★Tubati-Alexander, Neely. In a Not-So-Perfect World. Harper Perennial. Mar. 2024. 352p. ISBN 9780063292949. pap. $17.99. CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE

The night before a big interview, aspiring video game designer Sloane accepts a dare to kiss a stranger in a bar. When she realizes she’s kissed her elusive hot neighbor, Charlie, he proposes she join him on an expensive, already-paid-for Turks and Caicos vacation to make his ex jealous. Needing to get away from her own heartbreak and concentrate on completing her game proposal, Sloane agrees, certain that nothing romantic could happen, since Charlie is determined to get back with his former girlfriend. The resort is beautiful, romantic, fun, and abundant with drinks, and Charlie and Sloane soon develop a real connection. A woman striving for her dream job in a gaming company dominated by men, work that requires her to give up her personal and romantic lives, is a frustrating situation, but Sloane’s passion for apocalyptic games and doomsday prep is especially charming. Her ability to be her true self and share her past, because Charlie is wonderfully supportive of her career, makes for a strong bond that evokes genuine feelings and fiery chemistry. VERDICT Tubati-Alexander’s (Love Buzz) latest is a stellar romance rich in voice, humor, and expressive writing. A must-read for those who enjoy novels like Emily Henry’s People We Meet on Vacation.