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Playing for Keeps
Some games are played to win. Some are played for keeps.
He plays by instinct. She lives by the numbers. Together, they're about to rewrite the playbook.
Sienna Brooks doesn't do impulsive. As the daughter of sports agent powerhouse Ethan Brooks, she's built her career on careful analysis and strategic planning. After her ex publicly humiliated her, she added one more rule to her life: no athletes, ever.
Hockey captain Grayson Cole has spent his life carrying other people's burdens. With his NHL dreams hanging in the balance, the last thing he needs is a by-the-book analyst criticizing his game. Especially one whose sharp mind and sharper tongue make it impossible to focus.
When forced to work together to save his career, their explosive chemistry creates opportunities neither saw coming. But as secrets and old wounds threaten what they're building, they'll need to decide if love is worth risking everything they've worked for.
In this game, the heart doesn't follow the rules.
He plays by instinct. She lives by the numbers. Together, they're about to rewrite the playbook.
Sienna Brooks doesn't do impulsive. As the daughter of sports agent powerhouse Ethan Brooks, she's built her career on careful analysis and strategic planning. After her ex publicly humiliated her, she added one more rule to her life: no athletes, ever.
Hockey captain Grayson Cole has spent his life carrying other people's burdens. With his NHL dreams hanging in the balance, the last thing he needs is a by-the-book analyst criticizing his game. Especially one whose sharp mind and sharper tongue make it impossible to focus.
When forced to work together to save his career, their explosive chemistry creates opportunities neither saw coming. But as secrets and old wounds threaten what they're building, they'll need to decide if love is worth risking everything they've worked for.
In this game, the heart doesn't follow the rules.
294 pages, Paperback
Expected publication December 1, 2025
3 people are currently reading
6037 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
November 12, 2025
Thank you Nicole Crystal for the opportunity to review this ARC copy.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
Contemporary NA hockey romance
Forced proximity
HEA
🌶️🌶️🌶️
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
Contemporary NA hockey romance
Forced proximity
HEA
🌶️🌶️🌶️
November 4, 2025
Sienna is a woman who has overcome everything life has thrown her way. Her world is made of statistics and algorithms, and after having her heart broken, she decided never to open up to anyone again. But life has a curious way of testing her, and it does so in the form of Grayson, the hockey player who needs her help to get drafted.
Grayson, for his part, is the guy who has always cared for everyone, his mom, his sister, and his team. He's the most beloved player, but his career hangs by a thread, and Sienna is the only one capable of getting him back on track. He's pure instinct; she, pure logic. And yet, who would have thought that those differences would be precisely what would unite them in a beautiful love story?
At first, they're both curious about each other, but Sienna refuses to open up; she doesn't want to get hurt again. She tries to keep her distance, while Grayson, from the first time he sees her, falls completely for her. Something about Sienna captivates him, disarms him. Through their ups and downs, the emotions between them grow, and he must show her that he's different, that all he wants is to give her security, to love her in the purest and most sincere way. Sienna tries to resist, but she soon realizes that Grayson isn't who she thought he was. In him, she finds love, support, and the certainty that her dreams can indeed come true.
When they've finally built a solid bond, Sienna's father proposes a deal to Grayson, and I admit, I was scared. He should have told her the truth from the beginning, because not everything was as it seemed. Even so, his intention was always to help her achieve her dream, even if it broke his heart. It hurt, truly. But in the end, they both understood that their love was stronger, that Grayson only wanted to see her happy.
I loved the book from beginning to end. I fell in love with how he patiently and tenderly broke down Sienna's walls, and how she learned to open up, to feel loved. I was so touched to see them both grapple with their fears, especially Grayson, who has carried so much for so long. It was beautiful to see him find love and a safe haven in Sienna.
Now I'm eagerly awaiting the next book. But I must confess, the one I'm most curious about is Luke and Emma's, the chemistry between them is undeniable and incredibly strong. Anyway, thank you for this beautiful story. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Grayson, for his part, is the guy who has always cared for everyone, his mom, his sister, and his team. He's the most beloved player, but his career hangs by a thread, and Sienna is the only one capable of getting him back on track. He's pure instinct; she, pure logic. And yet, who would have thought that those differences would be precisely what would unite them in a beautiful love story?
At first, they're both curious about each other, but Sienna refuses to open up; she doesn't want to get hurt again. She tries to keep her distance, while Grayson, from the first time he sees her, falls completely for her. Something about Sienna captivates him, disarms him. Through their ups and downs, the emotions between them grow, and he must show her that he's different, that all he wants is to give her security, to love her in the purest and most sincere way. Sienna tries to resist, but she soon realizes that Grayson isn't who she thought he was. In him, she finds love, support, and the certainty that her dreams can indeed come true.
When they've finally built a solid bond, Sienna's father proposes a deal to Grayson, and I admit, I was scared. He should have told her the truth from the beginning, because not everything was as it seemed. Even so, his intention was always to help her achieve her dream, even if it broke his heart. It hurt, truly. But in the end, they both understood that their love was stronger, that Grayson only wanted to see her happy.
I loved the book from beginning to end. I fell in love with how he patiently and tenderly broke down Sienna's walls, and how she learned to open up, to feel loved. I was so touched to see them both grapple with their fears, especially Grayson, who has carried so much for so long. It was beautiful to see him find love and a safe haven in Sienna.
Now I'm eagerly awaiting the next book. But I must confess, the one I'm most curious about is Luke and Emma's, the chemistry between them is undeniable and incredibly strong. Anyway, thank you for this beautiful story. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 27, 2025
This first book in the Play the Game series was addictive and compelling.
I loved the combination of behind the scenes hockey strategy and statistics - I’m a sports/sports romance loving nerdy woman so this storyline was so my jam!
Grayson was an atypical hockey MMC - he is so not an egotistical alpha male out to conquer his world and woman. Grayson is nuanced with ego, compassion and insight. He cares deeply for his family, friends and teammates. I loved how he put Sienna first and appreciated her brains as much as her looks.
Sienna Brooks is an amazing FMC - an unapologetic math genius who loves the statistics and analytics of sports and who sees things no one else notices
The slow burn romance is almost secondary to the work these two put in to improve Grayson’s game. The romance builds due to their connection in the video room and time spent deep diving into strategy and analysis. I loved Grayson’s rule to get to ask her a question a day and that he uses it to really get to know her
The drama her dad and ex being to this storyline were frustrating, but the conflict needed to keep things interesting and readers guessing how their romance was going to play out. I appreciate that the author held true to who both of these characters were at heart even during the heat of their conflict. Grayson is truly a gem of a MMC.
I’m super hopeful for a future book featuring Luke and Emma (Grayson’s younger sister) - please. I’d even like to see a book featuring Zane Morgan out in LA, hopefully some amazing woman will knock him off his skates!
Loved this second book by the author and I’m adding her to my watch list for future releases.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved the combination of behind the scenes hockey strategy and statistics - I’m a sports/sports romance loving nerdy woman so this storyline was so my jam!
Grayson was an atypical hockey MMC - he is so not an egotistical alpha male out to conquer his world and woman. Grayson is nuanced with ego, compassion and insight. He cares deeply for his family, friends and teammates. I loved how he put Sienna first and appreciated her brains as much as her looks.
Sienna Brooks is an amazing FMC - an unapologetic math genius who loves the statistics and analytics of sports and who sees things no one else notices
The slow burn romance is almost secondary to the work these two put in to improve Grayson’s game. The romance builds due to their connection in the video room and time spent deep diving into strategy and analysis. I loved Grayson’s rule to get to ask her a question a day and that he uses it to really get to know her
The drama her dad and ex being to this storyline were frustrating, but the conflict needed to keep things interesting and readers guessing how their romance was going to play out. I appreciate that the author held true to who both of these characters were at heart even during the heat of their conflict. Grayson is truly a gem of a MMC.
I’m super hopeful for a future book featuring Luke and Emma (Grayson’s younger sister) - please. I’d even like to see a book featuring Zane Morgan out in LA, hopefully some amazing woman will knock him off his skates!
Loved this second book by the author and I’m adding her to my watch list for future releases.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 29, 2025
I had the incredible honor of beta reading Playing For Keeps by Nicole Crystal-my very first beta read!
From the raw first draft to the ARC, I've been blown away by how much l've fallen in love with these characters and Nicole's writing.
Nicole has such a beautiful way with words. One of my favorite things about this book is how she opens each chapter with something profound-lines that make you pause, reflect, and connect with the story on a deeper level. It's almost like sneaking a peek into her diary. And the way each chapter ends?
Impossible to stop. You'll find yourself flipping to the next page so fast.
And honestly-who doesn't love a series about a group of teammates turned family? Each one with their own personality, fears, and insecurities... and then these powerhouse women show up and shake up their worlds in the best possible way. Watching it unfold is half the fun and all the heart.
Playing for Keeps is everything I love in a romance: a sports backdrop, quirky and nerdy main characters, tight-knit friendships, and relatable personal struggles. It's heartfelt and full of the kind of moments that stick with you long after you close the book.
I'm thrilled to see where this series goes next-l'm already counting down to the next book! Even if sports romance isn't your usual play, take the shot.
Sometimes the bold move leads to the biggest win, and odds are you'll fall hard for this story and its characters.
From the raw first draft to the ARC, I've been blown away by how much l've fallen in love with these characters and Nicole's writing.
Nicole has such a beautiful way with words. One of my favorite things about this book is how she opens each chapter with something profound-lines that make you pause, reflect, and connect with the story on a deeper level. It's almost like sneaking a peek into her diary. And the way each chapter ends?
Impossible to stop. You'll find yourself flipping to the next page so fast.
And honestly-who doesn't love a series about a group of teammates turned family? Each one with their own personality, fears, and insecurities... and then these powerhouse women show up and shake up their worlds in the best possible way. Watching it unfold is half the fun and all the heart.
Playing for Keeps is everything I love in a romance: a sports backdrop, quirky and nerdy main characters, tight-knit friendships, and relatable personal struggles. It's heartfelt and full of the kind of moments that stick with you long after you close the book.
I'm thrilled to see where this series goes next-l'm already counting down to the next book! Even if sports romance isn't your usual play, take the shot.
Sometimes the bold move leads to the biggest win, and odds are you'll fall hard for this story and its characters.
November 20, 2025
I enjoyed reading this enemies(ish) x lovers where the guy falls first!
Sienna and Grayson are two college kids trying to both make their future bright. Sienna by following a carefully constructed plan of NHL analyst/sports lawyer and Grayson trying to make it to the NHL
Sienna and Grayson end up being put together to help with Grayson’s hockey prowess - Sienna is keeping her guard up after being bamboozled by her ex and Grayson is trying to ice her out and not work with her - plus Sienna has three rules she follows one being not dating an athlete
Eventually we see the two come to terms that they are better together. Sienna and Grayson face some turbulence in their relationship from her dad and her ex.
One thing I dislike in books is the lack of communication trope. But it did lead up to the climax of the story but I still was bristling reading it
One thing I approached was the hockey that was part of the book. A lot of hockey romances are hockey adjacent.
I also love a happy ending and how both of them get what they want and worked towards!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily - a big thank you to Book Sirens
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
November 25, 2025
This is definitely my kind of book and longer term this is my kind of series. I am a big, big hockey romance lover and this is the perfect complement to my go to hockey romance authors.
The story is around Sienna and Grayson. He is the captain of his university’s hockey team. She is interning as an analyst who has been tapped to help the captain improve his game using her analytical expertise. But oh the chemistry! They are super cute together. Grayson is this very mature thinking guy who is falling hard for Sienna. Sienna wants to stay all business due to a very hard lesson she learned with her ex. She’s also the daughter of one of the most successful sports agents in the industry. She is hyper aware of athletes who may want to use her for what she can do for them.
The pacing for the story is great. And I can fully get behind a male main character that really sees his girl for the goals she envisions for herself. It’s intoxicating.
The friend group comprised of Gray’s hockey teammates and his sister and sienna’s best friend is such a great supporting cast. Absolutely worth the read and can’t wait to read the next one!
The story is around Sienna and Grayson. He is the captain of his university’s hockey team. She is interning as an analyst who has been tapped to help the captain improve his game using her analytical expertise. But oh the chemistry! They are super cute together. Grayson is this very mature thinking guy who is falling hard for Sienna. Sienna wants to stay all business due to a very hard lesson she learned with her ex. She’s also the daughter of one of the most successful sports agents in the industry. She is hyper aware of athletes who may want to use her for what she can do for them.
The pacing for the story is great. And I can fully get behind a male main character that really sees his girl for the goals she envisions for herself. It’s intoxicating.
The friend group comprised of Gray’s hockey teammates and his sister and sienna’s best friend is such a great supporting cast. Absolutely worth the read and can’t wait to read the next one!
October 30, 2025
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of this and I went into it with no expectations, but in the mood for a hockey romance as I hadn’t read one in a while and I honestly loved it so much!
Sienna is a sports analyst who has been hurt and humiliated in her past relationship, and Grayson is the captain of the hockey team, reluctantly in need of help with his game. The chemistry between them built in such a delicious way, I was kicking my feet! They are total nerds together which I loved. Grayson is the ultimate man written by a woman 🫶🏻
One trope I love is when the teammates/friendship group are like a family and their stories all interconnect. Nicole wrote this beautifully, and really made you fall in love with all the characters she introduced, leaving you finishing the book desperate for more! Cant wait for the next one.
Sienna is a sports analyst who has been hurt and humiliated in her past relationship, and Grayson is the captain of the hockey team, reluctantly in need of help with his game. The chemistry between them built in such a delicious way, I was kicking my feet! They are total nerds together which I loved. Grayson is the ultimate man written by a woman 🫶🏻
One trope I love is when the teammates/friendship group are like a family and their stories all interconnect. Nicole wrote this beautifully, and really made you fall in love with all the characters she introduced, leaving you finishing the book desperate for more! Cant wait for the next one.
November 4, 2025
Playing for keeps is the first book in the new hockey series by Nicole Crystal.
Hockey captain Grayson Cole skipped the draft 2 years prior and after an abysmal year he needs to make this final year count or lose his chance to play in the NHL forever.
Mathematical genius Sienna Brooks has had her heart shattered by an athlete who was only with her so he could get signed by her dad’s agency. So when she starts working one-on-one with Grayson to improve his stats, she has rules she won’t break.
Haha. Fat chance!
This book was predictable in its arc but so well written it didn’t bother me at all that I knew where it was going. The writing is on par with College hockey queens Elle Kennedy and Hannah Grace and I wouldn’t hesitate to read further books in the series.
I did feel the secondary characters could have been given more of a story, but as they all left college at the end of the book I see why this maybe wasn’t as relevant.
Hockey captain Grayson Cole skipped the draft 2 years prior and after an abysmal year he needs to make this final year count or lose his chance to play in the NHL forever.
Mathematical genius Sienna Brooks has had her heart shattered by an athlete who was only with her so he could get signed by her dad’s agency. So when she starts working one-on-one with Grayson to improve his stats, she has rules she won’t break.
Haha. Fat chance!
This book was predictable in its arc but so well written it didn’t bother me at all that I knew where it was going. The writing is on par with College hockey queens Elle Kennedy and Hannah Grace and I wouldn’t hesitate to read further books in the series.
I did feel the secondary characters could have been given more of a story, but as they all left college at the end of the book I see why this maybe wasn’t as relevant.
November 25, 2025
ARC REVIEW
I’ll start by saying I enjoyed the storyline of this book a lot. I really liked the characters; Sienna is a strong independent woman who is very involved in the sports world, a male dominated area, and she definitely holds her own. Grayson is a sweetheart, protective and loyal and not afraid to go after what he wants. The minor characters were all fun too, and I loved the little crumbs that were planted for future books.
I was not a fan of the third act breakup, however, I understand why it happened. Do I think a conversation should have been had, yes, but it all came together in the end. Aside from that, the storyline was enjoyable. The pacing was well-plotted and the characters showed growth throughout the book.
One thing that really stood out to me though was there were a lot of spelling errors and misused words. It could’ve used one more pass through of edits.
All in all I liked this book and I will be continuing the series.
I’ll start by saying I enjoyed the storyline of this book a lot. I really liked the characters; Sienna is a strong independent woman who is very involved in the sports world, a male dominated area, and she definitely holds her own. Grayson is a sweetheart, protective and loyal and not afraid to go after what he wants. The minor characters were all fun too, and I loved the little crumbs that were planted for future books.
I was not a fan of the third act breakup, however, I understand why it happened. Do I think a conversation should have been had, yes, but it all came together in the end. Aside from that, the storyline was enjoyable. The pacing was well-plotted and the characters showed growth throughout the book.
One thing that really stood out to me though was there were a lot of spelling errors and misused words. It could’ve used one more pass through of edits.
All in all I liked this book and I will be continuing the series.
October 2, 2025
I really loved this one. Sienna is a sports analyst, and she's getting back into it for another year after a spectacular betrayal by her ex. He just wanted to sign with her father, a prominent sports agent, and used Sienna to get there. Now she's working with a cocky hockey player who couldn't want her help less.
Grayson is finishing out his senior year, and when coach brings in an analyst to help with his game, he's skeptical. How could this girl possibly be able to help him? Except for she's really smart. Brilliant actually, and her suggestions and ideas make so much sense. It doesn't hurt that she's hot.
Watching these two tiptoe around each other while opening up to who they relly are and what they really want in life was such a joy to read!
Grayson is finishing out his senior year, and when coach brings in an analyst to help with his game, he's skeptical. How could this girl possibly be able to help him? Except for she's really smart. Brilliant actually, and her suggestions and ideas make so much sense. It doesn't hurt that she's hot.
Watching these two tiptoe around each other while opening up to who they relly are and what they really want in life was such a joy to read!
November 1, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
PLAYING FOR KEEPS WAS SUCH A NICE READ!! Nicole Crystals writing truly reminded me of Lynn Painter and I had such a fun time! Grayson and Siennas story had so many layers and played out perfectly!! Hockey captain getting advice from a sports analyst and he falls first?? it was truly such an amazing book. it had the emotional factor but also the fun spice!! all the characters were so fun to read about and the ending was so beautiful!! I had the time of my life reading this book, it warmed my heart at moments and had me giggling! i couldn’t put it down!! 5 star read! check out my pinterest!! @drylee_ i posted for it!!
PLAYING FOR KEEPS WAS SUCH A NICE READ!! Nicole Crystals writing truly reminded me of Lynn Painter and I had such a fun time! Grayson and Siennas story had so many layers and played out perfectly!! Hockey captain getting advice from a sports analyst and he falls first?? it was truly such an amazing book. it had the emotional factor but also the fun spice!! all the characters were so fun to read about and the ending was so beautiful!! I had the time of my life reading this book, it warmed my heart at moments and had me giggling! i couldn’t put it down!! 5 star read! check out my pinterest!! @drylee_ i posted for it!!
November 4, 2025
I consider myself a connoisseur of hockey romance, and when I met the author at an event and she was asking for ARC readers, I immediately signed up.
This book was a solid 4 stars for me. As an aging millennial the characters felt so young to me, and I couldn’t totally relate BUT they were fully fleshed outt characters which I enjoyed.
The story progressed at a good pace, I felt like there was just the right amount of backstory for everything. The romance was sweet, and while I could predict the climax of the story Rey, I still thoroughly enjoyed it.
Thank you to the author and the publisher for this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
This book was a solid 4 stars for me. As an aging millennial the characters felt so young to me, and I couldn’t totally relate BUT they were fully fleshed outt characters which I enjoyed.
The story progressed at a good pace, I felt like there was just the right amount of backstory for everything. The romance was sweet, and while I could predict the climax of the story Rey, I still thoroughly enjoyed it.
Thank you to the author and the publisher for this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
November 12, 2025
Sienna is a genius. Her father is an important figure in the athlete world. Sienna got her heartbroken by her ex after learning he used her for connections & to get closer to her father. Due to her part trauma from her relationship she has strict rules when it comes to athletes, rules she refuses to break…..
Grayson is the captain of the hockey team. There is more to him than meets the eye. He’s struggled to get drafted, this is his last year to try make a change and get into the NHL. He has been assigned to work with Sienna ( the analyst) to make that change & help him understand and learn more about himself on the ice.
Rules are meant to be broken….
The story was beautifully written. It made it hard to put the book down, which is why I ended up finishing it in a day! The story wasn’t rushed, you got to really get to know both characters. It was a beautiful slow burn. I loved how we were able to see both characters overcome their fears and insecurities… how they helped each other get through them grow and accomplish their goals.
Im grateful to have received the arc, this is my honest review.
Grayson is the captain of the hockey team. There is more to him than meets the eye. He’s struggled to get drafted, this is his last year to try make a change and get into the NHL. He has been assigned to work with Sienna ( the analyst) to make that change & help him understand and learn more about himself on the ice.
Rules are meant to be broken….
The story was beautifully written. It made it hard to put the book down, which is why I ended up finishing it in a day! The story wasn’t rushed, you got to really get to know both characters. It was a beautiful slow burn. I loved how we were able to see both characters overcome their fears and insecurities… how they helped each other get through them grow and accomplish their goals.
Im grateful to have received the arc, this is my honest review.
November 3, 2025
I enjoyed the different dynamic of this book rather than a team mates sister, a coach’s daughter it’s an agent’s daughter who’s been used by an athlete before.
The chilli banter to start with lead to a mellowing of the statically focused Sienna and the potential NHL hockey player both with baggage from their pasts that get entangled, threatening their burgeoning romance and their ambitious ideas to bring hockey to youngsters that don’t have the means.
Love the work up to the finale and the HEA
The chilli banter to start with lead to a mellowing of the statically focused Sienna and the potential NHL hockey player both with baggage from their pasts that get entangled, threatening their burgeoning romance and their ambitious ideas to bring hockey to youngsters that don’t have the means.
Love the work up to the finale and the HEA
November 9, 2025
This was a sweet love story with just the right amount of spice. The two main characters were interesting and believable: a quirky, intelligent female and a tough hockey player with a warm heart. The story was well-written and nicely paced. I was impressed with the author's knowledge of hockey plays and hockey strategies. I received an advanced copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I look forward to reading more stories by this author.
November 12, 2025
I’m happy to provide a review for this ARC. The first hockey-based romance by this author, she has more of a baseball girl :) you can tell she researched hockey and its terminology. As I’ve stated before I enjoy that her characters are always real people, you really feel the depth of their character, way more than a normal romance book. Thanks Nicole Crystal, always looking forward to more of your writing.
October 31, 2025
This was really cute! If you're looking for a cozy hockey romance with characters with some emotional depth this should scratch that itch. Both the FMC and MMC having things they are working through and their relationship development, growth, and healing were a joy to read. I definitely recommend this one.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
November 25, 2025
Nicole Crystal has penned an ice melter.!
I love Hockey Romances and Playing for Keeps is definitely well written and a must read for all romance readers.
"Some games are played to win.
Some are played for keeps."
I love Hockey Romances and Playing for Keeps is definitely well written and a must read for all romance readers.
"Some games are played to win.
Some are played for keeps."
November 26, 2025
Very cute story. Not a big fan sports romance or hockey romance books but I wanted to give this a shot. I was not disappointed! Sienna has to trust her broken heart to try again with love. She falls for Grayson who is the captain of his hockey team. She is such a realistic character and what she feels you get to feel while reading the story.
November 6, 2025
This was my first book by Nicole Crystal. This sports romance had all the right elements to make a good book . Grayson is just the best always looking out for Sienna. Can't wait for the other books.
November 30, 2025
Playing for Keeps
I’m usually very particular with hockey romances because I have read some amazing 5 stars series however after giving this a shot, I fell in love! I couldn’t put this down! It was well written and completely pulled me in! This hockey romance reminded me of a mixture of Elle Kennedy hockey romances and Chelsea curto! Playing for keeps is a flirty, fast paced hockey romance that delivers exactly what you want from tension banter and a heroine who absolutely does not plan to fall for the guy she’s supposed to avoid. Nicole Crystal writes with sharp dialogue, short chapters, and binge worthy style.
Sienna Brooks was the daughter of sports agent Ethan Brooks. Trying to get away from under her father’s spotlight, she was building a career as an analyst for her schools hockey team and carving a path for herself. But with her father wanting her to follow the career set in stone for her, she is beginning to shift her view on what she wants to follow, his plan or her own.
Grayson Cole is the hockey captain, he is cocky and charming and annoyingly irresistible. With his NHL dreams hanging in the stands, he needs to focus on the dream ahead but with Sienna around he can’t seem to stay focused on anything or anyone else.
The chemistry between the two leads the heartbeat of the book. They are the perfect blend of independence, softness, and stubbornness. Their dynamic is equal parts rivalry and slow surrender, with a delicious “I shouldn’t want you” vibe throughout. The hockey setting feels authentic without being overly technical, making it accessible even if sports romances aren’t usually your thing. Thank you Brie for this stellar rec!
“But maybe, just maybe, love really can overcome statistical probability. Even when the odds are stacked against it.”
⭐️ 5/5
🔥 3.5/5
#hockeyromance #playingforkeeps #romancebooks
I’m usually very particular with hockey romances because I have read some amazing 5 stars series however after giving this a shot, I fell in love! I couldn’t put this down! It was well written and completely pulled me in! This hockey romance reminded me of a mixture of Elle Kennedy hockey romances and Chelsea curto! Playing for keeps is a flirty, fast paced hockey romance that delivers exactly what you want from tension banter and a heroine who absolutely does not plan to fall for the guy she’s supposed to avoid. Nicole Crystal writes with sharp dialogue, short chapters, and binge worthy style.
Sienna Brooks was the daughter of sports agent Ethan Brooks. Trying to get away from under her father’s spotlight, she was building a career as an analyst for her schools hockey team and carving a path for herself. But with her father wanting her to follow the career set in stone for her, she is beginning to shift her view on what she wants to follow, his plan or her own.
Grayson Cole is the hockey captain, he is cocky and charming and annoyingly irresistible. With his NHL dreams hanging in the stands, he needs to focus on the dream ahead but with Sienna around he can’t seem to stay focused on anything or anyone else.
The chemistry between the two leads the heartbeat of the book. They are the perfect blend of independence, softness, and stubbornness. Their dynamic is equal parts rivalry and slow surrender, with a delicious “I shouldn’t want you” vibe throughout. The hockey setting feels authentic without being overly technical, making it accessible even if sports romances aren’t usually your thing. Thank you Brie for this stellar rec!
“But maybe, just maybe, love really can overcome statistical probability. Even when the odds are stacked against it.”
⭐️ 5/5
🔥 3.5/5
#hockeyromance #playingforkeeps #romancebooks
November 14, 2025
I LOVED this sweet hockey swimmer romance. Both FMC and MMC are competitive in their respective sports. Chase the collegiate hockey player vying for a major league spot and Sky, a serious contender for Nationals in swimming. Two years before they have a brief meeting and then she never hears from him again. It definitely hurt her as she thought they had a connection(not romantic that night) but one that could have been build upon.
The NHL draft is not impressed with his party boy image and his dad and coach come up with an idea to improve his his odds.
In order to appear more wholesome and focused he needs to be committed to one wholesome girl. Chase proposes Sky to be his fake girlfriend. She agrees for reasons of her own and then the magic happens.
This is a positively delightful read. i enjoyed their story and was cheering for them as they navigated their not unexpected, but character building hurdles. I found myself falling in love right along with them. I will be watching for more from this author!
The NHL draft is not impressed with his party boy image and his dad and coach come up with an idea to improve his his odds.
In order to appear more wholesome and focused he needs to be committed to one wholesome girl. Chase proposes Sky to be his fake girlfriend. She agrees for reasons of her own and then the magic happens.
This is a positively delightful read. i enjoyed their story and was cheering for them as they navigated their not unexpected, but character building hurdles. I found myself falling in love right along with them. I will be watching for more from this author!
November 28, 2025
Playing For Keeps by Nicole Crystal is a book in the Playing the Games series by the author. Sienna is our FMC, who has been hired to work with the Silver Pine Wolves hockey team. Can I mention how much I LOVE hockey romance books??? It's one of my fav troupes in reading. Sienna has been hired to analyze the team so that they can do well during the new season. Grayson Cole, is a mysterious and quiet force of the team. Sienna has just got out a bad relationship where the guy used her for connections and she is focusing on her job as the hockey team's analyst instead of dating. Grayson and Sienna both bond over the fact that they are both looked at for their father's skills and connections. I loved the Valentine's day auction part where Sienna bids and has no idea why even though she knows she likes Grayson. And I love a happy ending in a book, this one is highly recommended for all hockey romance fans!
November 27, 2025
This is a sweet college hockey romance with some twists and turns. Siena has trust issues and daddy issues. She is super analytical and statistics focused, but can’t help falling for hockey captain Grayson. Grayson also has daddy issues 😄
Grayson is adorably smitten and works hard to get Siena to give him a shot. He’s super cute, but there was just something about the flow of the book that I got held up on. It’s not closed door romance, but definitely not open door either. It has intimate scenes but seems to specifically avoid body part names and it bugged me. I’d rather it be fully open door or not. Vaguely described situations were not for me.
Overall enjoyed the book, there were some typos and missing words, but I read an early copy so those could be fixed already.
Thanks to BookSirens for the early copy; all opinions are my own!
Grayson is adorably smitten and works hard to get Siena to give him a shot. He’s super cute, but there was just something about the flow of the book that I got held up on. It’s not closed door romance, but definitely not open door either. It has intimate scenes but seems to specifically avoid body part names and it bugged me. I’d rather it be fully open door or not. Vaguely described situations were not for me.
Overall enjoyed the book, there were some typos and missing words, but I read an early copy so those could be fixed already.
Thanks to BookSirens for the early copy; all opinions are my own!
November 15, 2025
At first I wasn't sure about this book it started off a little slow for me however while sitting at my daughters gymnastics class waiting for her I got into it (by 15%) and it took off. Once I got into it I couldn't put it down. I loved that Grey wasn't the usual *hockey* alpha from all the other hockey books I read. (Think i thought he would be why it started slow for me qnd it wasn't the book itself) but once Grey's eyes open to Sienna and her magic, oh boy these two. Even Sienna though she has rules agasint dating athletes Grey melts her heart and they build a trust. How their relationship is built is beautiful and there's lots of banter and laugh out moments and heartwarming parts too. Grey is a perfect bookboyfriend.
Totally recommend this read.
Totally recommend this read.
November 29, 2025
📚✨ Playing For Keeps by Nicole Crystal
⭐️4/5 | 🌶️1/5
I loved this book from beginning to end. Both characters grapple with their fears in such a raw, honest way, especially the MMC, who has carried so much for so long. Seeing him find love and safety in her? My heart.
The slow-burn romance is almost secondary; it felt intimate in the softest, most genuine way.
🏒 Reading Mood: Cozy romance vibes, character-driven, quiet intimacy, soft MMC energy
⭐️4/5 | 🌶️1/5
I loved this book from beginning to end. Both characters grapple with their fears in such a raw, honest way, especially the MMC, who has carried so much for so long. Seeing him find love and safety in her? My heart.
The slow-burn romance is almost secondary; it felt intimate in the softest, most genuine way.
🏒 Reading Mood: Cozy romance vibes, character-driven, quiet intimacy, soft MMC energy
November 12, 2025
This sports romance novel was top notch! The unique chemistry between Grayson and Sienna created an amazing dynamic between the characters! I also loved how the author weaves in side characters with just enough intrigue to make you crave their stories next. It’s the kind of book that leaves you smiling, happy sighing, and immediately reaching for the next book in the series!
November 30, 2025
This was such a good read. I loved the dynamic between sienna and Grayson as well as the found family.
Sienna is just chefs kiss tbh😍 love a smart FMC who doesn’t fall for the MMC’s feet at first.
And Grayson!? Omg I can’t explain what this man does to me! He’s such a sweetheart who just wants everyone to be happy without thinking of himself
Highly recommend this book as a pallet cleanser
Sienna is just chefs kiss tbh😍 love a smart FMC who doesn’t fall for the MMC’s feet at first.
And Grayson!? Omg I can’t explain what this man does to me! He’s such a sweetheart who just wants everyone to be happy without thinking of himself
Highly recommend this book as a pallet cleanser
November 24, 2025
I give this book 3,5 ⭐️. It’s a really sweet book. I love that we get a hockey romance with lots of analysing stats. For me it was a refreshing thing to add to a hockey romance. I like the trope rich/poor and that he falls first and falls hard. Read this one!
November 9, 2025
I liked the story enough to finish it. I liked the characters for the most part too. I always enjoy a good sportsy romance. I am sure others will enjoy it.
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