The Playing for Keeps series is still going strong with Becka Mack’s Play with Me, a steamy ice hockey romance that carries so much depth, character development, individual revelations, and heartwarming interactions. If you loved the Windy city series then you need to start reading the Playing for Keeps series because you will fall in love again.

He’s found the perfect person—but she’s the only one he can’t be with. Garrett Andersen knows that playing professional hockey requires absolute dedication to the rules. There’s just one rule he’s finding difficult to follow: stay away from his captain’s younger sister. As a professional dancer, Jennie Beckett knows what it takes to excel. She prides herself on being every bit as confident and bold as her brother, sassy as hell, and the only person in charge of her pleasure. No wonder Garrett can’t stay away from her—even if he forgets how to form sentences whenever she’s around. Jennie would rather avoid her brother’s teammate, especially after several embarrassing run-ins, but suddenly they’re neighbors. And as the connection between them grows, Garrett and Jennie decide to have some fun, no strings attached. Between their busy schedules and her brother’s disapproval, they know keeping things casual and low-key is the smartest play. But what if their feelings get in the way? After all, they’re only supposed to be playing with each other…

Reading Play with Me reminded me of the depth of character interactions and relationship developments I got from the Knockemout series as well as the numerous sports romances I have read. There is a real intensity and vulnerability between Garrett and Jennie that not only felt raw and delicate but dug down into the flaws and fears between these two, drawing them out and showing them the light in a way that brought explanation, understanding, and acceptance. I couldn’t help but love these two and the collective found family within Play with Me and the Playing for Keeps story world.

The interactions and communication (and lapses into miscommunication) between these characters feel so genuine, mature, and authentic. When things are going well, there is a real sense of understanding and good lessons to learn between the characters, not only in relationships but as individuals too. When the tension rises and chaos ensues, some things get out of hand, but the surrounding characters always make the point to address the importance of feelings, righting incorrect behaviour, and making sure no one is dealing with things alone. The strong bond between characters on a platonic and familial level makes these books so enjoyable and heart-melting to read.

If you haven’t read Consider Me yet, then you need to get it lined up fast because Playing with Me deserves all the love and attention. These books could seriously rival the praise the Windy City series gets, but I know I will love both so much and seeing them on my shelves side by side as pinnacle sports romance series will bring such a big smile to my face. I cannot wait to get my hands on Unravel Me because I am dying for more about these characters and Adam’s story is going to be an absolute whirlwind.