The Launch Date

In this fun if somewhat uneven workplace romance, debut author Slator pairs two ambitious and antagonistic coworkers, Grace and Eric, as they compete for a promotion at a London dating app company. Grace has a manipulative creep for a boss and wrestles with low self-esteem, having recently exited a bad long-term relationship. Meanwhile, Eric is followed relentlessly by the paparazzi due to his prominent family, which both annoys and titillates Grace. Formerly friends, their relationship now consists of nonstop sniping—until they’re assigned to work together on a new project that requires them to evaluate potential romantic outings as a pretend couple. The sizzle between these two is obvious from the jump, but for most of the book Grace comes across as whiny and struggles to get out of her own way. Fortunately, the far more appealing Eric works to improve her self-esteem and encourages her to stand up for herself. Once she finally becomes more assertive—and more open to his overtures—the story picks up steam and becomes a lot more entertaining. Despite its few flaws, this is sure to please fans of Sally Thorne and Christina Lauren. (Feb.)