Call Your Boyfriend

Two high school seniors scheme against a heartbreaker classmate in this biting collaboration from Cole (Ariel Crashes a Train) and Woodfolk (Louder than Words). While makeup influencer Maia is “on a break” from her relationship with rugby captain Tatum, she secretly makes out with Beau, the drummer of a band on the verge of a big break. When Beau then sees Maia make a move on her tutor, Charm, before accepting Tatum’s promposal, Beau recruits Charm to teach Maia that “she can’t just play with people’s hearts.” Grumpy loner Beau instructs “cotton-candy human” Charm on how to win Maia’s love with the end goal of dumping her at prom. Though their plan progresses smoothly, Beau and Charm each contend with drama at home. Beau’s older sister and bandmate insists Beau prioritize college over music, while Charm navigates conflicting feelings about her absent parents reentering her life. The authors deploy classic rom-com tropes to present a flirty offering that features fully fleshed-out characters, low-stakes conflict, and witty banter. The protagonists are intersectionally diverse. Ages 14–up. Agents: (for Cole) Patrice Caldwell, Caldwell Agency; (for Woodfolk) Beth Phelan, Gallt & Zacker Literary. (July)