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Playing the Game #3
Playing With Fire
Sometimes the right play is the one that sets it all on fire.
Luke anderson’s coaching career is on the line before it even starts.
According to everyone with an opinion, I'm too young, too inexperienced, and definitely too close to the players I'm supposed to be leading. After an emergency hire, I'm head coach of Silver Pine's brand-new women's hockey program. A roster that includes my best friend’s little sister.
Emma Cole. An elite forward, Olympic hopeful, and the one person I've been running from for years.
The rules are act like a coach, focus on building the program, and absolutely do not fall for your star player. Especially when that player is your best friend's sister. Especially when she's wanted you since she was seventeen and has never been good at taking no for an answer.
But Emma's done waiting. And I'm done pretending I don't want her.
Because Emma Cole makes me forget every rule I've ever followed. And the only thing more dangerous than losing my job is losing her.
This season, we’re both about to burn.
Playing with Fire is a steamy, angst-filled college sports romance featuring forbidden attraction, secret relationships, protective siblings, and a coach who's absolutely terrible at keeping his hands to himself.
Luke anderson’s coaching career is on the line before it even starts.
According to everyone with an opinion, I'm too young, too inexperienced, and definitely too close to the players I'm supposed to be leading. After an emergency hire, I'm head coach of Silver Pine's brand-new women's hockey program. A roster that includes my best friend’s little sister.
Emma Cole. An elite forward, Olympic hopeful, and the one person I've been running from for years.
The rules are act like a coach, focus on building the program, and absolutely do not fall for your star player. Especially when that player is your best friend's sister. Especially when she's wanted you since she was seventeen and has never been good at taking no for an answer.
But Emma's done waiting. And I'm done pretending I don't want her.
Because Emma Cole makes me forget every rule I've ever followed. And the only thing more dangerous than losing my job is losing her.
This season, we’re both about to burn.
Playing with Fire is a steamy, angst-filled college sports romance featuring forbidden attraction, secret relationships, protective siblings, and a coach who's absolutely terrible at keeping his hands to himself.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 13, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
June 20, 2026
4.5🌟, 3🌶️
I had an absolute blast with this book.
Luke and Emma’s story hooked me from the start, and the combination of mutual pining, forbidden romance, and years of built-up feelings made it impossible not to get invested. Every interaction between them carried so much tension, and I was rooting for them the entire time.
What I loved most was how natural their connection felt. Emma was easy to cheer for, and I loved seeing her confidence grow both on and off the ice. Luke’s constant battle between doing the right thing and following his heart made for some seriously addictive emotional tension. The chemistry was fantastic, and when they finally gave in to their feelings, every moment felt earned.
I also appreciated the focus on women’s hockey and the supportive relationships surrounding the main couple. This was emotional, swoony, spicy, and full of heart, with the perfect balance of angst and romance.
It left me smiling from beginning to end and reminded me exactly why I love sports romances so much.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Nicole Crystal & Love Notes PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
I had an absolute blast with this book.
Luke and Emma’s story hooked me from the start, and the combination of mutual pining, forbidden romance, and years of built-up feelings made it impossible not to get invested. Every interaction between them carried so much tension, and I was rooting for them the entire time.
What I loved most was how natural their connection felt. Emma was easy to cheer for, and I loved seeing her confidence grow both on and off the ice. Luke’s constant battle between doing the right thing and following his heart made for some seriously addictive emotional tension. The chemistry was fantastic, and when they finally gave in to their feelings, every moment felt earned.
I also appreciated the focus on women’s hockey and the supportive relationships surrounding the main couple. This was emotional, swoony, spicy, and full of heart, with the perfect balance of angst and romance.
It left me smiling from beginning to end and reminded me exactly why I love sports romances so much.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Nicole Crystal & Love Notes PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
May 8, 2026
I loved this book! I’d give this a 4.5 rounded to a 5. This was by far my favorite of the series! Luke and Emma are so cute and just absolutely made for each other. I never once got bored with the story. Highly recommend the whole series, but especially this one!
hard-dnf-s
June 10, 2026Thank you to the author and lovenotespr for providing an opportunity to read this early!
DNFing on June 10th, 123 pages in (29%).
Listen. Listen. I was enjoying this book. I was willing to push through my issues with it (the fact that it felt like the FMC was only playing a game with the MMC and didn't have actual feelings for him), especially because I generally liked both characters, and the writing of the hockey was done really well.
So why did I DNF?
Well, when you spend practically EVERY chapter of a character's POV stressing over something that's coming up, over consequences that could be seen - and then DON'T EVEN SHOW SAID EVENT HAPPENING....and we learn the relationship progressed during said event....
Babe, why?
DNFing on June 10th, 123 pages in (29%).
Listen. Listen. I was enjoying this book. I was willing to push through my issues with it (the fact that it felt like the FMC was only playing a game with the MMC and didn't have actual feelings for him), especially because I generally liked both characters, and the writing of the hockey was done really well.
So why did I DNF?
Well, when you spend practically EVERY chapter of a character's POV stressing over something that's coming up, over consequences that could be seen - and then DON'T EVEN SHOW SAID EVENT HAPPENING....and we learn the relationship progressed during said event....
Babe, why?
April 8, 2026
The characters in this series make me regret not being more involved in sports in my 20s…😉.
Romantical, spicy, witty, and well written!
Romantical, spicy, witty, and well written!
June 13, 2026
This was sent to me from LoveNotes PR to review, however all opinions are my own.
I did not realise this was a 3rd book in a series, but it didn’t take anything away from the story as this is all about Luke and Emma.
They have known each other since teenage / college years, so we have childhood friends trope.
Emma has always known since the age of 16 she has had feelings for Luke, but it was difficult for him to reciprocate his back because Emma is his best friends sister…
The story follows Luke age 25 now coaching the female ice hockey team and remaking the team into one that are championship worthy.
The chemistry between Emma and Luke is hot! The tension between them is just *chefs kiss* and I could not get enough of them together.
This story also covers how females are treated in the sports industry which I thought was something that needs to be addressed more.
Overall I loved this story so much, I gave it 4.5 ⭐️.
Thanks to LoveNotes PR for sending me this book, I loved it!
I did not realise this was a 3rd book in a series, but it didn’t take anything away from the story as this is all about Luke and Emma.
They have known each other since teenage / college years, so we have childhood friends trope.
Emma has always known since the age of 16 she has had feelings for Luke, but it was difficult for him to reciprocate his back because Emma is his best friends sister…
The story follows Luke age 25 now coaching the female ice hockey team and remaking the team into one that are championship worthy.
The chemistry between Emma and Luke is hot! The tension between them is just *chefs kiss* and I could not get enough of them together.
This story also covers how females are treated in the sports industry which I thought was something that needs to be addressed more.
Overall I loved this story so much, I gave it 4.5 ⭐️.
Thanks to LoveNotes PR for sending me this book, I loved it!
May 4, 2026
That was the easiest five star I've ever given. That's all I really have to say. I love this series so much it's officially one of my absolute favorites. There's just so much heart and humor and realness I have a hard time finding these days. Thank you so much Nicole for this ARC. I can't wait for book 4!
June 12, 2026
Another great hockey romance from Nicole Crystal, this time we are following Emma and Luke’s story. I loved these two together, he worships her and she is so feisty. I was disappointed that Drew didn’t get his comeuppance, the backstabbing so-and-so! I also want Sloane to get her own book, as I think she is so funny.
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.
June 12, 2026
Really cute book!! I was obsessed with the forbidden love tropes x2… brothers best friend AND coach?! Chefs kiss.
ARC sent by Love Notes PR! Thank you!!
ARC sent by Love Notes PR! Thank you!!
June 17, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I had such a fun time with this as with the other books in this series. Luke and Emma’s chemistry pulled me in straight away, but what I loved most was the secret romance aspect. The stolen moments, the sneaking around, and the constant feeling that everything could come crashing down made me so invested in them 🤫 They both had so much to lose. I love a forbidden romance when the tension actually feels high, and this definitely delivered that for me.
I really liked Emma. She was ambitious, determined, and so easy to root for. One of my favourite parts was watching her grow with the team and become more confident in herself. I loved how Luke brought out the best in her when it came to hockey. He challenged her, pushed her, and believed in her in a way that helped her grow, not just as a player, but as part of the team too 🫶
Luke was protective, conflicted, and very clearly completely gone for her. I really enjoyed seeing him try to do the right thing while also being unable to ignore how he felt about Emma. Their history, the brother’s best friend element, and the coach/player dynamic made every interaction between them feel full of tension 🔥
I also loved Sienna’s role (although minor) in the story. The way she quickly stepped in during the PR scandal was such a great moment, and I loved that she was rooting for Emma and Luke instead of making things harder for them with Grayson. She brought such a supportive energy, and I really enjoyed that ✨
There were so many little details I loved too, especially the secret tattoo, the protective siblings dynamic, and that “f*ck it” moment when everything finally tipped over the edge. Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It was spicy, angsty, emotional, and such an addictive hockey romance 🏒
🏒 Women’s Hockey
👯♀️ Best Friend’s Sister
💞 Mutual Pining
📋 Hockey Coach x Player
🔥 Steamy
👨👩👧👦 Found Family
I had such a fun time with this as with the other books in this series. Luke and Emma’s chemistry pulled me in straight away, but what I loved most was the secret romance aspect. The stolen moments, the sneaking around, and the constant feeling that everything could come crashing down made me so invested in them 🤫 They both had so much to lose. I love a forbidden romance when the tension actually feels high, and this definitely delivered that for me.
I really liked Emma. She was ambitious, determined, and so easy to root for. One of my favourite parts was watching her grow with the team and become more confident in herself. I loved how Luke brought out the best in her when it came to hockey. He challenged her, pushed her, and believed in her in a way that helped her grow, not just as a player, but as part of the team too 🫶
Luke was protective, conflicted, and very clearly completely gone for her. I really enjoyed seeing him try to do the right thing while also being unable to ignore how he felt about Emma. Their history, the brother’s best friend element, and the coach/player dynamic made every interaction between them feel full of tension 🔥
I also loved Sienna’s role (although minor) in the story. The way she quickly stepped in during the PR scandal was such a great moment, and I loved that she was rooting for Emma and Luke instead of making things harder for them with Grayson. She brought such a supportive energy, and I really enjoyed that ✨
There were so many little details I loved too, especially the secret tattoo, the protective siblings dynamic, and that “f*ck it” moment when everything finally tipped over the edge. Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It was spicy, angsty, emotional, and such an addictive hockey romance 🏒
🏒 Women’s Hockey
👯♀️ Best Friend’s Sister
💞 Mutual Pining
📋 Hockey Coach x Player
🔥 Steamy
👨👩👧👦 Found Family
June 16, 2026
I do love stories that subvert tropes and having a story where the hockey player is the girl is definitely one that is going to stick in my mind. Emma and Luke have tension from the get go And I love that she is the active pursuer in this relationship, it's nice to see a woman take charge and go for what she wants.
Luke is a former NHL star turned hockey coach after a career ending injury trying to deal with his unresolved pining over his best friends little sister, the one person he is absolutely sure he should not be in love with.
Meanwhile Emma is the best friend’s little sister who has been in love with him forever and is absolutely not going to take no for an answer. She is 100% certain that Luke is in love with her and she's not going to let him write her off just because of a silly little thing like her brother’s feelings on the matter.
I love how the plot swings in hard with immediate feelings and a lot of angst. Luke however is anything but a professional and, I’ll be honest with you, if he was a real life hockey coach, he would have been fired around chapter 3. It is way too obvious to everybody around him, including his colleagues, that he has got it so bad for Emma. Though considering how actively Emma pursues him, she probably should have been expelled By chapter 3 as well.
I am thoroughly invested in how well these two characters communicate though. The second they hit an obstacle they are telling each other about it which is really refreshing and healthy to see in a story. I love how much these two come across as a united front the second they become invested in their relationship.
Overall the story is heart-warming and an excellent addition to an already engaging series. I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Luke is a former NHL star turned hockey coach after a career ending injury trying to deal with his unresolved pining over his best friends little sister, the one person he is absolutely sure he should not be in love with.
Meanwhile Emma is the best friend’s little sister who has been in love with him forever and is absolutely not going to take no for an answer. She is 100% certain that Luke is in love with her and she's not going to let him write her off just because of a silly little thing like her brother’s feelings on the matter.
I love how the plot swings in hard with immediate feelings and a lot of angst. Luke however is anything but a professional and, I’ll be honest with you, if he was a real life hockey coach, he would have been fired around chapter 3. It is way too obvious to everybody around him, including his colleagues, that he has got it so bad for Emma. Though considering how actively Emma pursues him, she probably should have been expelled By chapter 3 as well.
I am thoroughly invested in how well these two characters communicate though. The second they hit an obstacle they are telling each other about it which is really refreshing and healthy to see in a story. I love how much these two come across as a united front the second they become invested in their relationship.
Overall the story is heart-warming and an excellent addition to an already engaging series. I can’t wait to see what comes next.
June 20, 2026
~~top 10 recommended~~
Oh my God Nicole Crystal left the best player to the end and it was so worth it. We saw Luke in Grayson's story and a little bit of Emma. Now Emma was young but readers can tell there was already a secret connection with them. I loved that Nicole Crystal not only shows us the beginning of their relationship but the obstacles they go through just to make it to the end. We see Luke, no career and the only chance to make it big as a head coach to Silver Pines first ever women's hockey league. Now this part I loved because not only we see Emma finally making her dreams as a hockey player like Grayson become real but finally get the answers why Luke just ghosted her. Have to say there were times when I didn't like Luke but all for good reasons he comes out shining towards Emma. The connection these two have is so genuine and magical they have their own way of communicating. The way these two act and the love they have is just wow too many words to describe for what they are towards each other. Not only do we see these two find their way back but seeing Grayson dealing that his little sister is not so little and can have real feelings towards a man was hard seeing him deal but Nicole Crystal does it so sweet and just right. Loved this series and these two were just a great way to end the series, loved it.
"I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily."
Oh my God Nicole Crystal left the best player to the end and it was so worth it. We saw Luke in Grayson's story and a little bit of Emma. Now Emma was young but readers can tell there was already a secret connection with them. I loved that Nicole Crystal not only shows us the beginning of their relationship but the obstacles they go through just to make it to the end. We see Luke, no career and the only chance to make it big as a head coach to Silver Pines first ever women's hockey league. Now this part I loved because not only we see Emma finally making her dreams as a hockey player like Grayson become real but finally get the answers why Luke just ghosted her. Have to say there were times when I didn't like Luke but all for good reasons he comes out shining towards Emma. The connection these two have is so genuine and magical they have their own way of communicating. The way these two act and the love they have is just wow too many words to describe for what they are towards each other. Not only do we see these two find their way back but seeing Grayson dealing that his little sister is not so little and can have real feelings towards a man was hard seeing him deal but Nicole Crystal does it so sweet and just right. Loved this series and these two were just a great way to end the series, loved it.
"I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily."
June 27, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It’s rare for me to love each book in a series more than the one before it, but this series has done exactly that. Every new release becomes my favorite, and Playing with Fire was no exception. This one completely hooked me—I could not get enough!
One of my favorite things was that we still got so much of Sienna and Grayson while getting to fall in love with Emma and Luke’s story. The twists and turns, the push and pull, the yearning from both sides, and the slow build of the tension had me completely hooked.
Emma is such a strong, determined heroine, and you can definitely see where she gets it from! Luke was the perfect match for her—gentle, kind, selfless, and impossible not to love.
And the spice? Let’s just say Nicole Crystal absolutely delivered. The chemistry between these two is undeniable, and the spicy scenes were everything you’d expect from these characters.
I honestly can’t think of a single thing I would change. This book was everything I wanted and more. The world Nicole has built throughout this series is something truly special. Every story adds another layer, making it so easy to become invested in these characters and their lives. I can’t wait to see what else she has in store because if this series has taught me anything, it’s that somehow each book just keeps getting better.
Thank you, Nicole, for trusting me with an ARC. It was such a privilege to read this story early, and I can’t wait to continue this journey with these characters.
It’s rare for me to love each book in a series more than the one before it, but this series has done exactly that. Every new release becomes my favorite, and Playing with Fire was no exception. This one completely hooked me—I could not get enough!
One of my favorite things was that we still got so much of Sienna and Grayson while getting to fall in love with Emma and Luke’s story. The twists and turns, the push and pull, the yearning from both sides, and the slow build of the tension had me completely hooked.
Emma is such a strong, determined heroine, and you can definitely see where she gets it from! Luke was the perfect match for her—gentle, kind, selfless, and impossible not to love.
And the spice? Let’s just say Nicole Crystal absolutely delivered. The chemistry between these two is undeniable, and the spicy scenes were everything you’d expect from these characters.
I honestly can’t think of a single thing I would change. This book was everything I wanted and more. The world Nicole has built throughout this series is something truly special. Every story adds another layer, making it so easy to become invested in these characters and their lives. I can’t wait to see what else she has in store because if this series has taught me anything, it’s that somehow each book just keeps getting better.
Thank you, Nicole, for trusting me with an ARC. It was such a privilege to read this story early, and I can’t wait to continue this journey with these characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2026
Playing with Fire really surprised me in the best way. I went in expecting a cute sports romance, but I ended up way more invested in Luke and Emma than I thought I’d be. 🏒🔥
From the start, I was fully rooting for them, even knowing the situation was complicated. The forbidden element—coach/player and brother’s best friend—made every interaction feel loaded with tension. I was constantly waiting for things to blow up in the best possible way.
It’s definitely a slow burn, but once it finally ignites, the payoff is so worth it. The build-up makes those emotional and romantic moments hit harder, and I found myself completely hooked once things started moving.
Luke and Emma had great chemistry, and I really enjoyed watching them try to navigate everything they weren’t supposed to feel. The push-and-pull kept the story engaging, and I loved how invested I became in their relationship.
Overall, this was a really fun, emotional read that completely won me over by the end. A strong debut experience for me with this author, and I’d definitely read more from them. 💙
✨ Tropes I loved:
🏒 Coach x player
💔 Brother’s best friend
🔥 Forbidden romance
⛸️ Slow burn
💞 Emotional tension
From the start, I was fully rooting for them, even knowing the situation was complicated. The forbidden element—coach/player and brother’s best friend—made every interaction feel loaded with tension. I was constantly waiting for things to blow up in the best possible way.
It’s definitely a slow burn, but once it finally ignites, the payoff is so worth it. The build-up makes those emotional and romantic moments hit harder, and I found myself completely hooked once things started moving.
Luke and Emma had great chemistry, and I really enjoyed watching them try to navigate everything they weren’t supposed to feel. The push-and-pull kept the story engaging, and I loved how invested I became in their relationship.
Overall, this was a really fun, emotional read that completely won me over by the end. A strong debut experience for me with this author, and I’d definitely read more from them. 💙
✨ Tropes I loved:
🏒 Coach x player
💔 Brother’s best friend
🔥 Forbidden romance
⛸️ Slow burn
💞 Emotional tension
June 10, 2026
Luke is Grayson’s best friend, and he’s also been in love with Grayson’s little sister, Emma, for years.
Emma and Luke have always shared a connection, but they knew they could never act on it. That is, until the pull between them became impossible to ignore.
Now that Luke is Emma’s new ice hockey coach and she has a real shot at making the Olympics, could their relationship put her future career at risk?
This was perfect as I’m in my ice hockey era. Emma and Luke’s story was equal parts heartbreaking and heartwarming. They were so deeply in love, but both terrified of crossing the line and risking everything. I was willing them to kiss for so so long !!!
Emma was Luke’s anchor when he was struggling, and he was always there for her too. Their bond felt genuine, and you could really see how much they meant to each other. I honestly can’t imagine how difficult it would be to coach someone you love but can’t be with.
I am off to read the rest of the books now !!
CHILDHOOD FRIENDS
BEST FRIENDS LITTLE SISTER
ICE HOCKEY ROMANCE
FORBIDDEN LOVE
HIDDEN RELATIONSHIP
SECRET TATTOO
COACH x ICE HOCKEY PLAYER
Emma and Luke have always shared a connection, but they knew they could never act on it. That is, until the pull between them became impossible to ignore.
Now that Luke is Emma’s new ice hockey coach and she has a real shot at making the Olympics, could their relationship put her future career at risk?
This was perfect as I’m in my ice hockey era. Emma and Luke’s story was equal parts heartbreaking and heartwarming. They were so deeply in love, but both terrified of crossing the line and risking everything. I was willing them to kiss for so so long !!!
Emma was Luke’s anchor when he was struggling, and he was always there for her too. Their bond felt genuine, and you could really see how much they meant to each other. I honestly can’t imagine how difficult it would be to coach someone you love but can’t be with.
I am off to read the rest of the books now !!
CHILDHOOD FRIENDS
BEST FRIENDS LITTLE SISTER
ICE HOCKEY ROMANCE
FORBIDDEN LOVE
HIDDEN RELATIONSHIP
SECRET TATTOO
COACH x ICE HOCKEY PLAYER
Read
April 21, 2026ARC REVIEW
This one is messy in the best way - high stakes, high tension, and impossible-to-ignore chemistry.
Luke is thrown into a head coaching role before he’s even ready, leading a brand-new women’s hockey team while everyone doubts him. The pressure is already intense… and then there’s Emma Cole - his best friend’s younger sister, star player, and the one person he’s been trying (and failing) to avoid for years.
There are rules he has to follow: be professional, build the team, and absolutely don’t cross the line with a player. But Emma isn’t backing down anymore - and the more time they spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore what’s been there all along.
💭 My thoughts:
This is one of those “we shouldn’t do this but we definitely will” romances, and it delivers. The tension is constant, the stakes feel real (career vs. feelings), and the dynamic between Luke and Emma keeps you hooked.
Luke’s internal struggle actually feels believable - he knows exactly what he stands to lose. And Emma? She brings the confidence and emotional push that makes everything unravel in the best way.
It’s not just about the romance either - you feel the pressure of the team, the expectations, and how quickly everything could fall apart.
If you like tension-filled sports romances where the rules are very clear—and very much broken—this one is for you.
Thanks @authornicolecrystal for the opportunity to be an advanced reader.
This one is messy in the best way - high stakes, high tension, and impossible-to-ignore chemistry.
Luke is thrown into a head coaching role before he’s even ready, leading a brand-new women’s hockey team while everyone doubts him. The pressure is already intense… and then there’s Emma Cole - his best friend’s younger sister, star player, and the one person he’s been trying (and failing) to avoid for years.
There are rules he has to follow: be professional, build the team, and absolutely don’t cross the line with a player. But Emma isn’t backing down anymore - and the more time they spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore what’s been there all along.
💭 My thoughts:
This is one of those “we shouldn’t do this but we definitely will” romances, and it delivers. The tension is constant, the stakes feel real (career vs. feelings), and the dynamic between Luke and Emma keeps you hooked.
Luke’s internal struggle actually feels believable - he knows exactly what he stands to lose. And Emma? She brings the confidence and emotional push that makes everything unravel in the best way.
It’s not just about the romance either - you feel the pressure of the team, the expectations, and how quickly everything could fall apart.
If you like tension-filled sports romances where the rules are very clear—and very much broken—this one is for you.
Thanks @authornicolecrystal for the opportunity to be an advanced reader.
June 20, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I have been waiting for Luke and Emma's story, and Nicole Crystal definitely kept me invested. This one felt a little more plot-heavy than romance-heavy, which honestly worked for me because there was always something happening besides Luke and Emma staring longingly at each other and making questionable life choices.
Luke was easily my favorite part of the book. The man spent half the story fighting for his life against his own feelings, responsibilities, and common sense. It was both admirable and mildly entertaining.
I loved that the story balanced the romance with everything else going on, and the pacing kept me turning pages to see how it would all come together. While I wanted a little more emotional payoff in a few spots, I was still fully invested and enjoyed the ride.
A solid 4-star read, and I'll absolutely be back for the next book.
💜 Thank you, Nicole Crystal, and the Love Notes PR team for the opportunity to read and review.
I have been waiting for Luke and Emma's story, and Nicole Crystal definitely kept me invested. This one felt a little more plot-heavy than romance-heavy, which honestly worked for me because there was always something happening besides Luke and Emma staring longingly at each other and making questionable life choices.
Luke was easily my favorite part of the book. The man spent half the story fighting for his life against his own feelings, responsibilities, and common sense. It was both admirable and mildly entertaining.
I loved that the story balanced the romance with everything else going on, and the pacing kept me turning pages to see how it would all come together. While I wanted a little more emotional payoff in a few spots, I was still fully invested and enjoyed the ride.
A solid 4-star read, and I'll absolutely be back for the next book.
💜 Thank you, Nicole Crystal, and the Love Notes PR team for the opportunity to read and review.
June 6, 2026
What a fantastic read, I didn’t want it to end. Will be adding more of this authors books to my tbr.
If you are a lover of the following tropes this is the book for you - Hockey Romance, Best Friends Sister, Coach & Player, Forbidden Love and Slow Burn
Emma is Luke’s best friend’s sister and that means she is off limits.
Luke is now the coach of the girls hockey team after a scandal with the previous coach. It also means that Emma and Luke will be around each other, fighting the attraction between them.
When they do give in to the attraction what happens when an ex of Emma’s causes trouble and blows the lid on their relationship? Will they stay together or is it over between them ? Will Emma’s dreams be over before they’ve even begun?
Thank you to Love Notes PR for the opportunity of read this ARC in exchange for an honest review
If you are a lover of the following tropes this is the book for you - Hockey Romance, Best Friends Sister, Coach & Player, Forbidden Love and Slow Burn
Emma is Luke’s best friend’s sister and that means she is off limits.
Luke is now the coach of the girls hockey team after a scandal with the previous coach. It also means that Emma and Luke will be around each other, fighting the attraction between them.
When they do give in to the attraction what happens when an ex of Emma’s causes trouble and blows the lid on their relationship? Will they stay together or is it over between them ? Will Emma’s dreams be over before they’ve even begun?
Thank you to Love Notes PR for the opportunity of read this ARC in exchange for an honest review
June 17, 2026
Absolutely loved this book.
My thoughts while reading:
- I absolutely love when the tension is so tight from the very beginning and you can just feel the rope fraying piece by piece until it absolutely snaps
- Luke’s I love you declaration was absolutely everything and more
- And when Luke is done declaring his love, all Emma says is, “Are you done? Get over here”
- And we got my absolute favorite thing of all time - “F*ck it.”
- Love the comment at the end from Grayson about getting courtside seats to the Knicks and them being terrible, and in real time they just won the NBA championship this week. Haha.
My thoughts while reading:
- I absolutely love when the tension is so tight from the very beginning and you can just feel the rope fraying piece by piece until it absolutely snaps
- Luke’s I love you declaration was absolutely everything and more
- And when Luke is done declaring his love, all Emma says is, “Are you done? Get over here”
- And we got my absolute favorite thing of all time - “F*ck it.”
- Love the comment at the end from Grayson about getting courtside seats to the Knicks and them being terrible, and in real time they just won the NBA championship this week. Haha.
June 20, 2026
Emma leaves her college for a new school starting a brand new division 1 women’s hockey team under an amazing coach and also escaping her toxic ex and her backstabbing best friend / teammate who was sleeping with her boyfriend. New school. New team. New life. Scandals!! New coach caught doing bad things before the season even started to be replaced with Luke Anderson 25 year old school alumni fast tracked for the NHL before knee injury ended his career prematurely. Oh and did I mention he is Emma’s brother best friend who has been sending every holiday and summer at Emma’s house since she was 16 and she has a massive crush on him and even secretly tattooed his jersey number on her body! Yeah. This is fine! Absolutely loved this book!
June 18, 2026
The longing and yearning in this book alone is worth it. Plus the way she flirts and has that "we are doing this" attitude is just hilarious. Their chemistry is seriously amazing. I hated how he felt he was saving her from him. Like she wasnt even allowed the option or choice. Even though she literally stood there and said "this is what i want". I mean, i get it, he made a promise to her brother(also his best friend). But come on! As you read their story..you find out that in ebery decision he makes, he literally keeps his promise. Maybe thats a spoiler? If it is..oops. sorry! Regardless, its a really great read. I loved the ending. Well.. i feel cheated. Because why dont we get to see it? Overall, i recommend.
June 20, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🫂 found family
👩 Best friends sister
🧨 tension
I loved this book! I was hooked from the prologue. “The Grinch is stealing Christmas on-screen and Emma Cole’s feet are in my lap.”
The yearning Luke had for Emma, had me salivating from the very beginning.
I loved that when Luke panicked, Emma was able to settle him down and make him feel safe. Add in the fact that Emma’s family became Luke’s family? Made me love this book even more!
Thank you LoveNotesPR for this wonderful ARC!!
🫂 found family
👩 Best friends sister
🧨 tension
I loved this book! I was hooked from the prologue. “The Grinch is stealing Christmas on-screen and Emma Cole’s feet are in my lap.”
The yearning Luke had for Emma, had me salivating from the very beginning.
I loved that when Luke panicked, Emma was able to settle him down and make him feel safe. Add in the fact that Emma’s family became Luke’s family? Made me love this book even more!
Thank you LoveNotesPR for this wonderful ARC!!
June 11, 2026
10 stars.
Seriously, this book was the best in the series so far and I looooooved those. I had a suspicion from the epilogue of book 2 we would get to see Luke and Emma’s story and I am so happy I was right. Friends to lovers executed beautifully. Found family, real friendships, and a healthy dose of spice along the way!
I’m ready for book 4. Is it October yet?
Thanks to Nicole Crystal and the publisher for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
Seriously, this book was the best in the series so far and I looooooved those. I had a suspicion from the epilogue of book 2 we would get to see Luke and Emma’s story and I am so happy I was right. Friends to lovers executed beautifully. Found family, real friendships, and a healthy dose of spice along the way!
I’m ready for book 4. Is it October yet?
Thanks to Nicole Crystal and the publisher for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
June 15, 2026
I received an ARC of Playing with Fire by Nicole Crystal, book 3 in the Playing the Game series. Emma and Luke’s are my favorite couple so far. The forbidden romance between the two, the years of yearning coming to a boiling point, and the hard choices they have to make made for an amazing read. I was invested in their story from the first mention of the two of them in book 1. Emma’s persistence to not give up on Luke and pushing him to be brave enough to allow himself to cope admit his love for her paired with his unwavering belief and support in her dreams made them such an easy couple to root for. Overall a really great read
June 17, 2026
Coach & Player / Best Friend's Sister / Awesome book!
5☆
Big thanks to Love Notes PR and author, Nicole Crystal. Could not get this read fast enough once I started reading. Of course, I made sure to read Books 1 & 2 so that I knew what was going on.
Luke & Emma are my favorite so far with Grayson & Sienna coming in as a close second. Gotta love the Brother's Best Friend & Found Family tropes. There's a bit of spice but this also gave off a wholesome vibe. Love how we saw the fallout of relationships with Grayson from both main characters, and how they were handled. I'm still processing my thoughts on this, but absolutely am giving this 5 stars.
5☆
Big thanks to Love Notes PR and author, Nicole Crystal. Could not get this read fast enough once I started reading. Of course, I made sure to read Books 1 & 2 so that I knew what was going on.
Luke & Emma are my favorite so far with Grayson & Sienna coming in as a close second. Gotta love the Brother's Best Friend & Found Family tropes. There's a bit of spice but this also gave off a wholesome vibe. Love how we saw the fallout of relationships with Grayson from both main characters, and how they were handled. I'm still processing my thoughts on this, but absolutely am giving this 5 stars.
June 19, 2026
Thank you to Love Notes and Nicole Crystal
For the opportunity to read this as an arc!!🖤
I’ve always loved a brothers best friend trope and this one is probably my top five favourite. This is the first book from Nicole Crystal and although I didn’t read the first two I have added to my tbr. Even though it was a slow burn and I can sometimes get impatient and not always a fan of I found this was done perfectly.
🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 Best Friend's Sister
🏒 Coach & Player
🏒 Forbidden Love
🏒 Slow Burn
🏒 Years of Pining
For the opportunity to read this as an arc!!🖤
I’ve always loved a brothers best friend trope and this one is probably my top five favourite. This is the first book from Nicole Crystal and although I didn’t read the first two I have added to my tbr. Even though it was a slow burn and I can sometimes get impatient and not always a fan of I found this was done perfectly.
🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 Best Friend's Sister
🏒 Coach & Player
🏒 Forbidden Love
🏒 Slow Burn
🏒 Years of Pining
June 7, 2026
4.25 ⭐️ This book caught me by surprise how invested I was in Luke and Emma. I was instantly rooting for them and at every turn waiting for the fall out of their best friend’s sister plus coach and player romance. It is for sure a slow burn but once it catches fire, it’s on! 🔥 First book by Nicole Crystal and I’m a fan!
June 15, 2026
Luke and Emma are such a cute couple. I immensely enjoyed their story. I love how Emma made a place for herself on Luke's hockey team. Love how Luke handled it when he found out that she was his Left Winger. Love them together as a couple. I also very much appreciate how Coach handled finding out that Emma was the person he chose, without being fully aware of what he had done. His support for Emma and her reason for needing to play on the men's hockey team was outstanding. Very touching. I wish more colleges would offer women's hockey leagues.
July 5, 2026
I loved Luke and Emma.!
Nicole Crystal is one of my favorite authors.
Playing With Fire was absolutely well worth the wait. My favorite tropes too, best friend's sister and hockey romance.
So many obstacles throughout the story, but in the end utmost truth and heartfelt emotions will succeed.
So excited to read more from Nicole Crystal.
Nicole Crystal is one of my favorite authors.
Playing With Fire was absolutely well worth the wait. My favorite tropes too, best friend's sister and hockey romance.
So many obstacles throughout the story, but in the end utmost truth and heartfelt emotions will succeed.
So excited to read more from Nicole Crystal.
April 9, 2026
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC. I love her and all her books. Definitely enjoyed that this wasn’t your “traditional” romance that follows the storyline path that 99% do. As with all her books, real life people with real life problems.
June 13, 2026
ARC Review
I don’t want this to have spoilers, so this is going to be short.
What can I say… Luke and Emma were adorable. You knew the tensions would be high from the beginning, because of their history. Every time Emma called Luke “coach” and then wouldn’t change her stance until he touched her... just perfect! Luke needed every nudge she gave him to finally make his move. If you love a best friend’s little sister or friends to lover’s trope, this book is for you! I did not read the first two books in the series, but I didn’t feel like I was lost at any point. I did love the characters, so I do plan on going back and reading them so I can get their stories from the beginning!
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Nicole Crystal for the ARC!
I don’t want this to have spoilers, so this is going to be short.
What can I say… Luke and Emma were adorable. You knew the tensions would be high from the beginning, because of their history. Every time Emma called Luke “coach” and then wouldn’t change her stance until he touched her... just perfect! Luke needed every nudge she gave him to finally make his move. If you love a best friend’s little sister or friends to lover’s trope, this book is for you! I did not read the first two books in the series, but I didn’t feel like I was lost at any point. I did love the characters, so I do plan on going back and reading them so I can get their stories from the beginning!
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Nicole Crystal for the ARC!
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