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First Shift
Not yet published
Expected 10 Feb 26When the biggest risk is playing it safe.
Stormhawks’ Captain Griffin Lapierre has spent sixteen years as an elite NHL player—and sixteen years in the closet. Traded to the Portland expansion team, he’s determined to redeem his career while keeping his sexuality hidden. But now that’s more of a challenge than ever.
Wesley Hutton knows the cost of a secret romance. After a devastating scandal destroyed his last job, he’s repaired his reputation as the Stormhawks’ PR manager. He can’t repeat past mistakes, even if Griffin is too tempting to ignore. Getting involved with a player—especially a closeted one—isn’t just forbidden, it’s professional self-destruction.
One kiss ignites an attraction neither can deny. As their clandestine relationship deepens, Griffin realizes that hiding is costing him more than honesty ever could. But coming out means risking it all—his captaincy, the career he’s built, and the team’s dynamic.
An impulsive moment changes everything, and Griffin faces an impossible keep his sexuality secret and watch Wesley lose his job, or come out publicly and potentially lose everything else.
With a closeted captain and a forbidden attraction, First Shift delivers a high-stakes MM hockey romance about taking the shot that matters most.
Stormhawks’ Captain Griffin Lapierre has spent sixteen years as an elite NHL player—and sixteen years in the closet. Traded to the Portland expansion team, he’s determined to redeem his career while keeping his sexuality hidden. But now that’s more of a challenge than ever.
Wesley Hutton knows the cost of a secret romance. After a devastating scandal destroyed his last job, he’s repaired his reputation as the Stormhawks’ PR manager. He can’t repeat past mistakes, even if Griffin is too tempting to ignore. Getting involved with a player—especially a closeted one—isn’t just forbidden, it’s professional self-destruction.
One kiss ignites an attraction neither can deny. As their clandestine relationship deepens, Griffin realizes that hiding is costing him more than honesty ever could. But coming out means risking it all—his captaincy, the career he’s built, and the team’s dynamic.
An impulsive moment changes everything, and Griffin faces an impossible keep his sexuality secret and watch Wesley lose his job, or come out publicly and potentially lose everything else.
With a closeted captain and a forbidden attraction, First Shift delivers a high-stakes MM hockey romance about taking the shot that matters most.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 10, 2026
1 person is currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Linden
4 books24 followersLisa Linden writes swoon-worthy MM romance by day and devours it by night. When not crafting happily-ever-afters, she’s hunting for her next book obsession.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5* rounded up
It's a solid hockey romance. I really liked Griffin and Wesley, there is plenty of chemistry, they are written well rounded and both have plenty of depth to make them likeable.
Griffin is closeted, pushed there at 16 by his late father and kept there by his agent. Being traded he needs to not only find himself again but also being the captain of a brand new team means merging individuals into a team.
Wesley has his share of experiences with closeted men. Something he didn't plan to do again but the attraction to Griffin is too much.
I like how it's a slow burn at first, how they develop a friendship and are both aware what a relationship will mean for them. I love how they try to do couple-things and learn about each other.
It's quite low on spice.
There are good hockey scenes without going into too many technicalities and the way Griffin starts to merge the men into a team are great. There is the one bad apple, a bit too much cliche but ok.
The biggest issues I have though is that the book is too long. Especially Wesley is constantly comparing Griffin's behaviour to his ex and it does get tiring.
And they are definitely careless and too stupid.
What brings the book back into my favour is Griffin coming out and the way he and Wesley do it. They both try to protect the other and show that they are standing together and support each other is really great.
It will be interesting what comes next.
It's a solid hockey romance. I really liked Griffin and Wesley, there is plenty of chemistry, they are written well rounded and both have plenty of depth to make them likeable.
Griffin is closeted, pushed there at 16 by his late father and kept there by his agent. Being traded he needs to not only find himself again but also being the captain of a brand new team means merging individuals into a team.
Wesley has his share of experiences with closeted men. Something he didn't plan to do again but the attraction to Griffin is too much.
I like how it's a slow burn at first, how they develop a friendship and are both aware what a relationship will mean for them. I love how they try to do couple-things and learn about each other.
It's quite low on spice.
There are good hockey scenes without going into too many technicalities and the way Griffin starts to merge the men into a team are great. There is the one bad apple, a bit too much cliche but ok.
The biggest issues I have though is that the book is too long. Especially Wesley is constantly comparing Griffin's behaviour to his ex and it does get tiring.
And they are definitely careless and too stupid.
What brings the book back into my favour is Griffin coming out and the way he and Wesley do it. They both try to protect the other and show that they are standing together and support each other is really great.
It will be interesting what comes next.
Review of advance copy
Griffin is the veteran closeted hockey player and captain for a new expansion team. Wesley is the PR manager for the new expansion team with a bad history with dating closeted men. The two are drawn to each other from the beginning and the chemistry is undeniable. Between the team’s no fraternization policy, Griffin being in the closet, and Wesleys fear of losing his job, they have a lot of issues to overcome if they want their HEA.
There is a lot of hockey which I enjoyed and some spice which was also good. My only negatives were the amount of times the same things were repeatedly said. They both knew the risks going in but in every chapter, after every encounter, they had the same thoughts and worries, without any improvements or changes for over 70% of the book. It was just repetitive to me and I felt like it could’ve been better if progress was slowly being made. And then theres how many times Wesley’s ex was compared to Griffin. It was too much for a healthy relationship.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and will likely read the rest of the series when they are released. The writing was well done, even if repetitive at times, and the characters were well formed.
There is a lot of hockey which I enjoyed and some spice which was also good. My only negatives were the amount of times the same things were repeatedly said. They both knew the risks going in but in every chapter, after every encounter, they had the same thoughts and worries, without any improvements or changes for over 70% of the book. It was just repetitive to me and I felt like it could’ve been better if progress was slowly being made. And then theres how many times Wesley’s ex was compared to Griffin. It was too much for a healthy relationship.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and will likely read the rest of the series when they are released. The writing was well done, even if repetitive at times, and the characters were well formed.
Review of advance copy
First Shift by Lisa Linden really surprised me in the best way. This is an MM hockey romance that doesn’t rely on spice to carry the story—and honestly, it doesn’t need to. The emotional depth here does all the heavy lifting.
Griffin Lapierre has been in the NHL for 16 years and has spent just as long hiding who he really is. The pressure from his manager and family to stay closeted felt painfully real. Wesley Hutton, the team’s PR manager, brings his own baggage after betrayals and heartbreak from past relationship. Both men are guarded and carrying a lot more than they let on.
What I loved most was how authentic their journey felt. This story is really about coming out—not just publicly, but emotionally—and learning what it means to live honestly. It also asks some hard questions about sacrifice and what you’re willing to risk for the person you love.
This was a heartwarming, thoughtful read with a very satisfying HEA. If you’re looking for an MM hockey romance that focuses more on feelings, growth, and genuine connection than heat, I highly recommend First Shift.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Griffin Lapierre has been in the NHL for 16 years and has spent just as long hiding who he really is. The pressure from his manager and family to stay closeted felt painfully real. Wesley Hutton, the team’s PR manager, brings his own baggage after betrayals and heartbreak from past relationship. Both men are guarded and carrying a lot more than they let on.
What I loved most was how authentic their journey felt. This story is really about coming out—not just publicly, but emotionally—and learning what it means to live honestly. It also asks some hard questions about sacrifice and what you’re willing to risk for the person you love.
This was a heartwarming, thoughtful read with a very satisfying HEA. If you’re looking for an MM hockey romance that focuses more on feelings, growth, and genuine connection than heat, I highly recommend First Shift.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
People wear masks for many reasons. Some do it to protect themselves, while others do it to protect loved ones. In this day and age, people shouldn’t have to hide who they truly are. First Shift explores one of the last institutions where hiding is still preferable to the truth. This is where we meet Griffin Lapierre—a strong leader who is hiding to protect his image and family legacy. We also meet Wesley Hutton, who had to hide for a very different reason. This story explores what happens when attraction overwhelms and drives change. I love the way Lisa Linden writes this story. It felt equal parts endearing and frustrating. Most books sugarcoat or downplay the emotions associated with coming out, but not this story. Lisa has created characters with depth and emotion and gets you right in the feels! It also taught me a thing or two about Hockey! If you’re looking for a story that feels real and current, do yourself a favor and give First Shift a read! You will dive headfirst into the world of expansion team dynamics, team building, and romance all in one place! I can’t wait to read where this series goes next!
Review of advance copy
Hockey is my favourite sport. I grew up around rinks and one of my kids plays. I know too much about hockey to be normal about it ever. 🤣 So I’m always thrilled to read about one of the sports I love.
This book is so good. So good. And given the topic du jour surrounding hockey and the resistance to let gay men exist and live their lives authentically and still play hockey, this book comes at a good time.
There’s spice but it’s not the main point. The hockey, the pain felt by Griffin of having to hide, Wesley’s last secret relationship that made him vow to not be a secret again, all that takes centre stage. The pressure from family, ghosts of the past, teammates, society, it’s all there.
Of course nothing hidden stays hidden and how these two characters deal with their discovery and the fallout is nothing short of beautiful. They don’t run from it or each other. They work together and strengthen each other. It’s just perfect really.
This author is new to me but I want to read more by her. And thank you, BookSirens, for the opportunity to read and review this. This review is my honest opinion.
This book is so good. So good. And given the topic du jour surrounding hockey and the resistance to let gay men exist and live their lives authentically and still play hockey, this book comes at a good time.
There’s spice but it’s not the main point. The hockey, the pain felt by Griffin of having to hide, Wesley’s last secret relationship that made him vow to not be a secret again, all that takes centre stage. The pressure from family, ghosts of the past, teammates, society, it’s all there.
Of course nothing hidden stays hidden and how these two characters deal with their discovery and the fallout is nothing short of beautiful. They don’t run from it or each other. They work together and strengthen each other. It’s just perfect really.
This author is new to me but I want to read more by her. And thank you, BookSirens, for the opportunity to read and review this. This review is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First Shift revolves around the new NHL team, the Portland Stormhawks. Captain Griffin Lapierre is under enormous pressure to perform perfectly in public, while Wesley Hutton, the new PR manager, should really not be taking any risks after his bitter experiences in Nashville. A bond slowly develops between the two, but hierarchy, media risk, and team dynamics make any rapprochement dangerous.
Pros: strong PR/hockey setting, palpable chemistry, an emotional core revolving around visibility, fear, and trust.
Cons: For me, the narrative was sometimes slow-paced (lots of introspection), and Wesley's renewed involvement in a similar situation after his trauma didn't always seem entirely credible.
Conclusion: Good idea, strong atmosphere – despite the slow pace and minor logical inconsistencies, a solid 4 stars.
If you like workplace/sports romance that deals a lot with image, coming-out pressure, and media and is told in a more emotional-psychological way than action-packed, you'll be well served here. Those who expect very consistent boundaries when it comes to trauma consequences or need a tighter pace might, like me, wish for a little more friction and less repetition.
Pros: strong PR/hockey setting, palpable chemistry, an emotional core revolving around visibility, fear, and trust.
Cons: For me, the narrative was sometimes slow-paced (lots of introspection), and Wesley's renewed involvement in a similar situation after his trauma didn't always seem entirely credible.
Conclusion: Good idea, strong atmosphere – despite the slow pace and minor logical inconsistencies, a solid 4 stars.
If you like workplace/sports romance that deals a lot with image, coming-out pressure, and media and is told in a more emotional-psychological way than action-packed, you'll be well served here. Those who expect very consistent boundaries when it comes to trauma consequences or need a tighter pace might, like me, wish for a little more friction and less repetition.
Review of advance copy
I was so totally into this book. I loved the characters and the story and even the fact that they took a minute to get to each other. I read this in one go and could not put it down.
Griffin and Wesley have both had their fair share of life being unkind to them (Griffin by hiding who he is, and Wesley by having dealt with heartbreak) and this was just a beautiful story of two kindred spirits who found each other at a later stage of their lives.
I really like the fact that they were both older, in their 30s and they both had enough life experiences to recognise something social when they see it. I liked the writing, the storyline and especially the MCs. Definitely recommend this book if you are after a HEA after a bit of angst.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily*.
Griffin and Wesley have both had their fair share of life being unkind to them (Griffin by hiding who he is, and Wesley by having dealt with heartbreak) and this was just a beautiful story of two kindred spirits who found each other at a later stage of their lives.
I really like the fact that they were both older, in their 30s and they both had enough life experiences to recognise something social when they see it. I liked the writing, the storyline and especially the MCs. Definitely recommend this book if you are after a HEA after a bit of angst.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily*.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Hockey player Griffin has been traded to the new Portland expansion team (along with his fellow teammates). He's been made captain of this new team, and must work with the PR guy, Wesley, to address social media and the press, while also trying to put a new team together. Wesley's gay, Griffin's in the closet. There's instant attraction.
They decide they're going to try a relationship despite the need to keep it quiet. What follows gets to be sort of repetitive, with their constant worry that they're going to get found out (meanwhile doing almost every dumb thing they could do to get outed). Of course they DO get caught. If the book had been shorter, I'd have given it more stars. They get their HEA in the end.
They decide they're going to try a relationship despite the need to keep it quiet. What follows gets to be sort of repetitive, with their constant worry that they're going to get found out (meanwhile doing almost every dumb thing they could do to get outed). Of course they DO get caught. If the book had been shorter, I'd have given it more stars. They get their HEA in the end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
A perfect start of the new series Breakaway Plays.
This is brilliant writing at its finest. I was hooked from the first page and drawn into the story. The suspense was maintained throughout the book and I couldn't put it down. This book positively surprised me and the author shows a strategic approach. I love everything from characters, plot to tropes. I have read other books from Lisa Linden, but this is my favourite so far. I'm looking forward to the next one. This was so exciting that my nerves are still on high alert. A good advice is to not read it close to bedtime because you wont be able to put it down.
A beautiful, emotional coming out hockey romance story. Warmly recommend.
I received an advanced copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A perfect start of the new series Breakaway Plays.
This is brilliant writing at its finest. I was hooked from the first page and drawn into the story. The suspense was maintained throughout the book and I couldn't put it down. This book positively surprised me and the author shows a strategic approach. I love everything from characters, plot to tropes. I have read other books from Lisa Linden, but this is my favourite so far. I'm looking forward to the next one. This was so exciting that my nerves are still on high alert. A good advice is to not read it close to bedtime because you wont be able to put it down.
A beautiful, emotional coming out hockey romance story. Warmly recommend.
I received an advanced copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
This was a new author for me. The blurb sounded interesting, and I must say I was pleasantly surprised by what a lovely story featuring the most amazing men, Griffin and Wesley, who complement each other so well. Highly recommended.
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.
January 6, 2026
Empathetic characters. The plot is very relatable and there’s a lot of feelings. Perhaps a bit repetitive at times. But I really liked this book and read it in a few hours.
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.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews