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First Line
Riley Carter has one prove she belongs in the boys’ game—on the ice and beyond. But the faster she skates toward her dream, the more the cracks beneath her perfect routine begin to show—bruises she can’t explain, exhaustion she refuses to admit, and feelings for her best friend and team captain, Ethan Cole, that she’s buried for years.
As graduation looms and scouts take notice, Riley must decide how much she’s willing to risk to chase the future she’s fought for—and who she can trust when the truth threatens to break through the ice.
First Line is the opening novel in a heart-stirring sports-romance trilogy, where every victory on the scoreboard hides a deeper battle off the ice.
As graduation looms and scouts take notice, Riley must decide how much she’s willing to risk to chase the future she’s fought for—and who she can trust when the truth threatens to break through the ice.
First Line is the opening novel in a heart-stirring sports-romance trilogy, where every victory on the scoreboard hides a deeper battle off the ice.
139 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 14, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
November 7, 2025
This was a short and sweet story, a blend of romance and hockey. Riley and Ethan are the main characters, and their slow-burn love grows beautifully over the high school years. Riley is strong-willed and determined to prove herself, while Ethan has his own challenges to face.
As the story unfolds, it explores heartfelt emotions, Riley’s struggles(with her guardian and her own health), found-family support, and all the ups and downs of high school life. At first, you might think, “Yeah, another high school story,” but this is cute in its own way. Also, there is a cliffhanger at the end, which makes you want to read the second book. I loved it!
As the story unfolds, it explores heartfelt emotions, Riley’s struggles(with her guardian and her own health), found-family support, and all the ups and downs of high school life. At first, you might think, “Yeah, another high school story,” but this is cute in its own way. Also, there is a cliffhanger at the end, which makes you want to read the second book. I loved it!
November 11, 2025
Raw, emotional, and impossible to put down
This book hits harder than a slap shot. Riley’s story is fierce, vulnerable, and heartbreakingly real. The balance of ambition, pressure, and forbidden love is masterful. You don’t just read First Line, you feel every bruise, every heartbeat, every choice.
This book hits harder than a slap shot. Riley’s story is fierce, vulnerable, and heartbreakingly real. The balance of ambition, pressure, and forbidden love is masterful. You don’t just read First Line, you feel every bruise, every heartbeat, every choice.
November 7, 2025
Gracie Monroe’s “First Line (The Riley & Ethan Trilogy Book 1)” is a nice start to what promises to be a successful trilogy about young hockey players in love. Did I just say that? I guess you had to be there and read the book to make sense of such a remark.
But it’s true. Riley is the Wonder Woman of the ice on her high school’s co-ed hockey team, and Ethan is the team’s Superman. Together, they’re the perfect match as teammates - in more ways than one.
On the ice, Riley and Ethan are unbeatable as they defeat one opponent after another, all the while both eyeing a Pennsylvania high school championship and scholarships to play ice hockey at Penn State. Underneath their pads, their largely secret love for each other smolders – so much so that it’s surprising their body heat hasn’t long since melted the ice and forced the writing of a different novel.
But alas, the author decided to throw the girl’s guardian into the mix – an alcoholic and abusive uncle who was a pro hockey star, and is now his niece’s spoil sport, main bruise contributor, and future ticket to a psychoanalyst’s couch. And then, there’s Ethan’s nurse mother and hip grandmother who recognize the love between the two kids, their individual and collective athletic dreams, and Riley’s apparent abuse and pattern of poor health.
On the surface of the ice, Gracie Monroe has written an interesting story that will be enjoyed and unquestioned by most readers. Beneath the ice, however, lurk informed critics who will eventually take exception to various and sundry elements of her tome.
Such elements that bear scrutiny include her handling of the college athletic recruitment process, strict child abuse reporting requirements in the state of Pennsylvania, and various elements of character and plot development. While these elements do not necessarily interfere with the book’s ebb and flow, they will be potential distractions for readers who carefully analyze what they read.
All in all, “First Line” is a well-written, interesting, and engaging book. It forms a solid basis for the remaining books in the trilogy, and should be well received by readers anxious to seeing Riley and Ethan scoring as much off the ice and they do on it.
But it’s true. Riley is the Wonder Woman of the ice on her high school’s co-ed hockey team, and Ethan is the team’s Superman. Together, they’re the perfect match as teammates - in more ways than one.
On the ice, Riley and Ethan are unbeatable as they defeat one opponent after another, all the while both eyeing a Pennsylvania high school championship and scholarships to play ice hockey at Penn State. Underneath their pads, their largely secret love for each other smolders – so much so that it’s surprising their body heat hasn’t long since melted the ice and forced the writing of a different novel.
But alas, the author decided to throw the girl’s guardian into the mix – an alcoholic and abusive uncle who was a pro hockey star, and is now his niece’s spoil sport, main bruise contributor, and future ticket to a psychoanalyst’s couch. And then, there’s Ethan’s nurse mother and hip grandmother who recognize the love between the two kids, their individual and collective athletic dreams, and Riley’s apparent abuse and pattern of poor health.
On the surface of the ice, Gracie Monroe has written an interesting story that will be enjoyed and unquestioned by most readers. Beneath the ice, however, lurk informed critics who will eventually take exception to various and sundry elements of her tome.
Such elements that bear scrutiny include her handling of the college athletic recruitment process, strict child abuse reporting requirements in the state of Pennsylvania, and various elements of character and plot development. While these elements do not necessarily interfere with the book’s ebb and flow, they will be potential distractions for readers who carefully analyze what they read.
All in all, “First Line” is a well-written, interesting, and engaging book. It forms a solid basis for the remaining books in the trilogy, and should be well received by readers anxious to seeing Riley and Ethan scoring as much off the ice and they do on it.
October 19, 2025
First Line is a powerhouse of a novel that seamlessly blends the world of hockey with a truly unforgettable romance. While the story delves deep into the often chaotic realities of life, love, and chasing dreams when ones foundation is fractured, the absolute heart of this book is the relationship between Riley and Ethan.
Riley's journey toward healing is difficult, as Gracie Monroe unflinchingly portrays difficult subjects like emotional neglect and the effects of alcoholism. However, it is Ethan that provides the necessary light in her darkness. Ethan is far more than a run-of-the-mill MMC; he’s an anchor, offering Riley a safe space to breathe and to finally believe she is worthy of kindness and devotion.
Their dynamic is masterful. The initial hesitation and slow build of their connection moving from tentative friendship to an undeniable, electric chemistry, is beautifully executed. Readers who love a hero who is patient, understanding, and fiercely loyal will swoon over Ethan. He respects Riley's boundaries while at the same time showing her what genuine support looks like. The payoff as their connection deepens and they finally give in to their feelings is incredibly satisfying and swoon-worthy, making this a true standout in the sports romance genre.
The dedication to the hockey element with vivid, accurate depictions is spot-on, creating a fantastic backdrop of fierce ambition and dedication with every beat expertly tied back to Riley's emotional journey and her burgeoning relationship with Ethan.
Keep the tissues handy but also be prepared for a beautiful payoff with Riley and Ethan. Highly recommend!
Riley's journey toward healing is difficult, as Gracie Monroe unflinchingly portrays difficult subjects like emotional neglect and the effects of alcoholism. However, it is Ethan that provides the necessary light in her darkness. Ethan is far more than a run-of-the-mill MMC; he’s an anchor, offering Riley a safe space to breathe and to finally believe she is worthy of kindness and devotion.
Their dynamic is masterful. The initial hesitation and slow build of their connection moving from tentative friendship to an undeniable, electric chemistry, is beautifully executed. Readers who love a hero who is patient, understanding, and fiercely loyal will swoon over Ethan. He respects Riley's boundaries while at the same time showing her what genuine support looks like. The payoff as their connection deepens and they finally give in to their feelings is incredibly satisfying and swoon-worthy, making this a true standout in the sports romance genre.
The dedication to the hockey element with vivid, accurate depictions is spot-on, creating a fantastic backdrop of fierce ambition and dedication with every beat expertly tied back to Riley's emotional journey and her burgeoning relationship with Ethan.
Keep the tissues handy but also be prepared for a beautiful payoff with Riley and Ethan. Highly recommend!
October 20, 2025
First Line completely stole my heart. From the very first page, I was hooked by Riley Carter’s fierce determination and quiet vulnerability. This isn’t just a story about hockey it’s about resilience, identity, and the silent battles so many young athletes face behind the scenes.
Riley is a phenomenal protagonist. She’s strong, talented, and driven, but beneath that toughness are cracks that make her heartbreakingly human. The author captures her struggles both physical and emotional with such honesty that I often found myself holding my breath. The scenes on the ice are vivid and electric, perfectly balanced by the tender, complicated moments she shares with Ethan, her best friend and team captain. Their chemistry feels so natural and unforced that every look, every unspoken word, carries weight.
What really sets First Line apart is its emotional depth. It goes beyond the usual sports-romance tropes to explore pressure, trauma, and the cost of chasing perfection. Yet even in its darkest moments, the story pulses with hope. By the end, I was cheering for Riley not just to win, but to heal.
The writing is crisp, cinematic, and full of heart. Every chapter skates smoothly between action and emotion, leaving you fully invested in Riley’s journey. It’s the kind of book that makes you feel proud, heartbroken, and inspired all at once.
An unforgettable start to what promises to be an incredible trilogy. First Line scores a perfect five stars from me.
Riley is a phenomenal protagonist. She’s strong, talented, and driven, but beneath that toughness are cracks that make her heartbreakingly human. The author captures her struggles both physical and emotional with such honesty that I often found myself holding my breath. The scenes on the ice are vivid and electric, perfectly balanced by the tender, complicated moments she shares with Ethan, her best friend and team captain. Their chemistry feels so natural and unforced that every look, every unspoken word, carries weight.
What really sets First Line apart is its emotional depth. It goes beyond the usual sports-romance tropes to explore pressure, trauma, and the cost of chasing perfection. Yet even in its darkest moments, the story pulses with hope. By the end, I was cheering for Riley not just to win, but to heal.
The writing is crisp, cinematic, and full of heart. Every chapter skates smoothly between action and emotion, leaving you fully invested in Riley’s journey. It’s the kind of book that makes you feel proud, heartbroken, and inspired all at once.
An unforgettable start to what promises to be an incredible trilogy. First Line scores a perfect five stars from me.
November 12, 2025
Fast, Emotional, and Full of Heart
First Line is a quick but powerful read that dives into the pressure, pain, and passion behind chasing a dream. Gracie Monroe captures what it feels like to fight for a place in a world that keeps testing your strength. Riley’s story feels raw and real, balancing her drive on the ice with everything she’s trying to hold together beneath the surface.
The friendship and tension between Riley and Ethan give the story warmth and depth, making it more than just a sports romance. It is about resilience, identity, and finding your voice even when it hurts.
A short, emotional read that lingers long after the last page.
First Line is a quick but powerful read that dives into the pressure, pain, and passion behind chasing a dream. Gracie Monroe captures what it feels like to fight for a place in a world that keeps testing your strength. Riley’s story feels raw and real, balancing her drive on the ice with everything she’s trying to hold together beneath the surface.
The friendship and tension between Riley and Ethan give the story warmth and depth, making it more than just a sports romance. It is about resilience, identity, and finding your voice even when it hurts.
A short, emotional read that lingers long after the last page.
October 23, 2025
What an emotional rollercoaster! First Line draws you in with its fast-paced hockey action and keeps you hooked with its raw, emotional storytelling. Riley’s pain, drive, and resilience hit hard, making her one of the most relatable characters I’ve read in a while.
The author captures the intensity of competition and the quiet moments of self-doubt perfectly. And that slow-burn tension with Ethan? Absolute perfection. I laughed, I cried, and I cheered all the way through. This book deserves every star and then some!
The author captures the intensity of competition and the quiet moments of self-doubt perfectly. And that slow-burn tension with Ethan? Absolute perfection. I laughed, I cried, and I cheered all the way through. This book deserves every star and then some!
November 17, 2025
Cute young adult romance. The point of view switches between Riley and Ethan who are best friends and hockey teammates. Ethan has a supportive family who treats Riley like one of their own. He struggles to keep of the facade of the popular 'golden boy' at school and on the ice while secretly pining for Riley. Riley too harbours feelings for Ethan however, all of her focus is on achieving her goal, playing for Penn State while dealing with a family secret. Ideal for young readers who enjoy sports themed stories with romance.
November 18, 2025
This summary pulled me in right away. Riley already feels like a character I want to protect and cheer for, and the mix of ambition, hidden pain, and slow building feelings for Ethan hits hard. I love how the stakes aren’t just about hockey but about her heart and her future. It sounds intense, emotional, and full of those quiet moments where someone’s whole world can shift. I’d definitely pick this up based on the summary alone.
November 25, 2025
Gracie Monroe’s First Line is a sports romance story. At the center of the story are Riley and Ethan, the star players of their high school ice hockey team. Monroe manages to convey to the reader in a compelling way the romantic relationship between Riley and Ethan, their efforts to earn a high school ice hockey scholarship, and topics such as domestic violence and abuse. I think it will be enjoyed by readers who like sports-themed stories.
October 27, 2025
Absolutely loved this book! First Line pulled me in from page one and never let go. Riley is such a strong, relatable heroine—you feel every victory and heartbreak right along with her. The story perfectly blends sports, emotion, and slow-burn romance. I couldn’t put it down and can’t wait for the next in the series!
October 27, 2025
Wow, this book hit me right in the heart. Riley’s story is powerful, emotional, and so easy to connect with. I loved how it tackled real challenges while still giving all the romance and hockey action I wanted. The writing is beautiful, and the chemistry between Riley and Ethan jumps off the page. I’m already obsessed with this series!
October 29, 2025
This book completely stole my heart! First Line isn’t just about hockey it’s about strength, pain, and finding yourself when everything feels like it’s falling apart. Riley is such a powerful, relatable character. I laughed, cried, and rooted for her every step of the way.
October 29, 2025
Beautifully written, raw, and empowering. First Line captures what it means to chase a dream while fighting your own demons. Riley’s journey reminded me that being strong doesn’t mean being unbreakable. This is a must read for anyone who’s ever doubted themselves.
November 10, 2025
This was a short and sweet story, interesting as a high school hocky romance. The story is a powerful romance that explores themes of love, loyalty, and finding the courage to fight for what you want. I like the cliffhanger at the end as well.....makes you wonder what happen after the two years
November 24, 2025
Nice story of a girl that is good at hockey and a good friend that sees her more than a friend. He looks out for her when things are getting difficult. without she says much about it. I wonder how the story ends. looks like i have to read the second book.
October 11, 2025
Read...and can't wait for book 2!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews