A review by ehoffmann
The Wrong Game by Kandi Steiner

emotional funny hopeful inspiring medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

Anything Kandi writes, I’ll read! I’m currently working my way through her entire back catalog. I dove into The Right Player before this book, so a few plot points were spoiled for me (facepalm). Lesson learned!

Characters

Zach: I absolutely loved him. Strong, caring, and the perfect hero for this story. He had a few questionable moments, but by the end, he had completely won me over.

Gemma: I struggled to connect with her. I understand why she clung to control and didn’t want to be seen as “the bad person” in her marriage, but she ended up sacrificing more than anyone should—for someone who hurt her. Her constant need to affirm her control felt excessive, but I get where she was coming from.

Pacing & Dialogue

The pacing was spot-on! It kept me turning pages, making this a quick and engaging read! Some of the dialogue felt cheesy, but considering it was published in 2018, that kind of tone fits the era. I cringed a few times, but overall it added a nostalgic charm.

🎧 Audiobook Impressions

• Format: Dual Narration
• Narrators: Nelson Hobbs & Virginia Rose
• Length: 10 hrs 47 mins

This was my first experience with both narrators, and they truly brought Gemma and Zach to life. Their performances elevated the story and made listening a delight.

📚 Rerelease Edition (Edit: 6/23/25)

I recently reread this as part of the rerelease and it reminded myself just how fun the banter was! Witty, lightning‑fast dialogue that made me laugh. I’m now even more excited to get the paperback version for the additional epilogue.