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Playing the Game #1
Playing for Keeps
Win a free kindle copy of this book!
13 days and 19:53:04
100 copies available
U.S. only
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 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 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.
- GenresRomanceSports Romance
297 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2025
6 people are currently reading
5877 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
December 6, 2025
~Arc Review~
📚Playing For Keeps
✍🏼 Nicole Crystal
⭐️ 4/5
Thank you @booksirens & @authornicolecrystal for giving me the chance to read this!!
A sweet & emotional hockey romance with strong chemistry and slow burn. The two main characters have very different personalities, which creates interesting conversations and natural tension. The hockey setting adds real stakes while still keeping the focus on the romance. The story feels heartfelt and easy to fall into, especially because of clear character growth and honest emotion.
Some pacing feels a bit uneven, and a few parts could use more detail, but the overall reading experience stays enjoyable and engaging from start to finish!
📚Playing For Keeps
✍🏼 Nicole Crystal
⭐️ 4/5
Thank you @booksirens & @authornicolecrystal for giving me the chance to read this!!
A sweet & emotional hockey romance with strong chemistry and slow burn. The two main characters have very different personalities, which creates interesting conversations and natural tension. The hockey setting adds real stakes while still keeping the focus on the romance. The story feels heartfelt and easy to fall into, especially because of clear character growth and honest emotion.
Some pacing feels a bit uneven, and a few parts could use more detail, but the overall reading experience stays enjoyable and engaging from start to finish!
December 1, 2025
Book one in the Playing the Game series, Playing For Keeps kept me reading enthusiastically until the end. Of course I picked up a Hockey trope, needing to get my sin bin fix. Told in alternating chapters, Sienna and Gray complimented each other so completely, both having quirks making them unique. Sienna is analytical to a fault, having misread the intentions of her jerk of an ex. But numbers, statistical probabilities and other type A personality traits make her giddy. Gray needs things just so, being the dad of the hockey house. He was so sweet, putting everyone above himself, and I fell for them once they leaped. It was a slow burn, steamy with mid level angst. The pacing didn’t lag one bit for me. Definitely keeping with this series…author teased of possible storylines for secondary characters going forward.
Thanks to BookSirens for this ARC, my opinions as always are my own.
Thanks to BookSirens for this ARC, my opinions as always are my own.
January 25, 2026
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via BookSirens. This in no way impacted on my view.
College senior Sienna Brooks has her whole life mapped out. The daughter of a prolific sports agent, she is obsessed with sports, but after being burnt by er ex, Sienna vows she will never get involved with an athlete again. However, her work on analysing the game play of the Silver Pines Hockey Team brings her to the attention of the team's coach, who asks that she works one-on-one with captain Grayson Cole. Grayson knows that as a 22 year old, entering the draft this year will be hard, and he's not been playing at his best. Even so, he doesn't want someone who's never been on the ice to tell him how to play, but even he can't deny that what Sienna is telling him to do gets results. As they begrudgingly work together, the line between reluctant colleagues and lovers becomes smaller and smaller.
Wow, I literally couldn't put this book down. Reading it in one sitting, I loved the way that the FMC and MMC were both tortured souls, who were nowhere near perfect, but had goals and dreams. Sienna might be destined for law school, but she's less interested in that, and more in being an analyst. Working with Grayson, she has the chance to work on her dream. Both she and Grayson worked so well together, and they were definitely a matched pair. The extended cast of characters really added to the story, and helped set the scene for the rest of the series. I can't wait for Luke and Emma's story, that's bound to be exciting.
College senior Sienna Brooks has her whole life mapped out. The daughter of a prolific sports agent, she is obsessed with sports, but after being burnt by er ex, Sienna vows she will never get involved with an athlete again. However, her work on analysing the game play of the Silver Pines Hockey Team brings her to the attention of the team's coach, who asks that she works one-on-one with captain Grayson Cole. Grayson knows that as a 22 year old, entering the draft this year will be hard, and he's not been playing at his best. Even so, he doesn't want someone who's never been on the ice to tell him how to play, but even he can't deny that what Sienna is telling him to do gets results. As they begrudgingly work together, the line between reluctant colleagues and lovers becomes smaller and smaller.
Wow, I literally couldn't put this book down. Reading it in one sitting, I loved the way that the FMC and MMC were both tortured souls, who were nowhere near perfect, but had goals and dreams. Sienna might be destined for law school, but she's less interested in that, and more in being an analyst. Working with Grayson, she has the chance to work on her dream. Both she and Grayson worked so well together, and they were definitely a matched pair. The extended cast of characters really added to the story, and helped set the scene for the rest of the series. I can't wait for Luke and Emma's story, that's bound to be exciting.
December 11, 2025
When I first started this book I wasn’t sure if I was going to continue reading, however, the more I kept reading Grayson and Sierra’s story, I got invested. They truly developed a friendship before realizing their feelings. The one things that I truly enjoyed was that they brought out the best in each other to realize their dreams for the future. Thank you to Nicole Crystal and BookSirens for this advanced copy.
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
🌶️🌶️🌶️
December 13, 2025
I absolutely enjoyed this book. I loved the chemistry and the relationship between Sienna and Grayson. The spicy scenes were delightful and well-written.
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 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.
December 20, 2025
I'm a sucker for a hockey romance! I really enjoyed the storyline and the pacing throughout the whole book. I feel like the pacing was perfect for this type of story.
December 21, 2025
This was an ARC read for me and my first hockey romance book. I honestly was nervous I wouldn't be able to get into it because I am typically into romantic fantasy or dark romance with morally gray MMC, but Cole? chefs kiss. Sienna? chefs kiss. she was honestly one of my favorite female leads thus far. much more analytical than me but it reminded me of how my husband thinks (as an engineer) and so it was interesting seeing that dynamic. the story was engaging and felt realistic and detailed. I could really feel the chemistry and the care. thank you for the ARC copy and for being my toe dip into hockey romance!
December 3, 2025
It’s my first book by Nicole but certainly not the last (I’m already waiting for book two!).
I had a lot of fun reading this story. Grayson is such a great older brother, and I loved seeing him with Sienna, his family, and his friends. It was also really nice to meet Sienna and her analytical brain, and to watch her slowly learn how to trust again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I had a lot of fun reading this story. Grayson is such a great older brother, and I loved seeing him with Sienna, his family, and his friends. It was also really nice to meet Sienna and her analytical brain, and to watch her slowly learn how to trust again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 3, 2025
➣Tropes:
↣College Romance
↣Hockey Romance
↣Found Family
↣Enemies To Lovers
↣Forced Proximity
↣He Falls First
★Rating:
🌟🌟🌟🌟｜4 Stars!!
♥About the Book:
↣Playing for keeps is a hockey romance filled with banter, a lovely found family and tension!
We are following our main characters aka Sienna Brooks and Grayson Cole, Sienna is a woman ruled by logic, She was hired to work with Silver Pines Hockey Team, Sienna been hired to analyze the team so they can do well in the season. So Sienna and Grayson end up working together, their sharp clashes ignite and undeniable chemistry. But as buried hurts and rising stakes threaten their fragile connection, Sienna and Grayson must decide whether this is just another game... or the one they're willing to play for keeps. 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.
✿My Thoughts:
↣This is my very first bool by Nicole Crystal! And i must say it won't be the last! I absolutely loved her writing!
The Book was beautifully written! I felt like i was actually there with the characters.
I love love love Sienna and Grayson! Their chemistry! Their banter! They are so adorable together!
The pacing of the story was amazing!
And i absolutely adore how the team was like a family. It was so sweet!
Overall i loved the book!!
A huge thank you to Plunge into Book Tours for the opportunity of Arc reading this book!
Spoiler perhaps?
✪Fav Quotes:
↣“Is that why you keep trying to break through all the barriers I keep setting?”
“I keep trying because I can’t help myself,”
“Because from that first session when you tore apart my game, I’ve been fascinated by you. And the more I learn, the more I want to know.”
↣Yeah, she’s definitely becoming an addiction. One I don’t plan to give up without a significant fight.
↣“Stay with me,”
“Don’t let me push you away again.”
“Never,”
“You’re stuck with me now, Brookie.”
↣College Romance
↣Hockey Romance
↣Found Family
↣Enemies To Lovers
↣Forced Proximity
↣He Falls First
★Rating:
🌟🌟🌟🌟｜4 Stars!!
♥About the Book:
↣Playing for keeps is a hockey romance filled with banter, a lovely found family and tension!
We are following our main characters aka Sienna Brooks and Grayson Cole, Sienna is a woman ruled by logic, She was hired to work with Silver Pines Hockey Team, Sienna been hired to analyze the team so they can do well in the season. So Sienna and Grayson end up working together, their sharp clashes ignite and undeniable chemistry. But as buried hurts and rising stakes threaten their fragile connection, Sienna and Grayson must decide whether this is just another game... or the one they're willing to play for keeps. 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.
✿My Thoughts:
↣This is my very first bool by Nicole Crystal! And i must say it won't be the last! I absolutely loved her writing!
The Book was beautifully written! I felt like i was actually there with the characters.
I love love love Sienna and Grayson! Their chemistry! Their banter! They are so adorable together!
The pacing of the story was amazing!
And i absolutely adore how the team was like a family. It was so sweet!
Overall i loved the book!!
A huge thank you to Plunge into Book Tours for the opportunity of Arc reading this book!
Spoiler perhaps?
✪Fav Quotes:
↣“Is that why you keep trying to break through all the barriers I keep setting?”
“I keep trying because I can’t help myself,”
“Because from that first session when you tore apart my game, I’ve been fascinated by you. And the more I learn, the more I want to know.”
↣Yeah, she’s definitely becoming an addiction. One I don’t plan to give up without a significant fight.
↣“Stay with me,”
“Don’t let me push you away again.”
“Never,”
“You’re stuck with me now, Brookie.”
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.
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
December 3, 2025
This book introduced me to hockey romance… and I think I love it!
It was quick, fun, and the perfect taste-breaker between heavier reads. I’ve never read a hockey romance before, but I’ll definitely be picking up more in the future!
I loved the overall sports vibes and the way the statistics were woven into the story was surprisingly engaging. The focus on hockey and the team’s dynamics grounded the book in hockey in a meaningful way, instead of relying solely on romance to carry those elements — which give the author major props for.
Sienna was a solid FMC. I liked how her mind worked and how naturally she connected with numbers. She was enjoyable and relatable to read, though for someone who supposedly over-analyzes everything, it felt a bit unbelievable how she acted so naive at times. As for Grayson, he was an average MMC for me. I wish he’d been more standoffish. I think he was meant to come across as brooding and a naturally dominant leader (especially as team captain), but he ended up reading more like a cinnamon roll. Not a bad thing, just didn’t quite land for me.
Additionally, while I liked Grayson and Sienna together, I didn’t feel the love. Outside of hockey and statistics, what did they genuinely like about each other? The last 50 or so pages went in circles with the ending wrapped up a bit too quickly. And the epilogue… was just too much, too fast for me and ended up costing the book a star.
Overall, this is a fun hockey romance that’s a quick read and a great taste-breaker. I’m hoping some of the side characters get their own stories, because I would be very interested in reading those.
It was quick, fun, and the perfect taste-breaker between heavier reads. I’ve never read a hockey romance before, but I’ll definitely be picking up more in the future!
I loved the overall sports vibes and the way the statistics were woven into the story was surprisingly engaging. The focus on hockey and the team’s dynamics grounded the book in hockey in a meaningful way, instead of relying solely on romance to carry those elements — which give the author major props for.
Sienna was a solid FMC. I liked how her mind worked and how naturally she connected with numbers. She was enjoyable and relatable to read, though for someone who supposedly over-analyzes everything, it felt a bit unbelievable how she acted so naive at times. As for Grayson, he was an average MMC for me. I wish he’d been more standoffish. I think he was meant to come across as brooding and a naturally dominant leader (especially as team captain), but he ended up reading more like a cinnamon roll. Not a bad thing, just didn’t quite land for me.
Additionally, while I liked Grayson and Sienna together, I didn’t feel the love. Outside of hockey and statistics, what did they genuinely like about each other? The last 50 or so pages went in circles with the ending wrapped up a bit too quickly. And the epilogue… was just too much, too fast for me and ended up costing the book a star.
Overall, this is a fun hockey romance that’s a quick read and a great taste-breaker. I’m hoping some of the side characters get their own stories, because I would be very interested in reading those.
December 21, 2025
Grayson Cole!!! The man that you are. Grayson. Cole.
If you asked me what I know about the sport of hockey, I’d say absolutely nothing. But if you asked me what I know about hockey romance? I’d say Grayson “I can’t say that” Cole.
Playing for Keeps is an enemies-to-lovers hockey romance that throws sports analytics expert Sienna Brooks and hockey captain Grayson Cole into a very unwanted partnership—all in the name of boosting Grayson’s chances of getting drafted into the NHL.
What starts off as forced proximity, wrapped in rules, guidelines, and carefully built walls, slowly begins to unravel.
Through stolen glances. Simmering chemistry. Thoughts spiral until the tension is so undeniable it can’t be contained. What begins as a reluctant partnership grows into a genuine friendship that develops into something earned and deeply satisfying.
This is a beautifully written college romance about ambition, vulnerability, growth, and finding your place—on the ice and off it. I came for the hockey romance… but I stayed for the self-taught, prideful, and deeply layered Grayson Cole, and the professional, heavily guarded, and heartbreakingly human Sienna Brooks, whose 3 carefully constructed rules begin to crack for the underdog.
I had the wonderful opportunity to receive this book as an ARC that was an enjoyable and such a fun, swoon-worthy read. My only small critique—and this is in no way a bad thing—is that I personally love an enemies-to-lovers dynamic with a bit more banter. While Sienna and Grayson completely stole my heart, their relationship felt more like rivals-to-lovers, since there was never truly any harsh animosity between them.
If you asked me what I know about the sport of hockey, I’d say absolutely nothing. But if you asked me what I know about hockey romance? I’d say Grayson “I can’t say that” Cole.
Playing for Keeps is an enemies-to-lovers hockey romance that throws sports analytics expert Sienna Brooks and hockey captain Grayson Cole into a very unwanted partnership—all in the name of boosting Grayson’s chances of getting drafted into the NHL.
What starts off as forced proximity, wrapped in rules, guidelines, and carefully built walls, slowly begins to unravel.
Through stolen glances. Simmering chemistry. Thoughts spiral until the tension is so undeniable it can’t be contained. What begins as a reluctant partnership grows into a genuine friendship that develops into something earned and deeply satisfying.
This is a beautifully written college romance about ambition, vulnerability, growth, and finding your place—on the ice and off it. I came for the hockey romance… but I stayed for the self-taught, prideful, and deeply layered Grayson Cole, and the professional, heavily guarded, and heartbreakingly human Sienna Brooks, whose 3 carefully constructed rules begin to crack for the underdog.
I had the wonderful opportunity to receive this book as an ARC that was an enjoyable and such a fun, swoon-worthy read. My only small critique—and this is in no way a bad thing—is that I personally love an enemies-to-lovers dynamic with a bit more banter. While Sienna and Grayson completely stole my heart, their relationship felt more like rivals-to-lovers, since there was never truly any harsh animosity between them.
January 16, 2026
I really enjoyed this story about Sienna, Grayson and all the side characters.
I have not read a lot of stories involving sports since I am not that into sports, but since I got the chance to read this as an ARC I decided to give it a shot.
Since I do not know all that much about hockey, sports agents and how things work when it comes to how to be drafted to the NHL, I really appreciated that the storie Included all that information in a very good way.
It was a very natural part of Sienna and Graysons story as it was used to tell their story of where they are in their lives and the challanges they face.
When we meet Sienna and Grayson they are reluctant to work together since he sees her as just an analyse that could not possibly help his game, and she is reluctant to work with him because she has a previous bad experince by being used by an ex, also she is sure he will not take her seriously and listen to what she has to say.
It is a really good story, the only reason I did not give it 5 stars is because I thought some parts were more detailed and took up a little more time in the story than it needed to.
That is my feeling though, and might be a little coloured by not being a sports fan!
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this and will be reading the next book in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have not read a lot of stories involving sports since I am not that into sports, but since I got the chance to read this as an ARC I decided to give it a shot.
Since I do not know all that much about hockey, sports agents and how things work when it comes to how to be drafted to the NHL, I really appreciated that the storie Included all that information in a very good way.
It was a very natural part of Sienna and Graysons story as it was used to tell their story of where they are in their lives and the challanges they face.
When we meet Sienna and Grayson they are reluctant to work together since he sees her as just an analyse that could not possibly help his game, and she is reluctant to work with him because she has a previous bad experince by being used by an ex, also she is sure he will not take her seriously and listen to what she has to say.
It is a really good story, the only reason I did not give it 5 stars is because I thought some parts were more detailed and took up a little more time in the story than it needed to.
That is my feeling though, and might be a little coloured by not being a sports fan!
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this and will be reading the next book in the series.
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
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
December 25, 2025
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 bring to this storyline was frustrating, but the conflict was 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.
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 bring to this storyline was frustrating, but the conflict was 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.
December 15, 2025
ARC Review - Refreshing, emotional, and soft
For the most part, most hockey romance books follow the same format and share plot points. This one was really refreshing and new with offering a FMC who is an analytic and a really softie MMC. I adored reading about their journey and their respective development. Throughout the book, I was rooting for them and their relationship. Sienna was especially relatable in the way she wanted to be sure about her own feelings while Grayson made me swoon every other page and want his family.
Their relationship progressed naturally and without any urgency which was also really nice to read. Having read many couples fall in love, this one has a sense of stableness and closeness that is rare in the genre and I really love them. They made liking them really easy and as characters feel very rounded and clear. Also the rest of the team is well developed and makes me want to read the other stories as well!
I will definitely check out more from Nicole Crystal!
For the most part, most hockey romance books follow the same format and share plot points. This one was really refreshing and new with offering a FMC who is an analytic and a really softie MMC. I adored reading about their journey and their respective development. Throughout the book, I was rooting for them and their relationship. Sienna was especially relatable in the way she wanted to be sure about her own feelings while Grayson made me swoon every other page and want his family.
Their relationship progressed naturally and without any urgency which was also really nice to read. Having read many couples fall in love, this one has a sense of stableness and closeness that is rare in the genre and I really love them. They made liking them really easy and as characters feel very rounded and clear. Also the rest of the team is well developed and makes me want to read the other stories as well!
I will definitely check out more from Nicole Crystal!
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!
December 16, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
A friend recommended this book to me and said it reminded her of Elle Kennedy’s writing which was so spot on! Such a great hockey romance with two characters I adored (which is a nice change after reading some insufferable characters lately!). There was a little bit of found family mixed in there, not a ton but enough to set us up for additional characters later in the series. I loved the MMCs devotion to his mom and sister above all else that he prioritized, which was nice and refreshing because I feel like so many books provide a romance story that just negate all other aspects of the characters lives. It just felt relatable with these characters and realistic with the storylines and was just such an easy read. There was a bit of complicated family dynamics mixed in for both characters, but nothing is too overwhelming to the storyline and had a great resolution. Definitely one of my favorite hockey romances I’ve read in a while!
A friend recommended this book to me and said it reminded her of Elle Kennedy’s writing which was so spot on! Such a great hockey romance with two characters I adored (which is a nice change after reading some insufferable characters lately!). There was a little bit of found family mixed in there, not a ton but enough to set us up for additional characters later in the series. I loved the MMCs devotion to his mom and sister above all else that he prioritized, which was nice and refreshing because I feel like so many books provide a romance story that just negate all other aspects of the characters lives. It just felt relatable with these characters and realistic with the storylines and was just such an easy read. There was a bit of complicated family dynamics mixed in for both characters, but nothing is too overwhelming to the storyline and had a great resolution. Definitely one of my favorite hockey romances I’ve read in a while!
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.
December 3, 2025
College hockey love 😍😍😍
Being an NHL fan I did feel some weird Deja vu from the names used in this story, I don’t know if that was intentional, but made me pause for a second when I first started.
Sienna was perfection! She was the perfect FMC in a “male world” and really showed how her analytics were impactful. Sienna had 3 rules about athletes after public humiliation from her ex the year before and dealing with the fallout. Grayson slowly introduces Sienna to his world in order to prove that he’s not using Sienna for her connections.
There was a good amount of actual hockey talk and stats which was perfect for me. You could feel the camaraderie with the team, but I’m sure that will grow over the next couple books.
Grayson’s sister Emma is going to be a FORCE when we get to her story. I can’t wait!!
Thank you Nicole and BookSirens for the advanced copy💜💜
Being an NHL fan I did feel some weird Deja vu from the names used in this story, I don’t know if that was intentional, but made me pause for a second when I first started.
Sienna was perfection! She was the perfect FMC in a “male world” and really showed how her analytics were impactful. Sienna had 3 rules about athletes after public humiliation from her ex the year before and dealing with the fallout. Grayson slowly introduces Sienna to his world in order to prove that he’s not using Sienna for her connections.
There was a good amount of actual hockey talk and stats which was perfect for me. You could feel the camaraderie with the team, but I’m sure that will grow over the next couple books.
Grayson’s sister Emma is going to be a FORCE when we get to her story. I can’t wait!!
Thank you Nicole and BookSirens for the advanced copy💜💜
December 23, 2025
Another win for Nicole Crystal!
If you love a good hockey romance with plenty of spice and hockey then this is for you.
It’s a slow burn, friends to lovers. Almost enemies to lovers since the MMC is being told he has to work with someone to help improve his game.
And she is smart and knows what she is talking about and wins him over once he starts listening.
But she has walls up and has a no dating players rule.
She sees him as a player only and a means to prove that her techniques work. The more time they spend together the more the attraction grows.
Both characters are likeable but Sienna’s everything is numbers etc can be a bit tiring but I still liked her. There’s not a lot of drama except for a few numbs here and there and the side characters just to it either a mix of comedy and their own drama.
I would recommend this series and author.
If you love a good hockey romance with plenty of spice and hockey then this is for you.
It’s a slow burn, friends to lovers. Almost enemies to lovers since the MMC is being told he has to work with someone to help improve his game.
And she is smart and knows what she is talking about and wins him over once he starts listening.
But she has walls up and has a no dating players rule.
She sees him as a player only and a means to prove that her techniques work. The more time they spend together the more the attraction grows.
Both characters are likeable but Sienna’s everything is numbers etc can be a bit tiring but I still liked her. There’s not a lot of drama except for a few numbs here and there and the side characters just to it either a mix of comedy and their own drama.
I would recommend this series and author.
January 1, 2026
This was a hockey romance but in my opinion also a coming of age story for both main characters. Both FMC and MMC had a lot in common when it came to feeling dictated by their family of origin and trying to prove themselves to the world and also wanting to feel pride in themselves. I appreciated the way the author was able to explain the reasoning behind why the characters struggled and how complicated family relationships shaped how they interacted professionally and with each other.
Therapist 👋 Take: This was well written, light enough to be a quicker read but also with substance that made it have valuable lessons. The characters here were quite young (at least to me) and part of their journeys were finding themselves which was likely easier because they had each others. The storyline of romance moved fast but I feel like that made sense based on their age and life stage. This is my second book I’ve read by the author and I enjoyed it.
Thank you to Nicole Crystal for the eARC 💕
Therapist 👋 Take: This was well written, light enough to be a quicker read but also with substance that made it have valuable lessons. The characters here were quite young (at least to me) and part of their journeys were finding themselves which was likely easier because they had each others. The storyline of romance moved fast but I feel like that made sense based on their age and life stage. This is my second book I’ve read by the author and I enjoyed it.
Thank you to Nicole Crystal for the eARC 💕
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!!
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