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Hate the Players
I came to Texas to destroy my rival's brothers. Instead, I spilled punch on one, got chased down by the other two, and ended up half-naked in their bedroom before I could remember I was supposed to hate them.
Now a leaked photo has me labeled the whore of college football and them scrambling to save their NFL futures. The fix? Fake date me. Pretend their sister’s rival is actually the love of their lives. Easy, right?
Weston Ford — all cowboy growl and rough hands who told me I wasn't worth looking at, then put a man on the ground for disrespecting me and growled that I was beautiful until my knees gave out.
Hayes Ford — quiet blue eyes that see straight through every wall I build. He touches me like I'm precious, and I'm terrified I'm starting to believe him.
Cash Ford — tattooed, sharp-tongued, and the one who faked-kissed me in front of an entire football stadium, then looked at me like he'd do it again without an audience.
Three brothers. One fake relationship. A PR plan that requires me to fall in love on camera while pretending I'm not falling for real.
Hate the Players is a steamy reverse harem, fake dating, college football romance with a heroine who bites back, a Dolly Parton impersonator aunt who will unalive for family, and three cowboys who don't share…until her. HEA guaranteed.
Now a leaked photo has me labeled the whore of college football and them scrambling to save their NFL futures. The fix? Fake date me. Pretend their sister’s rival is actually the love of their lives. Easy, right?
Weston Ford — all cowboy growl and rough hands who told me I wasn't worth looking at, then put a man on the ground for disrespecting me and growled that I was beautiful until my knees gave out.
Hayes Ford — quiet blue eyes that see straight through every wall I build. He touches me like I'm precious, and I'm terrified I'm starting to believe him.
Cash Ford — tattooed, sharp-tongued, and the one who faked-kissed me in front of an entire football stadium, then looked at me like he'd do it again without an audience.
Three brothers. One fake relationship. A PR plan that requires me to fall in love on camera while pretending I'm not falling for real.
Hate the Players is a steamy reverse harem, fake dating, college football romance with a heroine who bites back, a Dolly Parton impersonator aunt who will unalive for family, and three cowboys who don't share…until her. HEA guaranteed.
387 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2026
About the author
Rebel Bloom
27 books1,077 followersRebel Bloom is known for laugh-out-loud reverse harem romances that are unapologetically steamy.
Her recipe for the perfect romance? A pinch of sugar, a generous cup of spice, and a heap of cocky alphas who might not always play nice.
Rebel lives with her partner and their adorable army of fur babies, while writing stories that would make your Nonni blush.
Grab one of her reads, get comfy, and dive into a world where romance is as hot as it is hilarious!
Her recipe for the perfect romance? A pinch of sugar, a generous cup of spice, and a heap of cocky alphas who might not always play nice.
Rebel lives with her partner and their adorable army of fur babies, while writing stories that would make your Nonni blush.
Grab one of her reads, get comfy, and dive into a world where romance is as hot as it is hilarious!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
February 27, 2026
4.3 stars.
I was a little worried when I realized who this book was gonna star, since the first book in the series really painted them all in a not so great light. But I ended up really enjoying getting to know them all.
I especially loved her aunt, and all the crazy shenanigans that came with her. That last big ordeal was honestly hilarious..
I was a little worried when I realized who this book was gonna star, since the first book in the series really painted them all in a not so great light. But I ended up really enjoying getting to know them all.
I especially loved her aunt, and all the crazy shenanigans that came with her. That last big ordeal was honestly hilarious..
February 17, 2026
"I fought a grin but lost. Looking over at her climbing out of my truck while looking sheepishly at the pole she’d hit, I accepted that if I wanted Cassidy that I’d have to deal with constant damage to my truck, including the fucking glitter."
The grovel before she took them back could have been better, but I loved their relationship dynamics and couldn't bring myself to care.
Fast burn. The FMC was snarky and fun with some big insecurities and a raging need to be loved, and it made for interesting situations and responses. The MMCs were confident and capable with recovering injuries and family drama that skewed the way they viewed things sometimes and made them quick to jump to conclusions in the beginning. They all definitely acted their ages at times and it was frustrating but real.
Absolutely loved her aunt Jolene.
No OW drama, unless you count their sister's anger at them dating her. No OM drama for the FMC, unless you count her exes thinking she still wants them (she doesn't). These are all characters that are at a different school and mostly only heard of in the background to the story.
The grovel before she took them back could have been better, but I loved their relationship dynamics and couldn't bring myself to care.
Fast burn. The FMC was snarky and fun with some big insecurities and a raging need to be loved, and it made for interesting situations and responses. The MMCs were confident and capable with recovering injuries and family drama that skewed the way they viewed things sometimes and made them quick to jump to conclusions in the beginning. They all definitely acted their ages at times and it was frustrating but real.
Absolutely loved her aunt Jolene.
No OW drama, unless you count their sister's anger at them dating her. No OM drama for the FMC, unless you count her exes thinking she still wants them (she doesn't). These are all characters that are at a different school and mostly only heard of in the background to the story.
March 26, 2026
How?!
How did this book get almost five stars?
If you like obnoxious MMC’s, awful secondary characters, and a feisty heroine who cracks under pressure, maybe I get the 5 star reviews.
**SPOILERS**
Cassidy has moved on. She’s now in Texas, having left USC behind. She’s a sports therapy student, a cheerleader, and she’s trying to find her way after being labeled a villain by the media for being so “mean” to the sweet Americas darling, Savannah Ford. She thought she’d planned everything, except she didn’t expect to drop her punch into Weston Ford’s lap at the first big university party. She definitely didn’t expect her punch fiasco to lead to a hot makeout session with all three Ford brothers.
The makeout session is spread, and now the Ford brothers are under scrutiny, and poor Cassie is being called a villain AND a whore. Fast PR is needed and the Ford brothers agree to fake date Cassidy in order to save their reputation. Cassidy agrees because she’s being demolished in the media and needs the image cleanup as much as the Ford brothers do. Expectantly, the fake dating leads to REAL FEELINGS, and Cassidy finds herself falling in love with the three gorgeous football players. Things seem to be going well until Savannah, who is happily dating Cassidy’s ex boyfriend and two best friends gets wind of what is going on and loses it. She’s certain that Cassidy is using her brothers to get back at her, and to ruin her boyfriends by trying to make them jealous. On top of everything Sam Ford, who should’ve been named SATAN, is doing everything in his power to destroy is sons lives and to make himself look better. He’s married to a social influencer who is the same age as Cassidy, and threatening to release a sex tape of Cassidy with his sons if they all don’t “play nice” with him.
At a family dinner everything explodes. Savannah accuses Cassidy of using her brothers for revenge, and Savannah’s boyfriends, Cassidy’s ex, and ex best friends call her all sort of awful names and hurl insults at her. Cassidy desperately needs her guys to step up for her but instead they shout out that they are fake dating, and they don’t have to love a girl to f*ck her. Cassidy leaves heartbroken. Savannah and her guys pick her up and drop her off at her crazily funny aunt Jolene’s house. During the car ride Cassidy apologizes to Savannah, and dresses down her ex and ex best friends. She also makes it clear to Savannah that she HAD dated Cole and that he was the one who strung her along and then publicly dumped and humiliated her. Cole, now one of Savannah’s boyfriends, had spun the narrative very differently to Savannah.
Cassidy is heartbroken. The Ford brothers take several days off to give her space, but are completely oblivious to the fact that that is the last thing Cassidy needs. Instead of space, it just reinforces their indifference to Cassidy. After getting chewed out by their little sister they go to Cassidy’s aunt house to apologize and end up in a huge brawl with aunt Jolene’s newest admirer, and her ex. It’s a mess. Cassidy returns home, accepts their apologies, then the guys get hauled to jail. The epilogue has them all happy together and expecting a baby.
**THOUGHTS/OPINIONS**
Uhmmm okay, so I’m scratching my head a lot over this one. How on earth did so many people give this book so many stars? I guess we all read and take away different thoughts and experiences from books, so I’m in the minority feeling like this book was a hot mess. It just still baffles me that no one saw the disaster train that this book was.
Cassidy was the only bright spot in this book…until she wasn’t. Her character was wounded but strong. She’s a beautiful, high spirits, intelligent and athletic girl who has basically been given the shaft by every man in her life!! Her ex boyfriend is a total tool, I don’t care that he’s good to Savannah (who I despised) he was an a&&hat, and I hated him. Her ex best friends were almost as bad. The three of them treated her like trash the second Savannah appeared, and then crucified her in the press. Savannah was portrayed as Americas innocent sweetheart when all she was was an insecure, powder puff, whiny, b*tchy female who before knowing the full story attacked Cassidy in private and public. The Ford brothers treated her well, and lavished affection on her until it really mattered, and then shattered her trust and broke her heart. After that Cassidy just forgave them. What happened to my spirited girl?! Actions have consequences. Why don’t authors dish out consequences anymore? And Cassidy dressing down her ex, and ex best friends at the eleventh hour wasn’t nearly enough!!! Not to mention at the very end she becomes chummy with Savannah and says she’ll talk to her ex and ex best friends, and is okay being friends again. Heck no!!!!! Cassidy should’ve completely cut Savannah (the fake sweet troll) and her exes outta her life forever. I don’t care if it put a strain on her new boyfriend’s relationship with their sister. Their sister was in the wrong, and deserved severe repercussions! This book was a mad house of bad decisions, and poorly coordinated plot holes and devices. The only redeeming part of this book was Cassidy’s character during the first half of this book, and aunt Jolene the Dolly impersonator who was HYSTERICAL!!!! I’m thoroughly scrubbing out my brain now.
How did this book get almost five stars?
If you like obnoxious MMC’s, awful secondary characters, and a feisty heroine who cracks under pressure, maybe I get the 5 star reviews.
**SPOILERS**
Cassidy has moved on. She’s now in Texas, having left USC behind. She’s a sports therapy student, a cheerleader, and she’s trying to find her way after being labeled a villain by the media for being so “mean” to the sweet Americas darling, Savannah Ford. She thought she’d planned everything, except she didn’t expect to drop her punch into Weston Ford’s lap at the first big university party. She definitely didn’t expect her punch fiasco to lead to a hot makeout session with all three Ford brothers.
The makeout session is spread, and now the Ford brothers are under scrutiny, and poor Cassie is being called a villain AND a whore. Fast PR is needed and the Ford brothers agree to fake date Cassidy in order to save their reputation. Cassidy agrees because she’s being demolished in the media and needs the image cleanup as much as the Ford brothers do. Expectantly, the fake dating leads to REAL FEELINGS, and Cassidy finds herself falling in love with the three gorgeous football players. Things seem to be going well until Savannah, who is happily dating Cassidy’s ex boyfriend and two best friends gets wind of what is going on and loses it. She’s certain that Cassidy is using her brothers to get back at her, and to ruin her boyfriends by trying to make them jealous. On top of everything Sam Ford, who should’ve been named SATAN, is doing everything in his power to destroy is sons lives and to make himself look better. He’s married to a social influencer who is the same age as Cassidy, and threatening to release a sex tape of Cassidy with his sons if they all don’t “play nice” with him.
At a family dinner everything explodes. Savannah accuses Cassidy of using her brothers for revenge, and Savannah’s boyfriends, Cassidy’s ex, and ex best friends call her all sort of awful names and hurl insults at her. Cassidy desperately needs her guys to step up for her but instead they shout out that they are fake dating, and they don’t have to love a girl to f*ck her. Cassidy leaves heartbroken. Savannah and her guys pick her up and drop her off at her crazily funny aunt Jolene’s house. During the car ride Cassidy apologizes to Savannah, and dresses down her ex and ex best friends. She also makes it clear to Savannah that she HAD dated Cole and that he was the one who strung her along and then publicly dumped and humiliated her. Cole, now one of Savannah’s boyfriends, had spun the narrative very differently to Savannah.
Cassidy is heartbroken. The Ford brothers take several days off to give her space, but are completely oblivious to the fact that that is the last thing Cassidy needs. Instead of space, it just reinforces their indifference to Cassidy. After getting chewed out by their little sister they go to Cassidy’s aunt house to apologize and end up in a huge brawl with aunt Jolene’s newest admirer, and her ex. It’s a mess. Cassidy returns home, accepts their apologies, then the guys get hauled to jail. The epilogue has them all happy together and expecting a baby.
**THOUGHTS/OPINIONS**
Uhmmm okay, so I’m scratching my head a lot over this one. How on earth did so many people give this book so many stars? I guess we all read and take away different thoughts and experiences from books, so I’m in the minority feeling like this book was a hot mess. It just still baffles me that no one saw the disaster train that this book was.
Cassidy was the only bright spot in this book…until she wasn’t. Her character was wounded but strong. She’s a beautiful, high spirits, intelligent and athletic girl who has basically been given the shaft by every man in her life!! Her ex boyfriend is a total tool, I don’t care that he’s good to Savannah (who I despised) he was an a&&hat, and I hated him. Her ex best friends were almost as bad. The three of them treated her like trash the second Savannah appeared, and then crucified her in the press. Savannah was portrayed as Americas innocent sweetheart when all she was was an insecure, powder puff, whiny, b*tchy female who before knowing the full story attacked Cassidy in private and public. The Ford brothers treated her well, and lavished affection on her until it really mattered, and then shattered her trust and broke her heart. After that Cassidy just forgave them. What happened to my spirited girl?! Actions have consequences. Why don’t authors dish out consequences anymore? And Cassidy dressing down her ex, and ex best friends at the eleventh hour wasn’t nearly enough!!! Not to mention at the very end she becomes chummy with Savannah and says she’ll talk to her ex and ex best friends, and is okay being friends again. Heck no!!!!! Cassidy should’ve completely cut Savannah (the fake sweet troll) and her exes outta her life forever. I don’t care if it put a strain on her new boyfriend’s relationship with their sister. Their sister was in the wrong, and deserved severe repercussions! This book was a mad house of bad decisions, and poorly coordinated plot holes and devices. The only redeeming part of this book was Cassidy’s character during the first half of this book, and aunt Jolene the Dolly impersonator who was HYSTERICAL!!!! I’m thoroughly scrubbing out my brain now.
sample-rejected
May 7, 2026“I’ve never done it, either. I don’t know how it works.” I felt no shame while I admitted just how painfully inexperienced I was.
This sentence put me off reading this book because it is uncalled for, to say that not having a foursome is inexperienced. How many people really, in real life have had a foursome? How many people want a foursome? And of to those that do how many do you have to have this arrangement to become experienced. It's a nonsense sentiment and off putting.
This book is a reverse hareem revenge. FMC was in love with a guy who friendzoned her. Guy fell in love with a new girl at college. FMC tried to break up that relationship. It didn't work and she was exposed for her petty behaviour. FMC decides to get over this humiliation by sleeping with girl's brothers. This quote is from their first encounter after meeting at a party.
I've read book 1 in this series but book 2 - this one - is now a no for me even though I'm a completist . Returned to Kindle Unlimited at 7%
April 13, 2026
pretty good.
I know there is a lot of characters so it would essentially be longer but some may have been filler here
Also it took me way long to read lol
But as always love a good rebel book!
I know there is a lot of characters so it would essentially be longer but some may have been filler here
Also it took me way long to read lol
But as always love a good rebel book!
March 17, 2026
needed a book to read at work and … yeah it was chill lowkey love reading the second in a series before the first it makes me think harder and make things up lmfao
February 26, 2026
SO GOOD
⚠️ SOME SPOILERS ⚠️
This story was SO GOOD! I did not read book 1 regarding Savannah and the Apex Three. I saw an add for this one and immediately got sucked in. I enjoyed Cassidy’s story so so much! I’m glad I didn’t read the first story though as I’m worried I would end up disliking her character, although the character development probably would still be worth it. It astounds me that her old friends and Savannah started out the same way- as revenge and then they forgave each other and are in love now. But when that happens to Cassidy, it’s an issue?? Some of the stuff they said to her just made my blood boil. I’m so glad Cassidy ripped her OLD friends a new one.
Honestly, Savannah and Cassidy aren’t that much different. Savannah started her revenge for her brothers, and Cassidy reacted how she did because she felt she was protecting her friends and then to get back at Savannah she started her revenge for one night and then immediately stopped it. I’m ALMOST tempted to read Savannah’s just to see how far she got in her revenge plot just to compare. Again, they’re not THAT different as women. And I’m glad Savannah saw that Cole and others deserved the reaming that Cassidy gave them!! Cassidy had a lot of character development in this story. Being able to openly admit she was jealous of Savannah and how easily like-able of a person she is, says a lot. Most women wouldn’t even admit that, so good for her!
The best character though??? BY FAR— is aunt Jolene!!! She made this book, honestly! I was literally laughing out loud during her scenes, and the front yard brawl had me laughing so hard I was in TEARS! I’d definitely buy this book just to reread Aunt Jolene again.
Out of the guys, I think Wes had the most character development. Don’t get me wrong, they all 3 accused Cassidy and said some really awful things to her, but the 180° turnover he made, was nice to read as he was one of the meanest. His sobriety, and his tenderness with Cassidy was the sweetest!!!
The worst character? Sam Ford. He made my skin crawl. The lengths he was willing to go to just to be relevant again gave me the ick, he’s just awful. 🤢 his threat from Cassidy at the football game was absolutely 100% warranted!!! 🤣
Overall, this was such a spicy, fun read!!! I’ve been a long time reader of Rebel Bloom’s and this is now my new favorite!! 🤩 I only wish the 6 month epilogue would’ve given us some more information. How close are they to graduation??? Are Wes Haynes going into the draft? A couple of loose ends I would’ve loved tied up but it is what it is. Give it a read!!
⚠️ SOME SPOILERS ⚠️
This story was SO GOOD! I did not read book 1 regarding Savannah and the Apex Three. I saw an add for this one and immediately got sucked in. I enjoyed Cassidy’s story so so much! I’m glad I didn’t read the first story though as I’m worried I would end up disliking her character, although the character development probably would still be worth it. It astounds me that her old friends and Savannah started out the same way- as revenge and then they forgave each other and are in love now. But when that happens to Cassidy, it’s an issue?? Some of the stuff they said to her just made my blood boil. I’m so glad Cassidy ripped her OLD friends a new one.
Honestly, Savannah and Cassidy aren’t that much different. Savannah started her revenge for her brothers, and Cassidy reacted how she did because she felt she was protecting her friends and then to get back at Savannah she started her revenge for one night and then immediately stopped it. I’m ALMOST tempted to read Savannah’s just to see how far she got in her revenge plot just to compare. Again, they’re not THAT different as women. And I’m glad Savannah saw that Cole and others deserved the reaming that Cassidy gave them!! Cassidy had a lot of character development in this story. Being able to openly admit she was jealous of Savannah and how easily like-able of a person she is, says a lot. Most women wouldn’t even admit that, so good for her!
The best character though??? BY FAR— is aunt Jolene!!! She made this book, honestly! I was literally laughing out loud during her scenes, and the front yard brawl had me laughing so hard I was in TEARS! I’d definitely buy this book just to reread Aunt Jolene again.
Out of the guys, I think Wes had the most character development. Don’t get me wrong, they all 3 accused Cassidy and said some really awful things to her, but the 180° turnover he made, was nice to read as he was one of the meanest. His sobriety, and his tenderness with Cassidy was the sweetest!!!
The worst character? Sam Ford. He made my skin crawl. The lengths he was willing to go to just to be relevant again gave me the ick, he’s just awful. 🤢 his threat from Cassidy at the football game was absolutely 100% warranted!!! 🤣
Overall, this was such a spicy, fun read!!! I’ve been a long time reader of Rebel Bloom’s and this is now my new favorite!! 🤩 I only wish the 6 month epilogue would’ve given us some more information. How close are they to graduation??? Are Wes Haynes going into the draft? A couple of loose ends I would’ve loved tied up but it is what it is. Give it a read!!
Review of advance copy
Misunderstood Heroine
Cass was the villian in the last story, but will she redeem herself. I loved how Rebel wrote Cass's character in this next book from the interconnected, Playing Dirty, series - Hate the Game is book 1. I do recommend reading the first book, Hate the Game, to understand the cast of characters better. However, I think you'll still very much enjoy the book even if you don't. We get some glimples into these characters in that book and some history for this book.
Cass left L.A. to live with her aunt in Texas. Her aunt is her own amazing character; and we love her! She's a Dolly Parton impersonator with a large personality to match. At first, Cass thinks she's going to get back at the girl who stole her friends and one true love, but after meeting Sav's brothers, she knows she just isn't that person anymore. She's loyal, protective, and loves easily, which all caused a whole lot of heartache in Hating the Game (book 1). Now, she's just trying to get through life and be a better person. Never having had a female in her life, she's not quite sure how to manage Jolene's wigs, and glitter, and sparkling bold personality. Back to Cass - as soon as she meets the Ford brothers she knows she feels way more than she should, and they do too. But as soon as they find out she is the girl that bullied their sister, all bets are off. They make a vicous point to pound her heart into the ground - only it's too late and someone took a picture of them on that first night together. Now, in order to save their chances at the NFL draft, they need to fake date the girl they were pictured with, a highly misunderstood, and emotionally more mature Cass. As the guys get to know her a bit more, they quickly understand that maybe everything they were told wasn't exactly the full picutre. And the more time they all spend together, the more those feelings grow. There will be an epic betrayal - and a grovel. Could've been more in my opinion, but a pretty great ending and HEA. There was A LOT of spice and this is a why choose where she ends up with all the brothers.
Cass was the villian in the last story, but will she redeem herself. I loved how Rebel wrote Cass's character in this next book from the interconnected, Playing Dirty, series - Hate the Game is book 1. I do recommend reading the first book, Hate the Game, to understand the cast of characters better. However, I think you'll still very much enjoy the book even if you don't. We get some glimples into these characters in that book and some history for this book.
Cass left L.A. to live with her aunt in Texas. Her aunt is her own amazing character; and we love her! She's a Dolly Parton impersonator with a large personality to match. At first, Cass thinks she's going to get back at the girl who stole her friends and one true love, but after meeting Sav's brothers, she knows she just isn't that person anymore. She's loyal, protective, and loves easily, which all caused a whole lot of heartache in Hating the Game (book 1). Now, she's just trying to get through life and be a better person. Never having had a female in her life, she's not quite sure how to manage Jolene's wigs, and glitter, and sparkling bold personality. Back to Cass - as soon as she meets the Ford brothers she knows she feels way more than she should, and they do too. But as soon as they find out she is the girl that bullied their sister, all bets are off. They make a vicous point to pound her heart into the ground - only it's too late and someone took a picture of them on that first night together. Now, in order to save their chances at the NFL draft, they need to fake date the girl they were pictured with, a highly misunderstood, and emotionally more mature Cass. As the guys get to know her a bit more, they quickly understand that maybe everything they were told wasn't exactly the full picutre. And the more time they all spend together, the more those feelings grow. There will be an epic betrayal - and a grovel. Could've been more in my opinion, but a pretty great ending and HEA. There was A LOT of spice and this is a why choose where she ends up with all the brothers.
March 26, 2026
odd, but lovely
I want nothing but the worst for Jax, Cole and Ryder (Ryder is literally barely mentioned, but he’s there), and I’m not too keen on Savannah either.
If you find a Rebel Bloom book that interests you, it’s gonna be good and it’s gonna be entertaining. That being said, I cannot fathom why/how you write a book where you malign the original characters of book 1. Yes, I read book 2 first, and because I hate those 4, I won’t be going back. Team Cass/Cassidy all the way.
“Maybe we can both just start over? You mean so much to your brothers and I wouldn’t forgive myself if I kept you away from them.”
Cassidy is far too good. Because when she said she hopes to never see them again, I personally— would mean that. Savannah, I get her coming around to, because she’s a good person. Those three jerks, rot in hawl. Seriously. I do wish we had gotten to see more of Cassidy telling them off when they were dropping her off. Because I felt ELECTRIC!! Savannah staying with them is odd, they’re a couple that I wish would break up at the end of their book.
West, Hayes, and Cash are so fun, the worst, amazing and the terrible and then good again. Sam, is literally evil. The blackmail plot was wild! Aunt Jolene and Elvis were INCREDIBLE. The front yard brawl was hilarious. I’m glad everything works out for Cassidy.
Savannah bringing her loser boyfriends home to stay, would be an excellent novella. I also want to know more about the new adventures set forth for Aunt Jolene and Cassidy.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the story, the banter, the characters. A true Rebel Bloom book, that I enjoyed from start to finish.
I want nothing but the worst for Jax, Cole and Ryder (Ryder is literally barely mentioned, but he’s there), and I’m not too keen on Savannah either.
If you find a Rebel Bloom book that interests you, it’s gonna be good and it’s gonna be entertaining. That being said, I cannot fathom why/how you write a book where you malign the original characters of book 1. Yes, I read book 2 first, and because I hate those 4, I won’t be going back. Team Cass/Cassidy all the way.
“Maybe we can both just start over? You mean so much to your brothers and I wouldn’t forgive myself if I kept you away from them.”
Cassidy is far too good. Because when she said she hopes to never see them again, I personally— would mean that. Savannah, I get her coming around to, because she’s a good person. Those three jerks, rot in hawl. Seriously. I do wish we had gotten to see more of Cassidy telling them off when they were dropping her off. Because I felt ELECTRIC!! Savannah staying with them is odd, they’re a couple that I wish would break up at the end of their book.
West, Hayes, and Cash are so fun, the worst, amazing and the terrible and then good again. Sam, is literally evil. The blackmail plot was wild! Aunt Jolene and Elvis were INCREDIBLE. The front yard brawl was hilarious. I’m glad everything works out for Cassidy.
Savannah bringing her loser boyfriends home to stay, would be an excellent novella. I also want to know more about the new adventures set forth for Aunt Jolene and Cassidy.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the story, the banter, the characters. A true Rebel Bloom book, that I enjoyed from start to finish.
February 23, 2026
4.5
I (almost) always love Rebel Bloom's characters but honestly...I hated Cass at the end of Hate the Game and was upset this next book was hers. Cass definitely won me over in this, my heart was breaking for her as we got a look inside of her head and heart! It's hard sometimes to feel like you know/can root for all the characters of these books but Rebel always does such a good job making them loveable and unique. I thought she did a great job of breaking out from the bad boy/artist/business bro grouping that is so common.
This was a great follow up and I'm glad she has started doing series, I love seeing characters farther down the road.
The two things I did not love about this book:
The "quirky maternal figure" that is in every one of her books. It was endearing at first, but I've read pretty much all of her books and it is such an overused character for her. They all annoy me at this point and I usually skim the parts that are heavy on those characters.
The grovel/grand gesture. This scene did not do it for me. It was on point for characters caught up in the "quickly maternal figure" plot lines but was way out of character for our main dudes. Tbh they didn't even do it for Cass, they just happened to be in a situation and used it as a way to talk to her. She forgave them way too easily multiple times.
I (almost) always love Rebel Bloom's characters but honestly...I hated Cass at the end of Hate the Game and was upset this next book was hers. Cass definitely won me over in this, my heart was breaking for her as we got a look inside of her head and heart! It's hard sometimes to feel like you know/can root for all the characters of these books but Rebel always does such a good job making them loveable and unique. I thought she did a great job of breaking out from the bad boy/artist/business bro grouping that is so common.
This was a great follow up and I'm glad she has started doing series, I love seeing characters farther down the road.
The two things I did not love about this book:
The "quirky maternal figure" that is in every one of her books. It was endearing at first, but I've read pretty much all of her books and it is such an overused character for her. They all annoy me at this point and I usually skim the parts that are heavy on those characters.
The grovel/grand gesture. This scene did not do it for me. It was on point for characters caught up in the "quickly maternal figure" plot lines but was way out of character for our main dudes. Tbh they didn't even do it for Cass, they just happened to be in a situation and used it as a way to talk to her. She forgave them way too easily multiple times.
February 15, 2026
we love a redemption arc 👏
Rebel Bloom is always a one click author for me. The way she weaves the relationships between her characters is masterful. I’ve been waiting for this installment to the series since I read Savannah’s story and tbh I was worried that it would taint the first one but IT DID NOT.
Cass was not a good person in the first book of this series. She was the villain we were set up to hate. But I know for many of us, she’s actually the truth. She spent so much of her time pouring love into the wrong places and acting out when her world crumbled because that love wasn’t enough to be reciprocated. But this book gave us so much more insight into why she took those actions and how her brain works. She was an example of how we can break and still be beautiful and strong in the brokenness.
Bloom is the master of the 3rd act break up and grovel, and this book was no different. I personally like a bit more grovel in my reads BUT the chaos and absurdity of the forgiveness scene had me both swooning and snorting with laughter here. I want to be Aunt Jolene when I grow up 😂😂😂
All in all, another home run (or whatever the football equivalent is) for Rebel Bloom and for my TBR ❤️
Rebel Bloom is always a one click author for me. The way she weaves the relationships between her characters is masterful. I’ve been waiting for this installment to the series since I read Savannah’s story and tbh I was worried that it would taint the first one but IT DID NOT.
Cass was not a good person in the first book of this series. She was the villain we were set up to hate. But I know for many of us, she’s actually the truth. She spent so much of her time pouring love into the wrong places and acting out when her world crumbled because that love wasn’t enough to be reciprocated. But this book gave us so much more insight into why she took those actions and how her brain works. She was an example of how we can break and still be beautiful and strong in the brokenness.
Bloom is the master of the 3rd act break up and grovel, and this book was no different. I personally like a bit more grovel in my reads BUT the chaos and absurdity of the forgiveness scene had me both swooning and snorting with laughter here. I want to be Aunt Jolene when I grow up 😂😂😂
All in all, another home run (or whatever the football equivalent is) for Rebel Bloom and for my TBR ❤️
April 8, 2026
It's a mixed bag. Quirky for the sake of being quirky, but I did eat it up. What can I say, I'm a sucker for fake relationships and southern charm.
(I did mess up and read this one before the first book and now I actively dislike the guys from the first book. So my desire to go back to read book 1 and be forced to like them is lacking. That's on me... Though... I feel like making book 1's protagonists the antagonists of this one is an odd choice especially when there's like no resolution to it other than her informing them that they are horrible friends, and like why would I want to read about a bunch of guys who strung along, dropped and turned against their childhood best friend? Maybe I'll give it a couple weeks and hope I forget that they suck. But I digress, this book was great.)
----
She was beautiful, sure, but there was something about her that dragged me in and threatened to drown me.
“Denial is like shitting in your own hand, babycakes. You can do it but why would you when it ends so poorly?”
“I’m not going to be cruel to you just so things aren’t complicated.” “It’s the least you could do.”
“If they don’t see you the way I do they’re trying not to, Cassidy. You’re everything I could f*cking hope for. Even the sh*tty attitude.”
(I did mess up and read this one before the first book and now I actively dislike the guys from the first book. So my desire to go back to read book 1 and be forced to like them is lacking. That's on me... Though... I feel like making book 1's protagonists the antagonists of this one is an odd choice especially when there's like no resolution to it other than her informing them that they are horrible friends, and like why would I want to read about a bunch of guys who strung along, dropped and turned against their childhood best friend? Maybe I'll give it a couple weeks and hope I forget that they suck. But I digress, this book was great.)
----
She was beautiful, sure, but there was something about her that dragged me in and threatened to drown me.
“Denial is like shitting in your own hand, babycakes. You can do it but why would you when it ends so poorly?”
“I’m not going to be cruel to you just so things aren’t complicated.” “It’s the least you could do.”
“If they don’t see you the way I do they’re trying not to, Cassidy. You’re everything I could f*cking hope for. Even the sh*tty attitude.”
April 7, 2026
Um yes. Why I haven’t read anything by Rebel before is beyond me because this book had me hooked! And do not get me started on Cassidy’s amazing Aunt. My gos she was hilarious and brought so much comedic relief to this book!
What’s better than a why choose with 3 hot as sin football playing, Texan brothers?! A why choose with 3 hot a sin, football playing, Texan brothers with a sassy strong willed LA girlie out for revenge…or so she thought! This book was such a fun read! I loved the revenge plot and the back story of Cassidy and why she moved and learning all about that. I also LOVED the hate-lust chemistry between her and West, Hayes and Cash! Ugh their chemistry was undeniable and towards the end they were just so down bad for her! I loved the fake PR dating stunt and how they all hated her for what she did, or what they thought she did. And I loved watching everything change between them and the hate become not so there!
And omg that last part when they were all on the lawn and everything I don’t think I’ve laughed that hard at a book in a long time! The whole ordeal was just a mess and so weird an I loved it!
I cannot wait to read everything else by Rebel!
What’s better than a why choose with 3 hot as sin football playing, Texan brothers?! A why choose with 3 hot a sin, football playing, Texan brothers with a sassy strong willed LA girlie out for revenge…or so she thought! This book was such a fun read! I loved the revenge plot and the back story of Cassidy and why she moved and learning all about that. I also LOVED the hate-lust chemistry between her and West, Hayes and Cash! Ugh their chemistry was undeniable and towards the end they were just so down bad for her! I loved the fake PR dating stunt and how they all hated her for what she did, or what they thought she did. And I loved watching everything change between them and the hate become not so there!
And omg that last part when they were all on the lawn and everything I don’t think I’ve laughed that hard at a book in a long time! The whole ordeal was just a mess and so weird an I loved it!
I cannot wait to read everything else by Rebel!
April 8, 2026
This one was way fucking better than hate the game!
Oh my god I love the Ford brothers! Specifically West and Hayes. Emphasis on West.
This book had me cracking up, pissed the hell off because Sam is a god damn piece of shit, and you bet your ass I cried during the family dinner debacle.
Cassidy is everything to me! The way she literally grabbed Sam by the balls and told him tf off was everything. She’s really that girl. I hated her in the first book, but now I love her more than Savannah.
Aunt Jolene might be my favorite side character EVER. That woman is a spitfire and funny as hell. I would read a whole book just about her.
And I just knew that the morning after pill scene and the pregnant waitress scene were foreshadowing. But damn I love the way West reacted. Love that cowboy. The way he went from a fucking piece of shit to literally the sweetest out of all of them had my heart in a chokehold. Love that man DOWN.
I honestly need another book about them and when they get drafted. Cause you already know West and Hayes are gonna be 1st draft picks.
Ugh i really just love this book. I love when plot and smut are perfectly equal.
Oh my god I love the Ford brothers! Specifically West and Hayes. Emphasis on West.
This book had me cracking up, pissed the hell off because Sam is a god damn piece of shit, and you bet your ass I cried during the family dinner debacle.
Cassidy is everything to me! The way she literally grabbed Sam by the balls and told him tf off was everything. She’s really that girl. I hated her in the first book, but now I love her more than Savannah.
Aunt Jolene might be my favorite side character EVER. That woman is a spitfire and funny as hell. I would read a whole book just about her.
And I just knew that the morning after pill scene and the pregnant waitress scene were foreshadowing. But damn I love the way West reacted. Love that cowboy. The way he went from a fucking piece of shit to literally the sweetest out of all of them had my heart in a chokehold. Love that man DOWN.
I honestly need another book about them and when they get drafted. Cause you already know West and Hayes are gonna be 1st draft picks.
Ugh i really just love this book. I love when plot and smut are perfectly equal.
February 15, 2026
This was a wonderful follow up to book one and it read like a villain redemption story. Cass, in book one, was definitely not a nice gal. However, her loyalty and love shine through. I was super glad that she got her story next. She falls hard and fast for West, Cash and Hayes. However, it was their sister she messed with in book one. Sadly, they didn't figure that out before they fell hard for her. Yikes! They end up having to fake date her to keep their chances of getting drafted by the NFL. What follows is a fab romance, filled with humour, wonderful characters, a quirky aunt (Dolly impersonator - loved her!) and great spice. I love that they worked their way to an HEA and I giggled throughout while they did ;P Definitely an entertaining, emotional and engaging read that I recommend :D
March 20, 2026
MY BOOK REPORT
Main Characters: Cassidy, Weston, Cash, Hayes
Story Setting: Texas
Story Summary: Cassidy transfers colleges from California to Texas. Meets her rival from California’s three triplet brothers that go to college in Texas and they start a PR relationship, that gets complicated and serious. The three brothers are football players for the college. Cassidy is in school to be a physical therapist..
Main Events: Cassidy moves to Texas, and uns into the brothers at a party. Someone takes a picture of them naked, almost getting it on. They all start fake dating for PR stunt to ‘save their image.’ Their father is a dickhead.
Story Conclusion: They fall in love and get pregnant.
Write 1 fact and opinion about this story: There was a miscommunication trope that was kind of annoying however, it all worked out in the end. The book was easy to read and enjoyable minus a few typos.
Main Characters: Cassidy, Weston, Cash, Hayes
Story Setting: Texas
Story Summary: Cassidy transfers colleges from California to Texas. Meets her rival from California’s three triplet brothers that go to college in Texas and they start a PR relationship, that gets complicated and serious. The three brothers are football players for the college. Cassidy is in school to be a physical therapist..
Main Events: Cassidy moves to Texas, and uns into the brothers at a party. Someone takes a picture of them naked, almost getting it on. They all start fake dating for PR stunt to ‘save their image.’ Their father is a dickhead.
Story Conclusion: They fall in love and get pregnant.
Write 1 fact and opinion about this story: There was a miscommunication trope that was kind of annoying however, it all worked out in the end. The book was easy to read and enjoyable minus a few typos.
February 19, 2026
3.5 stars
It was good. Don't get me wrong but there were things that I think needed to be hashed out more. They were awful to her and then she just forgives them. I get that she doesn't want to be that mean girl but ugh make the men grovel.
I don't know maybe I am just being picky but it did seem like the story line flowed a lot like the first book. I am glad Cassidy got a redemption arc, I eventually loved her but she never made friends. I did love how much of a spitfire she was to anyone that put her down.
It was good. Don't get me wrong but there were things that I think needed to be hashed out more. They were awful to her and then she just forgives them. I get that she doesn't want to be that mean girl but ugh make the men grovel.
I don't know maybe I am just being picky but it did seem like the story line flowed a lot like the first book. I am glad Cassidy got a redemption arc, I eventually loved her but she never made friends. I did love how much of a spitfire she was to anyone that put her down.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2026
This is book 2 in Bloom's Playing Dirty series and a great addition to the series that can be read as a standalone, but the books are interconnected. Our main character Cass was the villain in book 1 but here we have her redemption. Great character development for Cass and I love the Ford brothers, West, Cash and Hayes. And I especially loved Cass's Aunt Jolene. A well written and captivating romance read with sweet, heat and laughs! Well balanced and so much fun! Can't wait for more in this series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 14, 2026
She came to Texas for revenge on her rival’s three brothers... but that thought went out the window almost the minute she saw them.
Forced proximity, fake-dating, enemies-to-lovers collide in this high-heat ‘Why choose?’ romance.
Rebel Bloom excels at throwing the perfect ingredients into the spiciest of dishes, and Hate the Players doesn't disappoint. It’s a fantastic follow-up to Hate the Game and a prime example of how every story—and every rivalry—has two sides, showing how Bloom masterfully handles shifting perspectives to keep the tension high while humanizing the 'rivals' in the process.
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
Forced proximity, fake-dating, enemies-to-lovers collide in this high-heat ‘Why choose?’ romance.
Rebel Bloom excels at throwing the perfect ingredients into the spiciest of dishes, and Hate the Players doesn't disappoint. It’s a fantastic follow-up to Hate the Game and a prime example of how every story—and every rivalry—has two sides, showing how Bloom masterfully handles shifting perspectives to keep the tension high while humanizing the 'rivals' in the process.
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
Review of advance copy
I loved it!
This was another incredible story by Rebel Bloom! She has become an automatic author for me! She never disappoints and she definitely didn't disappoint with this one! I devoured this book in one day!
First, I was so glad to get Cass story to begin with.
It was filled with so many lol moments throughout. I mean Aunt Jolene!
In addition there was drama, lots of emotional moments, and spice.
Cass had my heart. I appreciated that she recognized when she was wrong. I was also proud to see her growth. Most importantly, I was so glad that she finally gets her happy ending!
This was another incredible story by Rebel Bloom! She has become an automatic author for me! She never disappoints and she definitely didn't disappoint with this one! I devoured this book in one day!
First, I was so glad to get Cass story to begin with.
It was filled with so many lol moments throughout. I mean Aunt Jolene!
In addition there was drama, lots of emotional moments, and spice.
Cass had my heart. I appreciated that she recognized when she was wrong. I was also proud to see her growth. Most importantly, I was so glad that she finally gets her happy ending!
February 14, 2026
I just love how Rebel Bloom writes a story, this one certainly didn’t disappoint! This is the second book, although I haven’t read the first one. This is the story about Cassady, Weston, Cash and Hayes. It’s full on from the moment that I started reading it right until the very last page. I loved Cassidy and how she was able to learn from her mistakes as she matures. There are lots of twists and turns in their story but eventually the girl gets her guys.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 15, 2026
I liked this book so much more than the first in the series. Cass didn’t really have bad intentions unlike Savanna and was about to tell the guys everything when it all blew up. The guys are also not as a big jerk as the LA crew. From their chemistry to crazy Aunt Jolene to an obnoxious father, Rebel Bloom had me hooked. I read this book straight through because I just couldn’t put it down. Well written with wonderful characters and great steam. There is also one tremendously hilarious scene near the end that had me rolling. Ready for the next book.
February 16, 2026
Love the players
Wowser. Always, always, always loved Rebel Blooms books! They have been a constant since I re found my love for reading 3 years ago. Im always checking for her new books and its an instant next read when they pop up!
What i love most about this one is that she took the "villain" from the last one and turned her into an angel and the characters from the last ones the real villains (well thats my opinion anyway lol) I am a proud Cassidy supporter!
Absolutely cant wait to see what book comes next.
You will NEVER see me pass up a book by Rebel Bloom, EVER.
Wowser. Always, always, always loved Rebel Blooms books! They have been a constant since I re found my love for reading 3 years ago. Im always checking for her new books and its an instant next read when they pop up!
What i love most about this one is that she took the "villain" from the last one and turned her into an angel and the characters from the last ones the real villains (well thats my opinion anyway lol) I am a proud Cassidy supporter!
Absolutely cant wait to see what book comes next.
You will NEVER see me pass up a book by Rebel Bloom, EVER.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book, Hate The Players, is why I get excited when I see a new Rebel Bloom book. It's steamy, yes, but it is also very well written with great storylines and characters. This one stars Cassady, Weston, Cash and Hayes. Right from the start I loved Cass! She is a smart-mouthed, take no crud kind of girl. And she's funny! The guys are West-grumpy, Cash-holds things in and Hayes- the sweetie. Only they are all so much more. I really enjoyed this fake-dating, RH rom-com.
February 16, 2026
Nice
I tried to read the book before this one, but I was instantly annoyed, I think I made it 15% in and had to put it down, so I wasn't sure if I was gonna like this one, I'm glad now that I didn't read the first one, I might of been on the hate Cass train, and that would be a shame, cause I really like Cass and her aunt Joline, its always hit and miss for me when it comes to Rebels books but when they are good they are really good.
I tried to read the book before this one, but I was instantly annoyed, I think I made it 15% in and had to put it down, so I wasn't sure if I was gonna like this one, I'm glad now that I didn't read the first one, I might of been on the hate Cass train, and that would be a shame, cause I really like Cass and her aunt Joline, its always hit and miss for me when it comes to Rebels books but when they are good they are really good.
February 18, 2026
I would give this a 4.4-4.6. This popped up as a new book and it went straight to my library, I love Rebel Bloom. This one is a revenge plot turned fake dating romance and as you will probably expect from Rebel... it is spicy. I love Aunt Jolene and the silliness but serious introspection she brings. Rebel always brings the emotion though and the way it connects to the prior book and makes you feel all the feels, along with the revelations of these men... it is intense. Highly recommend.
February 26, 2026
Texas for the win
Rebel did it again. She made us fall for three impossible men at once. Triplets no less.
What does public enemy #1 do when she leaves one college to go to another, which is where her enemies brothers go? She falls for them.
Hatred, name calling, mistrust are flying all over this one. Though, not everything is what it seems. Lies and truth blur. Rivalry abounds and it's a fight for love like no other.
Rebel did it again. She made us fall for three impossible men at once. Triplets no less.
What does public enemy #1 do when she leaves one college to go to another, which is where her enemies brothers go? She falls for them.
Hatred, name calling, mistrust are flying all over this one. Though, not everything is what it seems. Lies and truth blur. Rivalry abounds and it's a fight for love like no other.
May 15, 2026
I'm sure I wasn't the only one who disliked Cass in Hate the Game (Book 1), so I was a little hesitant to read this one, but I'm so glad I did. Rebel Bloom did a great job giving Cass' side of the story with Cole and her history with those guys...with an emotional connection that had me in tears. Hate the Players is the perfect redemption story for Cass to be able to move on. I loved it. And Aunt Jolene is an absolute riot!
February 14, 2026
This reverse harem romance is kind of a continuation of a story but can be read as a standalone. This college football romance has lots of secrets, fake dating, some great impersonators and of course, STEAM. Her aunt is a riot🎉.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 16, 2026
Hate the Players
I always liked Rebel Bloom books. So quirky and fun with a story behind the hijinks. The family sex sharing moments and lack of emotionally connections to the story of the MC'S was just uughhhhh. This seemed like a copy and paste of sex scenes and ridiculous experiences without any connections that weren't even believable. Sorry but this was just not for me.
I always liked Rebel Bloom books. So quirky and fun with a story behind the hijinks. The family sex sharing moments and lack of emotionally connections to the story of the MC'S was just uughhhhh. This seemed like a copy and paste of sex scenes and ridiculous experiences without any connections that weren't even believable. Sorry but this was just not for me.
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