How We Play the Game

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What to expect

Bloomsbury presents How We Play the Game by Alexis Nedd read by Nerissa Bradley.

Competitive gaming and fake dating combine to create a razor-sharp romance perfect for fans of Twelfth Knight and SLAY.

Zora Lyon plays to dominate. And as a no-nonsense, strategic prodigy of Wizzard Game’s viral battle royale, she has all the skills she needs. So when Wizzard offers their top players a chance to participate in a summer academy designed to crown a national champion, Zora knows she has what it takes to be the last player standing.

But Wizzard isn’t just looking for winners—they’re looking to create viral gaming superstars. Suddenly, Zora finds herself competing against famous esports influencers who can play the game and boost their follower count. That includes Ivan Hunt, the insufferably good-looking fan-favorite streamer, whom she betrayed to cement her spot at the academy.

As their matches broadcast to Wizzard’s fanbase, Zora's ruthless playing style and obvious lack of streaming experience immediately sends her to the bottom of the class. With her dreams of impressing Wizzard’s cofounder Brian Juno in jeopardy, Zora will do just about anything to fix her image—even if that means pretending to date Ivan to gain some popularity points. What can go wrong with a little white lie?

Critics Review

Told in Nedd’s witty style, this story presents lovable characters and humorous banter balanced with serious moments, such as ones exploring sexism in the online world. Gamers will appreciate the game references and well-articulated gaming culture.
Kirkus Reviews
This playful rom-com by Nedd. . . . amplifies meta gaming references, cheeky banter, and Gossip Girl–level drama. . . A sharp critique of how influencer personae and hustle culture can blur the line between work and play.
Publishers Weekly
This romance has the works: fake dating, enemies-to-lovers, rivalry, found family, and second chances.
Booklist
Savvy pop culture references and gaming bonafides pair well with smooches beneath literal fireworks and momentary heartbreaks, as both teens ultimately learn to play for themselves and each other.
BCCB
Refreshingly voice-y, wildly smart, and genuinely hilarious, Don’t Hate the Player feels like hanging out with all of your realest, nerdiest, funniest friends. I can’t wait to see what Alexis Nedd does next.
Casey McQuiston, New York Times bestselling author of RED, WHITE & ROYAL BLUE, on DON'T HATE THE PLAYER
A charming, funny, emotionally rich tale of what it means to be truly seen for who you are. Emilia Romero is a heroine for our ages—intelligent, sharp-minded, confident, with so much heart and vivacity.
Bobu Babalola, author of LOVE IN COLOR, on DON'T HATE THE PLAYER
A fun ride that delivers the thrill of what it feels like to fall in love with video games, other people, and ultimately yourself.
Evan Narcisse, author of RISE OF THE BLACK PANTHER, on DON'T HATE THE PLAYER
In this delightfully entertaining romance, Nedd covers an impressive range of topics with a rare combination of hilarity, sarcasm, and sincerity. Gamers and nongamers alike will squeal, cheer, and boo in this page-turner. A sure winner.
Kirkus Reviews, starred review, on DON'T HATE THE PLAYER

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