For The Record

Saints Hockey #3

by Nikki Callan

A country singer. A hockey player. Six months to not fall in love.

Country singer Summer Starling went from Nashville unknown to national attention thanks to her appearance on a reality dating show. Now she has one shot. Six months in Chicago with a legendary producer. One album that could launch her career. A simple plan: work, write, sing, repeat.

Her new roommate—the six-foot-something NHL captain she slept with on her first night in town—is exactly the kind of distraction she didn’t account for.

Miles King doesn’t do relationships. He keeps his focus on hockey and his life carefully controlled. But Summer is sunshine and chaos in cowboy boots, and she’s making him want things he’d stopped believing in. Things like forever. Things he can’t have with someone who’s halfway out the door.

When resisting her becomes harder than the inevitable goodbye, he gives in. Just until she leaves. He didn’t expect her good luck texts to become the difference between winning and losing. Or for her laugh to become his favorite sound.

By the time he realizes temporary will never be enough, the album wraps and Summer’s career takes off. She’s leaving. He can’t ask her to stay. But what happens when the person you’re supposed to set free becomes the one your heart won’t let go of?

Genres: Hockey, Hockey Romance, Romance, Sports Romance, Sports

362 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 26, 2026

About the author

Nikki writes romance, blending heart, heat, humor, and hockey players. She lives for swoon-worthy moments, flawed but lovable characters, and happily ever afters that leave you giggling and kicking your feet. When she’s not crafting her next book boyfriend, she’s diving into her never-ending TBR, hanging out with her dogs, or roping her partner into another DIY project.

Stay updated on her latest by following along on social media: @authornikkicallan.

Reviews

[Ashly · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
📚 Standalone (Interconnected series "Saints Hockey")
🏒 Hockey / Celebrity Romance
🗣️ Dual POV
🖤 M/F

Okay so this book… gave messy, nostalgic, second chance chaos and I was into it.

We’ve got former rivals.....turned something more.....turned absolutely not speaking....and then forced back together for a comeback that neither of them can afford to mess up. The tension is there from the start and just builds the entire time.

The MMC is giving grumpy, emotionally closed-off, “I’ve already lived a life” energy. He’s carrying baggage, and when it comes to her… he’s clearly not as over it as he thinks.

The FMC...I loved her. She’s dealing with her own challenges around career, identity, and confidence, but she still shows up and pushes forward. She’s not weak, but she’s also not unaffected, which made her feel real.

Their dynamic is very much push/pull, tension-filled, and rooted in messy history, and I'm here for that. You can feel the unresolved feelings in every interaction. The forced proximity with the album only adds to the chaos.

The music industry backdrop was such a strong add. The behind-the-scenes pressure, public image vs real feelings, and comeback stakes made everything feel bigger than just the romance.

The spice is there but not overwhelming. It builds naturally with the tension instead of taking over the story.

Overall this is one of those books where you’re like “they absolutely should not be doing this again”
…but also… I hope they don’t stop.

Tropes:
🎤 Rivals to Lovers
🖤 Second Chance Romance
🔥 Forced Proximity (working together 👀)
🖤 Celebrity / Music Industry
🔥 Grumpy MMC
🖤 Messy History
🔥 Emotional Tension > Instant Spice
🖤 “We tried this once and it ruined us”

[Sim-fully Ever After · Rating 4 out of 5]

4🌟, 3🌶️

Their connection clicked right away, pulling me in with messy history, undeniable chemistry, and feelings neither of them could quite ignore.

Summer and Miles have that easy, tension-filled dynamic where you just know it’s going to get complicated, especially with everything pushing them together. It’s the kind of setup that keeps you reading, waiting for the moment they finally stop pretending.

Miles is guarded and a little emotionally shut down, but it’s obvious Summer gets under his skin in a way no one else does. And Summer was such a strong, grounded FMC to follow. She’s chasing her dreams while trying to protect her heart, and I loved how real that felt. Their relationship builds through both big moments and quieter ones, and while the chemistry and spice are definitely there, it’s the steady support and understanding between them that really stands out.

I also really enjoyed the mix of music and hockey, along with the found family vibe that made everything feel fuller. It’s not perfect and there are moments where you wish they’d just communicate better, but overall it’s such an easy, satisfying read with a couple you can’t help but root for.

I had a really good time with this one overall.

~~~~

Huge thank you to Nikki Callan & House of Hearts Lit. for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨

[ava:] · Rating 5 out of 5]

i love when a character is a musician and their lover is their muse🤌

summer disrupting miles’ organisational habits and he just lets her😫

🎶🏒🎤🥅


my only critique is that i wish we could have seen summer’s song lyrics tbh

[Madison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I couldn’t get enough of Summer and Miles ❤️‍🔥 The chemistry was electric, the spice was hot af and this couple together?!? Phew off the charts 😍😍

This book was so fun to read, I was hooked from the moment Summer and Miles met. The tension and the need poured off the both of them and the moment they gave in was everything.

I thoroughly enjoyed how Miles wanted to settle down and find love but also wanted Summer to follow her dreams and wasn’t willing to stand in the way of that.

I loved Summer, she’s out chasing her dreams and happens to find love along the way. She’s an FMC that you root for and absolutely adore 🩷

This couple fought to be together and it was beautiful, I’m so obsessed with them.
A swoon worthy couple indeed.

If you’re looking for a sports romance with all the found family you could want and no 3rd act breakup then read this immediately.

Thank you so much to Nikki and House of Hearts Lit for the ARC.

[Gosia · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you like books that start with spice, this one is for you. Spice in chapter 2, although then you have to wait for it.

I’ve been following this series since book 1 and I’m invested in this whole group of people.
It was a good time romance starting with one night stand to roommates to lovers. “Just for right now” kind of romance that obviously resulted in iloveyous. Without giving any spoilers: I enjoyed a lot how their story wrapped up. I’m not a fan of unnecessary drama or any overdramatics (“over-“ being the key part here) and how Miles and Summer figured it out and decisions they did or did not make was just right to my liking.

Can’t wait for next books cause I’ve been mostly awaiting Volk’s books and Ada’s books ever since reading Stick With Me.

[CallMe Katy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was perfect, it was light it was sweet. The two MC’s built a beautiful friendship and relationship over time before finally doing the scary thing and giving themselves a try. I will absolutely be reading more from Nikki Callan! The story the built flowed so well and at no point did it feel rushed. I loved seeing them both get to a point of their greatest dreams and even though one failed, they still fully supported the other.

I was provided an ARC in exchange for my honest review <3

[Megan Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is incredibly romantic, HOT, and emotionally charged. It felt like a romance that could exist in real life. The mental battles, that rubber band effect, the fight to protect your heart but also not miss out on a gift. It was beautifully written and made for a fast paced read that I did not want to put down. I love that the supporting characters from the previous books intertwined so perfectly into the story but also completely allow for this book to comfortably be read as a stand alone (thigh I HIGHLY recommend reading the other two for the full effect). Grateful for the gift of the arc. It was everything I was craving.

Country singer x NHL player
He wears glasses and has a cat he’s obsessed with
Roommates to lovers
One night stand
Forced Proximity

[Kell · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it I just wanted more :/

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read by Nikki Callan and I loved it so much. Now I am going to go back and read the first two books in this series. I loved Miles and Summer. Their meet cute was adorable and their second chance meeting was even better. The universe kept throwing them together knowing something no one else knew at the time.

Miles was the Saint's captain and after an injury sidelined him he was determined to take his team to the playoffs but their season started off rocky. After finding a livein cat sitter he was hopeful things would get better. He had great friends but after a disastrous relationship that ended after moving to Chicago, he was hesitant to try again. He was scared that the demands of his career would make any partner leave and blame him for not being enough. He was a great guy and was well liked by his teammates and their partners.

Summer was an up and coming country artist that got her first record deal after a brief stint on a reality tv show. The producer was located in Chicago so she was temporarily moving from Nashville to Chicago for the album. She was hoping inspiration would hit to help her fill the pages of her notebook with lyrics. She wanted to be a star badly and wouldn't let anyone get in her way. She collected friends, not exes and planned to keep it that way until the time was right.

Miles and Summer got along great the day they met believing that they may only have the one night, possibly more if the terms were right. Then the morning came and they discovered that they would be living together while he was in season and she was recording her album, unbeknownst to them, she was his new cat sitter. They agreed to friends only to prevent complications. Though the more time they spent together the more feelings got involved. Summer became his lucky charm and his game was better than before. The team started a winning streak and Miles believed that Summer was what he needed to win. Soon the lines of friendship blurred and they agreed to a "temporary" relationship. Though neither of them were willing to admit that their feelings didn't feel temporary. Soon the words were flowing again and Summer was creating songs based on her feelings for Miles and their relationship. They both knew that their careers were demanding but they seemed to be making it work.

Then a duet and opening act opportunity presented itself that would help boost Summer's career. She wanted it but didn't want the strings that were attached. She didn't want to be fake, she wanted what was real. She wanted to soar but to have a home base to land when she could. She wanted to stay. Miles didn't want to hold her back or have her resent him for making her stay so he encouraged her to take it even though he wanted her to stay. She agreed reluctantly but soon realized that the bright lights aren't as appealing without the person you love by your side. She had to find a way to break free but they wouldn't let her so her duet partner fought for his truth and made the decision to end the liess for both of them. He loved Summer platonically and wanted her to be happy with the man she really loved while living her dreams too.

Soon Summer was choosing Miles and being there fir him when he needed and he was choosing to fky with her during the off-season. They would make two demanding schedules work because nothing was more important to them than the love they found. Their careers could make things difficult but they made each other a priority as well. I loved both Summer and Miles so much. I loved Fox and Mia as well. I need to go back and read their book. Thank you Nikki Callan and House of Hearts for the ARC. I appreciate the opportunity to review this wonderful book and to give my honest opinion about it.

[Nikki Dunlap · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am officially obsessed with Summer and Miles 🥺🔥 They’ve easily claimed the top spot as my favorite couple in this series.

From the moment they met, the connection between them was undeniable. The chemistry? Electric. The tension? Constant. And when they finally gave in… whew 😮‍🔥 absolutely worth the wait.

Miles might come off as the typical hockey playboy at first, but underneath that reputation is someone guarded, loyal, and quietly carrying heartbreak. And then there’s Summer—driven, selfless, and always putting others first while chasing her dreams.

What made their story stand out was how deeply they saw each other.

Miles didn’t just fall for Summer—he paid attention to the little things. He supported her music, encouraged her ambitions, and showed up for her in ways no one else had. And in return, Summer brought something out in him that felt steady, real, and grounding.

Even when they tried to fight their feelings, convincing themselves they shouldn’t interfere with each other’s futures, it was obvious—they were inevitable.

And honestly? The small moments made this story unforgettable:
💬 good luck texts before games
📱 late-night FaceTimes while he’s on the road
🍽️ quiet, everyday time together

It wasn’t just about the big emotional scenes—it was the consistency, the effort, and the way they kept choosing each other.

I also loved that there was no unnecessary drama thrown in just for shock value. Instead, we got a relationship that felt earned, supportive, and deeply rooted in mutual respect and love.

And can we talk about the side characters for a second?! Seeing growth, especially from Cash, was such a standout moment—I need more of his story next 👀

✨ Found family
✨ Emotional depth + real connection
✨ Steamy, swoony romance
✨ A couple you can’t help but root for

This book completely pulled me in, kept me hooked, and left me already excited for what’s coming next in the series.

If you love sports romance with heart, heat, and a couple that truly feels meant to be—don’t miss this one.

Thank you Nikki Callan and House of Hearts for the ARC. This is my honest opinion.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

I ate this book up, I loved it so much!

Summer Starling went from being a relatively unknown country singer to national attention after appearing on a reality dating show. She has one shot to make it big – six months in Chicago recording with a legendary producer. It’s time for her to write, sing, sleep, and repeat.

Miles King’s only focus is hockey. He doesn’t do relationships. After his last relationship crashed and burned, it was easier for him to hold back than risk putting his heart on the line again. It’s a great plan, until a one-night stand with Summer doesn’t feel quite like one. It feels like something much bigger.

I love it when fate keeps throwing people together. Their initial meeting was by chance, and perhaps the second, but what are the odds of Summer showing up at Miles’ door to be his new roommate and new cat sitter? It’s the perfect set up. They decide to maintain their relationship as just friends, but we all know the tension and forced proximity only lasts so long before the sparks fly. When they finally decide to agree to be together “just until she leaves,” we all know they’re both already falling, and falling hard. Despite the clock ticking down the time Summer has left in Chicago, they’re both so supportive of each other’s careers and passions. Summer makes time to go to Miles’ games and never forgets a good luck text message (I love a good hockey superstition!), while Miles fully supports Summer’s dream, even if he loses her in the process.

The characters are so well developed, and their relationship was so authentic. The supporting cast was great as well – I need more of Cash and his story! I hope that he finds happiness, too! Overall, this was a great read, if you like hockey romances, country singers, forced proximity, or a good pair of slutty little glasses [swoon], definitely add this book to your TBR!

[Whitney Leary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Nikki Callan and House of Hearts for the gifted copy — all opinions are my own.

Summer may not have found love on the dating show like Mia and Dominic, but she did walk away with something just as meaningful—an incredible friendship and a chance to work with a producer. After a brief encounter with an attractive stranger at a gas station who never asks for her number, she assumes she’ll never see him again, not so much. Miles King, captain of the Saints, has sworn off relationships after a failed romance. But when he spots the same bright, unforgettable woman from the gas station at a bar, he isn’t about to let her slip away twice. Despite Mia’s warning about Miles’s playboy reputation, Summer isn’t planning to stay in Chicago forever—so what’s the harm? After spending a night together, Summer heads to the place she’s renting… only to run into Miles again. As it turns out, she’s staying in his home—looking after his cat. With that complication, keeping things friendly seems like the safest choice. But as the days pass and Summer’s return to Nashville looms closer, their chemistry becomes impossible to ignore. They agree it’s temporary—just until she leaves. Everything changes when Summer gets the opportunity to sing with rising star Cash Walker. As their single gains attention, rumors begin to swirl that she and Cash are more than duet partners. With publicity romance, Summer and Miles are pushed to confront what they really mean to each other. Maybe this was never meant to be temporary after all. Now they’re left wondering: can they make a long-distance relationship work while chasing their dreams? And can Summer break free from the speculation surrounding Cash and be out with Miles?

[Tyler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Nikki Callan and House of Hearts for the gifted copy — all opinions are my own.

Summer and Miles 🥹 i love them so much, definitely my new favorite couple in the series.

a few of my favorite quotes: “it’s still going to be hard sometimes” “all things worth having are.” “doesn’t matter how far apart we are. we’ll always be under the same stars”

everyone thought miles was this playboy but really he was just jaded and closed off teddy bear because of how things ended with his ex. as soon as summer and miles met they had an instant connection, scrabble was foreplay which was hot asf. summer takes care of everyone else but there was no one to take care of her until miles came into the picture; he noticed all the small details about her, fed her, got her her first gift which was a pen and journal for her music, fixed her truck. summer and miles had fell hard for each other but were denying their selves of being together because they didn’t want to hold each other back once summer’s album was finished but once they realized being without each other was worse they fell even harder. i loved the small moments they shared like the good luck text before each game, facetime every night while miles was on the road for away games, eating together, spending their off days together..they truly yearned and loved each other and we really got to see that while summer was on tour. i was so happy when summer and cash stood up to paula and cash got to finally live in his truth. i hope we see more of cash in the rest of the series and who his love interest will be since all the wags love him.

[Alexandra Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨Summary✨
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
HEA: Yes, no 3rd act breakup
POV: Dual
Tropes: NHL Hockey Captain, Country Singer, Roommates, Forced Proximity, Cat Dad, Relationship End Date, Found Family, Opposites Attract

Summer is an up-and-coming country singer who lands the opportunity to record her debut album with a renowned producer in Chicago. On her first day in town, she meets Miles at a gas station and regrets not getting his number. When they run into each other again that same night, she decides fate is clearly intervening and dives headfirst into a night with him. What she doesn’t realize is that fate isn’t done yet…because Miles is also her new roommate. Miles, an NHL hockey star, rents out a room in his home in exchange for cat-sitting while he’s away for games. Despite their instant connection, they agree to stay just friends since they’re living together and Summer is only in town for six months. But when the pull between them becomes impossible to ignore, they decide on a relationship with an expiration date…which turns out to be easier said than done.

I really enjoyed Summer and Miles together. Miles has been burned before and tries to keep his distance emotionally, but he still shows up for her in all the ways that matter. Making sure she eats after long studio days, checking in while he’s away, quietly taking care of her before they even define anything. Summer is cautious about getting involved while her career is taking off, but she can’t ignore what they have. I loved the little things between them, like her sending him a good luck text that turns into a superstition before every game. They were just genuinely cute together. Hockey star and country singer is such a fun pairing.

The only thing that stressed me out was the “end date” agreement. The constant mental countdown added tension that I didn’t always love, even though I understood why it was there.

Overall, this was a great read, and I loved getting more time with characters from the previous books. I’m really excited for the next one in the series.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nikki Callan wrote For the Record. It is book three in the Saints Hockey interconnected series. Thank you to House of Hearts for allowing me to read this ARC. For the record, I will tell you that this series is so good. It is a sweet and solid romance. You don’t have to read the books in order, but you really should.

I enjoyed Summer’s character development in the previous book in this series. She just blossomed during this story. There is something truly relatable about her (minus the celebrity aspect). Miles was a welcomed surprise for her. I developed a soft spot for him. There wasn’t any grand gestures of love. The best part was all the small things. The coffee, the good luck text messages, or savoring a few minutes together when life has been crazy for weeks. Both Summer and Miles are strong and driven in their careers, but also very supportive of each other. They have to find a way to make a love worth fighting for a priority while chasing lifelong dreams.

For the Record is a slow burn. However, self restraint against what is right in front of you is what created the most tension. I wanted these two to just take the leap and give in. Slowly these two people became an anchor for one another and something they didn’t want to live without. There was fifty or so pages left and I was wondering how this book was going to end. I am not sure the direction this series will go next, but I do know that I will be patiently waiting for it to be released.

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sports romance
Opposites attract
Hockey player x country singer
Roommates

Okay, I need to say this is definitely my favorite book in the Saint Hockey series. I already love Nikki’s writing, and this one was just as amazing as the others.

Summer and Miles… my baby couple 🥹 I still can’t believe I had the opportunity to read this before release, but honestly, I’m not surprised by how good it was.

Summer, my dreamy girl, was everything in this story. An incredible singer, partner, and friend. Her dreams only grew stronger when she met Miles because he became her muse and the love she never knew she needed. She’s so talented and so full of love. Her friendship with the girls was so sweet, and even when writing was hard for her at first, she never gave up. And her friendship with Cash? Such a joy to read.

Miles, the reformed playboy… my new book boyfriend 😉 I can’t even begin to explain how selfless and proud he was of Summer. He was so supportive and so loving towards her. Yes, he has a past, but he never let it stop him from falling for her or caring deeply about her. He’s a great friend, an amazing captain, and also a top-tier cat dad (I could never forget Gracie).

I can’t wait for everyone to read this and fall in love with them the way I did.

Thank you to Nikki Callan and House of Hearts for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion 🤍

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the arc version without the epilogue so I should take away a star for that reason alone....but it would still be five stars for me!

Miles fell first. I love that trop so much. Not only did he fall first, but he was the sweetest, dreamiest man with a mouth on him and skills for days. He also had a touch of OCD tendencies and anxiety. He put thought behind everything, big and small. Swoon. He was perfectly imperfect.

Summer was...lovely. She was talented, goal oriented, fun, adventurous, caring, and I was here for her relationships with everyone. Gracie. Miles. Mia. Boone. Cash. Tara. Everyone. Both of the MCs were delightful.

🫶🏽 Lines:
I'm done with lukewarm. I deserve a man who wants me fiercely. Loudly. I want the big feelings, the ones that shake loose lyrics. The ones you write songs about. That ruin you a little before building you back up stronger.

And I take great please in being the one to wreck him. Lovingly. Not love-lovingly. But you know what I mean.

Balancing on a thin piece of metal isn't a skill normal people have. ���️😂

"Just walk but glide?" I mumble. "Yep, thats clear as mud."

I'm both desperate for time to slow down and terrified it won't matter anyway.

Angry's good. Means you still care enough to be mad. It's when you stop feeling anything that you're in trouble.

[Calypso✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨This book would have you hooked from the first page. It felt like two people trying to protect their own paths while accidentally becoming each other’s safe place. And I think that’s what made it hit for me.🤭

💕Summer and Miles worked so well together. Summer is bright, driven, and a little chaotic in the best way, and I loved how focused she was on her career without losing that softness. I found myself rooting for her the entire time.🥹

🧡And Miles… yeah, he got to me. It wasn’t even big dramatic moments, it was the quiet stuff. 🤌🏽The way he started to need her presence without realizing it, how she slowly became part of his routine, his comfort. ❤️‍🩹That kind of slow emotional shift always hits harder for me than anything overly dramatic.

I loved the chemistry.🔥Their support and love for each other was beautiful. And the side characters had brought so much fun and depth to the story. I loved it.

⭐️Overall, this was one of those reads that just pulls you in and makes you feel something without trying too hard. I definitely recommend this book if you love a good music artist and pro athlete who support each other and for the quiet moments that speak louder than words. 🙌🏽

Thank you to the Author Nikki Callan and House of Heart for the opportunity to the read this ARC.🧡

[Destiney Ellerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another 5 star from Nikki. I read this one as an ARC, thank you Nikki and team at House of Hearts for the gifted copy.

I loved this story so much. I swear each time I finished reading each book in this series I thought that MMC was the most top tier, swoon worthy book boyfriend and then I read the next one. lol

Summer and Miles were both such perfect characters. I knew from the glimpses we got of Summer in You're the One that I was going to love a full story for her. Miles was the most perfect unexpected match up. One thing about me is I will absolutely eat up a well written meet cute and some fate intervention and this book has both. I was constantly highlighting feel-good adorable moments while I read it on my kindle and once the physical copy came in the mail I finished out with some appropriately colored tabbies (mostly different shades of tangerine, IYKYK)

So far each book had a ending that led us to a pretty obvious idea of which book or characters were coming next but this time I'm not sure. There are a few more characters in this series that I would like to see get their own stories but we will see, Ill devour anything Nikki write either way.

[&#x1d67b;&#x1d692;&#x1d69c;&#x1d68a; &#x1d67b;&#x1d6a2;&#x1d697;&#x1d697; &#x1d671;&#x1d698;&#x1d698;&#x1d694;&#x1d69c; · Rating 4 out of 5]

Miles and Summer had my heart this entire book. I loved watching them naviagte everything and realize that they couldnt just pretent that they were roommates & friends but nothing more. I love a hockey romance and this series does not disapoint. I love getting peaks into the other couple lives as well. I feel like this was the perfect couple to follow the first two for book three. The way they immediately were connected and meshed together so seemlessly was so perfect. I want more of them and I hope we get more peaks into their story in future books.🥰 Thank you for trusting me with an ARC I loved it! 🤍

If you love:
🎀 Hockey Captian
🎀 Country Singer
🎀 Roommates to Lovers
🎀 Opposites Attract
🎀 One Night Stand
🎀 Forced Proximity

Genre/type: Hocket Romance
Pages: 357
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Series or standalone: 3rd book in the Saints Hockey series can be read as a standalone
Tropes or themes: Hockey Captian, Country Singer, Roommates to Lovers, Opposites Attract, One Night Stand, Forced Proximity
Check triggers: Explicit language and Open door spice

Lisa.lynn.escobar
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | Fable

[È · Rating 3 out of 5]

UGH this was just what I needed.

The only disappointing thing about this book is that Miles King is not real, evidenced by how perfect he is. And I LOVE Summer, so refreshingly and unabashedly herself. Such an easy read!!



Some of my fave moments/ quotes:

“Scrabble?” He slides into the seat opposite me. “You’re looking for words, aren’t you?” My heart does a little flip.

“If I pull the Q, I’m walking out,” he mutters, choosing tiles one by one. “You wouldn’t.” His gaze drops to my mouth, then back up to hold mine. “No.” His voice drops. “You’re right.”

‘Better to let her believe I’m on the same page than admit how badly I’m not.’

‘I perch on a stool at the island as Miles opens the cabinet. He pauses, eyes locked on the cup I turned backward, then darts a look over his shoulder at me. I wait for him to fix it. He doesn’t, instead grabbing the mug next to it. I bite my bottom lip to keep from smiling.’

“You’re going to leave, and I won’t hold you back. I won’t be the reason you make yourself smaller. I won’t ask you to stay.”

‘Sometimes, I miss her when she’s just in another room.’

[• Dan reads books • · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such an amazing surprise and couldn’t put it down! Definitely be looking forward to read more of the authors work!

This characters are so endearingly charming, beyond the singer x hockey player kind of vibe (that I personally enjoy so much) it’s the relatable part of their story, how much they get under your skin and when you realize they are ingrained in your heart haha, I adore their instant chemistry, the smoothness of their relationship coming together even as a friends but that kind of yearning for each other that warmth your heart!

I have to say I adored the authors writing style, the delicacy which she guide us through the book with the pieces of the story coming together like pieces of a puzzle so in sync.

In addition, the group of friends? So good, fun and with this sense of family!

I’m all about praises for this book and of course m, definitely recommend it, the story and amazing characters are set to stole your heart!

Thanks to Nikki Callan and House of Hearts for the gifted copy — all opinions are my own.

[Kay Smithers · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first page, For the Record pulls you in and does NOT let go. Summer and Miles are everything I love in a romance—messy, magnetic, and completely impossible to resist. The chemistry? Off the charts. The tension? Insane. It’s that slow, addictive kind that builds and builds until you’re practically begging for them to give in… and when they finally do? Worth. every. second.

Summer is sunshine, chaos, and heart, and Miles is all control and quiet intensity—and watching him unravel for her had me absolutely feral. The way he tries to keep his distance but can’t stop wanting her?? I ate that UP. And Summer chasing her dreams while trying not to fall for him just makes everything hit even harder.

The “temporary” arrangement? Lies. The “we won’t fall in love” energy? Bigger lies. You feel the inevitable crash coming and somehow it STILL wrecks you.

And don’t even get me started on the little moments—the texts, the laughs, the way they become each other’s safe place without even realizing it. It’s soft and swoony and emotional in all the best ways.

[Colleen Hurley Jozwiak · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to thank the author for creating this amazing Hockey family! Miles and Summer are the latest in this series and their story got me all choked up!

Miles is a single man living with past failures and afraid to re-live mistakes. These two fight their feelings until they’re about to explode! Miles tries so hard to be the man Summer wants but keep himself detached for fear of history repeating itself. He’s protecting Summer always and hoping in the process he can protect his own heart.

Summer is a breath of fresh air! She’s a talented young woman who is struggling to put her feelings and emotions into song. She shines her Starlight and has everyone adoring her eventually even her broody producer/song writing partner. I hope we get more of Boone!

This book gave me all the feels, their passion was everything you could want, the way they fought their feelings and then fought for them was so emotional. I just loved this one!

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

For the Record is the third book in Nikki Callan’s Saints Hockey series and follows aspiring country singer Summer and hockey player Miles.

Summer and Miles knocked Hannah and Ryan off the top spot for my favorite couple in this series. They started off with a bang and then tried to be “just friends” even though they both felt it in their bones that they were meant to be so much more. Finally they gave in and I very much appreciated that they didn’t look back. I really liked how supportive they were of each other and knew there was going to be tough times and that they would get through them because they were in it together. The chemistry between them was fun and deeply connected making their bond stronger.

I’ve been enjoying this series so much and I really hope Natalie and Volk’s story is next or a certain single mom and a rookie.

Thank you @authornikkicallan and @houseofheartslit for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback

[Betty Wong · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have enjoyed every single book in this series. Miles and Summer’s story is no different! I knew Summer was going to be a great female main character since her debut in the previous book.
And Miles is so adorable! He’s part golden retriever and part sweetheart with just this heart of gold. Their story is cute as can be - she’s the up and coming country singer and he’s the hockey captain blind sighted by Summer knocking him for a loop.
Their connection is dynamic and feels so natural. I loved the focus on her evolution as a country singer while falling hard for Miles and the competing priorities of career and love - and let’s face it - it’s the balancing act that women try to teeter every single day!
This supporting friends cast of hockey teammates and their partners is perfection! Great friend chemistry and so supportive of each other.
I can’t say enough about this book and this series. Love every page!!

[H S · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer and Miles meet by chance and have a one night stand and then realize she is the person renting a space at his house. He’s out of town a lot for hockey and needs someone to help care for his cat. They can’t keep their feelings under wraps for long and eventually give in to their chemistry. He is determined to enjoyed any minute he has with her and is so encouraging of her talents. She works to understand and be a part of his hockey life and supports him at his games whenever possible. They have a sweet and heartwarming relationship full of plenty of steamy moments. He includes her in his life with his friends and hockey wives. When she gets a duet with a country star it becomes a huge hit and everyone thinks she is dating the country star. Will Miles and Summer’s relationship survive the distance and the publicity of her new fame? A wonderful read that has you rooting for them to be able to make it work.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Review of advance copy received from author*

⭐️4.5 stars⭐️

Thanks to Nikki Callan and House of Hearts for the gifted copy — all opinions are my own. For The Record is the third installment of the Saints Hockey series by Nikki Callan and I think this one might be my favorite! The chemistry between Summer and Miles was off the flippin charts from the beginning of the book! The slow burn and tension from Miles was just *chef’s kiss.*

Throughout the book, Summer and Miles continuously worked hard to support each other in their careers as friends. Watching them try to balance their busy careers without making the other one sacrifice theirs was sad at times (because it almost seemed like their relationship wouldn’t work out) but in the end it was all worth it. 😭

Cash’s character was such a nice addition! Handsome country mega-star who seems to have it all, but is still lonely in this world. I was scared he was going to turn into the villain of this book but I’m glad he became a friend to Summer and the rest of the Saints hockey family.

Overall this is the perfect hockey romance! You’ll love this if you love these tropes:
❤️‍🔥 Slow burn
💘 Roommates to lovers
🏒🎶 Hockey player x country singer
🏙️ New town
🧡 Found family

[Soft and Sinister · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my second Nikki Callan book, and once again, she did not disappoint. Huge thank you to House of Hearts and Nikki Callan for the ARC…I’m already counting down to that epilogue 🤣

I absolutely loved Summer and Miles. Their chemistry was undeniable from the start, but what really stood out to me was how all-in Miles was. His unwavering support for Summer made their relationship feel so genuine and grounded. The way they showed up for each other through every challenge was not only beautiful but also incredibly believable.

I flew through this book - it completely pulled me in from start to finish. The side characters added so much depth and richness to the story. And the way the plot unfolded, especially how Summer and Miles worked through their struggles, felt authentic and well-developed.

Another winner from Nikki Callan - I can’t wait to see what she gives us next!

[•Cici• Theory of A Dreamer Book Blog♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 Stars!

I’ve read the two previous installments in this series and I couldn’t wait for more! I’ve been looking so forward to picking up this third book ever since. Back into the Saints Hockey world I went! I very much enjoyed this story!

Summer and Miles’s journey pulled me in! Miles is the captain for the Chicago Saints hockey team and Summer is a country music singer. As they collide into each other's lives they end up sharing an unforgettable night together. Little did Summer and Miles know that they'd end up as roommates. Will they just be roommates? Or could they be more?

As soon as they were brought together I couldn't turn away from Miles and Summer. Their chemistry was fantastic right from the get go. I loved Summer and Miles's forced proximity as roommates. Miles's passion for hockey and Summer's for music really showed and it was great to see what their passions brought to their story. From living together, all things music and hockey, and the feelings that couldn't be ignored between them, I couldn't wait to see how it'd all play out for Summer and Miles!

Summer and Miles were so wonderful and cute together! The connection that they shared became so strong and shined with each page turn. Miles and Summer had me blushing and feeling so many things with them all throughout! Just like they touched each other's hearts they for sure did the same for mine.

A person can come into your life and it can shake up everything for you in the best of ways which Miles and Summer's story sure showed!

I was so happy to be back in the Saints Hockey world and be reunited with this crew! Just liked with previous installments everything played out so clearly in my mind while reading.

With For The Record, Ms.Callan has created such a great roommates to lovers romance that brought country music singer x hockey player, heart and feels, and such spicy goodness! It kept me turning the pages! 🎤🧡🏒

I can't wait for more from this author! Check this series out this year. 🥰


*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from House of Hearts / the author*