This is a delightful rom-com that captures the playful rivalry and undeniable chemistry between Rose and William. Wilsner’s sharp wit and clever dialogue make their competitive banter feel fresh and engaging. The nerdy backdrop adds charm, and the stakes escalate beautifully as Rose steps out of her comfort zone to pursue her passion for game design. Their evolution from playful adversaries to something deeper is both heartwarming and relatable. This story is a perfect mix of humor, romance, and the thrill of taking risks.

PLAYING FLIRTY is such a fun and playful love story about sort of rivals-to-lovers who love to win what no matter what game they're playing, even if it's one they make up just between the two of them. Rose strives to live her life by her spreadsheets she uses to plan out her life. With a boyfriend who she hardly ever sees and puts work before her, a boss who makes her uncomfortable, and no marriage or kids, she can hardly cross anything off that's she's accomplished on said spreadsheets. Thank goodness she has her friends and their game night even if it include's her friend Shaun's annoyingly handsome brother, William. They bring out their competitive and playful sides in each other... can they win each other over? I enjoyed how much similarities there are in between the games they play that pertain to life in general... strategy, taking risks, making decisions and even believing in yourself. I greatly enjoyed Rose and William's banter and especially loved the phrase Rose's dad says: "admire your own brilliance."

Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my honest review.

This was one of the best birthday presents! I loved this story and how giddily happy it made me. I read this in one day (because my family mostly left me alone to do so). I love game nights and conventions and apparently the rival/enemy to lover trope. The characters and drama were great, the references were perfect for my nerdy self, and the story unfolded naturally because nothing was forced for the sake of it. I saw a bit of myself as both of the main characters which made the story feel more personal. I loved it, no notes! Thank you Shameez Patel and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for an advanced copy.

Thank you for the e-ARC!

Playing Flirty is a rom-com novel debuted by Shameez Patel.

I loved the book! For all those who love gaming, LotR references, clandestine meetings in balconies and in kitchens, this one is for you!

This book is a love letter to all things nerd, and I loved every minute of it.

Rose and William's rivalry makes for exquisite banter from (almost literally) page 1, and it only becomes more exquisite as their relationship heats up. But in between all the fun, the most beautiful love story forms as they bond over their love of games and begin to show each other the person below the bluster.