Queen B’s Decree: I exceptionally loved this book. It combines my love of sweet geeky nerds, gaming, and being true to yourself.
Emilia is living a double life: popular straight-A student and field hockey player by day and MMO gamer by night. She’s struggling with living up to her parents’ expectations while trying to make time to play as the only female on her competitive MMO team. But she keeps that part of her life a secret from everyone. When a major e-sports tournament comes to her city, her team is invited to play in the competition. It’s there she meets back up with Jake, a sort-of friend from her childhood. And she immediately goes into panic mode. Once Jake knows, will he tell others at their school??
But Jake is one of the best characters ever. Sweet, geeky, and a truly nice person, we have to protect him! The friendship in between him and Emilia slowly grows and is so sweet to read about. They are so supportive of each other, it’s a beautiful thing.
I appreciated the author discussing the sexism that occurs in gaming. It’s an unfortunate thing that still happens, so I’m happy that it wasn’t ignored. The game chats felt realistic, and can I just say that Team Unity is the best team ever? Everyone was so inclusive and friendly and sweet, it makes me want to get back into gaming.
Don’t Hate the Player was an amazing read and I won’t be forgetting Alexis Nedd in the future.
Book: Don’t Hate the Player by Alexis Nedd
Series: standalone
Genre: Young Adult
Hotness: mild salsa
Plot Devices/Tropes: gaming