★Tai, Tara. Single Player. Alcove. Jan. 2025. 320p. ISBN 9781639109937. pap. $18.99. LGBTQIA+ ROMANCE

DEBUT Tai’s compelling debut novel delves into the complexities of the gaming industry through the eyes of Catherine “Cat” Li and Andi “Andz” Zhang. Cat, a newly hired temp writer at Heartrender Studios, has left her stable job to follow her passion for game development. Her journey is complicated by her initial negative impressions of Andi, the lead writer and narrative director for Compass Hollow, a choices-matter genre game. The narrative skillfully explores the challenges faced by Andi, a queer woman of color who has previously endured trauma in an industry dominated by cis men. The plot thickens, as their studio boss attempts to sabotage their work, pushing Cat and Andi to collaborate despite their differences. Cat’s expertise in romance narratives adds another layer of tension as she is tasked with incorporating romance choices into the game. Tai’s writing captures the friction and eventual camaraderie between Cat and Andi, transitioning from professional animosity to a nuanced, slow-burn romance. VERDICT This is a must-read for fans of queer romance and those interested in the behind-the-scenes world of video games. Tai’s storytelling is both fun and thought-provoking, making this debut a standout in contemporary romance fiction.