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Her Game Of Hearts
A chance encounter in her office throws Esmé Marlow into the orbit of three sinfully hot hockey players—who also happen to be best friends. The only problem? They all want her.
Archer hides behind a carefully constructed façade, but Esmé sees the wounded man beneath the mask. Wyatt’s walls are crumbling fast, and he’s falling—hard. The question will she be the safe place he lands? And River? He thinks charm and good looks will be enough, but Esmé doesn’t fall for smooth lines or cocky grins—she’s done being anyone’s fantasy.
She wants something real. Something honest. She’s not some puck bunny looking for a good time—she’s a former soldier with scars of her own, and a past she’s not sure she’s ready to share.
But they’re not perfect either.
Can she trust them with the truth of who she really is? And when the battle for her heart heats up, how do you choose between three?
Her Game of Hearts is a sinfully steamy, emotional, slow-burn “why choose” hockey romance packed with heat, heartbreak, healing, and three irresistible men who refuse to let Esmé go.
Archer hides behind a carefully constructed façade, but Esmé sees the wounded man beneath the mask. Wyatt’s walls are crumbling fast, and he’s falling—hard. The question will she be the safe place he lands? And River? He thinks charm and good looks will be enough, but Esmé doesn’t fall for smooth lines or cocky grins—she’s done being anyone’s fantasy.
She wants something real. Something honest. She’s not some puck bunny looking for a good time—she’s a former soldier with scars of her own, and a past she’s not sure she’s ready to share.
But they’re not perfect either.
Can she trust them with the truth of who she really is? And when the battle for her heart heats up, how do you choose between three?
Her Game of Hearts is a sinfully steamy, emotional, slow-burn “why choose” hockey romance packed with heat, heartbreak, healing, and three irresistible men who refuse to let Esmé go.
445 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 10, 2026
7 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Her Game of Hearts
Elle Shane
4⭐
Goodness, what a story! Emotional, real, and amazing banter. Not to mention the three hawt hockey players and a kickass FMC.
This book goes to show that being emotionally available is sexy and you don't have to go through it alone. The characters go through so much growth from their past trauma and learning to lean on each other for support. I couldn't put it down once I started.
Don't get me wrong, the spice is spicing, but I loved that the author gave us all the emotional turmoil and joy that comes with being in relationships. The hockey knowledge was amazing as well, one scene felt like I was listening to an announcer.
Just like Esme, I don't think I could pick a favorite. Archer, River, and Wyatt are all amazing. Actually, this whole cast of characters is amazing and I loved reading their story. I highly recommend this book when it comes out!
Elle Shane
4⭐
Goodness, what a story! Emotional, real, and amazing banter. Not to mention the three hawt hockey players and a kickass FMC.
This book goes to show that being emotionally available is sexy and you don't have to go through it alone. The characters go through so much growth from their past trauma and learning to lean on each other for support. I couldn't put it down once I started.
Don't get me wrong, the spice is spicing, but I loved that the author gave us all the emotional turmoil and joy that comes with being in relationships. The hockey knowledge was amazing as well, one scene felt like I was listening to an announcer.
Just like Esme, I don't think I could pick a favorite. Archer, River, and Wyatt are all amazing. Actually, this whole cast of characters is amazing and I loved reading their story. I highly recommend this book when it comes out!
February 12, 2026
Her Game of Hearts is emotional, grounded, packed with sharp banter, and all wrapped up in a why choose hockey romance that absolutely delivered. For this to be Elle Shane's debut novel, well done love, well done.
Esmé is a fierce, capable FMC, and the three hockey players orbiting her...Archer, River, and Wyatt...are each compelling in their own way. Confident athletes with actual emotional depth? Yes, please.
What really stood out to me was how much heart this story has. It isn’t just about chemistry (though trust me, the chemistry is very much there 🔥). It’s about healing, learning how to lean on other people, and realizing that vulnerability is just as attractive as strength. The book doesn’t shy away from heavy topics like trauma, mental health struggles, addiction, and complicated pasts, but those elements are handled with care and intention, adding real weight to the relationships. Watching these characters grow, individually and together, was incredibly satisfying.
And let’s talk hockey for a second. The sports detail felt authentic and immersive. I don't know much about hockey, okay I really don't know anything about Hockey. But, there were moments where the game scenes were so vivid they felt play-by-play. I know Elle visited the boy aquarium several times while writing this and it shows that she put in the time and did her research.
As for picking a favorite love interest? Impossible. Each of the guys brings something different to Esmé’s life, emotionally and romantically, and that balance is what makes this why choose shine.
Elle Shane absolutely nailed her debut...angsty, heartfelt, spicy, and full of connection. 🖤🏒
Esmé is a fierce, capable FMC, and the three hockey players orbiting her...Archer, River, and Wyatt...are each compelling in their own way. Confident athletes with actual emotional depth? Yes, please.
What really stood out to me was how much heart this story has. It isn’t just about chemistry (though trust me, the chemistry is very much there 🔥). It’s about healing, learning how to lean on other people, and realizing that vulnerability is just as attractive as strength. The book doesn’t shy away from heavy topics like trauma, mental health struggles, addiction, and complicated pasts, but those elements are handled with care and intention, adding real weight to the relationships. Watching these characters grow, individually and together, was incredibly satisfying.
And let’s talk hockey for a second. The sports detail felt authentic and immersive. I don't know much about hockey, okay I really don't know anything about Hockey. But, there were moments where the game scenes were so vivid they felt play-by-play. I know Elle visited the boy aquarium several times while writing this and it shows that she put in the time and did her research.
As for picking a favorite love interest? Impossible. Each of the guys brings something different to Esmé’s life, emotionally and romantically, and that balance is what makes this why choose shine.
Elle Shane absolutely nailed her debut...angsty, heartfelt, spicy, and full of connection. 🖤🏒
February 11, 2026
If you’re a why choose hockey romance fan, Her Game of Hearts by Elle Shane absolutely needs to be on your radar.
Esme and her boys take us on quite the journey in this one…emotionally layered, messy in the best way, and deeply human. This isn’t just locker room tension and swoony hockey players (though don’t worry, that’s there too). It’s a story about healing, trust, and learning how to hold space for more than one kind of love.
One of the standout elements for me was the thoughtful representation of PTSD and other emotional and mental health struggles. The trauma doesn’t feel glossed over or used as a plot device. It’s woven into the characters’ identities in a way that feels honest and compassionate. You can tell Elle approached these themes with care, giving the characters room to process, stumble, and grow.
And the hockey was chefs kiss! The on ice scenes feel authentic and grounded, written by someone who clearly understands the sport. It adds a level of realism that makes the romance hit even harder.
Elle steps onto the ice with confidence, heart, and a strong command of both emotional depth and sports detail. I’m excited to see where she goes from here.
If you love found family vibes, emotionally complex characters, and a why choose dynamic that actually earns its emotional payoff, his one’s for you.
Esme and her boys take us on quite the journey in this one…emotionally layered, messy in the best way, and deeply human. This isn’t just locker room tension and swoony hockey players (though don’t worry, that’s there too). It’s a story about healing, trust, and learning how to hold space for more than one kind of love.
One of the standout elements for me was the thoughtful representation of PTSD and other emotional and mental health struggles. The trauma doesn’t feel glossed over or used as a plot device. It’s woven into the characters’ identities in a way that feels honest and compassionate. You can tell Elle approached these themes with care, giving the characters room to process, stumble, and grow.
And the hockey was chefs kiss! The on ice scenes feel authentic and grounded, written by someone who clearly understands the sport. It adds a level of realism that makes the romance hit even harder.
Elle steps onto the ice with confidence, heart, and a strong command of both emotional depth and sports detail. I’m excited to see where she goes from here.
If you love found family vibes, emotionally complex characters, and a why choose dynamic that actually earns its emotional payoff, his one’s for you.
February 10, 2026
✨ARC Review✨
Story: 4/5
Spice: 4/5
Elle Shane's debut novel Her Game of Hearts is just stunning with an amazing plot and I loved reading it! The character development is beautiful. Esmé, Archer, River, and Wyatt are three completely different individuals and yet they each bring something special to one another that the other didn't know they needed nor were worthy of.
Esmé an Army Veteran, who has PTSD from several different traumas. Before the three stunningly attractive professional hockey players came into her life, Esmé was completely "ok" with being by herself and sticking to her routine.
Archer, River, and Wyatt are best friends and play on the same professional hockey team. Each man is different and have their own anxieties. One thing they can agree on, is how they all want Esmé to be theirs. When they proposed that they all date but individually to then have Esmé choose, things get complicated!
Her Game of Hearts is a wonderful story of finding ones self worthy, facing past traumas, finding something within three people you never knew one needed. I on some level resonanted with these characters with my own self worth and traumas. And while the spice is spicy, it is just an added bonus to an already wonderful story.
Story: 4/5
Spice: 4/5
Elle Shane's debut novel Her Game of Hearts is just stunning with an amazing plot and I loved reading it! The character development is beautiful. Esmé, Archer, River, and Wyatt are three completely different individuals and yet they each bring something special to one another that the other didn't know they needed nor were worthy of.
Esmé an Army Veteran, who has PTSD from several different traumas. Before the three stunningly attractive professional hockey players came into her life, Esmé was completely "ok" with being by herself and sticking to her routine.
Archer, River, and Wyatt are best friends and play on the same professional hockey team. Each man is different and have their own anxieties. One thing they can agree on, is how they all want Esmé to be theirs. When they proposed that they all date but individually to then have Esmé choose, things get complicated!
Her Game of Hearts is a wonderful story of finding ones self worthy, facing past traumas, finding something within three people you never knew one needed. I on some level resonanted with these characters with my own self worth and traumas. And while the spice is spicy, it is just an added bonus to an already wonderful story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t read a lot of sports romances, and this was actually my first hockey romance — but the second I saw it was why choose, I was in. Why Choose will forever be my favorite trope. The idea of multiple people fulfilling a woman’s needs in different ways — not just physically, but emotionally too — is something I’ll never get tired of reading about.
Esmé, River, Wyatt, and Archer completely stole my heart. Each of them felt layered and real, and their dynamics were so compelling to watch unfold.
I also really appreciated the depth this story had. The way it handled PTSD, depression, addiction, and childhood trauma added so much emotional weight and made the characters’ journeys feel meaningful and authentic.
I’ve read a lot of why choose romances, and this one is easily in my top five — right up there with the Ryan series by Sadie Kincaid. If you love why choose with a hockey twist, this book is absolutely for you.
So grateful to the author for the opportunity to read this early!
Esmé, River, Wyatt, and Archer completely stole my heart. Each of them felt layered and real, and their dynamics were so compelling to watch unfold.
I also really appreciated the depth this story had. The way it handled PTSD, depression, addiction, and childhood trauma added so much emotional weight and made the characters’ journeys feel meaningful and authentic.
I’ve read a lot of why choose romances, and this one is easily in my top five — right up there with the Ryan series by Sadie Kincaid. If you love why choose with a hockey twist, this book is absolutely for you.
So grateful to the author for the opportunity to read this early!
February 11, 2026
I enjoyed the premise of this book and the overall dynamic between the characters. A why choose romance? Yes please. The story has a strong emotional core, and Esme’s personality stood out to me right away — she’s direct, honest, and unapologetic about what she wants, which made her an engaging main character to follow. The chemistry between the characters is clear, and the emotional and spicy moments were written with a lot of intensity and energy.
There are many strong moments throughout the book. Certain emotional lines and interactions really stood out, and when the story slows down to focus on vulnerability and connection, it shines. Elle clearly has a strong voice and a good sense for emotional tension, and I’m excited to see how her writing develops in future books.
There are many strong moments throughout the book. Certain emotional lines and interactions really stood out, and when the story slows down to focus on vulnerability and connection, it shines. Elle clearly has a strong voice and a good sense for emotional tension, and I’m excited to see how her writing develops in future books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a fantastic debut!
There were difficult things addressed in this story. Addiction, depression, PTSD, abuse. The dark, the messy, and the mistakes. All of it was handled with such care and dignity.
A sports romance and why choose is always an automatic yes. This didn't disappoint.
Esmé and her boys had the spice spicing and I couldn't get enough.
But their growth, dedication to healing, and shared love is what really brought this story full circle.
Highly highly recommend!
There were difficult things addressed in this story. Addiction, depression, PTSD, abuse. The dark, the messy, and the mistakes. All of it was handled with such care and dignity.
A sports romance and why choose is always an automatic yes. This didn't disappoint.
Esmé and her boys had the spice spicing and I couldn't get enough.
But their growth, dedication to healing, and shared love is what really brought this story full circle.
Highly highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book features a trope I’m still warming up too. The FMC finds herself at the center of attention from not one, not two, but three ridiculously hot, over-the-top, possessive hockey players, and honestly… I wasn’t mad about it.
Packed with spice (with MF, MFM, and MMMF moments—pick your favorite 😏), this story also delivers emotional depth with trauma, healing, and character growth on all sides. Add in twists, turns, and chemistry, and you get a wild ride. If you’re into OTT possessive men, hockey romance chaos, and high heat with heart, this one is worth checking out. 🥵🏒
Packed with spice (with MF, MFM, and MMMF moments—pick your favorite 😏), this story also delivers emotional depth with trauma, healing, and character growth on all sides. Add in twists, turns, and chemistry, and you get a wild ride. If you’re into OTT possessive men, hockey romance chaos, and high heat with heart, this one is worth checking out. 🥵🏒
February 26, 2026
I got recommended this book from Elle herself on a hockey TikTok lol 😆 I was super excited since hockey and why choose are chefs kiss
I found this book a fun read overall! DEFINITELY SPICY 😜🌶️🌶️🌶️ so if you are looking for a quick read with some filthy smut absolutely recommend! 🙌🏻
It was interesting to learn more about military experiences and trauma from the mfc as well as the different upbringings of the 3 mmcs. I wish we got to know more of their specific backstories but maybe that will be revealed more in other books.
I found this book a fun read overall! DEFINITELY SPICY 😜🌶️🌶️🌶️ so if you are looking for a quick read with some filthy smut absolutely recommend! 🙌🏻
It was interesting to learn more about military experiences and trauma from the mfc as well as the different upbringings of the 3 mmcs. I wish we got to know more of their specific backstories but maybe that will be revealed more in other books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A reverse harem hockey romance?! Sign me up instantly.
Esme meets and inexplicably feels drawn to River, Wyatt, and Archer all at the same time. Seeing the progression of the relationships in this book was interesting. All 4 of them face their own struggles but together, they find a way to make it all work. I enjoyed reading the romance and spice alongside the more realistic and serious issues within the book.
I do feel that the ending was a bit rushed, but overall I enjoyed the book!
Esme meets and inexplicably feels drawn to River, Wyatt, and Archer all at the same time. Seeing the progression of the relationships in this book was interesting. All 4 of them face their own struggles but together, they find a way to make it all work. I enjoyed reading the romance and spice alongside the more realistic and serious issues within the book.
I do feel that the ending was a bit rushed, but overall I enjoyed the book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was so much more than just a why choose hockey romance. The Connections between each of them & Esme was everything. I love how this wasnt just a spicy why choose, but also the emotional aspect of it as well. The PTSD, anxiety, family struggles. I would def check trigger warnings before reading this if you do have triggers, but if not prepare to fall in love Esme, Archer, Ryder & Wyatt ❤️
February 12, 2026
This is a why choose where the FMC is a veteran with PTSD, etc. she gains the attention of three hockey players. I enjoyed seeing the way the guys are with Esme especially Wyatt with Esme’s trauma. I loved the spicy scenes as well as the emotional aspect of the book. The way the author depicts emotional and mental health issues. A hockey romance with three handsome men, and a strong woman who can handle her own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read this book so fast. It talked about hard things and I think the author did an amazing job speaking about different forms of trauma. I loved the fact that the male characters were able to also open up about their mental health/backgrounds. The characters are SPICY (like 5 peps) and I loved the ending half of the book!
February 26, 2026
Hockey + smut? I’m in.
Loved it! I’m always a fan of hockey romance books, and the military and mental health representation just made this even better. It’s hard to find the military lifestyle and mental health struggles accurately portrayed and Elle nails it.
Loved it! I’m always a fan of hockey romance books, and the military and mental health representation just made this even better. It’s hard to find the military lifestyle and mental health struggles accurately portrayed and Elle nails it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Elle Shane knocked it out of the park with her debut why choose hockey romance novel. Bravo! 🙌🏼
Heartfelt and angsty, I ate it up.
Heartfelt and angsty, I ate it up.
February 15, 2026
You know it’s gonna be good when it’s why choose hockey- this book doesn’t disappoint!! Sidney Pawsby was definitely my favorite character 😂 5 stars!! 💖
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews