The Wives We Play

Unconditional #1

by Briana Cole

For fans of psychological and domestic suspense about the lies that form relationships comes Briana Cole's first novel with Kensington, a twisty roller coaster that will make you question your expectations about love, lust, and monogamy.

Kimera Davis finds comfort in dating married men. It's easier that way. Her needs are taken care of and she doesn't have to give more of herself than she wants to. No messy feelings involved. But when the man she's seeing poses an unexpected question, Kimera quickly realizes that she's not the only woman pulled in by his charm.

Their new arrangement doesn't require much from Kimera, but she soon discovers that someone else is pulling the strings. She's not looking for complications, yet she can't help feeling that there's something devious at play.

And the truth is more complicated than she could ever imagine . . .

Genres: Audiobook, Romance, African American, Drama, Fiction

289 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 18, 2018

About the author

Known as "The Literary Drama Queen," Briana Cole is a multi-talented entertainment mogul in both the book and film industries. Authoring six novels, including the critically-acclaimed Unconditional series, Briana has also published two novels under Carl Weber with her pseudonym Brielle Montgomery. Briana is the co-Screenwriter and Associate Producer for two urban films, and she has written, executive produced, and co-starred in her own feature film, Pseudo, which was recently acquired by Damon Dash. She has been recognized in a number of popular blogs and magazines, the most prominent being Sophisticate's Hair Magazine, Publisher's Weekly, Popsugar, and Sheen. In addition to this, Briana is a motivational speaker, mother of three, and active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

Reviews

[Kameel · Rating 2 out of 5]

The things this character did for money was absolutely ridiculous...who signs a contract without reading it and asking questions? Kimmy wore me out with her stupidity....I understand that she's a young woman (she was 24 years old), but she was just too blinded by the money....this story was underdeveloped, the characters were underdeveloped and totally unrealistic....These synopsis definitely don't match what the actual book is really about....if you're looking for a romance novel...DON'T ENTERTAIN this book....romance it's not!

[Kelsie Maxwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I hate reviews with spoilers so you won't read any here. All you'll get is my humble opinion about the quality of this novel.

The Wives We Play is totally engrossing. Marriage has been turned on it’s head in this novel. The characters are rich, complex and completely believable. Human nature is presented at it’s best and it’s worst. The plot twists are surprising.

The main character, Kimera Davis, is a young woman living a complicated life. Dating married men is how she attempts to avoid relationship complications. As a result, she finds herself faced with situations and choices that would be difficult for anyone, but are especially so for a woman attempting to improve her life and secure a successful future.

Briana Cole has tested the bonds of love and family in this first novel of her Unconditional series. I am compelled to give it 5/5 stars.

My thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.

[reading mom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall this was a great story. I just didn’t like the whole 3 wives thing! I felt like he was playing in their faces all along, Kimmi was way too naive and money hungry and that slapped her in the face very quick. But I also was not expecting the twist and turns here. The ending had my mouth to the floor.

[Diane Rembert · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first of the Unconditional series is a book about polyamorous love. Leo is a wealthy African who just happens to have two wives, and just proposed to his third. He’s controlling, possessive, abusive and the keeper of many secrets.

Tina, wife number one, dominant, manipulative and very evil. She’s also secretly jealous of the other two wives.

Lena, wife number two, is docile and feels like she owes Leo something for pulling her from poverty.

Kimera (Kimmy) is wife number three, is lured into the relationship and easily falls for its benefits...money, credit cards, fancy cars and the lavish lifestyle. She is very smart, but her downfall is that she’s too inquisitive.

I really enjoyed this book by @bcoleauthor and look forward to reading the sequel “The Vows We Break.” I highly recommend this 💎💎💎💎💎read.

[Dee Cherry · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5
Kimera's love for money and her inability to see danger kept drama in her life. Storyline kept me reading as unexpected instances kept the pages turning. This was a good beginning to series and I'm looking forward to reading more of the story.

[Alicia Battle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hands down, this book was so good! I loved all of the plot twist! Can’t wait for the second book to come out.

[tre be · Rating 3 out of 5]

Polygamy, sex, lies, and murder! Check, check, checkkk! Who would sign up to be a sister-wife? (depends on the benefit package) Kimera thinks “marrying” Leo is the perfect answer for her money woes, and to help her achieve her goals of starting a business. But, after moving in she quickly finds she got more than she bargained for.

I finished the first book, The Wives We Play, in one sitting as it was fast-paced and I had to know how things would play out. I absolutely didn’t like Kimera at all, nor the careless decisions she made, but enjoyed all of the drama unfolding throughout.

[Queen Rosalind · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was NOT a fan in the beginning of this story line, but as the plot thickened.....I was hooked.

[Whit · Rating 3 out of 5]

Liked the story, hated the abrupt ending! I assume you have to purchase the rest of the series to get the answers to all of the crazy questions.

I realize that a lack of money can make people do crazy things but Kimera truly lost her mind. She wanted her own business, a new car and an overflowing bank balance. However, she wanted a short cut to attain her dreams. But she soon discovered that the cost of those things was really way too high.

Leo, her married boyfriend, showed a fake side when they were dating. Then revealed his true, violent side after she "married" him and the other two wives. My question - after Leo slapped Kimera twice and punched her in the face the third time is, what songs did the choir sing at his "Home - going Service"? Cause it was time for him to go!

[CloudOfThoughts_Books Keirstin · Rating 4 out of 5]

The wives we play by author Briana Cole is a book that will have you on an emotional roller coaster of a ride. It’s what people look for in these books. Drama, drama and drama. Great plot and the characters are.. WOW.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an arc copy of The wives we play in exchange for an honest review.

[Amaka · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kimera Davis doesn't know what she wants to do with her life. At twenty-five, she lives at home with her parents, working an unsatisfying bank job. Her life takes a wild turn when Leo, the married man Kimera's has been seeing, offers a strange proposal; he wants Kimera to marry him. Well aware that polygamy is illegal, Kimera is hesitant at first to take him up on his offer but in true Kimera fashion, she comes around once she sees the amount of money Leo will be spending on her. The story goes downhill as Kimera struggles to keep her new life a secret from her family and friends.

This was a well written story that had potential. Almost all of Kimera's decisions were questionable and the twist at the end did not flow with the storyline. TWWP is predictable and a little unrealistic.

[A. Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great suspense, some spicy scenes. You can pretty much expect the ending.

[Andrea Grannum · Rating 2 out of 5]

This plot was so preposterous.. I just had to keep going
Wickedly entertaining!

[Shannon · Rating 1 out of 5]

I finished because I was curious. This left a bad taste in my mouth.. I did not like it.

[BossyLadi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ok. I'm giving this book 3 stars simply because I made it to the end and held my attention but really, what did I just read? The story just didn't make sense. I think the author had no idea where she wanted the story to go so just threw in lots of random ish and then tried to tie it together at the end with a completely implausible story. Also, the female lead, Kimera, got on my nerves! She refused to make a good decision. She refused to tell the truth. And she refused to get a clue. How did she not know Tina was setting her up? A blind man saw that a mile away but not Kimera. She thinks this chick is her friend? Dummy. Everybody around her dying and she don't even consider that the deaths are connected? Dummy. You get a random text telling you to show up at some place and you don't bring anyone with you or a weapon? Dummy. You tell your love interest that its no chance the baby is not his. Dummy.

This is not a romance or urban novel. I'd describe it as an underdeveloped, pseudo thriller.

[KayBee's Bookshelf · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kymira's tale of youthful ignorance. She enters into a poly-marriage unaware that it would change her life in unimaginable ways. The story was an easy, slow listen. The story picked up during the last hour of my listen. Writing the lead character as a superficial former "party girl" who was looking for an easy "in" to the good life was perfect. She got the "in", but not the easy. She consistently put herself in situations to be victimized in search of the almighty dollar. Not even the love of her life could pull her from it completely. Before it's all said and done there is murder, childbirth, betrayal and a walking dead moment. The characters were well developed and the plot while predictable was well written. This author knows how to weave a story that pulls you in even if you don't like the characters themselves. Oddly enough, I was more drawn to the brother and best friend. I hope they are highlighted in book 2 a bit more to give a little bit of excitement to the story.

[Vnunez-Ms_luv2read · Rating 3 out of 5]

A woman is seeing a man and wants nothing more than to marry him. When she is asked, she learns she will become wife number 3. Does she accept the offer from his main wife, or does she walk away? She accepts and all I can say is be careful what you wish for. We then follow Kimera, the husband his two wives and their adventures for lack of a better word. Some of the things are a bit hard to believe. This seems to be a first in a series. Will I read pt 2? Yes, I probably will to see if the author can redeem this series. Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the ARC of this book. Although I received the book in this manner, it did not effect my opinion of this book nor my review.

[WriteVibeMagazine · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Wives We Play by Briana Cole tells the story of Kimera Davis, who a female who loves dating married men. This allows her fun with no strings attached. For her, It’s easier that way, fewer headaches, and problems until her current boo gives her the ultimate proposal. The Wives We Play, gives readers a front row seat into this dramatic love triangle. There will be times when you wanna high five someone and others when you are giving a mean side eye. Cole does a great job of storytelling and she does not disappoint because she brings the drama to keep you heavily engrossed. Kudos Briana! 4 Stars

Reviewed by: Kisha Green for Literary Jewels
Format: Paperback
Review Copy Supplied By Publisher

[Crissy · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Wives We Play is the first book I've read from this author and it was an okay read. The characters within this story frustrated me to the very end. Kimmy was doing everything for money and yes, money can make you do stupid things but it does not make you stupid. Her character was stupid for putting up with what she did then going about her day as if nothing happened. No way!!! Lena was forgotten as soon as she was gone and Tina and Dr. Lin got what they deserved. After everything Jahmad did to have Kimmy in his life I knew that when he walked away it would not be the end. With that being said, this book has what I would say a happy for now ending, but there's more to come.

[Sharon · Rating 2 out of 5]

I hardly know what to say about this book. I cannot recommend it. The concept of being one of multiple wives was so intriguing, however the protagonist spoiled everything. She was so immature and made so many really bad decisions that she was pretty hard to stomach.

I believe the author tried to have her develop and grow a bit, but it was not believeable. There was also a bit of mystery but it was not able to hold its own.

Here's the kicker; having said all of that, I believe that I will still likely check out the sequel, just to see where it goes next. If you like soap operas......

Take that for what its worth.

[Denise Gilliam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg this was my first read from this author and baby she didn’t disappoint me at all. This book was so damn good once I started to read it I couldn’t put it down. Read it in a couple of hours. Baby let me tell you that Tina was a jealous nut case I knew when I started she was going to be trouble. I felt sorry for Lena she was just a person who needed love and she found it in the wrong man due to loyalty she thought she had to give him. Kinmy was just a gurl looking for love in all the wrong places until her true love resurfaced a d her whole world was upside down. Leo was a man of many things but one thing I do know he loved Kimmy but she loved Jahmad. I could go on and on but I will stop right her jut read this phenomenal story it will grab you from the first page. Great job Briana Cole I am a fan for life. Now on to the next book.

[Brandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was a rollercoaster.
Kimmy is the main character who is seeing married man, Leo. Leo and his first wife decide to "propose" to Kimmy and offer her a way away from her parents home. Kimmy eventually decides to join their union and realize that she is actually wife #3. The second wife is currently pregnant with Leo's first child since Tina, the first wife, is unable to conceive.
The whole story follows Kimmy and her decisions as well as follow her through this mess that she has joined. This was my first book that I have read from this author and I don't believe it will be the last.

[Kendra Walker · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Wives We Play, is a nail biting thriller that leaves you guessing and on edge. This book embodies so many elements, suspense, sexual prowess, lies, deceit, love, friendship, and so much more.
Kimera Davis finds herself in what appears to be an arrangement of a lifetime. Soon she discovers that everything that glimmers is not gold.
Writer, Briana Cole, did a wonderful job of bringing the characters to life and making the characters come to life.
I would definitely recommend this book for a good fun read.

[Cammie scoles · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first time i had read a book by this author. And let me just say, i will so read every book she writes!..I absolutely loved this book..I was so into this book,that i read it in only 2 days .... I let my sister borrow this book,and the first night,she called to say she also loved it. So thank you for writing such an amazing book..I am going to recommend you to all my friends..So if you are thinking of reading this book,give it no more thought,Read this book, you will not be sorry, you will love it also.

[SheenaReads · Rating 1 out of 5]

Did not like this book. While I appreciated the high points in the book, the lack of resolution on certain plot points, such as the unidentified baby father. Kimmy is naive and stupid can’t find word to describe her. She was on the phone with her lawyer it didn’t even say if he was on his way or had to call the police when the Dr and crazy wife attacked her. I didn’t want DNF because I hate doing that so I was hoping this book would come around eventually but it didn’t. I wish not to finish this series if somebody did read the next book can you say who the father is?

[Tyra · Rating 3 out of 5]

this book was a bit odd, the concept of modern sister wives was already a bit offputting for me because the details seemed *so* dramatic and *so* unrealistic that it was hard to read at times. it also turned murder mystery toward the end which i generally like, but i feel like over complicating a plot for shock value means you can’t commit to a consistent storyline, aka can’t write well! “couples wanted” was my first intro to Cole which i think is more current, which could explain why i didn’t like this title. regardless i will take a break from this author!

[Shannan Harper · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not surprised that I liked this book. I've never heard of this author, but I think she did a good job with this story. I was shocked at the ending. I wasn't expecting to read what I did. A well written and enjoyable story and I can't wait to see what the author comes up with next. A story full of surprises and suspense.

Thanks to NetGalley, Kinsington books and Briana Cole for an ARC of this book.

[K. Sherrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

With Every Book She Writes

With every book she writes, she grows in the art of storytelling!

From beginning to end this book was full of twist and turns that kept me cursing at the pages! It was an amazingly told look into the other side of polygamy. I truly can’t wait to jump into the rest of this series because I have a feeling that Kimmy lies have more catching up to her to do and Tina and Leo are far from done chasing what they want!

[Leslie McIntyre · Rating 4 out of 5]

Big Sigh.......

Ok, I was very happy with the book until the very end. Most of the characters were well developed and the backstory of each was just enough to make you really love or really hate everyone in the book. I honestly couldn’t put the book down, so anxious to find out the who, what, where, when, and why of it all. Just for it to suddenly spiral off into an implausible soap opera plot. Kind of a let down, but I’d still recommend the read.

[Mahalia Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome job!

This book was an awesome read! It will have you from the first page until the last! Kimmy' s relationship with Leo will have you wondering why she stayed as long as she did. The twists and turns will make you keep reading until the end. Great job Ms. Cole! I can't wait to read part two!