The Love Simulation

Easton follows up The Kiss Countdown with a fresh, futuristic take on the forced proximity trope. Middle school vice principal Brianna Rogers works hard to maintain clear professional boundaries between herself and the teachers, particularly handsome eighth grade science teacher Roman Major. But when Roman’s father, the school’s principal, pulls funding for a new library to instead upgrade the football fields, Brianna impulsively joins a six-week Mars mission simulation with her fellow teachers over summer break. They’ll be competing against other school districts for prize money to fund the library renovation. Given the animosity between her and her boss, she’s highly skeptical when Roman also joins the mission, worried that he’s only tagging along to sabotage their chances. However, it isn’t long before they build trust while coping with dust storms, eating rehydrated food, and overcoming technological emergencies. The unique setting is a lot of fun, and Easton has a natural touch with flirtatious dialogue between her wonderfully nuanced leads. Returning readers will enjoy revisiting the tight-knit Rogers clan, many of whom are clearly slated to find loves of their own in future installments. This gives series fans plenty to look forward to. Agent: Jem Chambers-Black, Andrea Brown Literary. (Mar.)