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The Reapers Series #2
Play To Win
Play to Win is Book Two in The Reapers Series and must be read after My Captain.
The playoffs were never about the Cup.
Elias Mercer already belongs to Damian Kade—and now he’s determined to earn the rest of him.
Damian is the Ravensburg Reapers’ brutal, controlled, untouchable. He’s spent thirteen years breaking men on the ice and keeping his heart locked down tight. He never planned on letting a reckless rookie crawl under his skin and stay there.
But Elias doesn’t play to survive. He plays to be claimed.
Every hit he takes is deliberate. Every reckless shift is an offering. Elias isn’t chasing glory—he’s chasing devotion, permission, a future that looks a lot like Damian’s last name.
As the playoffs turn violent and the pressure closes in, Damian is forced to confront the control isn’t enough anymore. Protecting Elias means choosing him. Fully. Publicly. Permanently.
Because this season isn’t about winning games.
It’s about ownership.
It’s about the ring.
It’s about deciding who you bleed for when everything is on the line.
Play to Win is a filthy, obsessive M/M hockey romance featuring a continuing couple, intense power imbalance, possessive devotion, explicit scenes, and a love that doesn’t ask to be gentle.
Read in order.
Some rings aren’t won.
They’re claimed.
The playoffs were never about the Cup.
Elias Mercer already belongs to Damian Kade—and now he’s determined to earn the rest of him.
Damian is the Ravensburg Reapers’ brutal, controlled, untouchable. He’s spent thirteen years breaking men on the ice and keeping his heart locked down tight. He never planned on letting a reckless rookie crawl under his skin and stay there.
But Elias doesn’t play to survive. He plays to be claimed.
Every hit he takes is deliberate. Every reckless shift is an offering. Elias isn’t chasing glory—he’s chasing devotion, permission, a future that looks a lot like Damian’s last name.
As the playoffs turn violent and the pressure closes in, Damian is forced to confront the control isn’t enough anymore. Protecting Elias means choosing him. Fully. Publicly. Permanently.
Because this season isn’t about winning games.
It’s about ownership.
It’s about the ring.
It’s about deciding who you bleed for when everything is on the line.
Play to Win is a filthy, obsessive M/M hockey romance featuring a continuing couple, intense power imbalance, possessive devotion, explicit scenes, and a love that doesn’t ask to be gentle.
Read in order.
Some rings aren’t won.
They’re claimed.
341 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 11, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
February 24, 2026
4.5 🌟's
I cried way too much in this book, which was annoyingly unexpected because this was supposed to be one of my "trashy Kindle books that I actually enjoy reading" (a guilty please if you will). But no, rip my heart out why don't you.
Character development was so good. Plot was so much better than I expected. I still think it's a little weird how they never talk about each others likes and dislikes and normal coupley things couples talk about (sometimes I wonder if they even really know anything about each other), but I never doubt their love or relationship so I suppose they're good without all that.
Cole had my heart breaking the most. It was obvious in the first book that he was supposed to be the ditzy comedic releif, but I'm so glad that in this book Sage decided to deapen his character more. His and Elias's friendship was so beautiful and Cole definitely needs his own book, because I wanna read about him even more (and also about Viktor aswell, cause he's actually a pretty interesting character).
This book is miles better than the first one and I think alot of that has to do with the fact that this one had an end goal and a good moving plot that slowly deepened the relationships of all the characters (especially the comradery of the boys). I also appreciate how focused this book was on all the hockey games. It's obvious that it's a romance book for sure, but while the first one was quite heavy on the romance this book actually skipped quite a few "romantic" scenes in favor of putting more writing into the game scenes.
I'm still shocked by how much I loved this.
In fact, I liked it so much I actually almost forgot how much I hate all the pda this couple seems to live for.
I cried way too much in this book, which was annoyingly unexpected because this was supposed to be one of my "trashy Kindle books that I actually enjoy reading" (a guilty please if you will). But no, rip my heart out why don't you.
Character development was so good. Plot was so much better than I expected. I still think it's a little weird how they never talk about each others likes and dislikes and normal coupley things couples talk about (sometimes I wonder if they even really know anything about each other), but I never doubt their love or relationship so I suppose they're good without all that.
Cole had my heart breaking the most. It was obvious in the first book that he was supposed to be the ditzy comedic releif, but I'm so glad that in this book Sage decided to deapen his character more. His and Elias's friendship was so beautiful and Cole definitely needs his own book, because I wanna read about him even more (and also about Viktor aswell, cause he's actually a pretty interesting character).
This book is miles better than the first one and I think alot of that has to do with the fact that this one had an end goal and a good moving plot that slowly deepened the relationships of all the characters (especially the comradery of the boys). I also appreciate how focused this book was on all the hockey games. It's obvious that it's a romance book for sure, but while the first one was quite heavy on the romance this book actually skipped quite a few "romantic" scenes in favor of putting more writing into the game scenes.
I'm still shocked by how much I loved this.
In fact, I liked it so much I actually almost forgot how much I hate all the pda this couple seems to live for.
January 12, 2026
omg!!!!!!! MORÉ!!!!!!!!!
This was wow. Like I don’t usually read sports, especially hockey, but I was more into the game than into the romance at one point. Like towards the finals when they were going for the cup series. I was out of bed jumping in screaming oh my God this book is good. It has as much plot as much spice. My heart broke when I read about Damian getting into an accident. Elias spiralling and just going down that dark path of his past accident also kind of shocked me too. And then Kane had to hang up his skates that also broke my heart. But there was so much laughter with Cole and Viktor I hope they each get their own book like the tension, ooooo. I was waiting for this book for like next week, but the fact that I got to read it four days earlier oh my gosh now I am going to patiently impatiently wait for your next book.
This was wow. Like I don’t usually read sports, especially hockey, but I was more into the game than into the romance at one point. Like towards the finals when they were going for the cup series. I was out of bed jumping in screaming oh my God this book is good. It has as much plot as much spice. My heart broke when I read about Damian getting into an accident. Elias spiralling and just going down that dark path of his past accident also kind of shocked me too. And then Kane had to hang up his skates that also broke my heart. But there was so much laughter with Cole and Viktor I hope they each get their own book like the tension, ooooo. I was waiting for this book for like next week, but the fact that I got to read it four days earlier oh my gosh now I am going to patiently impatiently wait for your next book.
February 1, 2026
Not gonna lie I super skimmed some of the early smut scenes because I can.
BUT. I didn’t know Damian and Elias were getting a second book. I didn’t even know it existed until it popped up in my kindle unlimited recommendations.
I knew going in Damian was going to get in an accident. While I thought I was prepared for Elias’ reaction and aftermath, I was wrong. Poor pup.
When Viktor called Elias pup to get him to come out of a panic attack… just—yeah, heartbreaking.
Elias finally called Damian, Damian, and Damian finally called Elias, Elias. YES!! that was my one irk from the first book but waiting til now I guessss was worth it.
These two sent me on another rollercoaster. There were some tears. There were a lot of laughs. And there was Cole & Viktor. Like hello???? Those two, I hope, are going to be nothing like Elias & Damian. I don’t want a wash-rinse-repeat.
BUT. I didn’t know Damian and Elias were getting a second book. I didn’t even know it existed until it popped up in my kindle unlimited recommendations.
I knew going in Damian was going to get in an accident. While I thought I was prepared for Elias’ reaction and aftermath, I was wrong. Poor pup.
When Viktor called Elias pup to get him to come out of a panic attack… just—yeah, heartbreaking.
Elias finally called Damian, Damian, and Damian finally called Elias, Elias. YES!! that was my one irk from the first book but waiting til now I guessss was worth it.
These two sent me on another rollercoaster. There were some tears. There were a lot of laughs. And there was Cole & Viktor. Like hello???? Those two, I hope, are going to be nothing like Elias & Damian. I don’t want a wash-rinse-repeat.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2026
Loved it
So good
The bus scene killed
The hospital good lord
The ending omg I need Cole and Viktor so badly.
So good
The bus scene killed
The hospital good lord
The ending omg I need Cole and Viktor so badly.
February 1, 2026
Omg, it finally happened. I ended up loving the sequel way more than the first book in the series. I like dark possessive romance, but there needs to be a balance with gentleness. And this one had the perfect balance. There was the spice and possessiveness that I love, but also the gentle moments that I adore. I like how we got to find out more about Damian and Elias, and I loved them the entire time I was reading this book. Now, my second fave couple was definitely Cole and Viktor, there are definitely enough hints that something is going on with them and I was so excited when I saw that she was writing a third book with them as the main couple. I am currently trying to find a release date. If anyone knows, please tell me!!!! I loved Cole and I need to see what happens next with him. Definitely keeping my eyes open for the next one in the series.
January 19, 2026
LOVE!!!
I didn’t think this book could be better than the first, but my GOD! The emotion, the action… Damien and Elias are fucking LIFE! I have read book one over and over again and now I will read this one over and over again. This story grabbed me by the heart and just refused to let go. You will laugh and cry literal tears. The hospital. The way it was written just ripped my fucking heart out. This author is hands down a literary god! Please give us more! I said in my last review I couldn’t wait for Viktor and Cole’s story. Here’s hoping I can make the wait with my sanity intact. All eyes on you Sage Riven.
I didn’t think this book could be better than the first, but my GOD! The emotion, the action… Damien and Elias are fucking LIFE! I have read book one over and over again and now I will read this one over and over again. This story grabbed me by the heart and just refused to let go. You will laugh and cry literal tears. The hospital. The way it was written just ripped my fucking heart out. This author is hands down a literary god! Please give us more! I said in my last review I couldn’t wait for Viktor and Cole’s story. Here’s hoping I can make the wait with my sanity intact. All eyes on you Sage Riven.
January 27, 2026
Great
Play to Win was a great continuation of My Captain. I loved the tension and emotional weight the team carried as they fought for the Cup. The emotional buildup between Damien and Elias was even stronger this time—especially Elias fighting for his marriage ring from Damien, which added so much depth to their relationship. And honestly, Cup or not, it was clear Damien was always going to give it to him. A strong follow-up, packed with emotion and intensity, and I can’t wait to read more from this author.
Play to Win was a great continuation of My Captain. I loved the tension and emotional weight the team carried as they fought for the Cup. The emotional buildup between Damien and Elias was even stronger this time—especially Elias fighting for his marriage ring from Damien, which added so much depth to their relationship. And honestly, Cup or not, it was clear Damien was always going to give it to him. A strong follow-up, packed with emotion and intensity, and I can’t wait to read more from this author.
February 20, 2026
Still fire 🔥
I mentioned in my review of the first book of this series that that volume probably should have been considered erotica rather than a romance, because we didn't get to see enough of the feelings.
I don't have that critique here. The author did a great job of fleshing out our main pair in that respect, and I loved seeing them both grow and develop.
Like the first book, this was deliciously high spice, but the addition of the emotional weight really drives the story home. Excellent follow up to My Captain!
I mentioned in my review of the first book of this series that that volume probably should have been considered erotica rather than a romance, because we didn't get to see enough of the feelings.
I don't have that critique here. The author did a great job of fleshing out our main pair in that respect, and I loved seeing them both grow and develop.
Like the first book, this was deliciously high spice, but the addition of the emotional weight really drives the story home. Excellent follow up to My Captain!
March 8, 2026
4, but I'd like to give it 4.5!
Into fierce devotion? Intense expressions? Leaky verbal filters?
... you'll love these books!
Sexy. Funny. Satisfying. Non-stop go, go, go!
Only down-side... the book would feel a balance if the hockey-life was more accurate, more than just a few players were named occasionally (makes it feel like the team has 6 or 7 people, which is weird), and if some of the situational writing wasn't repeated so much.
I'd like to give it 4.5... gave 1st book a 5... a little balancing out and both would be 5!
Into fierce devotion? Intense expressions? Leaky verbal filters?
... you'll love these books!
Sexy. Funny. Satisfying. Non-stop go, go, go!
Only down-side... the book would feel a balance if the hockey-life was more accurate, more than just a few players were named occasionally (makes it feel like the team has 6 or 7 people, which is weird), and if some of the situational writing wasn't repeated so much.
I'd like to give it 4.5... gave 1st book a 5... a little balancing out and both would be 5!
March 17, 2026
This continuation was just as saucy as the first one. Elias and Damian are still just as explosive on and off ice as they fight and skate trying to make it through and win the playoffs to get the Stanley Cup. Elias was VERY determined to win that cup so he could get the ring if you know what I mean. The little bought of angsty drama that occurs at roughly 70% ish definitely drew me in and while I had suspected the outcome at the end of the book, I hadn't expected the cause. Once again enjoyed the book even if the writing of certain scenes and dialogues are a bit repetitive.
April 1, 2026
I AM JUST AS OBSESSED WITH THIS WORLD AS OUR BOYS ARE WITH EACH OTHER!!!!!
This is a 6 star book for me. Whatever I doubts I had about Kade and Mercer's relationship from the first book that made me think maybe this relationship wounldnt stick realistically.... I WAS FUCKING WRONG!!!! This book built on their dynamics and relationship that left you with NO DOUBT these boys truly love each other until the day they die!
This was the perfect wrap to the Kade's story and I can not flipping WAIT for Cole and Viktor!! I need that in my hands right now! *cue gremlin grabby hands*
This is a 6 star book for me. Whatever I doubts I had about Kade and Mercer's relationship from the first book that made me think maybe this relationship wounldnt stick realistically.... I WAS FUCKING WRONG!!!! This book built on their dynamics and relationship that left you with NO DOUBT these boys truly love each other until the day they die!
This was the perfect wrap to the Kade's story and I can not flipping WAIT for Cole and Viktor!! I need that in my hands right now! *cue gremlin grabby hands*
April 7, 2026
This book was great, I liked the development of Elias and Damien's bond. I was worried going in that their relationship would feel repetitive because they had already had a whole book but that didn't happen and I absolutely adore the new version of them. The sex scenes were the only point where I felt like nothing new was happening which is okay because they were very much still THEM.
I'm so excited for Cole and Viktor's book especially since this one did so much to flesh them out more!!
Shout out Sage Riven for an amazing read <3
I'm so excited for Cole and Viktor's book especially since this one did so much to flesh them out more!!
Shout out Sage Riven for an amazing read <3
April 8, 2026
8/10
This continuation of the first book is just as FILTHY. Rated an 8 because I have to agree with some reviews I’ve seen that this book is strictly smut (love that) but also just hockey plays. While most of my reads are sports smut oriented, a lot that I read have more to the plot. Family dynamics, friend dynamics, normal every day routine. While this one doesn’t, it is still a great read and super dirty
This continuation of the first book is just as FILTHY. Rated an 8 because I have to agree with some reviews I’ve seen that this book is strictly smut (love that) but also just hockey plays. While most of my reads are sports smut oriented, a lot that I read have more to the plot. Family dynamics, friend dynamics, normal every day routine. While this one doesn’t, it is still a great read and super dirty
April 11, 2026
I love how the logistics of hockey are practically nonexistent in this book, because wdym the rookie became the captain in less than a year, or that two teammates (a rookie and the captain) are dating and get married with absolutely no pushback OR that the captain(previously rookie) and the coach (previously captain) are married and are working for the same team???? like that would never be possible irl, not that im against it or even really care, I just think it's funny.
April 26, 2026
NOT PREPARED
Was I expecting to read the first two books in less than 24hrs because I loved them so much? Nope! And I regret nothing!
Beautifully written and filled with spice while still keeping a great pace and storyline. I’ve laughed and then speed read to make sure my fav guys remained unscathed through the second half of their story. I’m already placing bets on when we will see more of the rest of the team.
Was I expecting to read the first two books in less than 24hrs because I loved them so much? Nope! And I regret nothing!
Beautifully written and filled with spice while still keeping a great pace and storyline. I’ve laughed and then speed read to make sure my fav guys remained unscathed through the second half of their story. I’m already placing bets on when we will see more of the rest of the team.
January 14, 2026
6 ⭐️
I can’t believe their story is over 😭 I love how the side characters were given more of personalities in this book and showed their love and affection more especially when needed in hard times. And Elias and Damien. I can’t they are so freaking precious, I could read about them forever if given the option. I hope there will be more in the series eventually. I will wait forever.
I can’t believe their story is over 😭 I love how the side characters were given more of personalities in this book and showed their love and affection more especially when needed in hard times. And Elias and Damien. I can’t they are so freaking precious, I could read about them forever if given the option. I hope there will be more in the series eventually. I will wait forever.
June 11, 2026
I actually really liked book 2. It was still extremely spice heavy and it goes between sex and hockey but there was a little bit more of an almost plot?
I also really loved how the team intervened and came together for our very sad boy after the accident.
This is by no means a good duet writing wise or even story wise really but I devoured it and really enjoyed it.
I also really loved how the team intervened and came together for our very sad boy after the accident.
This is by no means a good duet writing wise or even story wise really but I devoured it and really enjoyed it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2026
amaze balls
Ooooooooooooo I have been reading this series for 4 days . Simply because I had to work. But let me tell you. This is my favorite kinda book it wasn’t too slow or too fast. Just right I love it and it was overly theoretical. It was fantastically good.
Ooooooooooooo I have been reading this series for 4 days . Simply because I had to work. But let me tell you. This is my favorite kinda book it wasn’t too slow or too fast. Just right I love it and it was overly theoretical. It was fantastically good.
February 18, 2026
Loved this series so much!! It took me on an emotional rollercoaster. Loved the banter but most of all the loyalty and love between all the players!! Looking forward to Viktor and Cole story!!! 🥹🥰 xxx
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2026
OML
This book is an absolute roller coaster of emotions. Its even better as i wasn't expecting a part two. You are such a talented author, can't wait to read more of you in the future.
This book is an absolute roller coaster of emotions. Its even better as i wasn't expecting a part two. You are such a talented author, can't wait to read more of you in the future.
March 22, 2026
I read this bc yall said it was better than the first book. And it was but it still isn’t a good read 😭. Skimmed through it bc despite the repetitive writing and no plot, I’m endeared to the characters.
April 1, 2026
😍😍😍😍
I swear on everything I will be reading this series over and over!! I absolutely love Elias and his brattiness!!! This was such an epic book! So intense with the games!! And the love these two have for one another is what I think we all day dream about!!
I swear on everything I will be reading this series over and over!! I absolutely love Elias and his brattiness!!! This was such an epic book! So intense with the games!! And the love these two have for one another is what I think we all day dream about!!
January 13, 2026
Loved this book and I’m not even done. The damn hospital/Bus scene made me a damn mess. Such a good dark romance and the i love you killed me. Dead. Loved it
Did Not Finish
January 27, 2026100% DNF at 19% because ain’t no way in hell am I reading about someone fucking syrup into someone. I like kinky things but nope not happening
February 3, 2026
3 & a god damn half. goodreads.
February 7, 2026
2nd book was for sure better than the 1st one. the writing got better and I got emotional at times. it was great ☺️
February 13, 2026
I LOVED IT !
Their journey was epic.. What a beautifully brutal way to end their story ! I’m already waiting for the next book
Their journey was epic.. What a beautifully brutal way to end their story ! I’m already waiting for the next book
March 6, 2026
my god i LOVE them !!!!!!!!!!
June 6, 2026
The bus actually added some much needed plot to this. The hockey game then smut repeating cycle was getting so old! This probably deserved 2 stars but I did get teary eyed so it gets a bump up.
January 31, 2026
OKAY. Hear me out.
Was this good? No. Like the writing was meh and there were a lot of grammatical errors that an editor should have picked up on.
THAT BEING SAID... 4 stars strictly for the fact that this was just as addicting as book one. Like the characters are everything. There's not really a plot in these books but the characters are what makes you stick around for more. I love Elias and Damian. I love the side characters. And I'd sell my first born child for a book about Viktor and Cole. Truly.
So yeah 4 stars. Entertaining as all hell. Do not expect a literary masterpiece. This shit is actually wild.
Update: yeah fuck it 5 stars for both of the books in the duology for the fact they’re so fun and I still think about the characters daily.
Was this good? No. Like the writing was meh and there were a lot of grammatical errors that an editor should have picked up on.
THAT BEING SAID... 4 stars strictly for the fact that this was just as addicting as book one. Like the characters are everything. There's not really a plot in these books but the characters are what makes you stick around for more. I love Elias and Damian. I love the side characters. And I'd sell my first born child for a book about Viktor and Cole. Truly.
So yeah 4 stars. Entertaining as all hell. Do not expect a literary masterpiece. This shit is actually wild.
Update: yeah fuck it 5 stars for both of the books in the duology for the fact they’re so fun and I still think about the characters daily.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews