Source: From the publisher and Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.
The Wrong Game by Kandi Steiner
Publisher: Arndell
Publication Date: June 17, 2025
Format: Ebook
Rating:
Goodreads Synopsis: Two season tickets.One genius idea.
Zero interest in a relationship.
The plan is simple: a brand new, hot, preferably funny, definitely single male will fill one of those seats for every Bears game at Soldier Field. And I’ll fill the other.
I can’t think of a better way to use the season passes I’d bought for my ex-husband. I am a woman of plans, and this one’s foolproof.
Until Zach Bowen offers to be my practice round.
He’s infuriating. Presumptuous and overbearing. And absolutely, undeniably gorgeous. Any woman with a heartbeat would be attracted to him, and mine picks up speed every time he speaks.
But as I said, I’m a woman of plans — and I’m not backing down on this one.
One night. One game. And then, his time’s up.
He can try to change the rules, but here’s the truth: he can’t win if he’s playing the wrong game.
The Wrong Game is a stand-alone, angsty, enemies-to-lovers sports romance.
Review: The Wrong Game was a thoroughly enjoyable rom-com that hit many of the right notes for me — witty banter, lovable characters, and a satisfying emotional arc, all wrapped up in a standalone package (which I greatly appreciate in all books).
Though marketed as an enemies-to-lovers, it leans more toward a he-falls-first dynamic, which I adored. Zach Bowen is an absolute swoon-fest — romantic, persistent in the best way, and always ready with a grand gesture. Watching him patiently chip away at Gemma’s walls was as heartwarming as it was entertaining.
Gemma, for her part, is wonderfully complex. Her emotional guardedness makes sense as the story unfolds, and while the prologue feels a bit older than the characters’ stated age (early 30s), it ultimately adds depth to her journey. Her friendship with Belle is also hilarious. I found myself laughing out loud more than once at their sharp, snappy exchanges, that are over the top and often graphic.
Told in dual POV, the book does a great job of letting readers fall for both leads. The emotional vulnerability across the cast, not just in the central romance, added depth without bogging the story down. The plot is predictable in a cozy, familiar way, which worked for me. And yes, there are some open-door spicy scenes for those who like a bit of heat with their heart.
All in all, this is a fun, feel-good read with just enough angst to keep things interesting. If you're in the mood for a low-stress romance with humor, heart, and a big dose of charm, The Wrong Game is well worth picking up.