Playing The Game

Lucky Rivals #5

by Brooke Reign

Dori’s world crumbles…

Tragedy strikes when Jamison is shot while professing his undying love to Dori, flipping her world upside down. As she battles the unbearable pain of losing one of the men she loves forever, she struggles to pick up the pieces of her shattered heart.

Worse yet, Dori’s unaware of the sinister game being played in the shadows, leaving her in danger. An enemy is targeting her and won't stop until she's gone. Desperately trying to save the woman he loves, Hunter is forced to lure his nemesis out of hiding.

Up for the challenge, his opponent comes ready to deliver more devious blows. Nothing is off limits, and she’s fighting for it all, much to Hunter’s distress. With Hunter out of his league and his rival running this twisted show, he discovers how ruthless she is when she gives him a no-win ultimatum. With no way out, Hunter secretly turns to an unlikely ally, but time’s up, and now Dori’s left alone in the direct path of his rival’s vengeance.

Playing The Game is an emotionally gripping, billionaire boss and brother's best friend romance that fans of Ivy Smoak, TL Swan, and Kate Stewart will love.

Buy your copy of this exciting, fast-paced, page-turning book now and continue reading this suspenseful brother's best friend, billionaire boss love triangle today!

Genres: Romance

344 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 6, 2025

About the author

Brooke Reign specializes in crafting tales of angsty and steamy romance set against the backdrop of opulence and power. Her narratives, rich with complex characters and intricate relationships, dive into the world of billionaires, rockstars, second chance romance, and forbidden loves.

Brooke is known for writing heart-stopping cliffhangers that keep her readers on the edge of their seats, begging for the next page-turning book.

She loves to travel to warm, beachy areas. Nothing like some heat for inspiration! She is also a lover of Pilates. Throw in some heavy weights and she is one happy lady!

Her favorite dessert is a glass of Darioush Cabernet Sauvignon with a piece of dark chocolate. Don’t get her started about her love of coffee (it may supersede her love of her characters)! She just isn’t right until she’s had at least two cups to start her day!

To get to know Brooke on a deeper level, make sure you join her VIP FAN Facebook Group -> Brooke Reign's VIP Society
You can also find her on Instagram: @authorbrookereign, TikTok: @brookereign, Pinterest: @brookereignauthor, and X: @TheBrookeReign.

Reviews

[J.p · Rating 4 out of 5]

We continue with Dori’s saga. She’s like the wind changing directions, is it Hunter? Or Jami? Make up your mind! Maybe now that one of them has literally taking bullets for her she’ll wake up and realise her true love. Not much going on but we get the idea who wants to harm whom, drama and excitement continues and it’s leading up to the conclusion nicely. Hunter seems a decent man, I’m still sitting on the fence about Dori but Jami really is a special guy and he has my heart. Exciting series,ends on a cliffhanger, someone really doesn’t like Dori, can’t wait for book 6.

[Lyndsay Fiorentino · Rating 4 out of 5]

As always Brooke Reign leaves me wanting more! With each book in this series she finds a way to weave stories together and leaving you hanging off a cliff emotionally! Can't wait for the sixth and final book of this series.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though this was already book five, I was hooked from start to finish once again. But honestly… not a whole lot actually happened in this book. I get that it’s important for the overall plot, but the whole thing felt a bit repetitive, with the same insecurities and mind games. Like, girlie, please make up your mind!

I’m really happy she’s with Jami now and that they’re growing together, but the constant insecurity and the feeling that something is always looming overhead started to drag a little. It felt like I was just waiting for something big to happen—and while it did, it was mostly at the end. I still really enjoyed the book, but I think this might be my least favorite in the series so far.

That being said, the ending totally gripped me and pulled me right back in. I need to know what happens in the last book! And Aiden… what is he hiding? We all knew he’d be mad about Jami and Dori getting together, but this seems like more than just that. And then there’s Hunter—he is so ruthless. I really hope he was sincere when he accepted that they wouldn’t be together… but who am I kidding? Of course he’s not.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 stars.

Woah, I literally couldn't put this book down. The series is very good and enjoyed this book as much or maybe more than book one.

The blurb is a little misleading and with everything going on in the series, I wasn't sure if I should continue the series or not but I am so glad that I did. The plot thickens and I have even more questions than I did before! I have no clue what will happen next and absolutely no idea how it will end. Supposedly book 6 will be the conclusion. I am dying to know but also don't want it to end.

I don't normally like if the romantic pair takes forever to finally get together (in multiple books) but I also don't read love triangles either. However this series caught my attention and I just can't give it up. I can't decide how I want it to end, I just hope no one gets killed off, of the main characters that is, and that Dori gets her happily ever after. I'm not holding me breath though!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brooke Reign delivers another captivating romance in Playing the Game, the fifth book in The Lucky Rivals Series. This story is an intoxicating mix of forbidden love, intense rivalry, and high-stakes suspense, keeping readers hooked from start to finish.

Dori Fisher is caught between her past and present, with secrets that could shatter everything. As tensions rise and former friends turn into rivals, she finds herself at the center of a dangerous game. Hunter, determined to protect the woman he loves, faces an enemy willing to go to extreme lengths to get what they want. But with time running out and the stakes higher than ever, can love truly conquer all?

This book perfectly balances heart-pounding suspense with sizzling romance. Brooke Reign’s storytelling is immersive, and the chemistry between Dori and Hunter is electric. The twists and turns will keep you guessing, and the emotional depth makes the characters feel real and relatable. If you love billionaire romances with a mix of danger and passion, Playing the Game is a must-read!

[Bren · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought I'd lose my mind at the end of book 4 and the Jami situation that's all I'm going to say about that no spoilers here. Now Dori is in a tough spot with the decision she's facing go to Florida to be with the two people she loves or remain where she is for the job she loves. I had a feeling Ms.Reign was going to crush my heart with this book and she did, but thank goodness there's another book to continue with fingers crossed for the best outcome for Dori, Jami and even Hunter.

[Krystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series just keeps getting better with each book. I never thought it was possible to love and hate the characters, but the author is awesome in bringing out the best and worst in her characters. I'm not sure if I'll survive the wait for the next book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michellelovesreading · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book so much i couldn’t put it down. I 10/10 recommend this series

Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Robbi LeLeaux · Rating 5 out of 5]

What is going on? The ride of this book has been insane. Finally Dori is going to get her HEA with Jami and then all this happens. Can't wait to figure out how Hunter and Jami are going to get Dori out of trouble this time.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Katie Gilroy · Rating 5 out of 5]

So apparently it takes someone almost dying for Dori to get her head on straight! I’m glad she finally made a decision between Hunter and Jami! I was going out of my mind!!
This book was really great honestly. Dori is doing a lot better because of her therapy. She’s not making snap decisions (mostly) and she’s not hiding away.
I’m hopeful that there will be less love triangle situations going forward.
And omg that cliffhanger!

[Lvsmyfmly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 5 in this series. Forbidden romance/love, love triangle, drama, desire, chemistry, love, twist, suspense.
Definitely read the books in order!!!

[Dolores Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg, this book was way more action packed then the others. It was so hard to put down, I kept telling my husband, "One more minute, please, I gotta finish this chapter." Yeah right even after that chapter was over, I was too obsessed with the book that I forgot to put it down, and then I had to know what happened next. Yes, this book gave me FOMO. It has so many twists and turns, secrets, lies, unexpected things happening, and the delicious spice with a certain someone it was impossible to put down. But my queen, you've gotta put a hold on these cliffhangers because they're torturing my heart. What will happen next? I have no idea but I hope something very good comes of it. I'd love to see it go from a love triangle to a why choose novel, but I shall try and be patient until then.

[Lauren Moisant · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 5th book in the series. This has been a whirlwind crazy ride. In this book, Playing the Game, Dori is left with a broken heart, and it seems like she has finally made up her mind in this love triangle, or has she?? So many questions are answered in this installment, which is making everything come full circle and everything is starting to make sense. This series has it all, started with smut, and now has some thriller to it. This book left us off in a cliffhanger, again, but I can't wait to see how this story ends. I'm so addicted.

[Ruth Carswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

More twists and turns in this saga after the cliffhanger at end of previous book we find Jami fighting for his life and Dori not wanting to leave him is she' finally choosing him, then it becomes clear she was target . Can Hunter Jamieson and Dori work together to find out who is behind it all or will hunter succeed in taking Dori
Looking forward to book 6 and conclusion

[Sarah Clement · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought I wasn't ready for this book... but it surprised me in all the best ways. Just when I thought I knew what was going to happen, boom, it went a different way. The characters, especially Dori, went through a lot of growth in this book, and it makes me even more super excited to see what happens in the next. Real page turner, that's for sure.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Playing the Game" by Brooke Reign is a 5th book in her Lucky Rival series. This book was faster paced and made you want to keep reading. The book has you on the edge of your seat trying to figure out what is happening.
Dori has claimed Jami as her's and she is slowly trying to break away from Hunter. Hunter is still trying to claim Dori as his and will do whatever it takes. As Hunter's mom comes into the picture it throws a wrench in everyone's life. Jami and Hunter will have to work together to keep Dori safe while keeping her in the dark. Will Dori stick with her choice or will Hunter win her over?
Highly recommend and I can't wait until the next book in the series.

[Anni Barkla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Poor Jami, I was concerned he wouldn’t pull through after taking a bullet meant for Dori, However I’m so glad Dori & Jami finally get back together in this read. Hunter still wants to have his cake and eat it too, so nothing has really changed there. I’d seriously love to know what Aidan’s problem is with Jamison hooking up with Dori, there is more to this story than meets the eye. I think they all need some serious therapy 😂 Enjoyed the plot twist in the end, excited to read the final book in this series after reading all the previous ones.

[Genoveva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Please check CW and TW, and read the previous 4 books before starting this one. The way my heart goes out to Dori and how it feels her life is collapsing into itself. But I am glad there were finally moments she able to communicate her feelings!!! But OMG that ending the way I am on pins and needles waiting.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amber Thilges · Rating 5 out of 5]

The twists and turns keep you on your toes trying to figure out what will happen next. I’m ready and excited for the next book. Who will Dori really end up with, what will happen to Hunters mother, Jami, Hunter, and Dori have been through so much it’s time things start looking up for them without the other shoe dropping. And why really is Aiden so against the possibility of Jami and Dori? Hmmm

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

BREAKING NEWS your kindle just became a whole lot HAPPIER once you have this book in your kindle. I loved the characters right away and the entire book is OMG FANTASTIC. I am needing the next book immediately because the suspense of what’s going to happen next is going to drive me crazy. This is the fifth book in this series that all are fantastic and very well written.

[Nebulous · Rating 5 out of 5]

No author does a cliff hanger like this one. I've read five books in this series and it is still unclear how they are going to resolve all of the horrible things that are happening to these characters. Can't wait for the resolution of this series.

[Nonna 2K · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished reading Playing The Game by Brooke Reign. It was a quick flowing read that I finished in one day.

Throughout this series, Dori has been in on-again-off/again relationships with Hunter and Jami. This book starts where Playing A Risk’s cliffhanger left us. Dori had made her choice and was in the process of telling one of the men in her life that he needed to continue his life without her. Unfortunately for her, there is more going on than she knows and her life has been placed in the crosshairs. She still has love in her heart for both Jami and Hunter, but her choice now seems more thought out. Dori has shown growth in the way she handles situations, with the help of her therapist. Just when it seems things are going her way, the story ends with yet another twist and cliffhanger.

I enjoyed the story and how Dori’s relationship has developed into something more mature and well-rounded. Even though she still has her initial spiraling/flight moments when things freak her out, she doesn’t act on them. Both her and her chosen man are talking through situations and their feelings. This is still something new to the man in her life so it’s interesting seeing how he handles situations.

Hunter…I don’t think he’ll ever accept Dori’s feelings for Jami. There are moments in this story that make me question his motives. He’s always been manipulating situations and he doesn’t seem to have truly changed.

Jami…he’s heading to a new life, home, and project in Miami. He’s always been there for Dori and seems to know her better than she knows herself.

This book also brings Aiden in a bit more and I’m questioning his motives, too. There’s definitely something behind the way he loses his temper with Dori so easily.

If you’re looking for a series that will have you questioning the main characters, yelling at the author as you read, and in need of the next book, this is the series for you. It has twists, turns, highs, and lows that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

[Inge Mosch · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this book, there is even more drama. Dori remains indecisive. She keeps ping-ponging between Jamison and Hunter. I don't want to give things away so I can't say too much about it but at the moment when I almost didn't pull the level of all the drama anymore, a plot twist came that made me interested in the book all over again. More secrets are emerging, there are so many secrets… The end was a rollercoaster!

All the cliffhangers of this series were horrific but the cliffhanger of book 5 was really the very worst. It was thrilling... I want to know how this story ends so bad! Vs t wait for the sixth a d final book of the serie. A HEA is promised but how it will all turn out is not yet clear…

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️/5

[ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing! Time for us to find out if Jamison survived where we left off where he was shot. The characters keep you on the roller coaster ride continuing from the last 4 books. I couldn't put the books down and with all the emotions. I am ready to find out more about Hunter's mother and past. What is her plan and is it really her that is behind the shooting we were left with? Brooke does an amazing job to continue the story line and make us fall more in love with Hunter,Dori,Mel ,Jonah and Jamison. I can't wait until book 6 comes out but I am not ready to let go of these characters. I recommend this book to everybody to read!!

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Playing the Game by Brooke Reign is the ongoing story of Dorothy, Jamison, and Hunter. Disaster strikes causing Dorothy to make a decision….that will affect everyone. Then, family issues rear their ugly heads, causing more stress, danger, and potential catastrophes! So much happening and there’s more to come!!

The angst, turmoil, changes, and ongoing shocks continue with these three. Dorothy seems to have made a decision…but, you never know!! New situations come to light…changing so many things between them all. New dangers change the way things are approached…shocking truths come to light….who knows what will happen now!!!

[Janine · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5* - Rounded up to 5...

For anyone on Team Jami, this book is fabulous! Although, it starts off heartbreaking (considering the cliffhanger at the end of book 4). And it's hard to see Jami hurt so badly.

BUT - so many reveals that make this love triangle more and more dangerous for all, and that open our eyes to a lot of things happening behind the scenes, and this all left me with one question - WHAT HAS AIDEN NOT TOLD JAMI AND DORI? He cannot react the way he did and NOT be hiding something HUGE.

Bring on Book 6! Let's see where we end up, because I am on the edge of my seat!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Stacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 5th book in the series. All books end as a cliffhanger. It has been really hard to wait for each book to come out, but when they do, I devour them.
Dori, Jamison, and Hunter are in a love triangle, and all of them had some growing up to do.
With Jamison's life in danger, it gives Dori some insight into her feelings and realizations.
Jami and Hunter have issues.
And there are more players (not as a love interest for Dori) involved.
And at the end, another cliffhanger.
Can't wait for the finale!
Who will save the day?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Fran · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has to be the most intense book out of this entire series. I didn’t know what to think. I haven’t got a clue who I’m rooting for in this story line. Hunter he’s so dedicated to showing Dori how much he loves her and will do anything to win her love. Jami kinda just expects it as they’ve know each other so long.
But this series has to be the best one I’ve read and I cannot wait to read every single one once they’re all published ?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Vicki Stephens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Playing the Game is the fifth book in the Lucky Rivals Series which continues the intriguing romance featuring Dori, Jami, and Turner. This book keeps you on the edge of your seat with its unexpected plot twists and suspenseful situations. The well defined characters take you on an adventure with strong emotions, drama, danger, rivalry, and revenge. A cliffhanger ends this book which leads to the finale for this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Andra Shaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Playing The Game is the fifth book in the Lucky Rivals series. This is one of the most captivating series I have read. The ending of Playing A Risk, book four, was devastating and this book takes us through the aftermath. The intense drama, more surprises, twists, and an ending that really hits you in the feels makes Playing The Game a page-turner.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.