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Playing it Straight
Not yet published
Expected 1 Sep 26Sometimes the most dangerous play is the one you don't see coming.
Zane Morgan has FOUR MONTHS to prove he's worth keeping.
Traded from LA to New York mid-season, my contract expires in June. And the woman holding the pen has already decided I'm a flight risk with a tabloid problem. Alexis Westgate. Owner's daughter. Ice-cold negotiator. Looks at me like I'm a line item she's trying to justify.
She's also my next-door neighbor.
Six feet of hallway. One signed contract standing between me and free agency. And the most infuriating, intelligent, devastating woman I've ever met telling me she doesn't do relationships, doesn't do hockey players, and definitely doesn't do me.
Yet.
Because here's the thing nobody warned her I've spent my entire career being the guy who never stays. Turns out, I just hadn't met the right reason to.
She can keep telling me this can't happen.
I'll keep waiting.
Because for the first time in my life, the win I'm playing for isn't on the ice.
Playing it Straight is a steamy, slow-burn sports romance featuring forbidden workplace attraction, forced proximity, an ice-queen owner's daughter, and a reformed playboy finally ready to stay.
Zane Morgan has FOUR MONTHS to prove he's worth keeping.
Traded from LA to New York mid-season, my contract expires in June. And the woman holding the pen has already decided I'm a flight risk with a tabloid problem. Alexis Westgate. Owner's daughter. Ice-cold negotiator. Looks at me like I'm a line item she's trying to justify.
She's also my next-door neighbor.
Six feet of hallway. One signed contract standing between me and free agency. And the most infuriating, intelligent, devastating woman I've ever met telling me she doesn't do relationships, doesn't do hockey players, and definitely doesn't do me.
Yet.
Because here's the thing nobody warned her I've spent my entire career being the guy who never stays. Turns out, I just hadn't met the right reason to.
She can keep telling me this can't happen.
I'll keep waiting.
Because for the first time in my life, the win I'm playing for isn't on the ice.
Playing it Straight is a steamy, slow-burn sports romance featuring forbidden workplace attraction, forced proximity, an ice-queen owner's daughter, and a reformed playboy finally ready to stay.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication September 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
July 4, 2026
ARC Review - you guys will not want to sit on this last book of the series. It’s so good. I want another!
July 24, 2026
Puck drop. Nicole has done it again! This story was everything I didn’t know I needed and more. I’ve always loved Zane as a character so I was super excited for him to get his own story. I see so much of myself in Alexis, and it made it very easy to relate to her. She is such a strong character and I adore the way she challenged Zane. The relationship between the group of friends at Silver Pine are always some of my favorite moments.
I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy a workplace romance, forced proximity, and a bisexual FMC.
Thank you to the author for letting me be part of this ARC. Please note all reviews are my honest and unbiased opinion.
I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy a workplace romance, forced proximity, and a bisexual FMC.
Thank you to the author for letting me be part of this ARC. Please note all reviews are my honest and unbiased opinion.
July 5, 2026
Love me some Nicole Crystal and love even more that I get to
Be part of her ARC team. This was the perfect book 4 to wrap up the Playing The Game series. I’ll read every book she puts out as soon as they drop.
Be part of her ARC team. This was the perfect book 4 to wrap up the Playing The Game series. I’ll read every book she puts out as soon as they drop.
July 26, 2026
Loved this book! Zane is such a funny and lovable character. Alexis was a great character, but it was nice to see her flaws that the rest of the world didn’t see. And the Sharpie!!! Ugh it was just such a good addition. I love this whole series!
July 17, 2026
ARC REVIEW: 5 stars!!
First off, a massive, heartfelt thank you to Nicole Crystal for allowing me the opportunity to read an early copy of this book. It's incredibly bittersweet because I am simply not ready to say goodbye to this incredible group of characters. I don't want this to be the end!
Nicole has this rare, magical writing style that pulls you in from the very first sentence of the very first chapter and refuses to let you go. She has the ability to make you feel everything right alongside her characters.
While I have absolutely loved this entire found-family group, Zane and Alexis officially have my entire heart.
Who knew a certified playboy could be the one place her mind finally quiets? The way Zane acts as her safe harbor, offering the peace she desperately needs is so beautiful. And Zane's control? Absolute perfection. The fact that he doesn't even want to fight it when it comes to her is everything.
I'm so sad to see the Playing the Game series come to a close. I'll just be over here waiting to see what Nicole writes next. Seriously, write it and I'll be in the front line waiting.
...you could say I'm officially Sharpie-ing your next release date onto my calendar already!
IYKYK
First off, a massive, heartfelt thank you to Nicole Crystal for allowing me the opportunity to read an early copy of this book. It's incredibly bittersweet because I am simply not ready to say goodbye to this incredible group of characters. I don't want this to be the end!
Nicole has this rare, magical writing style that pulls you in from the very first sentence of the very first chapter and refuses to let you go. She has the ability to make you feel everything right alongside her characters.
While I have absolutely loved this entire found-family group, Zane and Alexis officially have my entire heart.
Who knew a certified playboy could be the one place her mind finally quiets? The way Zane acts as her safe harbor, offering the peace she desperately needs is so beautiful. And Zane's control? Absolute perfection. The fact that he doesn't even want to fight it when it comes to her is everything.
I'm so sad to see the Playing the Game series come to a close. I'll just be over here waiting to see what Nicole writes next. Seriously, write it and I'll be in the front line waiting.
...you could say I'm officially Sharpie-ing your next release date onto my calendar already!
IYKYK
July 1, 2026
Nicole of course saved the absolute best for last. This final book was everything I had hoped for and more. The found family. The SPICE. Hello. Zane Morgan. The yearning. This was another six star read for me for sure I literally couldn't put it down!
Oh I received this as an ARC. I forgot to include that because I was too excited.
Oh I received this as an ARC. I forgot to include that because I was too excited.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It was incredibly hard to say goodbye but if I'm being honest Zane and Alexis brought this story to a close perfectly.
Zane was simply looking for a place he could call home a place to put down roots and build a future, unbeknownst to him, that search would also lead him to Alexis the vice president of his team. A woman completely forbidden to him, intelligent, capable of solving any problem that came her way and with admirable strength, though behind that facade she also hid a deep fear of not being enough and of not being up to the task of filling the shoes her father had left behind.
The two of them are much more alike than they realize from the first time they met the tension between them was palpable, the connection was there but they were also aware that trying something meant risking their careers and everything they had worked for. They are both stubborn, determined and used to fighting for what they want, though this time the biggest obstacle was themselves.
With every conversation every glance, and every interaction the spark between them only grew stronger, I completely understood Alexis and her fears, I understood why she fought so hard against what she felt. And I understood Zane too the poor guy kept trying to convince himself that ignoring his feelings was best for both of them, even though deep down he knew it was impossible.
Because when love knocks on your door, no matter how much you want to you can't close it and once that line is crossed, there's no going back.
Alexis tried to convince herself it would only be a one-time thing but she discovered that Zane made her feel things she had never experienced before, feelings she had always been afraid to acknowledge. Meanwhile Zane made a decision to wait for her, to be patient and to show her that what they had wasn't a mistake, he made her see, time and again, that he loved her more than anything and that he was willing to fight for her no matter what they had to face.
It wasn't easy for them, and I understand them both, there was so much at stake, and they both had so much to lose however, there came a point when none of that mattered, because the only thing that truly mattered was everything they had built together. Alexis learned to trust Zane, to show him her most vulnerable parts while still being the strong and empowered woman she had always been and Zane, at last found the home he had longed for, a place where he could have everything he had always dreamed of.
It wasn't an easy road they had to overcome many obstacles before they could be together but in the end, everything, absolutely everything, was worth it. They stole my heart I didn't want the book to end, I didn't want to reach the end because I knew that with it this journey would also end but they made every page completely worthwhile.
Every couple in the world has shown me that when two people truly want to be together, no obstacle can separate them of course, it takes time, effort, understanding, and above all, courage. All the couples had to face their own battles, make mistakes, learn and grow, but in the end they found what they so longed for a home.
And I'm not just talking about the home formed by the person they love but also the family they built together. What began as a friendship ended up becoming a true brotherhood, one where they always found support, love and a place to belong. I love you all each of you will always have a very special place in my heart.
Finally, I just want to thank the author for allowing us to be part of this world and for letting us get to know each of these boys and girls who, in one way or another, ended up leaving their mark on us.
Although is this really the end? I don't think so.
It seems a little surprise awaits us and if my hunch is right, I think I already know who the protagonist might be. Someone very close to Alexis, maybe I'm wrong, maybe I'm not but we'll find out very soon and honestly I'm already looking forward to returning to this universe. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Zane was simply looking for a place he could call home a place to put down roots and build a future, unbeknownst to him, that search would also lead him to Alexis the vice president of his team. A woman completely forbidden to him, intelligent, capable of solving any problem that came her way and with admirable strength, though behind that facade she also hid a deep fear of not being enough and of not being up to the task of filling the shoes her father had left behind.
The two of them are much more alike than they realize from the first time they met the tension between them was palpable, the connection was there but they were also aware that trying something meant risking their careers and everything they had worked for. They are both stubborn, determined and used to fighting for what they want, though this time the biggest obstacle was themselves.
With every conversation every glance, and every interaction the spark between them only grew stronger, I completely understood Alexis and her fears, I understood why she fought so hard against what she felt. And I understood Zane too the poor guy kept trying to convince himself that ignoring his feelings was best for both of them, even though deep down he knew it was impossible.
Because when love knocks on your door, no matter how much you want to you can't close it and once that line is crossed, there's no going back.
Alexis tried to convince herself it would only be a one-time thing but she discovered that Zane made her feel things she had never experienced before, feelings she had always been afraid to acknowledge. Meanwhile Zane made a decision to wait for her, to be patient and to show her that what they had wasn't a mistake, he made her see, time and again, that he loved her more than anything and that he was willing to fight for her no matter what they had to face.
It wasn't easy for them, and I understand them both, there was so much at stake, and they both had so much to lose however, there came a point when none of that mattered, because the only thing that truly mattered was everything they had built together. Alexis learned to trust Zane, to show him her most vulnerable parts while still being the strong and empowered woman she had always been and Zane, at last found the home he had longed for, a place where he could have everything he had always dreamed of.
It wasn't an easy road they had to overcome many obstacles before they could be together but in the end, everything, absolutely everything, was worth it. They stole my heart I didn't want the book to end, I didn't want to reach the end because I knew that with it this journey would also end but they made every page completely worthwhile.
Every couple in the world has shown me that when two people truly want to be together, no obstacle can separate them of course, it takes time, effort, understanding, and above all, courage. All the couples had to face their own battles, make mistakes, learn and grow, but in the end they found what they so longed for a home.
And I'm not just talking about the home formed by the person they love but also the family they built together. What began as a friendship ended up becoming a true brotherhood, one where they always found support, love and a place to belong. I love you all each of you will always have a very special place in my heart.
Finally, I just want to thank the author for allowing us to be part of this world and for letting us get to know each of these boys and girls who, in one way or another, ended up leaving their mark on us.
Although is this really the end? I don't think so.
It seems a little surprise awaits us and if my hunch is right, I think I already know who the protagonist might be. Someone very close to Alexis, maybe I'm wrong, maybe I'm not but we'll find out very soon and honestly I'm already looking forward to returning to this universe. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Some books entertain you. Some make you smile. And then there are the rare ones that quietly remind you what love is supposed to feel like.
Playing It Straight was that book for me.
After following this series from Grayson and Sienna to Chase and Skye, and then Luke and Emma, I couldn't have asked for a more satisfying conclusion. Nicole Crystal didn't just give Zane Morgan his story—she completely changed the way I saw him.
One of my favorite things about this series is that each hero has carried a completely different kind of strength. Grayson became the steady heart of the group—the one who quietly held everyone together. Chase wore his charm openly but never hesitated to be vulnerable with the woman he loved. Luke showed that patience, consistency, and quiet devotion can be just as powerful as grand gestures. And then there's Zane . I thought I knew exactly who he was from the previous books, but his story completely changed my perspective. Behind all the confidence and effortless charisma was someone remarkably perceptive, emotionally intelligent, and secure enough to love without trying to control. Nicole Crystal gave each hero a distinct emotional identity, and that's one of the reasons this series never felt repetitive to me.
He doesn't try to rescue Alexei.
He doesn't demand that she let her walls down.
He doesn't mistake patience for passivity.
He simply stays.
Alexeis has spent years believing she always has to prove herself. Every boardroom, every decision, every achievement has taught her that control is the safest place to live. Watching someone recognize that armor without asking her to remove it immediately was one of the most beautiful parts of this story.
Their romance isn't built on dramatic declarations.
It's built on forehead kisses that somehow say more than words.
On conversations where both people choose honesty over assumptions.
On meaningful banter.
On emotional intelligence.
On someone quietly saying, "I'll meet you where you are instead of asking you to become someone else."
That kind of love will always stay with me.
One thing Nicole Crystal consistently does well throughout this series is honoring the past. Grief isn't something her characters simply "move on" from—it becomes part of who they are. Previous couples remain present, friendships continue to evolve, and the found-family dynamic feels lived in rather than written for convenience.
Reading all four books also made me appreciate the subtle parallels woven throughout the series. Certain themes return in new ways, familiar emotional beats take on fresh meaning, and small details connect the books without making them feel repetitive. It made this finale feel intentional—a full-circle ending rather than simply the last installment.
And Chapter 43 & epilogue?
Let's just say it completely owned my heart.
This is definitely an open-door romance with plenty of spice, so readers looking for a clean romance should know that going in. But what made this relationship memorable wasn't the chemistry—it was the trust. Every intimate moment felt like another step toward vulnerability instead of existing purely for the sake of tension.
The loudest relationships aren't always the strongest.
Sometimes love looks like patience.
Sometimes it looks like understanding.
Sometimes it looks like giving someone enough safety to become exactly who they were always meant to be.
And that's exactly why Zane and Alexei will stay with me.
I would recommend this novel to readers who love to read:
🩵 Hockey romance
🩵 Slow burn
🩵 Open-door romance
🩵 Found family
🩵 Emotionally intelligent characters
🩵 A patient, supportive hero
🩵 A strong, guarded heroine
🩵 Honest communication
🩵 Character-driven romance with an emotional payoff
This is an ARC review and all thoughts are mine
Some books entertain you. Some make you smile. And then there are the rare ones that quietly remind you what love is supposed to feel like.
Playing It Straight was that book for me.
After following this series from Grayson and Sienna to Chase and Skye, and then Luke and Emma, I couldn't have asked for a more satisfying conclusion. Nicole Crystal didn't just give Zane Morgan his story—she completely changed the way I saw him.
One of my favorite things about this series is that each hero has carried a completely different kind of strength. Grayson became the steady heart of the group—the one who quietly held everyone together. Chase wore his charm openly but never hesitated to be vulnerable with the woman he loved. Luke showed that patience, consistency, and quiet devotion can be just as powerful as grand gestures. And then there's Zane . I thought I knew exactly who he was from the previous books, but his story completely changed my perspective. Behind all the confidence and effortless charisma was someone remarkably perceptive, emotionally intelligent, and secure enough to love without trying to control. Nicole Crystal gave each hero a distinct emotional identity, and that's one of the reasons this series never felt repetitive to me.
He doesn't try to rescue Alexei.
He doesn't demand that she let her walls down.
He doesn't mistake patience for passivity.
He simply stays.
Alexeis has spent years believing she always has to prove herself. Every boardroom, every decision, every achievement has taught her that control is the safest place to live. Watching someone recognize that armor without asking her to remove it immediately was one of the most beautiful parts of this story.
Their romance isn't built on dramatic declarations.
It's built on forehead kisses that somehow say more than words.
On conversations where both people choose honesty over assumptions.
On meaningful banter.
On emotional intelligence.
On someone quietly saying, "I'll meet you where you are instead of asking you to become someone else."
That kind of love will always stay with me.
One thing Nicole Crystal consistently does well throughout this series is honoring the past. Grief isn't something her characters simply "move on" from—it becomes part of who they are. Previous couples remain present, friendships continue to evolve, and the found-family dynamic feels lived in rather than written for convenience.
Reading all four books also made me appreciate the subtle parallels woven throughout the series. Certain themes return in new ways, familiar emotional beats take on fresh meaning, and small details connect the books without making them feel repetitive. It made this finale feel intentional—a full-circle ending rather than simply the last installment.
And Chapter 43 & epilogue?
Let's just say it completely owned my heart.
This is definitely an open-door romance with plenty of spice, so readers looking for a clean romance should know that going in. But what made this relationship memorable wasn't the chemistry—it was the trust. Every intimate moment felt like another step toward vulnerability instead of existing purely for the sake of tension.
The loudest relationships aren't always the strongest.
Sometimes love looks like patience.
Sometimes it looks like understanding.
Sometimes it looks like giving someone enough safety to become exactly who they were always meant to be.
And that's exactly why Zane and Alexei will stay with me.
I would recommend this novel to readers who love to read:
🩵 Hockey romance
🩵 Slow burn
🩵 Open-door romance
🩵 Found family
🩵 Emotionally intelligent characters
🩵 A patient, supportive hero
🩵 A strong, guarded heroine
🩵 Honest communication
🩵 Character-driven romance with an emotional payoff
This is an ARC review and all thoughts are mine
Review of advance copy
I don't know what I was expecting from this book, but it definitely wasn't for it to be SO heartwarming and just a general delight to read! I read one other book in this series (Playing to Win), and while I enjoyed that one, it did not pull me in and consume me like this one did.
I was a little concerned at the start because it is a hockey romance, and although I haven't read a ton of hockey romances, I've read enough for this one to feel very rote. That changed quickly as I began reading, because even though the plot itself wasn't super inventive, the characters were so compelling that it felt fresh and fun. For me, hockey romances are a nice little ridiculous break from reality that are fun, but not fall-in-love with. But so many things about this book made it break the mold:
The Characters:
- Alexis is such a badass and I related to her on so many levels, despite being nothing like her. Her drive, her need to be constantly proving herself, and her struggle with not believing she can have everything she wants are such universal things and were handled very well. We got realistic emotional depth out of her that "boss bitch" characters often aren't afforded.
- Zane... so I usually have a problem with the playboy, sleeps with a different woman every night, obsessed with his looks MMCs. They feel so manufactured and when they do finally realize they've found "the one," it often feels forced and like a total 180 personality switch. I didn't feel that way with Zane. We got pieces of his humility (for lack of a better word) before he fell for Alexis, and we got pieces of his arrogance after.
- The side characters were fun, but the emphasis on this book is really Alexis and Zane. There were some really fun dynamics with the main characters and their friends/family, as well as some semi-redemtion arcs (which I am always a sucker for).
The Plot: Again, I wouldn't say the plot was anything super out-of-the-ordinary, but it was well written and paced incredibly well. There were also some curveballs that I wasn't expecting, which was fun. Without giving away spoilers, I felt like the final conflict was handled differently than I expected, and in a way I really enjoyed because it took a different path than a lot of romances. There weren't any slow points, and I didn't want to put it down. I absolutely would have read the entire thing in one go if I didn't have adult responsibilities.
This was definitely a 5-star book for me, but there were a couple little things I felt could have been improved upon:
1. There were some minor editing issues (typos, grammar) that will likely be caught before this is published.
2. The ending was SUPER cheesey. Honestly, I'm here for it, but it was a little bit like "whoa, this was already a super cute story, maybe tone it down a little." But just a little :)
Overall, I loved this series and will be going back and reading the rest of the books in the series! Thanks so much to BookSirens and Nicole Crystal for the ARC copy in exchange for my honest review!
I was a little concerned at the start because it is a hockey romance, and although I haven't read a ton of hockey romances, I've read enough for this one to feel very rote. That changed quickly as I began reading, because even though the plot itself wasn't super inventive, the characters were so compelling that it felt fresh and fun. For me, hockey romances are a nice little ridiculous break from reality that are fun, but not fall-in-love with. But so many things about this book made it break the mold:
The Characters:
- Alexis is such a badass and I related to her on so many levels, despite being nothing like her. Her drive, her need to be constantly proving herself, and her struggle with not believing she can have everything she wants are such universal things and were handled very well. We got realistic emotional depth out of her that "boss bitch" characters often aren't afforded.
- Zane... so I usually have a problem with the playboy, sleeps with a different woman every night, obsessed with his looks MMCs. They feel so manufactured and when they do finally realize they've found "the one," it often feels forced and like a total 180 personality switch. I didn't feel that way with Zane. We got pieces of his humility (for lack of a better word) before he fell for Alexis, and we got pieces of his arrogance after.
- The side characters were fun, but the emphasis on this book is really Alexis and Zane. There were some really fun dynamics with the main characters and their friends/family, as well as some semi-redemtion arcs (which I am always a sucker for).
The Plot: Again, I wouldn't say the plot was anything super out-of-the-ordinary, but it was well written and paced incredibly well. There were also some curveballs that I wasn't expecting, which was fun. Without giving away spoilers, I felt like the final conflict was handled differently than I expected, and in a way I really enjoyed because it took a different path than a lot of romances. There weren't any slow points, and I didn't want to put it down. I absolutely would have read the entire thing in one go if I didn't have adult responsibilities.
This was definitely a 5-star book for me, but there were a couple little things I felt could have been improved upon:
1. There were some minor editing issues (typos, grammar) that will likely be caught before this is published.
2. The ending was SUPER cheesey. Honestly, I'm here for it, but it was a little bit like "whoa, this was already a super cute story, maybe tone it down a little." But just a little :)
Overall, I loved this series and will be going back and reading the rest of the books in the series! Thanks so much to BookSirens and Nicole Crystal for the ARC copy in exchange for my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
ARC Review. Thanks to BookSirens for the Playing it Straight ARC, book four and the final book in the Playing the Games series. I feel so honored to have experienced all four books in this series through the ARC experience, and can 100% say these four books are in my top five favorite Hockey series I’ve completed. A huge positive addition for me, which set it above others is how each book did a slight pivot to the series opener, yet still keeping it in the hockey world, just not running the course of their four years in college only, or as pros in the NHL. The full circle of the series regulars at the end of Playing it Straight was completely heartwarming and really gave the kind of closure this reader always craves to celebrate the end of an era. Plus author teased the next book is a spinoff MMF, with our fmc, Alexis’s bestie Harper as the fmc. She was definitely a highlight of this book as a touchstone for Alexis.
More to the point of our two final love birds, Alexis and Zane… these two completed each other so spectacularly that it was hard to care why the hard line of not being able to date stood. It sucks there is still, and will always be such a double standard for women in corporate America, but Alexis and Zane, along with all their pals are able to handle it and triumph in the end. I can’t recommend enough if you are a fan of sports romances, especially hockey, and want a group of people you can fall in love with, pick up this series. Right after finishing this, I purchased two previous books by author which for someone who reads as much as I do and tries to get as many from Libby or free, is a huge compliment to how much I enjoy authors writing style, funny banter and romantic content.
More to the point of our two final love birds, Alexis and Zane… these two completed each other so spectacularly that it was hard to care why the hard line of not being able to date stood. It sucks there is still, and will always be such a double standard for women in corporate America, but Alexis and Zane, along with all their pals are able to handle it and triumph in the end. I can’t recommend enough if you are a fan of sports romances, especially hockey, and want a group of people you can fall in love with, pick up this series. Right after finishing this, I purchased two previous books by author which for someone who reads as much as I do and tries to get as many from Libby or free, is a huge compliment to how much I enjoy authors writing style, funny banter and romantic content.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
6 ⭐️ read!
I truly didn’t think this series could get any better, but Nicole Crystal proved me wrong one last time. This was hands down my favorite story yet!
I loved everything about this book—the forbidden romance, the back-and-forth tension, the twists and turns, and the emotional depth of the characters. Every moment kept me invested, and I couldn’t get enough. Getting to see so many of the previous characters throughout the story made it feel like coming home, and it was the perfect way to bring this series full circle.
And the spice? 👀🌶️ Let’s just say… it was next level!
And can we talk about Zane Morgan? Playboy turned lover boy? Absolutely obsessed. ❤️ Watching him fall was everything.
Alexis Westgate was the perfect match for him—strong, driven, and more than capable of keeping Zane on his toes.
Oh… and did I mention they’re neighbors?! 👀
I laughed, I swooned, I stressed, and I smiled right alongside these characters. Nicole has built such an incredible world throughout this series, and every book has somehow become my new favorite.
I’m so sad to see this series come to an end, but I truly can’t express how grateful I am that Nicole trusted me with an ARC for this amazing series. It has been such a privilege to experience these stories early, and I can’t wait to see what she has in store next.
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to start this series… this is it. You won’t regret it. 💕💕
6 ⭐️ read!
I truly didn’t think this series could get any better, but Nicole Crystal proved me wrong one last time. This was hands down my favorite story yet!
I loved everything about this book—the forbidden romance, the back-and-forth tension, the twists and turns, and the emotional depth of the characters. Every moment kept me invested, and I couldn’t get enough. Getting to see so many of the previous characters throughout the story made it feel like coming home, and it was the perfect way to bring this series full circle.
And the spice? 👀🌶️ Let’s just say… it was next level!
And can we talk about Zane Morgan? Playboy turned lover boy? Absolutely obsessed. ❤️ Watching him fall was everything.
Alexis Westgate was the perfect match for him—strong, driven, and more than capable of keeping Zane on his toes.
Oh… and did I mention they’re neighbors?! 👀
I laughed, I swooned, I stressed, and I smiled right alongside these characters. Nicole has built such an incredible world throughout this series, and every book has somehow become my new favorite.
I’m so sad to see this series come to an end, but I truly can’t express how grateful I am that Nicole trusted me with an ARC for this amazing series. It has been such a privilege to experience these stories early, and I can’t wait to see what she has in store next.
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to start this series… this is it. You won’t regret it. 💕💕
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all, Nicole is so sweet to remember that I asked about her previous release and messaged me as soon as this series finale was available. Completely made my day/week/month that she would let me know to go grab it!
Second, Silver Pines has all grown up! You got a hint of it at the end of Book 3 that Zane was going to really melt our hearts and no notes. That man, so patient and perfect for Alexis who is a bad ass in every way! I loved that all these FMC's held their own in their careers and with their men and all such great pairings. Honestly I could not put this one down, while there was heat and passion between Zane and Alexis, there were some really poignant moments too and Harper was a fantastic roommate.
I think we all know Porter deserved it... *big side eye*
I'm not sure if Nicole meant to spill all the tea for her upcoming releases but heck yes please!!
2026/2027 is going to be fantastic and I'm excited to see my must read authors branch out into different relationships and new character combos. I'm totally okay that we're taking a step to the side from Silver Pines, but I can see the characters that melted our hearts first make some appearances along the way.
A HUMONGOUS Thank you to Nicole for sharing this copy with me in advance.
Second, Silver Pines has all grown up! You got a hint of it at the end of Book 3 that Zane was going to really melt our hearts and no notes. That man, so patient and perfect for Alexis who is a bad ass in every way! I loved that all these FMC's held their own in their careers and with their men and all such great pairings. Honestly I could not put this one down, while there was heat and passion between Zane and Alexis, there were some really poignant moments too and Harper was a fantastic roommate.
I think we all know Porter deserved it... *big side eye*
I'm not sure if Nicole meant to spill all the tea for her upcoming releases but heck yes please!!
2026/2027 is going to be fantastic and I'm excited to see my must read authors branch out into different relationships and new character combos. I'm totally okay that we're taking a step to the side from Silver Pines, but I can see the characters that melted our hearts first make some appearances along the way.
A HUMONGOUS Thank you to Nicole for sharing this copy with me in advance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Zane is an ice hockey player. Transferred to a new team he has 4 months to prove his worth. As it happens, the woman who decides his fate is Alexis Westgate. VP to the team and daughter of the owner.
She’s also his new next door neighbour .
The chemistry between them is insane. But they know if anything gets out of, Alexis will be accused of bias towards Zane.
They try their hardest to stay away from each other , but why would they deny such strong feelings. Is the risk to both their careers worth it ?
I love a hockey romance, and this one was perfect. It was a slow burn filled with so much yearning that when they finally gave in to their feelings, it felt like fireworks.
I absolutely adored Zane. It’s like something finally clicks for him when he realises what he truly wants, and from that moment on, he’s all in.
Alexis is fierce, independent, and completely badass. She doesn’t need anyone, but she still dreams of finding love. The only question is whether she’s willing to risk everything to have it.
She’s also his new next door neighbour .
The chemistry between them is insane. But they know if anything gets out of, Alexis will be accused of bias towards Zane.
They try their hardest to stay away from each other , but why would they deny such strong feelings. Is the risk to both their careers worth it ?
I love a hockey romance, and this one was perfect. It was a slow burn filled with so much yearning that when they finally gave in to their feelings, it felt like fireworks.
I absolutely adored Zane. It’s like something finally clicks for him when he realises what he truly wants, and from that moment on, he’s all in.
Alexis is fierce, independent, and completely badass. She doesn’t need anyone, but she still dreams of finding love. The only question is whether she’s willing to risk everything to have it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
LOVED this book!! Favorite of the series by far and that's saying a lot because I loved the others! If I could give more than 5 stars I would.
Both characters in this book, Zane and Alexis, were strong and independent but had their own issues they had to work through separately. There was tension, lust, heartbreak, growth, and love, along with a great plot - everything that makes a good story go from great to amazing.
It was very well written and I would recommend this book, as well as the entire Playing the Game Series, to anyone looking for an amazing new hockey book series to get addicted to!
Both characters in this book, Zane and Alexis, were strong and independent but had their own issues they had to work through separately. There was tension, lust, heartbreak, growth, and love, along with a great plot - everything that makes a good story go from great to amazing.
It was very well written and I would recommend this book, as well as the entire Playing the Game Series, to anyone looking for an amazing new hockey book series to get addicted to!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Playing It Straight by Nicole Crystal was another fun addition to the Playing the Game series! I was excited to finally get Zane’s story, and he absolutely delivered. He’s funny, lovable, and impossible not to root for, while Alexis is strong, relatable, and wonderfully challenging. I especially loved their workplace/forced-proximity dynamic and the banter between them. And the Sharpie! 😂 The friendships at Silver Pine remain one of my favorite parts of this series. A steamy, entertaining hockey romance with plenty of heart!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC from the author for my true and honest opinion.
Nicole does not disappoint. This is the last book in the Playing the Game series and I loved it just as I did the 3 before. Hockey, friendship, found family, and spice... What more could a reader want? I enjoyed Zane's story and as the last book in the series I liked how it tied everything together with all of the characters of the past books.
Nicole does not disappoint. This is the last book in the Playing the Game series and I loved it just as I did the 3 before. Hockey, friendship, found family, and spice... What more could a reader want? I enjoyed Zane's story and as the last book in the series I liked how it tied everything together with all of the characters of the past books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m really loving this series and so grateful to be a part of Nicole’s team! This was a surprise dropped to us and I was thrilled 😍 I love the found family and interconnected stories of all these characters. I loved the strong and amazing FMC finally finding a soft place to land and breathe with the MMC, total golden retriever who falls hard for the girl - all my favourite things! Really recommend this series to any hockey romance lovers ❤️
Review of advance copy
I didn’t read any of the other books in this series, but you definitely don’t have to! I flew through this one and enjoyed every second of it. This is easily one of the best hockey romances I’ve read so far. It’s fun, it’s spicy, it’s heartfelt. What more could you want?
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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A heartbreaker that fires up the senses and burns through emotions. Playing It Straight feels like it has something to prove. From a battle of hearts to a meeting of minds, Zane and Alexis are a spirited duo that refuses to back down from a challenge.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Nicole Crystal writes it! I ALWAYS read.
Loved Zane and Alexis!
Must read for all romance readers.!
Loved Zane and Alexis!
Must read for all romance readers.!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The last and final book of the Playing the Games series, and Nicole saved the best for last! Thank you for this amazing ARC, I absolutely loved it!
A total dream for hockey romance lovers! I completely fell for Zane and Alexis. Zane is the ultimate "he falls first" hero. I loved how he handles her professional walls by dropping off custom-sized jerseys. Alexis is a fierce, hardworking heroine fighting corporate sexism, and Zane is exactly the supportive partner she needs. Their incredible text banter, elevator tension, and sweet slow-dancing moments made this an absolute page-turner.
A total dream for hockey romance lovers! I completely fell for Zane and Alexis. Zane is the ultimate "he falls first" hero. I loved how he handles her professional walls by dropping off custom-sized jerseys. Alexis is a fierce, hardworking heroine fighting corporate sexism, and Zane is exactly the supportive partner she needs. Their incredible text banter, elevator tension, and sweet slow-dancing moments made this an absolute page-turner.
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