What do you think?
PCU Ice Storm #1
Kiss Me First
Joining the insomnia thread at PCU was supposed to be harmless, a place to burn through the quiet hours with strangers who'd never know my name. A way to take my mind off the NHL scouts breathing down my neck.
Just honesty at 2 a.m. with a girl I only know as LittleTooMuch.
I didn't plan to fall for her. But somewhere between the late-night confessions and the things I'd never say out loud, I did.
Then Harlow walks into my life—guarded, beautiful, and my team captain’s little sister.
The more time I spend with her, the harder it gets to ignore the feeling that I already know her.
And if I'm right, I'm in a lot of trouble.
anonymous pen pal
he falls first
teammate's little sister
friends to lovers
slow burn
Just honesty at 2 a.m. with a girl I only know as LittleTooMuch.
I didn't plan to fall for her. But somewhere between the late-night confessions and the things I'd never say out loud, I did.
Then Harlow walks into my life—guarded, beautiful, and my team captain’s little sister.
The more time I spend with her, the harder it gets to ignore the feeling that I already know her.
And if I'm right, I'm in a lot of trouble.
anonymous pen pal
he falls first
teammate's little sister
friends to lovers
slow burn
436 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 16, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 707 reviews
April 10, 2026
— Rating: 2.25 ★ .ᐟ
I hate writing a negative review for this book because it truthfully seemed like the author had put in immense effort to make Harlow and Grayson’s story meaningful, but it was just not enjoyable for me. Kiss me First felt more like a healing journey for the FMC than a love story, which is ironic because the cover and title are quite literally based around the book’s romance. The main characters had little to no chemistry, the awkwardest interactions, and quite bland personalities until about 80% in which contributed to an overall dull book.
When I had read the blurb, I was immediately intrigued. Insomnia rep plus anonymous pen pals? It sounded unique, interesting, and everything in between. Yet it bored me to no end. I mean, I enjoyed some of it, but unfortunately it wasn’t the most entertaining. It felt like nothing was happening for the first half of the book, instead focusing on Harlow’s mental health issues in a repetitive manner. And when I say repetitive, I mean that I was reading the same inner monologue, the same conversations, and the same descriptions over and over again for at least twenty chapters straight. The way the ‘anonymous pen pals’ trope was executed also felt a bit iffy. Why were they messaging each other like literal robots? Not to mention the fact they were, in a way, starting to grow ‘dependent’ on each other when they didn’t even know the other’s name yet.
I wish I could say Grayson and Harlow had made up for this tedious plot, but they in fact did not. All their interactions up until 50% in felt awkward and overly forced. Yes, half way through the book and we’ve only just seen a sliver of chemistry between the main characters in a romance book. Even then, it felt so random that they had suddenly ‘gained feelings’ for each other. Based on the conversations we saw, they learned little to nothing about the other’s true personality. I also want to point out there was zero banter. Obviously not every couple has to have that amusing back and forth, but the fact their dynamic was being built up on small talk rather than deep, meaningful conversations or tension filled comments had me dissapointed. I will admit they were cute when they were actually together at the end of the book, I loved how they both were able to open up and find their special person, but I couldn’t get past the fact that it felt like they had jumped from strangers to lovers.
Yes, the story did start to pick up around 80% in, but who wants to wait that long to be even remotely entertained with a book? I will say the emotional complexity was on point throughout this entire story. Harlow’s sensory, body, and anxiety issues were depicted so well in illuminating details that it’s one of the only reasons I pushed through till the end. Was this done so repetitively? Absolutely. Half of this book felt like it could have been removed and it wouldn’t affect the plot line in the slightest. However, the way the depth of her emotions were depicted has to be praised because it was done so wonderfully.
As individuals, Grayson and Harlow still didn’t truly stand out to me. Grayson’s issues were a tad over looked due to the books focus on Harlow so we only got to see him on a surface level. Both character’s personalities were more or less bland with no special attributes. Don’t get me wrong, they were likable to an extent, but they were just dulled down to the point I couldn’t connect with them or the story. I mean, I may have connected with Harlow at one point, however it wasn’t as deeply as I would have liked. Their dialogue was also very awkward not only with each other but with side characters too and unfortunately it gave me second hand embarrassment for a good portion of the story.
౨ৎ Harlow Mercer.
She truthfully was the only reason I was able to complete this book. The depth put into Harlow was unreal and I loved seeing a FMC who had such relatable struggles. I do wish we got to learn more about her outside of her mental health issues but the way Riley Paige illustrated her was extremely realistic. Still, her interests aside from skating and reading went unknown which made her character feel like it was based solely on her struggles until the end where we got to see her shine.
Any hint of Harlow’s true personality was just not the utmost outstanding. If I’m being completely honest I only remember her character being blunt yet kind, other than that and her complexity she was sometimes boring. The awkwardness she added to conversations had me cringing more times than not and her inner monologue was just saying the same thing repeatedly for a couple of chapters. Yes, she was a likable character with great depth, but she could’ve been more entertaining. On a positive note I did love to see her heal not only with the help of Grayson but also on her own!
౨ৎ Grayson Bennett.
When I tell you this man felt like a side character in his own book. I honestly was so disappointed to see Grayson’s character start off strong and slowly become distant. He was definitely admirable, but his chapter’s were getting so repetitive that I had to put the book down out of boredom one too many times. One thing I did love was his patience and understanding with Harlow’s situation. Seeing how he cared for her even when they weren’t really friends was certainly sweet.
I do feel like Grayson’s character was delved into yet it wasn’t as deeply as I would’ve liked. I don’t know how to explain it but his issues were gone over a lot while still not seeming all that explored. His personality just seemed ordinary and distant and as the book went on, he often times was just there with no engagement. I must say his friendship with the rest of the hockey team was cute and is one of my favorite things about this book. Aside from that though, Grayson didn’t stand out to me until the end of the book where he had some swoon-worthy lines and really started to entrance me with his actions.
⤿ read: april 09 - april 17
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
⸝⸝ #1. Kiss me First : 2.75 ★
⸝⸝ #2. Lose you Twice : ? ★
Thank you to Riley Paige for this arc in an exchange for an honest review!
I hate writing a negative review for this book because it truthfully seemed like the author had put in immense effort to make Harlow and Grayson’s story meaningful, but it was just not enjoyable for me. Kiss me First felt more like a healing journey for the FMC than a love story, which is ironic because the cover and title are quite literally based around the book’s romance. The main characters had little to no chemistry, the awkwardest interactions, and quite bland personalities until about 80% in which contributed to an overall dull book.
When I had read the blurb, I was immediately intrigued. Insomnia rep plus anonymous pen pals? It sounded unique, interesting, and everything in between. Yet it bored me to no end. I mean, I enjoyed some of it, but unfortunately it wasn’t the most entertaining. It felt like nothing was happening for the first half of the book, instead focusing on Harlow’s mental health issues in a repetitive manner. And when I say repetitive, I mean that I was reading the same inner monologue, the same conversations, and the same descriptions over and over again for at least twenty chapters straight. The way the ‘anonymous pen pals’ trope was executed also felt a bit iffy. Why were they messaging each other like literal robots? Not to mention the fact they were, in a way, starting to grow ‘dependent’ on each other when they didn’t even know the other’s name yet.
I wish I could say Grayson and Harlow had made up for this tedious plot, but they in fact did not. All their interactions up until 50% in felt awkward and overly forced. Yes, half way through the book and we’ve only just seen a sliver of chemistry between the main characters in a romance book. Even then, it felt so random that they had suddenly ‘gained feelings’ for each other. Based on the conversations we saw, they learned little to nothing about the other’s true personality. I also want to point out there was zero banter. Obviously not every couple has to have that amusing back and forth, but the fact their dynamic was being built up on small talk rather than deep, meaningful conversations or tension filled comments had me dissapointed. I will admit they were cute when they were actually together at the end of the book, I loved how they both were able to open up and find their special person, but I couldn’t get past the fact that it felt like they had jumped from strangers to lovers.
Yes, the story did start to pick up around 80% in, but who wants to wait that long to be even remotely entertained with a book? I will say the emotional complexity was on point throughout this entire story. Harlow’s sensory, body, and anxiety issues were depicted so well in illuminating details that it’s one of the only reasons I pushed through till the end. Was this done so repetitively? Absolutely. Half of this book felt like it could have been removed and it wouldn’t affect the plot line in the slightest. However, the way the depth of her emotions were depicted has to be praised because it was done so wonderfully.
As individuals, Grayson and Harlow still didn’t truly stand out to me. Grayson’s issues were a tad over looked due to the books focus on Harlow so we only got to see him on a surface level. Both character’s personalities were more or less bland with no special attributes. Don’t get me wrong, they were likable to an extent, but they were just dulled down to the point I couldn’t connect with them or the story. I mean, I may have connected with Harlow at one point, however it wasn’t as deeply as I would have liked. Their dialogue was also very awkward not only with each other but with side characters too and unfortunately it gave me second hand embarrassment for a good portion of the story.
౨ৎ Harlow Mercer.
She truthfully was the only reason I was able to complete this book. The depth put into Harlow was unreal and I loved seeing a FMC who had such relatable struggles. I do wish we got to learn more about her outside of her mental health issues but the way Riley Paige illustrated her was extremely realistic. Still, her interests aside from skating and reading went unknown which made her character feel like it was based solely on her struggles until the end where we got to see her shine.
Any hint of Harlow’s true personality was just not the utmost outstanding. If I’m being completely honest I only remember her character being blunt yet kind, other than that and her complexity she was sometimes boring. The awkwardness she added to conversations had me cringing more times than not and her inner monologue was just saying the same thing repeatedly for a couple of chapters. Yes, she was a likable character with great depth, but she could’ve been more entertaining. On a positive note I did love to see her heal not only with the help of Grayson but also on her own!
౨ৎ Grayson Bennett.
When I tell you this man felt like a side character in his own book. I honestly was so disappointed to see Grayson’s character start off strong and slowly become distant. He was definitely admirable, but his chapter’s were getting so repetitive that I had to put the book down out of boredom one too many times. One thing I did love was his patience and understanding with Harlow’s situation. Seeing how he cared for her even when they weren’t really friends was certainly sweet.
I do feel like Grayson’s character was delved into yet it wasn’t as deeply as I would’ve liked. I don’t know how to explain it but his issues were gone over a lot while still not seeming all that explored. His personality just seemed ordinary and distant and as the book went on, he often times was just there with no engagement. I must say his friendship with the rest of the hockey team was cute and is one of my favorite things about this book. Aside from that though, Grayson didn’t stand out to me until the end of the book where he had some swoon-worthy lines and really started to entrance me with his actions.
⤿ read: april 09 - april 17
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
⸝⸝ #1. Kiss me First : 2.75 ★
⸝⸝ #2. Lose you Twice : ? ★
Thank you to Riley Paige for this arc in an exchange for an honest review!
April 28, 2026
Dnf at 78% and a rant 😬
I like the idea of the book but like I couldn’t stand the writing, idk why I didn’t stop sooner. I skimmed so much of it. Like he was playing hockey practice and it dragged and didn’t add much to the story. It was the same vibe everytime. Kai notices, Weston jokes. And Ashton looks like he doesn’t have a care in the world and it always quiet.
The writing was so annoying. Everything had sound “poetic” and even though they were different words it still felt repetitive.
Examples from book, idk if they give what I’m trying to say?! Lots of “…” used.
“He looks… tired. Not exhausted tired. Restless tired. The kind that lives in your bones.”
“His tone is normal. Not flirty. Not performative. Not too cheerful voice that people use when they’re trying to prove they’re safe. Just… welcome.”
“Come sit, not bossy. Just an offer really…”
Silence stretches between sh. Not awkward. Not comfortable. Just… space”
“He catches my gaze for half a second, and looks away. Not rejection. But a choice”
“Like quiet was easy for him. Like he wasn’t trying to fix me or figure me out. Like he was just… there.”
“He’s polite, but not performative. He’s quite but not old. He makes jokes, but doesn’t use them like a weapon.”
“His gaze on my face. Not intense, not pity. Just… patient. Waiting.”
And everytime they talked about the brother they always say he catalogs like he’s filing it away. Just a different order of that everytime time. And every character they say basically the same description through out the book. Like you already described their vibe, just show it instead of repeating the same description every time. Like sometimes it was good and Weston was my favorite character. Maybe the writing is just the way this MMC and MFC is and the other books series will have a different vibe? Idk 🤷🏻♀️
Also the rating of this book seems way too high but then majority of those reviews are from ARCs…
I like the idea of the book but like I couldn’t stand the writing, idk why I didn’t stop sooner. I skimmed so much of it. Like he was playing hockey practice and it dragged and didn’t add much to the story. It was the same vibe everytime. Kai notices, Weston jokes. And Ashton looks like he doesn’t have a care in the world and it always quiet.
The writing was so annoying. Everything had sound “poetic” and even though they were different words it still felt repetitive.
Examples from book, idk if they give what I’m trying to say?! Lots of “…” used.
“He looks… tired. Not exhausted tired. Restless tired. The kind that lives in your bones.”
“His tone is normal. Not flirty. Not performative. Not too cheerful voice that people use when they’re trying to prove they’re safe. Just… welcome.”
“Come sit, not bossy. Just an offer really…”
Silence stretches between sh. Not awkward. Not comfortable. Just… space”
“He catches my gaze for half a second, and looks away. Not rejection. But a choice”
“Like quiet was easy for him. Like he wasn’t trying to fix me or figure me out. Like he was just… there.”
“He’s polite, but not performative. He’s quite but not old. He makes jokes, but doesn’t use them like a weapon.”
“His gaze on my face. Not intense, not pity. Just… patient. Waiting.”
And everytime they talked about the brother they always say he catalogs like he’s filing it away. Just a different order of that everytime time. And every character they say basically the same description through out the book. Like you already described their vibe, just show it instead of repeating the same description every time. Like sometimes it was good and Weston was my favorite character. Maybe the writing is just the way this MMC and MFC is and the other books series will have a different vibe? Idk 🤷🏻♀️
Also the rating of this book seems way too high but then majority of those reviews are from ARCs…
April 23, 2026
I really wanted to love this book but I ended up DNF, it was very repetitive and I honestly didn’t feel chemistry between Harlow and Grayson. It read very monologued and hard to follow at times, I did however enjoy Weston’s character so for that I gave a star.
July 23, 2026
3🌟, 2🌶️
ARC Review 📖
This was a sweet story, but not quite the romance I was hoping for.
I was drawn in by Harlow and Grayson’s premise, and I appreciated that this story chose to focus just as much on healing as it did on romance. Harlow’s mental health journey felt genuine and thoughtfully handled, and you could tell a lot of care went into portraying her experiences.
For me, though, the romance never fully clicked. I wanted more chemistry between Harlow and Grayson, and their connection developed a little too slowly for my taste. Grayson also had an interesting backstory that I wish had been explored more, as so much of the story naturally centered around Harlow.
Overall, this was a good read, just not quite the hockey romance I was expecting. I still enjoyed the emotional depth, and the side characters, especially Kai and Weston, have definitely convinced me to keep reading the series.
I’m hoping the next couple ends up being the one that really hooks me.
~~~~
ALC Review (Audiobook) 🎧
The audiobook definitely made this a more enjoyable experience for me. Lee Samuels and June deBorahae gave heartfelt performances that added warmth and emotion to Harlow and Grayson’s journey, especially during the slower moments. While I found the romance a little underwhelming and wished Grayson’s storyline had been explored further, I really appreciated the thoughtful mental health representation and the emotional depth throughout. It wasn’t quite the hockey romance I expected, but the narration and intriguing side characters have me intrigued to the rest of the series.
~~~~
I was fortunate enough to receive both an ARC and an ALC, and being able to immersive read and listen to this story made the whole experience even more special.
~~~~
Special thanks to Riley Paige and Hambright PR for providing this Advanced Reader Copy and ALC. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. ✨
ARC Review 📖
This was a sweet story, but not quite the romance I was hoping for.
I was drawn in by Harlow and Grayson’s premise, and I appreciated that this story chose to focus just as much on healing as it did on romance. Harlow’s mental health journey felt genuine and thoughtfully handled, and you could tell a lot of care went into portraying her experiences.
For me, though, the romance never fully clicked. I wanted more chemistry between Harlow and Grayson, and their connection developed a little too slowly for my taste. Grayson also had an interesting backstory that I wish had been explored more, as so much of the story naturally centered around Harlow.
Overall, this was a good read, just not quite the hockey romance I was expecting. I still enjoyed the emotional depth, and the side characters, especially Kai and Weston, have definitely convinced me to keep reading the series.
I’m hoping the next couple ends up being the one that really hooks me.
~~~~
ALC Review (Audiobook) 🎧
The audiobook definitely made this a more enjoyable experience for me. Lee Samuels and June deBorahae gave heartfelt performances that added warmth and emotion to Harlow and Grayson’s journey, especially during the slower moments. While I found the romance a little underwhelming and wished Grayson’s storyline had been explored further, I really appreciated the thoughtful mental health representation and the emotional depth throughout. It wasn’t quite the hockey romance I expected, but the narration and intriguing side characters have me intrigued to the rest of the series.
~~~~
I was fortunate enough to receive both an ARC and an ALC, and being able to immersive read and listen to this story made the whole experience even more special.
~~~~
Special thanks to Riley Paige and Hambright PR for providing this Advanced Reader Copy and ALC. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. ✨
April 26, 2026
3/5 🌟…i guess🤷♀️
this book was overall fine - okay even. (iykyk).
i’m not sure how to write this review without sounding rude, but it was written good, you can tell the author put a lot of effort into their interpretation of the characters storylines, but overall this book very suffocating in a way.
we’re following grayson and harlow. however, the book is solely focused on harlow. everyone and their damn mom is worried about this bitch. they ALL treat her like she’s a piece of paper that’s going to fly away in a matter of seconds. reading her pov in some of the scenes was genuinely so overwhelming at times because she isn’t a literal child yet they treat her like one. it also comes with the fact that this is marketed as a hockey romance, but there’s barely any romance (to me anyways, take this as you will). and i’m not talking about just spice - just overall romance. these characters don’t seem to connect for me.
however - grayson has soooooooooooo much potential. his story could’ve really grasped me if we just knew more about him. his story fell so flat because he was instantly captured by harlow that his story just disappeared. everything, and i mean everyhting, was centered around harlow. which isn’t necessarily bad, but there’s 2 characters we need to follow - not just one.
i feel this whole story im missing something and nothing was adding up. but i did enjoy it in the long run. i may follow along the series for the next characters (specifically kai) because the had me wayyyy more interested in them rather than our mains.
this book was overall fine - okay even. (iykyk).
i’m not sure how to write this review without sounding rude, but it was written good, you can tell the author put a lot of effort into their interpretation of the characters storylines, but overall this book very suffocating in a way.
we’re following grayson and harlow. however, the book is solely focused on harlow. everyone and their damn mom is worried about this bitch. they ALL treat her like she’s a piece of paper that’s going to fly away in a matter of seconds. reading her pov in some of the scenes was genuinely so overwhelming at times because she isn’t a literal child yet they treat her like one. it also comes with the fact that this is marketed as a hockey romance, but there’s barely any romance (to me anyways, take this as you will). and i’m not talking about just spice - just overall romance. these characters don’t seem to connect for me.
however - grayson has soooooooooooo much potential. his story could’ve really grasped me if we just knew more about him. his story fell so flat because he was instantly captured by harlow that his story just disappeared. everything, and i mean everyhting, was centered around harlow. which isn’t necessarily bad, but there’s 2 characters we need to follow - not just one.
i feel this whole story im missing something and nothing was adding up. but i did enjoy it in the long run. i may follow along the series for the next characters (specifically kai) because the had me wayyyy more interested in them rather than our mains.
April 26, 2026
DNF’d around 100pg in. How much more repetition, analogies, monologues, and walking on eggshells do you expect your readers to endure?!?!?
This is my second and last attempt at a Riley Page book thinking maybe her writing style improved from Broken Play but nope. Same spiraling characters and no chemistry. This book just seemed like a big old heap of enabling in the amount that I read. I genuinely could not keep going.
This is my second and last attempt at a Riley Page book thinking maybe her writing style improved from Broken Play but nope. Same spiraling characters and no chemistry. This book just seemed like a big old heap of enabling in the amount that I read. I genuinely could not keep going.
Did Not Finish
June 23, 202658%
Well. Sorry I can't
Juvenile banter
Repetitive
Over explained everything. You dont need to use your brain or read between the lines.
Everything is dissected for you.
Like a mama bird feeing her baby
I'm just not interested. Loved hearing fmc dealing with her environment and food. Coping with being around people.
But nothing was keeping me in this book.
Well. Sorry I can't
Juvenile banter
Repetitive
Over explained everything. You dont need to use your brain or read between the lines.
Everything is dissected for you.
Like a mama bird feeing her baby
I'm just not interested. Loved hearing fmc dealing with her environment and food. Coping with being around people.
But nothing was keeping me in this book.
May 9, 2026
This book was just okay. The writing was soooooo repetitive, and istg she used the same outline for every. Single. Sentence. It was a lot of: not __. Just____. And THE ELLIPSES. Oh my gosh. I cannot. Why is there a “…” every paragraph. Also, everyone treating her like a child when she is a GROWN ADULT had me forgetting this was a romance!! The storyline was cute, but it didn’t feel like we actually got anywhere. The whole book felt like that one scene in Radio Rebel when she’s standing on the roof like “I’m scared to be the real ME”.
July 20, 2026
So much more than a hockey romance.
Harlow and Grayson have such a sweet and quiet love.
I found myself emotional, watching Harlow find her true self after everything she’s gone through was truly beautiful.
Grayson had his own obstacles and he showed tremendous strength and determination throughout the entire book. He was always there for Harlow, in every way possible, even on his worse days.
Kai won me over instantly. He had such love and affection for his sister. Always trying to keep her safe from the ugly world without being over dramatic. It was just beautifully done.
Huge props to the playlist for setting the perfect 2000s vibes. 🥰
The audiobook was perfect, both Lee Samuels and June deBorahae did such a good job. I love a good duet narration! 👏 Lee really brought Grayson to life and gave him such a sweet and gentle voice that totally fit his character.
Thanks to Hambright Pr for this ALC & ARC
Harlow and Grayson have such a sweet and quiet love.
I found myself emotional, watching Harlow find her true self after everything she’s gone through was truly beautiful.
Grayson had his own obstacles and he showed tremendous strength and determination throughout the entire book. He was always there for Harlow, in every way possible, even on his worse days.
Kai won me over instantly. He had such love and affection for his sister. Always trying to keep her safe from the ugly world without being over dramatic. It was just beautifully done.
Huge props to the playlist for setting the perfect 2000s vibes. 🥰
The audiobook was perfect, both Lee Samuels and June deBorahae did such a good job. I love a good duet narration! 👏 Lee really brought Grayson to life and gave him such a sweet and gentle voice that totally fit his character.
Thanks to Hambright Pr for this ALC & ARC
May 4, 2026
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
For a brother that was very protective and watchful of Harlow...there was no drama from him about his sister and friend and I'm sad about that. That's my favorite thing about the brothers best-friend trope and this one didn't really hit the mark with that. Overall though, still a decent read.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
For a brother that was very protective and watchful of Harlow...there was no drama from him about his sister and friend and I'm sad about that. That's my favorite thing about the brothers best-friend trope and this one didn't really hit the mark with that. Overall though, still a decent read.
June 17, 2026
Book Title: Kiss Me First (PCU Ice Storm Book 1)
Author: Riley Paige
Publishers: Riley Paige (Independent) + East House Productions
Pub Date: April 16, 2026 + TBD (Audiobook)
Dates Read/Listened: June 15, 2026 – June 16, 2026
🗣️ 𝚀𝚞𝚒𝚌𝚔(𝚒𝚜𝚑) 𝚃𝚊𝚔𝚎: This was my first time reading Riley Paige, but I can guarantee it won’t be my last! Kiss Me First isn’t your average hockey romance, and it’s been a minute since I read something in a college setting. It was a sweet read, but it deals with heavier topics as well as mental health issues, so it is important to check triggers prior to reading. I thought Paige handled the triggers respectfully, and it made my heart hurt for both our MC’s but especially Harlow. The romance between Harlow and Grayson was cute and slow, and I enjoyed them getting to know each other at the same time as their online personas. The only thing I found to be a bit lacking here was banter, and though there was a little, I was definitely hoping for much more. That is more of a personal preference, and this is an emotionally charged read that left me excited for book two!
🎧 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘶𝘥𝘪𝘰𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬: The audio for this book was fantastic with Lee Samuels and June deBorahae in duet narration. I thought they fit their characters perfectly and breathed so much life into them both. The fact that this was done in a duet made it even more memorable, and if you didn’t know, it is now my favorite thing, especially when it comes to romance. I would 100% recommend listening to the audiobook when it comes out, which is supposed to be in late June or early July. So, keep those eyes peeled!
T͏h͏i͏s͏ B͏o͏o͏k͏ i͏n͏ 5͏ E͏m͏o͏j͏i͏’s͏ o͏r͏ L͏e͏s͏s͏: 📱🥯❤️🩹🏒
𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
𝙰𝚞𝚍𝚒𝚘𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
𝙼𝚢 𝚂𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚎 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🌶️
I received an advanced listening copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Author: Riley Paige
Publishers: Riley Paige (Independent) + East House Productions
Pub Date: April 16, 2026 + TBD (Audiobook)
Dates Read/Listened: June 15, 2026 – June 16, 2026
🗣️ 𝚀𝚞𝚒𝚌𝚔(𝚒𝚜𝚑) 𝚃𝚊𝚔𝚎: This was my first time reading Riley Paige, but I can guarantee it won’t be my last! Kiss Me First isn’t your average hockey romance, and it’s been a minute since I read something in a college setting. It was a sweet read, but it deals with heavier topics as well as mental health issues, so it is important to check triggers prior to reading. I thought Paige handled the triggers respectfully, and it made my heart hurt for both our MC’s but especially Harlow. The romance between Harlow and Grayson was cute and slow, and I enjoyed them getting to know each other at the same time as their online personas. The only thing I found to be a bit lacking here was banter, and though there was a little, I was definitely hoping for much more. That is more of a personal preference, and this is an emotionally charged read that left me excited for book two!
🎧 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘶𝘥𝘪𝘰𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬: The audio for this book was fantastic with Lee Samuels and June deBorahae in duet narration. I thought they fit their characters perfectly and breathed so much life into them both. The fact that this was done in a duet made it even more memorable, and if you didn’t know, it is now my favorite thing, especially when it comes to romance. I would 100% recommend listening to the audiobook when it comes out, which is supposed to be in late June or early July. So, keep those eyes peeled!
T͏h͏i͏s͏ B͏o͏o͏k͏ i͏n͏ 5͏ E͏m͏o͏j͏i͏’s͏ o͏r͏ L͏e͏s͏s͏: 📱🥯❤️🩹🏒
𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
𝙰𝚞𝚍𝚒𝚘𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
𝙼𝚢 𝚂𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚎 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🌶️
I received an advanced listening copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 24, 2026
Hockey romances aren’t normally good for me mainly bc I don’t like the whole stereotypical playboy hockey player thing or just the sexualization of any sport in general but especially hockey. I can’t say I loved the characters in this because it honestly felt like they were in middle school instead of college. I did like Harlow and Weston’s relationship it reminded me of Rio and Indy from the Windy City Series. I do think this could have been a good 100 pages shorter but I loved the pen pal plot. The thing that makes me mad about hockey romances is that they are all the same. They have a rival game with a team and someone who one of the players has a past with and then the rival player says something about the fmc and the mmc completely loses it and honestly I’m always on the coaches side w/these kinda things because especially playing such a heavy contact sport you have to have your temper in control and I understand that but still. Idk if I’ll finish the series even tho I love Kai and Wren’s dynamic so I might but idk yet.
June 22, 2026
I really enjoyed the audio for Kiss Me First. The duet narration truly brought this story to life and made me feel even more connected to the characters.
Harlow and Grayson first meet on a chat platform for people with insomnia, but when their real lives unexpectedly collide, their connection becomes something special. Grayson completely stole my heart with how effortlessly he understood Harlow and seemed to know exactly what she needed. Swoon.
Harlow has her own struggles to overcome, and watching her find someone who truly sees and understands her made this story all the more meaningful. This hockey romance has so much more depth than I expected, with plenty of heart alongside the romance.
If you’re an audiobook lover, I highly recommend picking this one up in audio format.
Harlow and Grayson first meet on a chat platform for people with insomnia, but when their real lives unexpectedly collide, their connection becomes something special. Grayson completely stole my heart with how effortlessly he understood Harlow and seemed to know exactly what she needed. Swoon.
Harlow has her own struggles to overcome, and watching her find someone who truly sees and understands her made this story all the more meaningful. This hockey romance has so much more depth than I expected, with plenty of heart alongside the romance.
If you’re an audiobook lover, I highly recommend picking this one up in audio format.
April 30, 2026
WTF was that…
Was this written by ChatGPT??? I swair to sweet peat that’s what my ChatGPT sounds like when I pop in the message with a problem…and then the story line was like watching a worm move across the driveway in the middle of summer ….it just shriveld up half way through! I love a good slow burn but this was so slow it burnt!!
If someone asked me “you okay” THAT MUCH…I’d go mental…it’s her brother, her brothers teammates, her friend, her family…and then she says “it’s ok if you ask me if I’m ok and if I say I’m fine your allowed to ask me again” NAHHH GIRL- we don’t play games just answer honestly the first time!!!
I 1000% understand the sensitivity around food insecurity, eating disorders and the trauma that surrounds it! But SWEET JESUS…they treat her as if she’s glass from an incident several years ago and then she meets a very soft, very sensitive, very passive MMC
I feel like he tried to be more but Lordy it just wasn’t there
I think the idea for the plot was there - met online—turns out to be brothers roommate/teammate situation, FMC a little wounded, MMC has some bruises- but they make each other better …coulda been good!
Was this written by ChatGPT??? I swair to sweet peat that’s what my ChatGPT sounds like when I pop in the message with a problem…and then the story line was like watching a worm move across the driveway in the middle of summer ….it just shriveld up half way through! I love a good slow burn but this was so slow it burnt!!
If someone asked me “you okay” THAT MUCH…I’d go mental…it’s her brother, her brothers teammates, her friend, her family…and then she says “it’s ok if you ask me if I’m ok and if I say I’m fine your allowed to ask me again” NAHHH GIRL- we don’t play games just answer honestly the first time!!!
I 1000% understand the sensitivity around food insecurity, eating disorders and the trauma that surrounds it! But SWEET JESUS…they treat her as if she’s glass from an incident several years ago and then she meets a very soft, very sensitive, very passive MMC
I feel like he tried to be more but Lordy it just wasn’t there
I think the idea for the plot was there - met online—turns out to be brothers roommate/teammate situation, FMC a little wounded, MMC has some bruises- but they make each other better …coulda been good!
April 28, 2026
I had to, unfortunately, DNF this. I have read all of Riley’s other books and really enjoyed them, but this FMC is insufferable. 35% in and the main characters have barely spoken to each other and everyone treats the FMC as if she is the most fragile thing on the planet. Her brother is constantly hovering over her and he doesn’t let his teammates be themselves around her because “it’s too much for her”. We have barely learned anything about the MMC because everyone is too busy trying not to scare away the FMC by simply talking to her. Also, at this point in the book, I do not see any chemistry between the main characters. I am lost as to why the FMC is so fragile. The only trauma I’ve read so far is her ex used to call her fat and told her to lose weight in high school. It’s about 6 years later and you are still seeing a therapist twice a week? Hopefully other books in this series will have better chemistry and not have such weak characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2026
I really like this author and her formula for emotional sports romance.
This one fell a bit flat. It was really repetitive throughout and the characters felt mundane in comparison to Riley's other stories. It was a lighter and softer tone than some of her previous novels, which just didn't quite pack any punch. I read this a week ago and already had forgotten most of it. I found Harlow to be insufferable, when I should have been rooting for her. I could go a lifetime without having to read about her eating another bagel.
- MFC with eating disorder and terrible ex -boyfriend
- Brother's best friend
- hidden identity
- friends to lovers
- Hockey romance
This one fell a bit flat. It was really repetitive throughout and the characters felt mundane in comparison to Riley's other stories. It was a lighter and softer tone than some of her previous novels, which just didn't quite pack any punch. I read this a week ago and already had forgotten most of it. I found Harlow to be insufferable, when I should have been rooting for her. I could go a lifetime without having to read about her eating another bagel.
- MFC with eating disorder and terrible ex -boyfriend
- Brother's best friend
- hidden identity
- friends to lovers
- Hockey romance
May 1, 2026
Made it to chapter 12 before I called it quits. The dialogue between Harlow and Grayson is so repetitive without ever saying anything? There’s zero chemistry between them, and their conversations fall flat. It felt like the author was trying to do some dramatic foreshadowing, but has somehow dragged it on for so long I have no idea what’s going on anymore. I held on until the end of chapter 11 when Harlow mentions not hating a social event that hadn’t happened yet and I just couldn’t do it any more.
April 13, 2026
I enjoyed the story of Harlow and Grayson overall, but I can already tell that this is not going to be my favorite book in the series because the other four roommates/teammates featured in Kiss Me First have me more intrigued than Grayson did.
Let me start by saying: please read the trigger warnings. I like going into the books I read blind, usually choosing stories based only on the tropes or the author. I don't usually get triggered by things, but that doesn't mean that I don't get emotional with the plot. If you read any of Riley's previous books, you know that they are emotionally charged books, dealing with many mental health issues, such as OCD, anxiety, death...etc. I thought I was prepared when I started Kiss Me First. However, I really felt the weight of the emotional trauma and mental load of both Harlow and Grayson in this book, especially for the first 50%. Maybe it was the book's focus on trauma, or maybe I was just more hormonal when I read it, but it took a lot of effort to get through the start of Kiss Me First. It wasn't just Harlow and Kai's mental state, but also the intensity coming off of Kai (Harlow's brother) and the interactions amongst the group, that really made me push through. Finally, finally, we started to see a sliver of light at the end of the dark tunnel at the 55-56 percent mark of the book, and it got easier to read. By this point, I was able to read larger chunks of the book in a single sitting because, up until then, I couldn't get through too many pages without being distracted (or needing a distraction) from the book.
Weston Cooper was a great source of comedic relief, and his character reminds me so much of the ones we have seen in multiple books in this genre. That just means I can't wait to finally get to his book, because I know he is going to have a traumatic backstory... anyone who uses that much humor and deflection and seeks that much affection is probably compensating for a lack of affection in their childhood.
However, Weston wasn't enough to pull me out of the "blues and dark spot" this book had me in emotionally. However, once Wren returned home (Wren is Harlow's childhood bff), I cheered up. She is the ultimate inspiration for girl power friendships. She is funny, upbeat, and optimistic. She comes with her own emotional baggage, and believe me, I KNOW her story will be good, but she was a breath of fresh air in this story, and she really is Harlow's cheerleader. I can't wait for the next book where we will get a second-chance love story between Wren and . I cannot wait.
We obviously got to learn about Grayson's trauma and backstory, but this book felt more about Harlow than about the couple. I wish we had more of Grayson, maybe some closure around his family dynamic. I don't know. I feel that his personal journey was barely scratched. While Harlow works hard every day on her mental health, and the two of them as a couple are building a future together, Grayson's personal plot was abandoned. It was mentioned as a reason for his current emotional state, but no action was taken to move forward, resolve, or heal. While the rest of the series will dive into the lives of the other three hockey players living in the same house and playing on the same team, I feel that Kiss Me First needs a part 2 just to finish Grayson's story.
Thank you Riley and team for the opportunity to read an ARC of this story.
Let me start by saying: please read the trigger warnings. I like going into the books I read blind, usually choosing stories based only on the tropes or the author. I don't usually get triggered by things, but that doesn't mean that I don't get emotional with the plot. If you read any of Riley's previous books, you know that they are emotionally charged books, dealing with many mental health issues, such as OCD, anxiety, death...etc. I thought I was prepared when I started Kiss Me First. However, I really felt the weight of the emotional trauma and mental load of both Harlow and Grayson in this book, especially for the first 50%. Maybe it was the book's focus on trauma, or maybe I was just more hormonal when I read it, but it took a lot of effort to get through the start of Kiss Me First. It wasn't just Harlow and Kai's mental state, but also the intensity coming off of Kai (Harlow's brother) and the interactions amongst the group, that really made me push through. Finally, finally, we started to see a sliver of light at the end of the dark tunnel at the 55-56 percent mark of the book, and it got easier to read. By this point, I was able to read larger chunks of the book in a single sitting because, up until then, I couldn't get through too many pages without being distracted (or needing a distraction) from the book.
Weston Cooper was a great source of comedic relief, and his character reminds me so much of the ones we have seen in multiple books in this genre. That just means I can't wait to finally get to his book, because I know he is going to have a traumatic backstory... anyone who uses that much humor and deflection and seeks that much affection is probably compensating for a lack of affection in their childhood.
However, Weston wasn't enough to pull me out of the "blues and dark spot" this book had me in emotionally. However, once Wren returned home (Wren is Harlow's childhood bff), I cheered up. She is the ultimate inspiration for girl power friendships. She is funny, upbeat, and optimistic. She comes with her own emotional baggage, and believe me, I KNOW her story will be good, but she was a breath of fresh air in this story, and she really is Harlow's cheerleader. I can't wait for the next book where we will get a second-chance love story between Wren and . I cannot wait.
We obviously got to learn about Grayson's trauma and backstory, but this book felt more about Harlow than about the couple. I wish we had more of Grayson, maybe some closure around his family dynamic. I don't know. I feel that his personal journey was barely scratched. While Harlow works hard every day on her mental health, and the two of them as a couple are building a future together, Grayson's personal plot was abandoned. It was mentioned as a reason for his current emotional state, but no action was taken to move forward, resolve, or heal. While the rest of the series will dive into the lives of the other three hockey players living in the same house and playing on the same team, I feel that Kiss Me First needs a part 2 just to finish Grayson's story.
Thank you Riley and team for the opportunity to read an ARC of this story.
June 30, 2026
3.25
~hockey romance
~he falls first
~teammate's little sister
~she's so fragile
~slow burn
~a few scenes of semi-detailed spice
Harlow and Grayson both write anonymously to each other on the campus insomnia thread. But they know each other in real life, they just haven't pieced it together...yet. Both of them having trauma to work through and maybe they can come together.
it was a fairly normal run of the mill college hockey romance. I liked it but I didn't love it/
They both have trauma they need to work through, and they only will get there with each other. Everyone treated the MFC so delicately like she couldn't handle the wind blowing the wrong way. I understand she's got a lot of stuff to work through, and she could probably work through some more things still. There was lot of telling of the feelings of the characters instead of showing how they feel. Much more into the light feeling reading even with their issues. It was a fine book; she was fine everything thing was fine. (a reoccurring theme of the book, the MFC is "fine" even though she's struggling). This is part one of a series and I would think about reading the next one when it comes out.
The duet narration was well done, and it helped bring the characters to life.
(I received an early listen copy to listen and give my honest opinions)
~hockey romance
~he falls first
~teammate's little sister
~she's so fragile
~slow burn
~a few scenes of semi-detailed spice
Harlow and Grayson both write anonymously to each other on the campus insomnia thread. But they know each other in real life, they just haven't pieced it together...yet. Both of them having trauma to work through and maybe they can come together.
it was a fairly normal run of the mill college hockey romance. I liked it but I didn't love it/
They both have trauma they need to work through, and they only will get there with each other. Everyone treated the MFC so delicately like she couldn't handle the wind blowing the wrong way. I understand she's got a lot of stuff to work through, and she could probably work through some more things still. There was lot of telling of the feelings of the characters instead of showing how they feel. Much more into the light feeling reading even with their issues. It was a fine book; she was fine everything thing was fine. (a reoccurring theme of the book, the MFC is "fine" even though she's struggling). This is part one of a series and I would think about reading the next one when it comes out.
The duet narration was well done, and it helped bring the characters to life.
(I received an early listen copy to listen and give my honest opinions)
July 1, 2026
I give this a 3.5 but rounded up for Good reads
Kiss Me First handles difficult subjects with a softness that feels safe.
The author didn’t shy away from the hard parts , anxiety, trauma, the long road back to feeling whole, but writes them with care. The story is emotional without being overwhelming, and our FMCs growth feels earned.
I did feel there were some holes on them plot and would have liked a more in depth of what happened in the past for both the fmc and mmc.
Kiss Me First handles difficult subjects with a softness that feels safe.
The author didn’t shy away from the hard parts , anxiety, trauma, the long road back to feeling whole, but writes them with care. The story is emotional without being overwhelming, and our FMCs growth feels earned.
I did feel there were some holes on them plot and would have liked a more in depth of what happened in the past for both the fmc and mmc.
June 22, 2026
4.5 stars. I really liked Harlow and Grayson’s story! They both had a lot of past trauma to over come but healing, trust and love prevails and is definitely earned here. I also appreciate the fact that there are quite a bit of of on ice and hockey interactions in this story. A lot of “hockey romances” is mostly just romance and relationships off the ice. Well done for sure !!
Did Not Finish
June 24, 2026Dnf at 25%. Did not vibe with either of the characters and felt like their online conversations were so repetitive and mundane. I liked the mental health rep in this though, but not enough to continue.
July 12, 2026
Thanks to Hambright for the complimentary ALC and ebook of Kiss Me First by Riley Paige. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Grayson Bennett, star hockey player at PCU, can't sleep. He spends most nights tossing and turning when he isn't on the PCU insomnia thread talking to his confidant, LittleTooMuch. The two of them met on the forum and have become close, sharing their struggles with insomnia, social anxiety, and the challenges of college. Things are heating up during hockey season, with scouts from the NHL coming to PCU to watch Grayson play, so the pressure has intensified. Things get even more complicated with his team when he meets Harlow Mercer, his team captain and roommate's little sister.
Harlow is on campus for the first time as a junior at PCU. She finished high school and completed her first two years of college entirely online, so it's been a huge culture shock to return to school in person. After years of therapy for an eating disorder and anxiety, Harlow is doing better at taking care of herself physically and emotionally, but she still has bad days that aren't helped by her brother's hovering. She's found one friend on the PCU insomnia thread who seems to understand her struggles, a user called NumberEleven. When she meets Grayson Bennett, she finds another person at PCU who helps her relax in social situations and seems to understand what she's going through, just like her internet friend.
Kiss Me First is my fifth Riley Paige book. I've been advance reading for her since her debut, so I feel like I'm prepared for what I'll get with one of her books. She likes meaty, emotional stories where her characters are working through real trauma on the page. She is also a bit of a maximalist when it comes to word count, so be prepared for a hefty read.
The strongest part of Kiss Me First was Harlow's story. She had a really rough experience in high school that triggered an eating disorder, which has led to long-term health issues. College is especially challenging for her because of the lack of structure around meals. The dining hall is sort of a free-for-all, where there are too many choices and too many people. I really appreciated seeing her figure out how to navigate that throughout the story, and I thought her mental health issues were handled with care.
I struggled with this book because of two things. First, I don't want to read about actual hockey when I pick up a hockey romance. We spent so much time on the ice with Grayson, both in practice and during games, and I honestly don't want or need that in my hockey romance. A couple of sentences recapping a hard practice would be enough. Those scenes added a lot of unnecessary length to the book. The other challenge I had was that Grayson was entirely too emotionally mature for a 21-year-old hockey player who hasn't had a day of therapy. I just didn't buy a lot of the dialogue coming from him. He was too perfect, which I don't find interesting.
The narrators did a great job with the audiobook. I listened to about 60% of the book in audio and then read the ebook for the rest. The audiobook is in duet narration, and I think both narrators did a great job with their characters. The male narrator, in particular, had a big task because he had to do the voices for all the hockey players. I was able to distinguish each character easily, which is no small feat with a cast this size.
Overall, this was fine. If you like a lot of hockey in your hockey romance, you'll probably enjoy this one, but it definitely wasn't my favorite Riley Paige book. 3 stars.
Grayson Bennett, star hockey player at PCU, can't sleep. He spends most nights tossing and turning when he isn't on the PCU insomnia thread talking to his confidant, LittleTooMuch. The two of them met on the forum and have become close, sharing their struggles with insomnia, social anxiety, and the challenges of college. Things are heating up during hockey season, with scouts from the NHL coming to PCU to watch Grayson play, so the pressure has intensified. Things get even more complicated with his team when he meets Harlow Mercer, his team captain and roommate's little sister.
Harlow is on campus for the first time as a junior at PCU. She finished high school and completed her first two years of college entirely online, so it's been a huge culture shock to return to school in person. After years of therapy for an eating disorder and anxiety, Harlow is doing better at taking care of herself physically and emotionally, but she still has bad days that aren't helped by her brother's hovering. She's found one friend on the PCU insomnia thread who seems to understand her struggles, a user called NumberEleven. When she meets Grayson Bennett, she finds another person at PCU who helps her relax in social situations and seems to understand what she's going through, just like her internet friend.
Kiss Me First is my fifth Riley Paige book. I've been advance reading for her since her debut, so I feel like I'm prepared for what I'll get with one of her books. She likes meaty, emotional stories where her characters are working through real trauma on the page. She is also a bit of a maximalist when it comes to word count, so be prepared for a hefty read.
The strongest part of Kiss Me First was Harlow's story. She had a really rough experience in high school that triggered an eating disorder, which has led to long-term health issues. College is especially challenging for her because of the lack of structure around meals. The dining hall is sort of a free-for-all, where there are too many choices and too many people. I really appreciated seeing her figure out how to navigate that throughout the story, and I thought her mental health issues were handled with care.
I struggled with this book because of two things. First, I don't want to read about actual hockey when I pick up a hockey romance. We spent so much time on the ice with Grayson, both in practice and during games, and I honestly don't want or need that in my hockey romance. A couple of sentences recapping a hard practice would be enough. Those scenes added a lot of unnecessary length to the book. The other challenge I had was that Grayson was entirely too emotionally mature for a 21-year-old hockey player who hasn't had a day of therapy. I just didn't buy a lot of the dialogue coming from him. He was too perfect, which I don't find interesting.
The narrators did a great job with the audiobook. I listened to about 60% of the book in audio and then read the ebook for the rest. The audiobook is in duet narration, and I think both narrators did a great job with their characters. The male narrator, in particular, had a big task because he had to do the voices for all the hockey players. I was able to distinguish each character easily, which is no small feat with a cast this size.
Overall, this was fine. If you like a lot of hockey in your hockey romance, you'll probably enjoy this one, but it definitely wasn't my favorite Riley Paige book. 3 stars.
April 16, 2026
Every single one of Riley Paige’s displays characters with depth and she handles their trauma beautifully.
Harlow’s story broke as I read about her past that has caused her to be the way she is. A boy from her past was so awful to her and caused her issues that she can’t escape. She started the story as small and someone who would usually hide from everyone, but as the story went she grew and blossomed.
Grayson plays on the hockey team, but his life isn’t perfect. He has a past trauma that haunts him and causes him to lose sleep every night. But deep down he is so sweet and kind.
They have two separate relationships forming: one only that is anonymous and then in person where they understand one another and begin to develop a friendship. I loved how patient and understand Grayson was with her. He saw her, really saw her and accepted that things made her uncomfortable.
Their story was so beautiful. I also loved the side characters. I can’t wait to get their stories too and learn more about them.
Harlow’s story broke as I read about her past that has caused her to be the way she is. A boy from her past was so awful to her and caused her issues that she can’t escape. She started the story as small and someone who would usually hide from everyone, but as the story went she grew and blossomed.
Grayson plays on the hockey team, but his life isn’t perfect. He has a past trauma that haunts him and causes him to lose sleep every night. But deep down he is so sweet and kind.
They have two separate relationships forming: one only that is anonymous and then in person where they understand one another and begin to develop a friendship. I loved how patient and understand Grayson was with her. He saw her, really saw her and accepted that things made her uncomfortable.
Their story was so beautiful. I also loved the side characters. I can’t wait to get their stories too and learn more about them.
June 21, 2026
I don’t really know how to put this into neat words. It’s about two people who start talking through an insomnia forum and end up saying things there that they don’t say anywhere else. What they share feels more honest than how they are with other people, even when it’s personal or difficult.
In real life, she is his teammate’s sister, and when they are around each other that fact changes how they act. There are pauses, careful choices in what they say, and things they hold back even when nothing is directly addressed.
At some point, they start to understand more about each other in real life too, in a way that builds gradually rather than being clearly explained or defined. I can’t go into everything without giving too much away, but it shifts how they are with each other.
Nothing between them becomes neatly defined or fully resolved, and that’s part of what makes their interactions feel so present even when so much is left unspoken.
In real life, she is his teammate’s sister, and when they are around each other that fact changes how they act. There are pauses, careful choices in what they say, and things they hold back even when nothing is directly addressed.
At some point, they start to understand more about each other in real life too, in a way that builds gradually rather than being clearly explained or defined. I can’t go into everything without giving too much away, but it shifts how they are with each other.
Nothing between them becomes neatly defined or fully resolved, and that’s part of what makes their interactions feel so present even when so much is left unspoken.
July 18, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✨ (3.5/5)
Overall, I enjoyed the story, but it wasn’t quite a perfect fit for me. It took a while to really pull me in, and the pacing felt a bit slow in places, making it drag at times.
One small thing that stood out was the repetitive use of “a beat.” It appeared often enough that it became distracting and pulled my attention away from the story itself.
That said, I still found myself invested in the characters and enjoyed where the story ultimately went. By the end, it started giving me Off-Campus vibes, which I know so many readers love. If you’re a fan of hockey romance, college romance, and a slower build that pays off in the end, I think this one could be a great fit for you—even if it wasn’t a standout read for me.
Thank you for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, but it wasn’t quite a perfect fit for me. It took a while to really pull me in, and the pacing felt a bit slow in places, making it drag at times.
One small thing that stood out was the repetitive use of “a beat.” It appeared often enough that it became distracting and pulled my attention away from the story itself.
That said, I still found myself invested in the characters and enjoyed where the story ultimately went. By the end, it started giving me Off-Campus vibes, which I know so many readers love. If you’re a fan of hockey romance, college romance, and a slower build that pays off in the end, I think this one could be a great fit for you—even if it wasn’t a standout read for me.
Thank you for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 13, 2026
kiss me first arc
Grayson and Harlow are very unique individuals who suffer in silence but once they found their way to one another it opened up their eyes and hearts to something that could truly be magical. Real Love.
He feels like a safe space for her and that’s such a relief while she’s still adjusting to college life and from her own personal struggles. He always knows what to say and how to act to help her feel comfortable and confident and that makes him a rare gem 💎
These characters were anxious beans but i loved their personalities and their love for each other was so special. i’m obsessed with Weston’s golden retriever energy and Kai’s protectiveness as a brother.
🏒anonymous pen pals
🏒hockey romance
🏒college setting
🏒teammates sister
🏒mental health
🏒brothers best friend
🏒he falls first
Grayson and Harlow are very unique individuals who suffer in silence but once they found their way to one another it opened up their eyes and hearts to something that could truly be magical. Real Love.
He feels like a safe space for her and that’s such a relief while she’s still adjusting to college life and from her own personal struggles. He always knows what to say and how to act to help her feel comfortable and confident and that makes him a rare gem 💎
These characters were anxious beans but i loved their personalities and their love for each other was so special. i’m obsessed with Weston’s golden retriever energy and Kai’s protectiveness as a brother.
🏒anonymous pen pals
🏒hockey romance
🏒college setting
🏒teammates sister
🏒mental health
🏒brothers best friend
🏒he falls first
April 15, 2026
Kiss Me First was an endearing read with two college students facing their past traumas. This brother’s best friend, secret identity hockey romance with anonymous messages was a joy to read. Harlow and Grayson first meet in a Campus Forum and then when Harlow meets her brother’s roommate who is also his teammate. Their connection is instant yet they don’t know they have secretly discovered each other’s secrets before in the forum. Honestly the way Grayson is with Harlow is next level and both their growth was a pleasure to read. I adored all the supporting characters too and can’t wait to read their stories. If you adore a hockey romance with charming characters then this would be perfect for you.
Between a 4 1/2 and 5 🌟 I received a complementary copy from the author.
Between a 4 1/2 and 5 🌟 I received a complementary copy from the author.
June 24, 2026
Overall this was a really good Hockey Romance book! I loved Harlo and Grey's story, the connection they shared and the problem they both faced with insomnia for different reasons.
Listening to Harlo struggle with an Eating Disorder was hard, as that really hit home for me. I emphasized with her deeply and was so happy she found peace with Greyson.
Although I have not lost a sibling like Greyson had, the author did a fantastic job at translating his pain for the readers to feel.
My only real problems were the pacing of this book, it felt really slow, and then it also felt like it abruptly ended. To journey that far for Thanksgiving and to start to describe the atmosphere, only to end it what felt like 10% in was a little disappointing.
Listening to Harlo struggle with an Eating Disorder was hard, as that really hit home for me. I emphasized with her deeply and was so happy she found peace with Greyson.
Although I have not lost a sibling like Greyson had, the author did a fantastic job at translating his pain for the readers to feel.
My only real problems were the pacing of this book, it felt really slow, and then it also felt like it abruptly ended. To journey that far for Thanksgiving and to start to describe the atmosphere, only to end it what felt like 10% in was a little disappointing.
July 3, 2026
I thought this book was cute.
I did find it a bit young in the dialogue but it was still very enjoyable and cute.
I listened to the audiobook and I loved the narration!! I feel it was done very well!
Our story follow Harlow and Grayson! They meet without knowing it on a school forum for students that can’t sleep and they really hit it off!
When they meet in person they start connecting the dots and find out they have more in common than they knew! Lol
It’s a hockey romance and touches on some sensitive topics such as eating disorders so be sure to protect your mental health!
I really enjoyed the banter between our main characters as well as the side characters! Weston was a blast and I fell inlove with him immediately!
I would definitely recommend this one!
I did find it a bit young in the dialogue but it was still very enjoyable and cute.
I listened to the audiobook and I loved the narration!! I feel it was done very well!
Our story follow Harlow and Grayson! They meet without knowing it on a school forum for students that can’t sleep and they really hit it off!
When they meet in person they start connecting the dots and find out they have more in common than they knew! Lol
It’s a hockey romance and touches on some sensitive topics such as eating disorders so be sure to protect your mental health!
I really enjoyed the banter between our main characters as well as the side characters! Weston was a blast and I fell inlove with him immediately!
I would definitely recommend this one!
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