Playing to Win

Playing the Game #2

by Nicole Crystal

Sometimes the biggest win has nothing to do with the game.
Chase Morgan's reputation is tanking faster than his draft stock.
According to the campus newspaper, I'm the poster boy for "elite-level headaches." A guy who skates through hearts faster than defensive zones. One viral article later, and NHL scouts are questioning my character, my agent's having a meltdown, and my chances of going first-round are circling the drain.
The solution? Fake date someone wholesome. Someone who makes me look mature, focused, and definitely not like a reality TV casting reject.
Enter Sky academic overachiever, competitive swimmer, and, oh yeah, my team captain's extremely off-limits little sister.
The plan is public appearances, strategic Instagram posts, and zero actual feelings. She gets a buffer from her overbearing coach and douchebag ex. I get my reputation back. Win-win.
Except Sky is more than a game. Always has been. Which is why this plan is doomed to fail. Because there's this annoying thing where I can't stop thinking about her...
Turns out, the only thing more dangerous than ruining my draft chances is falling for the one girl I was never supposed to touch.
Game on.
Playing to Win is a laugh-out-loud, swoon-worthy college sports romance featuring fake dating, forbidden attraction, protective siblings, and a hockey player who's terrible at following his own rules.

Genres: Hockey Romance, Romance, Hockey, Sports Romance

323 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 3, 2026

Reviews

[ChapterAddict · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

I got this ebook copy from the author and Booksirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Lord have mercy, sometimes falling in love is a whole lot more dangerous than anything that happens on a hockey rink!

Playing to Win serves up a good helping of college sports romance, fake dating, family drama, stubborn hearts, and some mighty serious chemistry. What I enjoyed most was that there was more to this story than two people falling for each other. There's plenty about chasing your dreams, dealing with family expectations, and learning that you can't spend your whole life trying to please everybody else.

Chase is one of those fellas who can make you laugh one minute and want to knock some sense into him the next. But underneath that cocky attitude, there's a whole lot more going on. Sky was somebody I could respect. She's got a mind of her own, plenty of determination, and ain't afraid to stand her ground. I especially liked how her swimming career mattered just as much as all the romance going on.

The hockey teammates brought some good humor into the mix, and I enjoyed the friendships and family relationships. There's plenty of romance, some emotional moments, and a good bit of spice. I did find myself shaking my head at a few decisions these two made, but that's part of what made them feel real.

Overall, this was an enjoyable hockey romance with plenty of heart, passion, personal struggles, and characters worth rooting for. If you enjoy college sports romance with strong characters, complicated relationships, and some good Southern style stubbornness, this one's worth picking up.

I give it a 4.25 outta 5 catfish!

[Amee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so happy to receive this ARC from BookSirens. My opinions are my own. I’ll be honest… it took me almost half this book to even start to like our MMC, Chase. He is a product of his upbringing, yes, but I just wasn’t 100% sold he wanted real change in his life, and Sky deserved the guy she fell in love with two years ago. Not the magazine cover his family has led everyone to believe they are. Once I was able to get on board with these two being a power couple…a twist of truth is revealed and it leaves Sky devastated. Not always a fan of the third act breakup, especially when it makes zero sense. This breakup was understandable and really pulled at my heartstrings. Touches on what to do what the person you love does something that makes them unlikable in that moment. I think author handled it well…including both of their trust issues coming into play. Definitely a good addition to this series and can’t wait for the next one. It’ll be about a girls hockey team!! With a man coach! Whoop whoop.

[Claudia M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky to receive and ARC of this book and I have loved it!! Absolutely loved it!

The chlorine and Vanilla scent hit pretty close to home since it has been my scent for years :)

But Chase’s personal growth and Sky’s resilience had me swooning most pages!
Loved the story, loved the characters, and loved the writing style!

Can’t wait to reed the next one! Honestly, unsure how I’ll wait until June for the next one

[CONNIEBENNETT26 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nicole Crystal has done it again, beautifully written, page turner.! I love authors' ability to make readers immerse in her books with laughter, head shaking,and rereading lines.
Chase and Sky Story is one for heartfelt moments .
Thank you so much , Nicole Crystal for the advanced copy.
So excited to read more in 2026.!

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this on a Goodreads giveaway, and a signed copy from the author!

This was a really good story. I love me a fake real trope, and it was a good story line and well written. I love when a book boyfriend convinces me how much they love the girl.

Added bonus that the cover is so pretty and I like the added in color emoji touches in the print. It also arrived in the CUTEST box with some extra goodies.

Thanks Nicole ❤️

[Davin English · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for this one and I think I loved Chase and Sky’s story even more than Grayson and Sienna! I loved the storyline with Sky’s swimming and Chase had the yearning I love from an MMC! I can’t wait for the next book in the series!

[Gina DelGaudio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Nicole Crystal for the advanced copy of this book.

I was sent this book for my true and honest opinion.

Loved the characters, the 🌶️, and the love story. Nicole Crystal knows how to draw you in and feel what the characters are feeling. Read the whole book in under 24 hours.

[Kira · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a sucker for sports romances in general, but as a jock myself, I often can't relate when the FMC is nerdy and bookish and gets winded from a flight of stairs. I loved that both main characters in this one were dedicated athletes. While is this a hockey romance, there wasn't too much hockey, and we also got competitive swimming, which was a nice change of pace.

As an old lady (ok, in my mid 30s), I was a little worried that the fact that I wasn't going to be able to relate to the characters. But on the contrary, it have me some nostalgia and made me think back fondly to my college days, so that was fun.

Anyway, about the book! I feel in love with the characters pretty instantly. Sky was easy to connect with with her drive and unhealthy focus on swimming, and while the "reformed playboy" things is often overused/overdone, I thought Chase was written really well. In general, there were a lot of tropes that normally make me grumble that were well done in this book and I really couldn't fault.

I was terrified of what was going to happen with the 3rd act breakup that I knew would happen. But again, Nicole Crystal handled it in such a thoughtful way that the only thing I could fault was the believability of the breakup catalyst (vague, but trying not to say any spoilers!).

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Overall, this was a super fun book and I'll definitely be checking her other books out!

[Melinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nicole Crystal knows how to get your attention and she has done it again with Playing to Win. We have Chase Morgan, wealthy beyond any boy his age yet in many ways lonely and in so much trouble that he is close to losing his hockey position on the team. Then we have Sky Sweeny, all around awesome girl, professional swimmer with the Olympics nearby in her future yet is on the breaking point of losing control and everything. One of them needs help and the other needs to learn how to live outside of the pool. All in all the two are great in hockey and in competing in swimming competitions yet you can feel how much Chase wants Skye. I loved that we see two sides of Chase that nobody really sees except Skye. All his life has he in many ways just been acting and it takes a strong girl like Skye to really get him to reveal his real self. Seeing him wanting to break away from his snobbish family and the rich life that he was born into actually being envious of Skye really breaks my heart. In many ways these two were so perfect it was so easy to see why Chase was so into Skye all these months. Nicole Crystal really shows us the real Chase from the beginning to the end it was so magical the way Skye falls for him. I loved these two, the way they confide for each other and oh my god the way they motivate one another, building each other up and really just being the for each other was just perfect with these two. I loved it and can't wait to see what Nicole Crystal does in book 3. Awesome story line and the way Nicole Crystal really gets your attention with the team and the way they are growing just wow.

"I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily."

[Angel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4/5

Simple brother's best friend trope... with a lot of understanding

Plot: A young adult romance with brother's best friend while navigating through their individual goals at the same time.

Genre: Young Adult Romance, Sports Romance

Highlight:
+Article at the first page
+Prioritizing goals individually
+Bonus chapter
+Character description
+Dual POV

My experience: Why do I say the article as the highlight? It literally is the whole premise being summarised and then the book goes to start with actual matters to discuss.
The writing style is simple, relatable and quite practical for the young adults to experience. The fact that it motivates to remember your own identity and achieve your goals is one of the major factors for the high rating. While this plot line is very similar to many, but the approach of it is unique. It promotes the personal growth and relationship building process together. It clearly explains what many books miss out on, romance and love do not mean sacrifice, it means respect and mutual understanding. ✨
The character development can be seen in various quotes and the reflection by both the MLs. I really liked ready a healthy take in this genre trope.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lavena Spade Jenkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this sweet hockey swimmer romance. Both FMC and MMC are competitive in their respective sports. Chase the collegiate hockey player vying for a major league spot and Sky, a serious contender for Nationals in swimming. Two years before they have a brief meeting and then she never hears from him again. It definitely hurt her as she thought they had a connection(not romantic that night) but one that could have been build upon.
The NHL draft is not impressed with his party boy image and his dad and coach come up with an idea to improve his his odds.

In order to appear more wholesome and focused he needs to be committed to one wholesome girl. Chase proposes Sky to be his fake girlfriend. She agrees for reasons of her own and then the magic happens.

This is a positively delightful read. i enjoyed their story and was cheering for them as they navigated their not unexpected, but character building hurdles. I found myself falling in love right along with them. I will be watching for more from this author.

i received this as an ARC read from the author and this is my honest review.

[Stephanie Hemry · Rating 5 out of 5]

The main characters in this grabbed my attention from the first chapter on.

Chase is a star hockey player following in his brothers footsteps and living the life everyone else wants him to. He's fun, charming, and shows everyone what he wants them to see while hiding his true self behind the smiles and flirtatious attitude.

Sky is a top swimmer who suffered an injury and is working to come back from that while also going through personal life issues. She is very sweet, observant, and tough. She sees people as more than their name and calls their BS.

Together these two have great banter throughout the book and its a great storyline. I love the chemistry between them and the growth of their characters, plus the spice thrown in between.

I couldn't put this book down and would definitely recommend for fans of sports romance, hockey, two athletes trying to make it work with a busy lifestyle, or just anyone looking for a great romance book that has tension, angst, regret, love, laughter, happiness, tears, and hope.

[Gretchen (we_read_past_our_bedtime) · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW: Playing To Win by Nicole Crystal - Book 2 in the Playing for Keeps Series had me hooked me from page one and never let go. Nicole Crystal delivers a romance that's equal parts emotional, electric, and deeply character-driven-and Chase Morgan and Sky Sweeney completely owned my heart.

Chase Morgan is the college hockey playboy with a reputation that's finally caught up with him. Cleaning up his image isn't optional anymore.

Sky Sweeney is a driven college swimmer, juggling a demanding coach, academics, and the pressure to be perfect. She's beautiful, focused, and has forgotten what fun looks like.

The fix for Chase's image? Fake date someone wholesome. Someone grounded. Someone safe.
The problem? Sky is his teammate's-and team captain's-little sister. Extremely, absolutely, completely off-limits.

I knew I was going to fall for Chase. I'm a sucker for a reformed playboy and he is next-level. Chase doesn't just soften—he grows. He shows up. He chooses Sky again and again, and his evolution into a man worthy of her is nothing short of swoon-inducing.

And Sky? She was perfection. As a former swimmer, her mindset, routines, burnout, the way she internalized pressure—| felt every bit of it. It was like stepping back into my own swim days. She's easy to root for, impossible not to love, and so much stronger than she realizes.

What I loved most is that Sky was never just a solution to Chase's problem. She was the exception. The real thing.

Nicole Crystal has quickly become one of my favorite authors, and Playing To Win beautifully proves that the biggest wins in life have nothing to do with the game.

[Ashling B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chase Morgan is a talented, reckless hockey player, and Sky Sweeney—aka Butterfly—is smart, ambitious, and totally off-limits. When a fake-dating arrangement brings them together, sparks fly! 💌 Honestly, it was inevitable that they’d fall in love ⛸️💖—the chemistry is electric from the start.

This story is flirty, fun, and impossible to put down. The slow burn, witty banter, and forbidden romance make every page a delight.

This book is different from Book 1 and doesn’t seem to be directly connected—you can jump in without reading the previous story.

Tropes you’ll love:
🏒 Sports Romance
💌 Fake Dating
🔥 Slow Burn
🚫 Forbidden Romance
💬 Witty Banter
💖 Opposites Attract

[Kristin Straumann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chase is a college hockey player with NHL aspirations... and a playboy reputation that needs rehabilitation. Sky is a swimmer who spends WAY too much time in the pool trying to please her insanely demanding coach as she returns from injury. Fake dating, as a PR stunt, turns into real feelings, all with very complicated family dynamics thrown into the mix. It was a fun read! I enjoyed the relationships between the main characters, as well as their interactions with others.

Thank you to BookSirens, Nicole Crystal, and the publisher for the ARC to read and review! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Whitney · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Playing for Keeps” walked so this novel could run. Yall. 5 stars. No notes.

This book was so damn good. I loved the relationships between all of the characters and the sibling relationships felt so accurate! Watching the FMC and MMC grow throughout the book was fun. The pacing felt just right and while this say on my Goodreads shelf for ages, I actually devoured it in 3 days. The ending was satisfying, and I’m so excited for book 3!

Thanks to the publisher and author for advanced reader copy in exchange for this honest review.

[Tequila Oliver · Rating 5 out of 5]

a must read, and my favorite so far!

The emotions I felt while reading this book were everything!

If you’re in your Off-Campus era, you absolutely need to add this one to your TBR! I loved the chemistry between the characters, their interactions, and all the heartfelt quotes that had me highlighting like crazy. 🥹📖

As much as I loved book one, this one was SO much better for me! The connection between the characters felt so natural, and there were so many moments that made me laugh, swoon, and feel ALL the emotions.

Definitely a 5-star read for me and one I’ll be thinking about for a while! 💕

[Ashley Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nicole Crystal did it AGAIN! 🔥 After loving Playing It Straight, I couldn't wait to jump into Playing to Win, and this one absolutely delivered!

I was hooked from the beginning and did not want to put it down. The characters, the chemistry, the emotions, and all those moments that keep you saying “just ONE more chapter” had me completely invested.

I love a book that pulls me into the characters’ world and makes me forget everything else around me, and Playing to Win did exactly that. Nicole Crystal is quickly becoming one of those authors I know I can pick up and enjoy.

[Beth Barnhart · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC READ - 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

"Playing to Win" was such a cozy win for me. Chase and Sky are both fiercely athletic in their own worlds, him as a hockey player, her as a competitive swimmer, and that BALANCE worked beautifully. I’m a sucker for a hockey romance, but adding an elite swimmer heroine? Absolute perfection.

This is very much a he-falls-first romance, and Chase’s devotion was everything. It’s tender, feel-good, and emotionally satisfying, perfect if you want a sports romance that focuses on chemistry and character connection.

[Nat’s Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely devoured this book. The way Chase and Sky are written are so intoxicating. Their chemistry is undeniable! I enjoyed how well the other characters are developed as it provided so much more to their story. I would recommend this book for anyone who likes hockey romances, the second chance trope, and fans of the fake dating trope. Thank you to the author for letting me part of this ARC.

Please note all reviews are my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Lisa Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am actually giving this book 4.5 stars.

I’m a sucker for a hockey romance and this one didn’t disappoint. I loved Sky and Chase as a couple, as they brought out the best in each other. I loved her strength (both physically and emotionally) and his vulnerability. The supporting characters were great too.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Elaine Crookes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this sweet college/sport romance.

Two ambitious people who were meant to be together.

Chase the playboy hockey player and Skye the dedicated swimmer.

I loved the way the story unfolded to bring the two of them together.

Great read.

I received a free copy of this book and have given my honest review.

[Kristen S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fake Dating Yes!!

I loved the writing in this book. Chase and Sky make such a cute couple. I like the history they have and you read it at the end. I think that was such a good idea by the author. Sky challenges Chase in such a great way to make him better. Now after their one night and fake Dating can they make it work? Yes and that's what makes this a romance novel.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love a good college sports romance!!! I loved the way Sky was the one to see the "real" Chase, and I loved that he fell first! Can't wait to see what's in store for book 3!! Definitely recommend If you like fake dating, brothers team mate, hockey romance!!

[Dana Eisinger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Crystal Nicole for this ARC. Playing to Win was another win for her. A realistic fake dating story in her new college hockey series.

[alison lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chase & Skys story was so good. I really enjoyed the bond & chemistry they had. The other characters in the book played a big part in helping the story to be told & I always like a HEA

[Kristie Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sassy and sweet, this was a great continuation of playing the game. With a fake relationship, Chase hopes to improve his image and save his career. He doesn't expect Sky and everything she brings to the table.

[Alicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had a slightly slow start but it did seem to pick up after introducing Sky. My favorite thing would have to be how well the conversations were written. I really enjoyed Sky and Chases chemistry. Though this book does have a slight 3rd act breakup so if your not into that.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Betsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nicole Crystal is quickly becoming an auto buy author for me! I truly enjoyed this sequel almost as much as I loved the first. If you love hockey romance then this is for you!

[Ruth Brici · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "Playing the Games, Book 2," we follow Chase, the crown prince of hockey for Silver Pines, as he navigates his image crisis. Chase is a forward who needs to uphold the Morgan name, while Sky, Trent's sister and a talented junior swimmer, is unexpectedly pulled into his world. Despite Trent's warning that his sister is off-limits, Chase and Sky find themselves drawn to each other.

Their connection begins with a chance encounter in a garage, where tensions rise when Sky's ex walks in, prompting Chase to use their interaction to make her ex jealous. A viral photo taken by Mara adds fuel to the fire, and soon, Chase proposes a fake dating arrangement to help repair his image. Sky, hesitant but intrigued, agrees and insists on laying down some ground rules.

As they embark on their fake romance, both characters face challenges from their pasts. Sky grapples with messages from her ex, Brandon, while Chase's friend circle, particularly Trent, expresses concern for Sky's well-being. Their humorous rock climbing date leads to unexpected chemistry, and Chase’s burgeoning feelings for Sky become harder to ignore.

As their relationship deepens, Sky is confronted with revelations about Chase's past, including unsettling messages hinting at his questionable reputation. Trust becomes a pivotal theme as Chase struggles to share the truth with Sky. When they finally have a heart-to-heart at a hockey game, Chase commits to honesty, promising no more secrets.

The emotional climax brings them to a crossroads where Sky must decide if she can trust Chase after being kept in the dark. Ultimately, their love shines through, culminating in a satisfying resolution.

This book is a delightful mix of humor and heart, with relatable characters and a well-paced plot. I thoroughly enjoyed Sky and Chase's journey and can't wait to dive into Emma and Luke's story next!