks to the author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
***Thanks to the author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
March 18, 2025
Tristan Lawson, the godlike hockey player, is Brooke's brothers best friend and her sworn enemy. The two can't be in the same room with each other without annoying and instigating with each other. However, Tristan has a very big secret, and he will do anything to make sure Brooke doesn't figure it out all while doing a 180 ° and romancing her. What's Tristans deal?
I melted for this book. I loved every single minute of it. Honestly, I didn't want it to end. Tristan and Brooke have the best banter, plus the spice was spicing perfectly. Give me more of what this author is writing because I think I will love it all.
I melted for this book. I loved every single minute of it. Honestly, I didn't want it to end. Tristan and Brooke have the best banter, plus the spice was spicing perfectly. Give me more of what this author is writing because I think I will love it all.
March 1, 2025
You know it's a great book when you can barely put it down and read it obdsessively in a day!!
This storyline involving brothers best friend but also Hockey romance- two of my absolute favourites that go well hand in hand. Brooke is a such a sweet soul, she is stubborn and she wears her heart on her sleeve. Tristan may appear to be your standard typical Hockey male, but he has many hidden features that you discover and become more established as you read the book, like the fact that he falls first makes my heart throb.
This plot was creative, fast paced, there's some confrontation and hidden secrets which causes drama. The hate/love relationship between Tristan and Brooke is everything in this book! the tension build up is incredible, they compliment each other well and I cried during the epilogue, it was so heart warming and everything I was hoped for while reading this book.
Oh and it's a little bit spicy, their chemistry is hot, their first scene involving cupcakes- YES!
I rated 5 stars as there is nothing in this book i didnt like or would want to change and I would 100% recommend reading this book.
This storyline involving brothers best friend but also Hockey romance- two of my absolute favourites that go well hand in hand. Brooke is a such a sweet soul, she is stubborn and she wears her heart on her sleeve. Tristan may appear to be your standard typical Hockey male, but he has many hidden features that you discover and become more established as you read the book, like the fact that he falls first makes my heart throb.
This plot was creative, fast paced, there's some confrontation and hidden secrets which causes drama. The hate/love relationship between Tristan and Brooke is everything in this book! the tension build up is incredible, they compliment each other well and I cried during the epilogue, it was so heart warming and everything I was hoped for while reading this book.
Oh and it's a little bit spicy, their chemistry is hot, their first scene involving cupcakes- YES!
I rated 5 stars as there is nothing in this book i didnt like or would want to change and I would 100% recommend reading this book.
March 17, 2025
Thank you so much for the opportunity to ARC-read this book! I absolutely loved The Sweetest Risk—it’s one of those stories that completely pulls you in, making it nearly impossible to put down. The tropes in this book are so well done, making the romance feel both exciting and deeply heartfelt.
One of my favorite aspects was the way the characters constantly referenced Friends. Their relationship gave off such strong Monica and Chandler vibes, which I adored—especially since they’re my favorite Friends couple! That dynamic of love, humor, and unwavering support made the romance feel so authentic and special.
Overall, The Sweetest Risk is an addictive and heartwarming read, and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a well-written romance with fantastic tropes and lovable characters!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 stars)
🌶️.5
March 23, 2025
I was lucky enough to get this to read as an ARC. This is my honest review of the book.
I desperately wanted to have an audiobook of this because the words coming out of the MMC’s mouth need to be spoken aloud by Teddy Hamilton, Joe Arden, or Jacob Morgan. 🥵 What started as an enemies-to-lovers, bully, hockey romance quickly turned into a sexy rom-com. The banter was good. The on-page sex was good. What I didn’t enjoy was the constant use of the character’s nicknames. It was too repetitive and not true-to-life. Nobody uses names or nicknames that much, and every time it was said, I cringed. There were a few grammatical errors, and some of the writing was childish.
MMC Tristan is FMC Brooke’s older brother’s best friend and hockey teammate. The day they met, they both fell hard, but the older brother said “no” and that was that. For the next ten-ish years, they acted like they hated each other to avoid their feelings for each other. Until Tristan makes a bet with another hockey player over who can score with Brooke first. Then Tristan acts on his feelings, they both fall in love, and near the end, the bet is made public and drama ensues. Obviously, since this is a HEA book, they kiss and make-up.
As I stated before, there is not an audiobook for this (as of the time of this review) and therefore I only read it. I would absolutely read this again if there’s an audiobook version. But I stand by my 3-star review because of the childish writing style and constant use of nicknames.
I desperately wanted to have an audiobook of this because the words coming out of the MMC’s mouth need to be spoken aloud by Teddy Hamilton, Joe Arden, or Jacob Morgan. 🥵 What started as an enemies-to-lovers, bully, hockey romance quickly turned into a sexy rom-com. The banter was good. The on-page sex was good. What I didn’t enjoy was the constant use of the character’s nicknames. It was too repetitive and not true-to-life. Nobody uses names or nicknames that much, and every time it was said, I cringed. There were a few grammatical errors, and some of the writing was childish.
MMC Tristan is FMC Brooke’s older brother’s best friend and hockey teammate. The day they met, they both fell hard, but the older brother said “no” and that was that. For the next ten-ish years, they acted like they hated each other to avoid their feelings for each other. Until Tristan makes a bet with another hockey player over who can score with Brooke first. Then Tristan acts on his feelings, they both fall in love, and near the end, the bet is made public and drama ensues. Obviously, since this is a HEA book, they kiss and make-up.
As I stated before, there is not an audiobook for this (as of the time of this review) and therefore I only read it. I would absolutely read this again if there’s an audiobook version. But I stand by my 3-star review because of the childish writing style and constant use of nicknames.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2025
Who doesn’t love a good hockey romance? This was such a bittersweet story with some spice added to it!
Everything added into this book kept me HOOKED!! I loved Tristan and Brooke’s story, there was nothing slowburn about it and I loved it, although the story was face paced we still got to see the characters development throughout the entire story. A lot of emotions were thrown into the story, I found myself laughing and CRYING!! Happy tears of course but also kind of sad tears for Brooke, but I loved that she stood up for herself to her family and that Tristian also took that risk of exposure and stood up for Brooke to her parents!
Everything added into this book kept me HOOKED!! I loved Tristan and Brooke’s story, there was nothing slowburn about it and I loved it, although the story was face paced we still got to see the characters development throughout the entire story. A lot of emotions were thrown into the story, I found myself laughing and CRYING!! Happy tears of course but also kind of sad tears for Brooke, but I loved that she stood up for herself to her family and that Tristian also took that risk of exposure and stood up for Brooke to her parents!
May 28, 2025
Was this pretty cheesy? Yes, but I love a baking subplot, hockey is an automatic yes, and setting in Dallas was a fun addition!
November 28, 2025
They are too grown to be acting like this
December 19, 2025
Got this book at an author event and really enjoyed it! I’m a sucker for sweet hockey romances
March 9, 2025
I'm very happy I got the chance to be part of this ARC team for this book! I thoroughly enjoyed this enemies-to-lovers, brother's best friend story; it was super cute. I laughed out loud countless times; the banter between the main characters was fantastic, along with the spice, ugh!
You just have to read it; I highly recommend!
You just have to read it; I highly recommend!
March 26, 2025
3.75/5 rounded up!
“everything about her is my favorite thing” ✨
Brooke has one rule… never date a hockey player. but what happens when, after years of being at each other’s throats, one particular hockey player decides he wants her to break that rule with him?
hockey romance, “enemies” to lovers, secret tattoos, banter, AND mutual pining… say less!! this was such a cute, fun read! Tristan and Brooke have great chemistry and I loved the way they were willing to show up for each other!
what to love :
🧁 brothers best friend
🏒 hockey romance
🧁 enemies to lovers
🏒dual pov
“everything about her is my favorite thing” ✨
Brooke has one rule… never date a hockey player. but what happens when, after years of being at each other’s throats, one particular hockey player decides he wants her to break that rule with him?
hockey romance, “enemies” to lovers, secret tattoos, banter, AND mutual pining… say less!! this was such a cute, fun read! Tristan and Brooke have great chemistry and I loved the way they were willing to show up for each other!
what to love :
🧁 brothers best friend
🏒 hockey romance
🧁 enemies to lovers
🏒dual pov
March 21, 2025
If you love hockey romances + spice you are going to love this book!
Brooke is currently a teacher, but her dream is to open up a bakery. She has known Tristan for years, but Brooke just has one rule: no dating hockey players. Will she break her own rule to date him?
What Brooke doesn’t know is Tristan has a bet for who will date Brooke. Will he win?
Brooke’s brother is best friends with Tristan. How will this all work out?
Spicy chapters: 3, 12, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 26, 27, 29
Thank you Leslie McElroy for this #gifted eARC!
Brooke is currently a teacher, but her dream is to open up a bakery. She has known Tristan for years, but Brooke just has one rule: no dating hockey players. Will she break her own rule to date him?
What Brooke doesn’t know is Tristan has a bet for who will date Brooke. Will he win?
Brooke’s brother is best friends with Tristan. How will this all work out?
Spicy chapters: 3, 12, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 26, 27, 29
Thank you Leslie McElroy for this #gifted eARC!
March 27, 2025
I am normally a dark romance girly but this romance reminded me of the sweet soft warm spot in my heart that loves sweet romances like these. To have the witty banter while having the emotional connection and the spice to match. This was a great read and I’m all for Brooke and Tristian. The next book better be about Oakley and Tess. Cause I wanna know if she snuck off to his room.
I kinda wish we would have found out if he had made captain and that’s where I was hesitant to give the full 5 stars just because I did have some questions at the end.
The spice was not overwhelming but it gave it enough heat where the storyline and the spice made a perfect balance. I can’t read a romance novel that doesn’t have the banter. The wit between these two had me giggling like a school girl to cackling.
The moment between Brooke and her parents was definitely something that made me bawl. I also have known those feelings so it definitely hit a spot in my heart that made the book super relatable. I also loved that the book mentioned Canada because I’m a Canadian myself. Hockey has been something I’ve grown up with! It’s a part of my soul as any Canadian would say so. It was nice to have it incorporated into the book but it didn’t feel exaggerated which I throughly enjoyed because once again it made the story and the storyline that much more relatable and enjoyable.
I really enjoyed this book because it had some really hot dirty talk, it had the witty banter, it had the emotional moments where you could connect with the characters, and it had that sweet romance that every girl wants to have. To have a guy worship the ground you walk on and your body in the bedroom.
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥/5
Storyline:📖📖📖📖/5
Overall Recommendation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Such a great read and it’s the best hockey romance I’ve read this year. Definitely in my top 10 reads for this month! I definitely recommend picking this book up because you’ll be falling head of skates for Tristan and Brooke
I kinda wish we would have found out if he had made captain and that’s where I was hesitant to give the full 5 stars just because I did have some questions at the end.
The spice was not overwhelming but it gave it enough heat where the storyline and the spice made a perfect balance. I can’t read a romance novel that doesn’t have the banter. The wit between these two had me giggling like a school girl to cackling.
The moment between Brooke and her parents was definitely something that made me bawl. I also have known those feelings so it definitely hit a spot in my heart that made the book super relatable. I also loved that the book mentioned Canada because I’m a Canadian myself. Hockey has been something I’ve grown up with! It’s a part of my soul as any Canadian would say so. It was nice to have it incorporated into the book but it didn’t feel exaggerated which I throughly enjoyed because once again it made the story and the storyline that much more relatable and enjoyable.
I really enjoyed this book because it had some really hot dirty talk, it had the witty banter, it had the emotional moments where you could connect with the characters, and it had that sweet romance that every girl wants to have. To have a guy worship the ground you walk on and your body in the bedroom.
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥/5
Storyline:📖📖📖📖/5
Overall Recommendation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Such a great read and it’s the best hockey romance I’ve read this year. Definitely in my top 10 reads for this month! I definitely recommend picking this book up because you’ll be falling head of skates for Tristan and Brooke
March 18, 2025
Thanks to @authorlesliemcelroy for the #gifted copy of this book.
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬, 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙥𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙤𝙛𝙛 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙠𝙨. 𝙎𝙤, 𝙄’𝙢 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖 𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙠 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄’𝙢 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙩 𝙥𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙤𝙛𝙛.”
Summary: Brooke Beckett has only one rule: Never date a hockey player. None other than her brother's best friend, Tristan is the person who made her create this rule in the first place, breaking her heart when they first met. But life always has a way of turning the tables to where you're supposed to be. This is certainly the case when Tristan and Brooke find out that there is a very fine line between hate and love...
“If you are going to break your one rule, I want you to break it with me, Brooke.”
My Thoughts: Oh goodness, I have been sooooo excited to read this book from all of the teasers Leslie has given us for this book, and it did not disappoint!! I loved this book so so much! This was a beautiful story of not just Tristan and Brooke finally taking a risk for love, but also Brooke taking a risk in her career to follow her dreams. Enemies to lovers and brother's best friend are two of my top tropes, so this book was a perfect fit for me. I love how this highlighted Brooke's bravery in stepping out of her comfort zone to pursue her dream of opening a cupcake business. As the story continued, Brooke learned how to stand up for herself to even her hardest critics, her parents. I also cheered for Tristan to finally realize that there was more to life than just excelling at hockey; he just had to find the right girl to slow down with.
This is just one of those books that you can sit down and forget about adulting for the day! I know I did while I read it!
Read if you love:
❤️🔥Enemies to Lovers
🤩Brother’s Best Friend
🏒Hockey Romance
🧁Pro Hockey Player & Teacher/Baker
🤭Secret Relationship
😆Banter & Snark
🔥Open Door Spice
👩❤️👨Dual POV
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬, 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙥𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙤𝙛𝙛 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙠𝙨. 𝙎𝙤, 𝙄’𝙢 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖 𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙠 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄’𝙢 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙩 𝙥𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙤𝙛𝙛.”
Summary: Brooke Beckett has only one rule: Never date a hockey player. None other than her brother's best friend, Tristan is the person who made her create this rule in the first place, breaking her heart when they first met. But life always has a way of turning the tables to where you're supposed to be. This is certainly the case when Tristan and Brooke find out that there is a very fine line between hate and love...
“If you are going to break your one rule, I want you to break it with me, Brooke.”
My Thoughts: Oh goodness, I have been sooooo excited to read this book from all of the teasers Leslie has given us for this book, and it did not disappoint!! I loved this book so so much! This was a beautiful story of not just Tristan and Brooke finally taking a risk for love, but also Brooke taking a risk in her career to follow her dreams. Enemies to lovers and brother's best friend are two of my top tropes, so this book was a perfect fit for me. I love how this highlighted Brooke's bravery in stepping out of her comfort zone to pursue her dream of opening a cupcake business. As the story continued, Brooke learned how to stand up for herself to even her hardest critics, her parents. I also cheered for Tristan to finally realize that there was more to life than just excelling at hockey; he just had to find the right girl to slow down with.
This is just one of those books that you can sit down and forget about adulting for the day! I know I did while I read it!
Read if you love:
❤️🔥Enemies to Lovers
🤩Brother’s Best Friend
🏒Hockey Romance
🧁Pro Hockey Player & Teacher/Baker
🤭Secret Relationship
😆Banter & Snark
🔥Open Door Spice
👩❤️👨Dual POV
March 1, 2025
The Sweetest Risk had me giggling, squealing, and feeling emotions I’m not even sure I can legally name.
I need a book trophy for this one — a mini Stanley Cup on one side and a cupcake on the other, because balance. 🏆🧁
I think I just found my new book boyfriend and my new best friend. I want to be honorary BFFs with Brooke, Jen, and Tess immediately. Also, someone please check on Oakley — sweet, clueless man deserves a support group and maybe a hug.
If you need me, I’ll be baking cupcakes, sipping Peach Moscatos and mimosas, and aggressively obsessing over this book, it’s a good thing the hubs likes hockey so I can lure him into listening. 🍑✨
This book was everything and then some. I went in with high hopes and still ended up blown away. Brooke and Tristan’s story had me in a chokehold from start to finish, and Leslie’s writing made me feel like I was right there with them — not just reading, but fully eavesdropping like a nosy neighbor with a glass to the wall.
My only (extremely petty) complaint? There were two team-related questions I needed answers to. Did they matter to Brooke and Tristan’s love story? No. Am I absolutely choosing to believe the answers in my head are correct? Yes. 🏒
Kicking off March with a 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ romcom read, and honestly, this might be my favorite so far this year!
March 18th — cancel your plans and read this immediately!
I need a book trophy for this one — a mini Stanley Cup on one side and a cupcake on the other, because balance. 🏆🧁
I think I just found my new book boyfriend and my new best friend. I want to be honorary BFFs with Brooke, Jen, and Tess immediately. Also, someone please check on Oakley — sweet, clueless man deserves a support group and maybe a hug.
If you need me, I’ll be baking cupcakes, sipping Peach Moscatos and mimosas, and aggressively obsessing over this book, it’s a good thing the hubs likes hockey so I can lure him into listening. 🍑✨
This book was everything and then some. I went in with high hopes and still ended up blown away. Brooke and Tristan’s story had me in a chokehold from start to finish, and Leslie’s writing made me feel like I was right there with them — not just reading, but fully eavesdropping like a nosy neighbor with a glass to the wall.
My only (extremely petty) complaint? There were two team-related questions I needed answers to. Did they matter to Brooke and Tristan’s love story? No. Am I absolutely choosing to believe the answers in my head are correct? Yes. 🏒
Kicking off March with a 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ romcom read, and honestly, this might be my favorite so far this year!
March 18th — cancel your plans and read this immediately!
March 27, 2025
The Sweetest Risk ~ARC ~
First things first I will always devour a hockey romance, and it especially being brother‘s best friend, sign me up! I read Leslie McElroy‘s previous release The Expiration Date and loved it so I knew this one was gonna be good.
I love the fact that the book wasn’t wholly based on hockey that it was just a sub plot. It was more of a brother‘s best friend, long time love and finally acting on it romance. It makes the tension 10x better 🤭. Their banter is top tier!!!
One bit that really makes this book so good is that Brooke is going through some things in her family’s relationship that I feel like never would have come out if it weren’t for her relationship with Tristan, where she found what type of love she needed and deserved.
Quotes:
“My feelings for Brooke are like my love of hockey: indisputable and unmovable.”
“It’s not the time to tell her the truth–that I don’t hate her.
That I’ve never hated her.”
“Every single goal I’ve scored since I met you was my own personal love note to you, Brooke.”
Rating: 4.25⭐️
Spice: 3/5 (many scenes, but not that detailed)
Tropes:
Rivals-to-lovers
Brothers best friend
Hockey Romance
Teacher/Baker
Text banter
Sneaking around
First things first I will always devour a hockey romance, and it especially being brother‘s best friend, sign me up! I read Leslie McElroy‘s previous release The Expiration Date and loved it so I knew this one was gonna be good.
I love the fact that the book wasn’t wholly based on hockey that it was just a sub plot. It was more of a brother‘s best friend, long time love and finally acting on it romance. It makes the tension 10x better 🤭. Their banter is top tier!!!
One bit that really makes this book so good is that Brooke is going through some things in her family’s relationship that I feel like never would have come out if it weren’t for her relationship with Tristan, where she found what type of love she needed and deserved.
Quotes:
“My feelings for Brooke are like my love of hockey: indisputable and unmovable.”
“It’s not the time to tell her the truth–that I don’t hate her.
That I’ve never hated her.”
“Every single goal I’ve scored since I met you was my own personal love note to you, Brooke.”
Rating: 4.25⭐️
Spice: 3/5 (many scenes, but not that detailed)
Tropes:
Rivals-to-lovers
Brothers best friend
Hockey Romance
Teacher/Baker
Text banter
Sneaking around
March 18, 2025
💚 𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝘆 💞
💞 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 - 𝟒.𝟐✨
💚 Huge shoutout to author Leslie McElroy for the free ARC!
💞 When you give me enemies to lovers, brother’s best friend, hockey romance—there’s no way I’m saying no. This book had me hooked just from the tropes alone!
💚 Brooke is the kind of heroine who steals your heart instantly sweet yet fierce, stubborn yet vulnerable. She loves deeply and isn’t afraid to fight for what she wants. And then there’s Tristan… sigh. He might seem like your typical cocky hockey star, but there’s so much more to him. The way he falls first? Yeah, I’m weak.
💞 The story moves fast, packed with tension, unexpected secrets, and just the right amount of drama. But what really got me? The insane chemistry between Brooke and Tristan. Their love-hate dynamic had me grinning, swooning, and screaming at my Kindle all at once. And don’t even get me started on the epilogue—it was everything I didn’t even realize I needed.
💚 From the very first page, this book had me completely hooked. Leslie McElroy’s writing made me feel like I wasn’t just reading I was living every moment with these characters. Absolutely obsessed!
💞 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 - 𝟒.𝟐✨
💚 Huge shoutout to author Leslie McElroy for the free ARC!
💞 When you give me enemies to lovers, brother’s best friend, hockey romance—there’s no way I’m saying no. This book had me hooked just from the tropes alone!
💚 Brooke is the kind of heroine who steals your heart instantly sweet yet fierce, stubborn yet vulnerable. She loves deeply and isn’t afraid to fight for what she wants. And then there’s Tristan… sigh. He might seem like your typical cocky hockey star, but there’s so much more to him. The way he falls first? Yeah, I’m weak.
💞 The story moves fast, packed with tension, unexpected secrets, and just the right amount of drama. But what really got me? The insane chemistry between Brooke and Tristan. Their love-hate dynamic had me grinning, swooning, and screaming at my Kindle all at once. And don’t even get me started on the epilogue—it was everything I didn’t even realize I needed.
💚 From the very first page, this book had me completely hooked. Leslie McElroy’s writing made me feel like I wasn’t just reading I was living every moment with these characters. Absolutely obsessed!
March 19, 2025
Sometimes taking a risk pays off and the story of Brooke and Tristan proves that. I had such a fun time reading their story and how they came together. Both of their personalities showed through and complimented the other, pushing them to grow as the story went on.There was just the perfect amount of spice, sprinkled throughout the story keeping their tension alive as they grew more comfortable in their relationship. Tristan was very attentive throughout and definitely took to heart the very wise words of Brooke Beckett; "You men like to tease, but they are actually great manuals for you all on what women want.". He made many small and grand gestures that proved that he paid attention to Brooke and truly cared and loved her enough to do these things for her. I absolutely loved the dynamic Brooke's best friend, Tess, brought into the story, pushing Brooke out of her comfort zone and her not so subtle hints. So if you are looking for enemies to lovers, brother's best friend, with the perfect spice level and thoughtful grand gestures then you should definitely read The Sweetest Risk.
March 19, 2025
First of all, I devoured this book. I couldnt put it down! I know im a little late to my review, but I was sick and this book got me through my bed day!
I LOVE a good hockey romance, but the enemies to lovers experience was such a welcome addition to the fabric of the story. The story line was strong, the banter was endearing, the love was felt and the spice was cute.
I enjoyed Tristan and Brooke's character development, both as individuals and together. . It was a faster paced story, but the development between them is still there. We get to know Brooke with all her open emptions and stubborn streak. We get to watch Tristan move away from his "typical jock" exterior and fall head over heels for her. I was surprised by his depth, honestly.
For me what shines through is the tension between the main characters. The hate/love relationship form the backdrop of really good intensity between them. The spice adds to their story beautifully.
This story was creative, fun, filled with tension and surprises. If youre looking for something mostly light hearted, fast paced, an heart-warming, this book is absolutely for you!
I LOVE a good hockey romance, but the enemies to lovers experience was such a welcome addition to the fabric of the story. The story line was strong, the banter was endearing, the love was felt and the spice was cute.
I enjoyed Tristan and Brooke's character development, both as individuals and together. . It was a faster paced story, but the development between them is still there. We get to know Brooke with all her open emptions and stubborn streak. We get to watch Tristan move away from his "typical jock" exterior and fall head over heels for her. I was surprised by his depth, honestly.
For me what shines through is the tension between the main characters. The hate/love relationship form the backdrop of really good intensity between them. The spice adds to their story beautifully.
This story was creative, fun, filled with tension and surprises. If youre looking for something mostly light hearted, fast paced, an heart-warming, this book is absolutely for you!
March 10, 2025
This was a new to me author and I absolutely loved Tristan and Brooke. I’ve been reading a lot of hockey romances lately and this one just pulled me in from the start. Their story is emotional, sexy, steamy, the banter between them was priceless. You just know when you meet the one you know they are it for you, but when you overhear a conversation and think the worst you change your mind and decide hating him is better than pinning for him or is it? We can’t forget the bro code of course and the one player who's a “player” and will stop at nothing to get under Tristan’s skin and when that happens all bets are off literally, like what was he thinking in the first place, this isn’t going to end well for Tristan. When these two realize they’ve loved each other for as long as they can remember will they jump at the chance to be together? Will Tristan come clean about 5e secret he’s hiding? How will Brooke’s brother handle the betrayal? Such a great read and I look forward to reading more from this author.
July 24, 2025
Absolutely devoured The Sweetest Risk! This was my first read by Leslie McElroy and I was not disappointed. Brooke and Tristan are easily becoming two of my favorite characters this year. Brooke is a strong-willed teacher by day and baker by night. Tristan is your typically "hot shot" Pro Hockey Player. After their first encounter 10 years prior and an overheard conversation, Brooke swore off hockey players especially Tristan Lawson her brother's best friend. Little does she know Tristan has been pinning after her the whole time. When a bet with his teammate forces them together and their true feelings come to light, Brooke starts to realize that Tristan isn't the man she thought he was. After all isn't love The Sweetest Risk!
The banter and spice are top notch. Tristan Lawson the man you are. Straight Swooning over him. He listens! And let's be honest that's all we want is a man who listens!
FAV Quote: " You're right. I didn't get you a thousand pink daisies. I got you 3980 of them. One for each day I have been in love with you"
The banter and spice are top notch. Tristan Lawson the man you are. Straight Swooning over him. He listens! And let's be honest that's all we want is a man who listens!
FAV Quote: " You're right. I didn't get you a thousand pink daisies. I got you 3980 of them. One for each day I have been in love with you"
January 7, 2026
Easily became one of my favorite books. ❤️
Loove a good hockey romance!! Throw in enemies to lovers/ best friends sister trope and I was obsessed! Loved how it this book is based on Dallas as a native hearing familiar places made the book a lot better. Looking forward to reading more of her books.
I absolutely loved Brooke and Tristan’s meeting story. When I read he ate the entire muffin I literally laughed out loud. Hated that he was only motivated to go after her when another man he highly disliked decided to go after her. He was just fine with being on the side?!? Like whaaaat Tristan?!
When I read how the bet was revealed I almost yelled! So public! So messy! But I loved it!
The Gilmore Girls references had me smiling from ear to ear!! Totally loved it! 1000 yellow daises!! As a Gilmore Girls fan it made me love this book so much more!
The spicy scenes where 👩🍳💋!
I’m hoping for a Oakley and Tess story in this series 🤞🏼
Looking forward to getting glimpses at their life through the series.
Loove a good hockey romance!! Throw in enemies to lovers/ best friends sister trope and I was obsessed! Loved how it this book is based on Dallas as a native hearing familiar places made the book a lot better. Looking forward to reading more of her books.
I absolutely loved Brooke and Tristan’s meeting story. When I read he ate the entire muffin I literally laughed out loud. Hated that he was only motivated to go after her when another man he highly disliked decided to go after her. He was just fine with being on the side?!? Like whaaaat Tristan?!
When I read how the bet was revealed I almost yelled! So public! So messy! But I loved it!
The Gilmore Girls references had me smiling from ear to ear!! Totally loved it! 1000 yellow daises!! As a Gilmore Girls fan it made me love this book so much more!
The spicy scenes where 👩🍳💋!
I’m hoping for a Oakley and Tess story in this series 🤞🏼
Looking forward to getting glimpses at their life through the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2025
This was so so so cute. SUCH a good read! Highly recommend.
Brooke is a girly-girl who doesn't take risks and plays by the rules - especially the rules she sets for herself... for example: "NEVER date a hockey player".... and not to sound predictable butttt... guess what she ends up secretly wanting to do 😏
Tristan is a mega-hottie, all-star hockey player, and her brother's best friend. I am REALLY into hockey romances lately, and I love a best friend's brother/brother's best friend type trope, so I was definitely here for it.
Their banter is cute, even though they've spent the last decade pretty much at each other's throats with petty hatred. The ending is precious IMO, but i'm a sucker for a *grand gesture* 😊
HIGHLY recommend everyone hop on The Sweetest Risk after March 18th! I seriously finished this thing in like 2 days -- I could NOT get enough of Brooke and Tristan! You'll love it too 😉
Brooke is a girly-girl who doesn't take risks and plays by the rules - especially the rules she sets for herself... for example: "NEVER date a hockey player".... and not to sound predictable butttt... guess what she ends up secretly wanting to do 😏
Tristan is a mega-hottie, all-star hockey player, and her brother's best friend. I am REALLY into hockey romances lately, and I love a best friend's brother/brother's best friend type trope, so I was definitely here for it.
Their banter is cute, even though they've spent the last decade pretty much at each other's throats with petty hatred. The ending is precious IMO, but i'm a sucker for a *grand gesture* 😊
HIGHLY recommend everyone hop on The Sweetest Risk after March 18th! I seriously finished this thing in like 2 days -- I could NOT get enough of Brooke and Tristan! You'll love it too 😉
March 19, 2025
BROTHER'S BEST FRIEND/ENEMIES TO LOVERS PERFECTION.
Seriously, I have no idea what Leslie put into this book but I freaking devoured it. It was amazing, perfection, 10/10 no notes. Tristan and Brooke are everything. I smiled and swooned and loved it so freaking much I never, ever wanted it to end. I adored everything about the dynamic between these two. The way Tristan supported her in pursuing her dreams and stepping outside of her comfort zone, and the way he falls flat on his face in love first. The way she helps him see there is a lot more out there than hockey, and then falls right along with him.
Their banter is amazing, the spice is incredible, the moment they finally realize they've never really been enemies at all, The spice, THE ENDING. Everything about this is perfection.
This is the second book of Leslie's that I've read and absolutely fallen head over heels for, and I can't wait to see what she writes next!
Seriously, I have no idea what Leslie put into this book but I freaking devoured it. It was amazing, perfection, 10/10 no notes. Tristan and Brooke are everything. I smiled and swooned and loved it so freaking much I never, ever wanted it to end. I adored everything about the dynamic between these two. The way Tristan supported her in pursuing her dreams and stepping outside of her comfort zone, and the way he falls flat on his face in love first. The way she helps him see there is a lot more out there than hockey, and then falls right along with him.
Their banter is amazing, the spice is incredible, the moment they finally realize they've never really been enemies at all, The spice, THE ENDING. Everything about this is perfection.
This is the second book of Leslie's that I've read and absolutely fallen head over heels for, and I can't wait to see what she writes next!
March 7, 2025
The Sweetest Risk didn’t just pull me in—it tackled me, stole my heart, and left me grinning like I had a secret. This book is the perfect mix of sugar and spice, and if I could bottle up the joy it gave me, I’d be sipping on it daily.
Tristan? Absolute perfection wrapped in hockey gear. Brooke? A heroine I’d follow into battle (or at least into a kitchen for cupcakes). Their chemistry crackled, the banter was chef’s kiss, and the romance? Let’s just say my poor heart didn’t stand a chance.
I came for the enemies-to-lovers tension and stayed for the moments that had me clutching my Kindle like it was a lifeline. Also, who knew hockey could be so captivating? Not me—but now I’m suspiciously interested.
This book is fast, flirty, and impossible to put down. If Leslie McElroy keeps writing like this, I’ll be first in line every time.
Tristan? Absolute perfection wrapped in hockey gear. Brooke? A heroine I’d follow into battle (or at least into a kitchen for cupcakes). Their chemistry crackled, the banter was chef’s kiss, and the romance? Let’s just say my poor heart didn’t stand a chance.
I came for the enemies-to-lovers tension and stayed for the moments that had me clutching my Kindle like it was a lifeline. Also, who knew hockey could be so captivating? Not me—but now I’m suspiciously interested.
This book is fast, flirty, and impossible to put down. If Leslie McElroy keeps writing like this, I’ll be first in line every time.
March 12, 2025
This book was phenomenal! The story line is spectacular and had me not wanting to put it down. The Characters POV and how everything is explained just did it for me! I love it when I don't have to guess what they are thinking (this book involves little thoughts the characters think as each moment happens) and I loved it!! Honestly wasn't sure if I would be into it at first as I know Zero things about Hockey being from GA but it was incredible! I definitely recommend you give this book a shot even if you have doubts like I did at first! If you're a sucker for TV drama/romance shows and movies like I am you will love every page!! Brother's off limits bestfriend and enemies to lovers ... YES! I hope either a second novella or even a bonus chapter comes with more because I want/need more of their story!!!! B+L=endgame!!! GO READ THIS BOOK!!! 💚💚💚
March 17, 2025
Strong-willed and single, Brooke has two rules: hockey players are off limits and so is her brother’s best friend and teammate, playboy Tristan. A decade of teasing forced an enemies relationship on the surface, but they both harbored secret crushes on each other. When their romance took off, it wasn’t out of the blue and it was swoon-worthy…they truly wanted to learn what each other wanted and needed. Their nicknames transformed from jokes to endearments. Let it be known that Tristan and his caring nature really shone! I loved the banter, the hot and steamy spice and the growth of their relationship. The interactions/involvement with their respective family members was a fun addition. Included in the plot were some cute pop-culture references (oh oh…the epilogue was entirely way too sweet!). I received an early copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a honest review. 4.25 stars
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