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The Love Simulation
A passionate vice principal and a guarded science teacher compete for a grand prize, only to realize their budding relationship might be the real jackpot.
Brianna Rogers has been told a time (or six) she needs to stop jumping into things head first. But when the principal rescinds his approval for a library upgrade, deciding to spend the money on a football field instead, she sees red. Literally. Brianna throws her hat in the ring and joins a team of teachers who will spend their summer in a Mars simulation. As the sister of an astronaut, this should be easy, right? What she didn’t count on was the last-minute addition to the team—Roman: science teacher, son of the principal, and too handsome for his own good.
Roman and Brianna have been hot and cold all year, and living in close quarters intensifies their animosity and attraction. Brianna is sure he’s been sent by his father to sabotage them, foiling their chance at prize money that will cover all of the school’s actual needs. But each day, Roman proves himself to be a dedicated teammate—and Brianna finds herself falling harder and harder. While it’s clear the feeling is mutual, she can’t shake the sense that he’s hiding something. As the simulation nears its end, Brianna realizes she may have to make an impossible choice, between the school she’s dedicated herself to, and the man who has won his way into her heart.
Brianna Rogers has been told a time (or six) she needs to stop jumping into things head first. But when the principal rescinds his approval for a library upgrade, deciding to spend the money on a football field instead, she sees red. Literally. Brianna throws her hat in the ring and joins a team of teachers who will spend their summer in a Mars simulation. As the sister of an astronaut, this should be easy, right? What she didn’t count on was the last-minute addition to the team—Roman: science teacher, son of the principal, and too handsome for his own good.
Roman and Brianna have been hot and cold all year, and living in close quarters intensifies their animosity and attraction. Brianna is sure he’s been sent by his father to sabotage them, foiling their chance at prize money that will cover all of the school’s actual needs. But each day, Roman proves himself to be a dedicated teammate—and Brianna finds herself falling harder and harder. While it’s clear the feeling is mutual, she can’t shake the sense that he’s hiding something. As the simulation nears its end, Brianna realizes she may have to make an impossible choice, between the school she’s dedicated herself to, and the man who has won his way into her heart.
320 pages, Paperback
First published March 4, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 483 reviews
March 17, 2025
3.5⭐️
One thing I’ve got to give this book credit for is bringing something fresh to romance—a Mars simulation?! Yes! It made for such a fun premise.
I enjoyed this more than Easton’s last book, The Kiss Countdown, but unfortunately, it had the same issue as that one. And I mean this in the nicest way possible—it’s forgettable. Aside from the whole Mars simulation aspect, most of the story didn’t feel particularly unique. That said, the romance was cutely awkward and I loved getting to know the characters and understanding their personal struggles, especially as they tried to live up to expectations—particularly from their families. I also loved seeing their passion for the things they excelled at and were clearly meant to do.
I hope to see more from Easton in the future because, based on both of her books, she creates fantastic characters—they just need a story that’s just as strong to match them 💪🏾😎.
One thing I’ve got to give this book credit for is bringing something fresh to romance—a Mars simulation?! Yes! It made for such a fun premise.
I enjoyed this more than Easton’s last book, The Kiss Countdown, but unfortunately, it had the same issue as that one. And I mean this in the nicest way possible—it’s forgettable. Aside from the whole Mars simulation aspect, most of the story didn’t feel particularly unique. That said, the romance was cutely awkward and I loved getting to know the characters and understanding their personal struggles, especially as they tried to live up to expectations—particularly from their families. I also loved seeing their passion for the things they excelled at and were clearly meant to do.
I hope to see more from Easton in the future because, based on both of her books, she creates fantastic characters—they just need a story that’s just as strong to match them 💪🏾😎.
February 27, 2025
2.5 ☆
“I’ll take you however I can have you. In here, where it’s just us. Out there, in front of everybody. I’ll follow your lead.”
i’m sad to be giving this book such a low rating, cause i really did enjoy Etta Easton’s debut but The Love Simulation fell flat in comparison. i liked the premise of the characters participating in a mars simulation where they have to “survive” in order to earn money for their school, but the romance wasn’t doing it for me. i didn’t even think Brianna or Roman were unlikable necessarily, cause they were fine. it’s just that they were lacking chemistry and their connection felt surface level and kind of.. bland? with no sort of stakes or anything.
“The only way you can let me down is if you started hiding who you are. You may think I bring out the best in you, but im only helping you see the man who is already there. The man I love.”
another thing that was annoying me were all the pop culture references— there’s movie, romance book and tiktok dances mentioned and i really did not like that at all, it kept pulling me out of the story. also, i don’t think a book character should be using phrases like “delulu” .. i find that embarrassing but idk, maybe it’s just me. the miscommunication in the third act was unnecessary and glossed over quickly, with everything being resolved too easily. i just felt like Brianna was truly obsessed with Roman from the start and he never quite matched her level of admiration, although the journal entries he wrote about her were so sweet. forced proximity is one of my favorite tropes but i never connected to anything in the story, so I wasn’t invested in the outcome of it all. i’m left feeling disappointed by this one and it honestly felt like it was written by a completely different author.
➥ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and Berkley Publishing Group for the arc, all opinions are my own.
“I’ll take you however I can have you. In here, where it’s just us. Out there, in front of everybody. I’ll follow your lead.”
i’m sad to be giving this book such a low rating, cause i really did enjoy Etta Easton’s debut but The Love Simulation fell flat in comparison. i liked the premise of the characters participating in a mars simulation where they have to “survive” in order to earn money for their school, but the romance wasn’t doing it for me. i didn’t even think Brianna or Roman were unlikable necessarily, cause they were fine. it’s just that they were lacking chemistry and their connection felt surface level and kind of.. bland? with no sort of stakes or anything.
“The only way you can let me down is if you started hiding who you are. You may think I bring out the best in you, but im only helping you see the man who is already there. The man I love.”
another thing that was annoying me were all the pop culture references— there’s movie, romance book and tiktok dances mentioned and i really did not like that at all, it kept pulling me out of the story. also, i don’t think a book character should be using phrases like “delulu” .. i find that embarrassing but idk, maybe it’s just me. the miscommunication in the third act was unnecessary and glossed over quickly, with everything being resolved too easily. i just felt like Brianna was truly obsessed with Roman from the start and he never quite matched her level of admiration, although the journal entries he wrote about her were so sweet. forced proximity is one of my favorite tropes but i never connected to anything in the story, so I wasn’t invested in the outcome of it all. i’m left feeling disappointed by this one and it honestly felt like it was written by a completely different author.
➥ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and Berkley Publishing Group for the arc, all opinions are my own.
April 5, 2025
3/5
- Really love how this author always has such a fresh take on romance! The storylines are always so unique which I feel like will forever keep me coming back for more when they write something new!
- This was such a cute, fluffy, and quick read! Perfect for summer!
- Really love how this author always has such a fresh take on romance! The storylines are always so unique which I feel like will forever keep me coming back for more when they write something new!
- This was such a cute, fluffy, and quick read! Perfect for summer!
April 2, 2025
I was hoping I'd love this as much as The Kiss Countdown, and while I did like it, it wasn't as good. I just wanted a lil more from the story. But the romance was okay, the forced proximity handled well (Mars simulation!!), we got more space facts (yay), and it was funny.
Though at times Brianna and Roman seemed unbalanced in their attraction, she definitely liked him more than he liked her. I wish we got to peek inside his head so we'd know if that's really the case. I also feel like their relationship is based more on lust than love, and I don't think I truly got to know either of them as characters.
But maybe this is just a one-off, and Etta Easton's next book will be great like the first. Fingers crossed.
Though at times Brianna and Roman seemed unbalanced in their attraction, she definitely liked him more than he liked her. I wish we got to peek inside his head so we'd know if that's really the case. I also feel like their relationship is based more on lust than love, and I don't think I truly got to know either of them as characters.
But maybe this is just a one-off, and Etta Easton's next book will be great like the first. Fingers crossed.
January 25, 2025
The love simulation by Etta Easton
-I can sense their strong connection and all he did was grab tea from the top shelf for her
-Roman sounds fine oufff
-This book makes me miss having a crush on someone I’m so giddy
-I love getting to know the other teachers
-this feels like an episode of Abbots elementary and I’m eating this it up
-not this book referencing another book I love
-Etta’s writing makes you feel like you’re in the simulation with the teachers I love it
-the entry 😭 omg I love Roman so much he’s so attentive and caring I need this man to be real get out of the book right nowwww
-this book was so cute omg I love them so much
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 11, 2025
“The only way you can let me down is if you started hiding who you are. You may think I bring out the best in you, but I'm only helping you see the man who is already there. The man I love.”
I really did intend on giving this a higher rating, but after what had to be the fiftieth time of me being incredibly grossed out... I realized any higher would be insincere.
I went into this with pretty high expectations because I really enjoyed The Kiss Countdown when I read it last month. It was fluffy and fun, with likeable characters and just enough weight to the story to keep me interested. In my review, I even mentioned the fact I was pleasantly surprised that I didn't get the ick from the story.
The Kiss Countdown didn't have the mmc though, which is an obvious difference. (This line shows up in a love letter/journal entry meant for the fmc to read, it's in reference to him discovering new foods he likes, and even if it was joking, I don't want to read it <3)
My personal disgust aside, I also really disliked the romance in this book. From the very beginning, it sounds as if Brianna is much more interested in Roman than he is in her. Some of this is because he keeps his cards close to his chest, but it's also because a lot of their previous relationship was made up of silent interactions Brianna read into. I would say it takes 60% of the story for Roman to show any real interest in her, though she thinks they're already in a forbidden tryst.
The plot itself was okay, though it often felt like it was trying to heighten the very low stakes - which just made the stakes seem even lower. The dialogue was incredibly cringe-inducing, with the fmc seriously saying, "I may be delulu, but I'm delulu and happy." and "sure hope this doesn't awaken anything in me." at different points.
I will say, more than any other genre, I really do think romance comes down more to personal preference than anything else. The things that made this book really difficult for me to read, might work really well for someone else. I'm only listing my issues so that if you have the same ones, you can decide whether or not you want to give this one a try.
Overall, I appreciate what this book was trying to be, but it just let me down. While I wouldn't recommend this, I would definitely recommend you try out The Kiss Countdown if you're looking for a sweet romance book that delivers.
I really did intend on giving this a higher rating, but after what had to be the fiftieth time of me being incredibly grossed out... I realized any higher would be insincere.
I went into this with pretty high expectations because I really enjoyed The Kiss Countdown when I read it last month. It was fluffy and fun, with likeable characters and just enough weight to the story to keep me interested. In my review, I even mentioned the fact I was pleasantly surprised that I didn't get the ick from the story.
The Kiss Countdown didn't have the mmc though, which is an obvious difference. (This line shows up in a love letter/journal entry meant for the fmc to read, it's in reference to him discovering new foods he likes, and even if it was joking, I don't want to read it <3)
My personal disgust aside, I also really disliked the romance in this book. From the very beginning, it sounds as if Brianna is much more interested in Roman than he is in her. Some of this is because he keeps his cards close to his chest, but it's also because a lot of their previous relationship was made up of silent interactions Brianna read into. I would say it takes 60% of the story for Roman to show any real interest in her, though she thinks they're already in a forbidden tryst.
The plot itself was okay, though it often felt like it was trying to heighten the very low stakes - which just made the stakes seem even lower. The dialogue was incredibly cringe-inducing, with the fmc seriously saying, "I may be delulu, but I'm delulu and happy." and "sure hope this doesn't awaken anything in me." at different points.
I will say, more than any other genre, I really do think romance comes down more to personal preference than anything else. The things that made this book really difficult for me to read, might work really well for someone else. I'm only listing my issues so that if you have the same ones, you can decide whether or not you want to give this one a try.
Overall, I appreciate what this book was trying to be, but it just let me down. While I wouldn't recommend this, I would definitely recommend you try out The Kiss Countdown if you're looking for a sweet romance book that delivers.
December 20, 2025
Cute romcom with tons of science-y aspects! For lovers of space + romance!
What’s to love…
- Educator FMC + STEM educator MMC
- did I mention STEM - I love a science-y novel
- interconnected standalone
- Bookish book (I mean the whole point is to get money for the library!)
- forced proximity
- family forward story and characters
What I didn’t love…
- she’s obsessed with him from the jump (that’s never gonna be a favorite for me) - and we spend a lot of time with her internal thoughts regarding how obsessed with him she is…
- the rivals aspect of this is a lot more miscommunication than actual rivals and it makes the stakes pretty low
3.5⭐️| IG | TikTok |
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley for sending this book (eARC) for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
What’s to love…
- Educator FMC + STEM educator MMC
- did I mention STEM - I love a science-y novel
- interconnected standalone
- Bookish book (I mean the whole point is to get money for the library!)
- forced proximity
- family forward story and characters
What I didn’t love…
- she’s obsessed with him from the jump (that’s never gonna be a favorite for me) - and we spend a lot of time with her internal thoughts regarding how obsessed with him she is…
- the rivals aspect of this is a lot more miscommunication than actual rivals and it makes the stakes pretty low
3.5⭐️| IG | TikTok |
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley for sending this book (eARC) for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
July 1, 2025
This was very cute! It almost felt like a closed-door romance with how wholesome it was. Don't get me wrong, there was spice, but it wasn't FILTHY if you get me.
I enjoyed it. I love how this author creates such interesting settings and plots. The characters were also fun; main and side.
Overall, I liked it!
9/10 would recommend. Cute, quick read.
I enjoyed it. I love how this author creates such interesting settings and plots. The characters were also fun; main and side.
Overall, I liked it!
9/10 would recommend. Cute, quick read.
December 13, 2024
This was a cute read and if you love forced proximity and romcoms you will enjoy this one. This book follows the fmc who is the voice principal of their middle school as she struggles with a job that she loves and the school's principal. The fmc has a crush on the principal son who is also a teacher in the school but has all the professional boundaries put in between her and all the teachers in the school. They both participate in a space simulation where they are forced into a tight space with a few other teachers to earn money for a new library.
I really liked the school/teacher plot, and I found the struggles of the FMC very relatable in regards to her job. I thought the space simulation aspect to be very cool as well. I like that this author always has a space-related aspect to her books. The romance was cute and a slow burn. I enjoyed both characters but I wanted more in the romance aspect. They had very cute moments but there was a bit of miscommunication and it felt a bit surface level. It was still a cute and steamy read when they got together. Thanks to Berkley for this arc for an honest review.
3.25/5
I really liked the school/teacher plot, and I found the struggles of the FMC very relatable in regards to her job. I thought the space simulation aspect to be very cool as well. I like that this author always has a space-related aspect to her books. The romance was cute and a slow burn. I enjoyed both characters but I wanted more in the romance aspect. They had very cute moments but there was a bit of miscommunication and it felt a bit surface level. It was still a cute and steamy read when they got together. Thanks to Berkley for this arc for an honest review.
3.25/5
June 5, 2025
2.5 stars. I was not a fan of the MFC; she was too childish for my liking.
January 24, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Bri is the vice principal struggling to get a new library approved for her school. Roman is the science teacher and son of the principal. He seemingly has his eyes set on Bri’s position. They agree to participate in a Mars Simulation to win money for the library remodel.
I loved that we got more space information in this book. 👩🏾🚀That was something I really wanted in book 1. I also enjoyed the simulation aspect of the story line. It felt like a reality tv show but with out the unnecessary drama. I really feel like this book could have benefited from dual pov. Not having Roman’s inner thoughts was frustrating. There were moments where our FMC would pretend to know what he was thinking, as if they were having these telepathy conversations. It would have been more enjoyable to know his actual thoughts and feelings. Also only getting Bri’s thoughts really made my girl seem thirsty! There were so many times where I wanted to tell her to STAND UP! If those thoughts were reciprocated from Romans POV it wouldn’t have felt so one sided. This was definitely a case where it felt like she was feeling him more than he was feeling her.
Overall I love this authors writing style. Something about this book gave me abbott elementary vibes and I loved that. 🥰 I would recommend to anyone who wants a fun sweet romance.
Bri is the vice principal struggling to get a new library approved for her school. Roman is the science teacher and son of the principal. He seemingly has his eyes set on Bri’s position. They agree to participate in a Mars Simulation to win money for the library remodel.
I loved that we got more space information in this book. 👩🏾🚀That was something I really wanted in book 1. I also enjoyed the simulation aspect of the story line. It felt like a reality tv show but with out the unnecessary drama. I really feel like this book could have benefited from dual pov. Not having Roman’s inner thoughts was frustrating. There were moments where our FMC would pretend to know what he was thinking, as if they were having these telepathy conversations. It would have been more enjoyable to know his actual thoughts and feelings. Also only getting Bri’s thoughts really made my girl seem thirsty! There were so many times where I wanted to tell her to STAND UP! If those thoughts were reciprocated from Romans POV it wouldn’t have felt so one sided. This was definitely a case where it felt like she was feeling him more than he was feeling her.
Overall I love this authors writing style. Something about this book gave me abbott elementary vibes and I loved that. 🥰 I would recommend to anyone who wants a fun sweet romance.
March 18, 2025
ETTAAAAA, I was not prepared for your pen game!
Hey world, I loved this book and will absolutely be reading The Kiss Countdown at some point. Let’s talk about why this was everything.
Brianna is a high-spirited vice principal who just wants to make her school better, but the principal is shutting her down at every turn. To make things worse, he is actively trying to push Brianna out of her position so his son—who just so happens to be her love interest😏—can take her job. See how it is already getting messy? But that is not even the main plot😁.
A group of teachers enters a six-week Mars simulation to raise money for the school library, and to Brianna’s surprise (or let’s be real, not surprise), Roman shows up. So now they are stuck together for six-ish weeks, and let me tell you, this is how you do forced proximity. Things unfold, tension builds, and they fall in love in the cutest way. Like, this man made paints for her. I think about that very often.
This book was so much fun, and I was fully invested. If you love forced proximity, workplace drama, and romance with heart, you need to read this.
Hey world, I loved this book and will absolutely be reading The Kiss Countdown at some point. Let’s talk about why this was everything.
Brianna is a high-spirited vice principal who just wants to make her school better, but the principal is shutting her down at every turn. To make things worse, he is actively trying to push Brianna out of her position so his son—who just so happens to be her love interest😏—can take her job. See how it is already getting messy? But that is not even the main plot😁.
A group of teachers enters a six-week Mars simulation to raise money for the school library, and to Brianna’s surprise (or let’s be real, not surprise), Roman shows up. So now they are stuck together for six-ish weeks, and let me tell you, this is how you do forced proximity. Things unfold, tension builds, and they fall in love in the cutest way. Like, this man made paints for her. I think about that very often.
This book was so much fun, and I was fully invested. If you love forced proximity, workplace drama, and romance with heart, you need to read this.
April 10, 2025
Forced proximity but make it a Mars simulation! That part was honestly so unique and fun, but the rest of the story and relationship was sadly lacking. We also only get the heroine’s POV in this one and while I kinda get why, I also think another POV would have helped at the same time. 😅
She’s a vice principal at an elementary school, he’s a science teacher (and also the principal’s son). So a tryst between them is definitely forbidden/off the table. Not to mention his dad/the principal seems to have everything out for her, including her want to fund the school’s library. So when a Mars simulation competition comes up with a $500,000 prize for the winning school team, she and the hero (and other teachers too) join with the hopes of using the winning prize to fund the remodel for the library.
This started off cute. The forced proximity, the crushing, and the tension between them at school starting with the coffee/tea song and dance moment in the break room was so adorable. But then she kinda just assumes the worst all the time, like that he must have it out for her and team and want to sabotage their win. All while he’s wanting to prove to her they’re perfect for one another. Not having his POV ever and not really starting to hear of his thoughts until much later in the story definitely affected the read. Easy audio listen though from the library.
She’s a vice principal at an elementary school, he’s a science teacher (and also the principal’s son). So a tryst between them is definitely forbidden/off the table. Not to mention his dad/the principal seems to have everything out for her, including her want to fund the school’s library. So when a Mars simulation competition comes up with a $500,000 prize for the winning school team, she and the hero (and other teachers too) join with the hopes of using the winning prize to fund the remodel for the library.
This started off cute. The forced proximity, the crushing, and the tension between them at school starting with the coffee/tea song and dance moment in the break room was so adorable. But then she kinda just assumes the worst all the time, like that he must have it out for her and team and want to sabotage their win. All while he’s wanting to prove to her they’re perfect for one another. Not having his POV ever and not really starting to hear of his thoughts until much later in the story definitely affected the read. Easy audio listen though from the library.
March 11, 2025
THE LOVE SIMULATION by Etta Easton
Thank you @berkleyromance for my #gifted copies. #berkleyig #berkleyromancepartner
🚀 Enemies-to-lovers meets a Mars simulation in Etta Easton's new rom-com!
Brianna Rogers is a vice principal with a mission—win a high-stakes Mars simulation competition to fund her school’s library. But she wasn’t expecting to be stuck in a tiny fake spaceship with Roman Major, the brooding science teacher (and her boss’s son). Cue the tension.... and the undeniable chemistry. ⚡
There's so much to love about The Love Simulation— great main and side characters, witty banter, nonverbal love language 👀, and a slow-burn romance that really pays off in the end.
Additionally, I appreciate Easton's exploration of the ways both main characters' roles within the school led to feelings of isolation and loneliness, as well as the importance of literacy in schools. These components added depth to an otherwise light-hearted, feel-good romance.
🎧 While I planned on reading this by alternating between my physical copy and the audiobook, I quickly decided that this was one I needed to read with my eyes for the best possible experience. YMMV!
📌 Available now!
Thank you @berkleyromance for my #gifted copies. #berkleyig #berkleyromancepartner
🚀 Enemies-to-lovers meets a Mars simulation in Etta Easton's new rom-com!
Brianna Rogers is a vice principal with a mission—win a high-stakes Mars simulation competition to fund her school’s library. But she wasn’t expecting to be stuck in a tiny fake spaceship with Roman Major, the brooding science teacher (and her boss’s son). Cue the tension.... and the undeniable chemistry. ⚡
There's so much to love about The Love Simulation— great main and side characters, witty banter, nonverbal love language 👀, and a slow-burn romance that really pays off in the end.
Additionally, I appreciate Easton's exploration of the ways both main characters' roles within the school led to feelings of isolation and loneliness, as well as the importance of literacy in schools. These components added depth to an otherwise light-hearted, feel-good romance.
🎧 While I planned on reading this by alternating between my physical copy and the audiobook, I quickly decided that this was one I needed to read with my eyes for the best possible experience. YMMV!
📌 Available now!
April 28, 2025
2.75/5
I could not picture for the life of me what was going on in this book.
I could not picture for the life of me what was going on in this book.
March 8, 2025
I loved getting to explore a new corner of this universe with fresh characters, and the Mars simulation setting made it even more fun—especially as a fan of The Martian. The tension of being in such a controlled, high-stakes environment added so much to Brianna and Roman’s relationship, which I really enjoyed. Their dynamic had just the right mix of chemistry, conflict, and growth, making it easy to root for them. While some moments felt a little predictable, the story was engaging from start to finish, and I appreciated how it balanced the technical aspects with real human emotions! I hope to see them around again in the next book (if there is one!)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2025
This was okay.
I went into this imagining a smexy version of Bio-Dome.
And it kinda is, but not really.
The story is intriguing, but the characters were a bit more cardboard cutout than I would have liked.
I would still recommend it because I think this is more of a me making expectations that in no way were ever implied by anyone lol.
Much love to Berkley Romance for my ARC!
I went into this imagining a smexy version of Bio-Dome.
And it kinda is, but not really.
The story is intriguing, but the characters were a bit more cardboard cutout than I would have liked.
I would still recommend it because I think this is more of a me making expectations that in no way were ever implied by anyone lol.
Much love to Berkley Romance for my ARC!
March 31, 2025
I enjoyed The Kiss Countdown so much so I couldn't wait to get into this one. After reading this, I can say that...it's okay.
At times the FMC made me think I was reading a YA book. That characterization of her actually irritated me. First I thought it was by design because of her feelings of inadequacy when comparing her life to her siblings. Then I realized I only felt that way when she was staring at/longing for/interacting with the MMC before they got together.
I'm glad I read this book but it's not one that I'll re-read.
At times the FMC made me think I was reading a YA book. That characterization of her actually irritated me. First I thought it was by design because of her feelings of inadequacy when comparing her life to her siblings. Then I realized I only felt that way when she was staring at/longing for/interacting with the MMC before they got together.
I'm glad I read this book but it's not one that I'll re-read.
August 11, 2024
i haven’t read it yet but the way i am in love with “the kiss countdown”, i already know im in love with this!!! i wish i could get an arc! idc if it cost my entire paycheck!
August 3, 2025
*3.5*
This was a very fluffy rom com type read like its predecessor. Brianna is a vice principal who wants to do right by her students. Roman is a teacher and also the son of the principal who keeps getting in the way of our FMC. The answer is to enter a Mars space simulation with a team of other teachers to get done what the principal stopped. Now I was really enjoying most of the story but it felt like so much was missing from it. The romance seemed unbelievable at times, because so much context was missing. These teachers had a mutual crush and neither knew about it. Then the simulation wasn't simulating for me. Once a few people got disqualified nothing else really happened the rest of the simulation. I was like watered down hunger games.
I loved all of the characters that went out on the simulation with them. Angie was cracking me up!!! All in all I believe it was a super cute quick read. I would've read it faster if I was chasing my 6 kids around lol
This was a very fluffy rom com type read like its predecessor. Brianna is a vice principal who wants to do right by her students. Roman is a teacher and also the son of the principal who keeps getting in the way of our FMC. The answer is to enter a Mars space simulation with a team of other teachers to get done what the principal stopped. Now I was really enjoying most of the story but it felt like so much was missing from it. The romance seemed unbelievable at times, because so much context was missing. These teachers had a mutual crush and neither knew about it. Then the simulation wasn't simulating for me. Once a few people got disqualified nothing else really happened the rest of the simulation. I was like watered down hunger games.
I loved all of the characters that went out on the simulation with them. Angie was cracking me up!!! All in all I believe it was a super cute quick read. I would've read it faster if I was chasing my 6 kids around lol
June 3, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
I was nervous I wouldn’t like this one based on the reviews, but it actually wasn’t that bad! The principal gave immature vibes (very realistic for some workplaces though 😭), and while I liked Brianna’s personality overall, the constant sibling comparison got a little old. Wish we had Roman’s POV too because it lowkey felt like Bri was way more into him than he was into her. The romance felt a little one-sided because of that. BUT the simulation concept? Super cool. Definitely gave the story a unique twist. Not a fave, but not a flop either!
I was nervous I wouldn’t like this one based on the reviews, but it actually wasn’t that bad! The principal gave immature vibes (very realistic for some workplaces though 😭), and while I liked Brianna’s personality overall, the constant sibling comparison got a little old. Wish we had Roman’s POV too because it lowkey felt like Bri was way more into him than he was into her. The romance felt a little one-sided because of that. BUT the simulation concept? Super cool. Definitely gave the story a unique twist. Not a fave, but not a flop either!
May 12, 2025
DNF, i'm devastated
This isn't really hot and cold or anything but lukewarm. Everyone is just sort of...fine. There's no real animosity, just Brianna trying to hold herself back because she's the VP and he's a teacher at her school. I really wanted like, Abbott Elementary in "space" out of this, but the writing lacks polish even though the subject matter has a lot of heart. This book was written for a right now audience- next year a lot of the wording and references are going to be lost to the depths of the internet and alienate new readers.
Overall, there's good in here, but it needed more work before it was released into the world.
This isn't really hot and cold or anything but lukewarm. Everyone is just sort of...fine. There's no real animosity, just Brianna trying to hold herself back because she's the VP and he's a teacher at her school. I really wanted like, Abbott Elementary in "space" out of this, but the writing lacks polish even though the subject matter has a lot of heart. This book was written for a right now audience- next year a lot of the wording and references are going to be lost to the depths of the internet and alienate new readers.
Overall, there's good in here, but it needed more work before it was released into the world.
March 24, 2025
Meh.
More of the characters, less of the experiment would've made this work for me.
Cute but not memorable.
More of the characters, less of the experiment would've made this work for me.
Cute but not memorable.
March 4, 2025
Forced Proximity ✔️
Workplace Romance ✔️
He falls harder ✔️
This was my first book by Etta and I’m so excited to read more by her. It was lighthearted and fluffy in the way I love romances to be. I loved that I was able to relate to so much of the culture in the book being a black woman in corporate America. There was symbolism that I appreciated that was voiced in the book. I highly recommend reading if you’re interested in a strong and independent FMC. That you net galley for giving me the opportunity to read this!
Workplace Romance ✔️
He falls harder ✔️
This was my first book by Etta and I’m so excited to read more by her. It was lighthearted and fluffy in the way I love romances to be. I loved that I was able to relate to so much of the culture in the book being a black woman in corporate America. There was symbolism that I appreciated that was voiced in the book. I highly recommend reading if you’re interested in a strong and independent FMC. That you net galley for giving me the opportunity to read this!
February 14, 2025
Thank you so much to Berkley Romance for the advance copy of this & the free book #BerkleyPartner!
This book will be out in March 4th.
The Kiss Countdown was Etta Easton's debut book and was absolutely charming! I was not sure if this book was going to be its own new story or set in the same universe as TKC. Turns out our female lead is the little sister of the male, Vincent, from The Kiss Countdown.
Just like with the first one, this was just also enjoyable!! Brianna is a Vice Principal with a very difficult principal and is upset when he chooses to use funds to redo the football field instead of a new library, she takes matters in her own hands. There was this cool opportunity to be a part of a Mars simulation with other staff members for a chance to a good chunk of money that would be used to upgrade the library.
Six weeks in a Mars simulation? Should be no issue but what Brianna was not expecting is to be trapped with her workplace crush and the principal's son Roman. She already is nervous around him but this is going to have them force to work together. I felt kind of bad for Roman because Brianna thought the worst of him. She thought he was there to jeopardize her chance at getting the funds. And this was throughout majority of the book.
Then you have Roman who never gave her any reason to doubt him besides being the son of her boss. He was doing his best in achieving the different missions. He was very open with his crush on Brianna. It was hard for her to navigate their mutual feelings for one another. She was technically his superior and even though they weren't in school, it still was a school event and was with other peers. No matter how much she tried, she just could not resist him. I know they were in this simulation and its not like they could properly date but I would have love to have seen them get to know each other more. It kind of was like "oh I like you, let's sleep together." Which yes happens but we usually get to see the couple get to know one another and build an intimacy.
Easton did not spend too much time with giving insight into the first book. But just enough of VIncent (he is a astronaut) and Amerie to give insight into their lives currently. Also got to see some of Brianna's relationship with her sister Camille who seems like such a wonderful person.
i love the concept of being in this controlled environment away from everyone over the summer. In my head I just picture the movie The Martian and the different space tasks that they had to do.
I started this book doing tandem reading but ultimately ended up just reading with my ears. Sisi Aisha Johnson did such a great job with narration! She gave just enough sass and confidence that was needed for Brianna. I also like how she embodied the other cast of characters that were in the simulation.
Looking forward to see if Easton sticks with space theme books (which I would be here for) or where she would pivot too!
This book will be out in March 4th.
The Kiss Countdown was Etta Easton's debut book and was absolutely charming! I was not sure if this book was going to be its own new story or set in the same universe as TKC. Turns out our female lead is the little sister of the male, Vincent, from The Kiss Countdown.
Just like with the first one, this was just also enjoyable!! Brianna is a Vice Principal with a very difficult principal and is upset when he chooses to use funds to redo the football field instead of a new library, she takes matters in her own hands. There was this cool opportunity to be a part of a Mars simulation with other staff members for a chance to a good chunk of money that would be used to upgrade the library.
Six weeks in a Mars simulation? Should be no issue but what Brianna was not expecting is to be trapped with her workplace crush and the principal's son Roman. She already is nervous around him but this is going to have them force to work together. I felt kind of bad for Roman because Brianna thought the worst of him. She thought he was there to jeopardize her chance at getting the funds. And this was throughout majority of the book.
Then you have Roman who never gave her any reason to doubt him besides being the son of her boss. He was doing his best in achieving the different missions. He was very open with his crush on Brianna. It was hard for her to navigate their mutual feelings for one another. She was technically his superior and even though they weren't in school, it still was a school event and was with other peers. No matter how much she tried, she just could not resist him. I know they were in this simulation and its not like they could properly date but I would have love to have seen them get to know each other more. It kind of was like "oh I like you, let's sleep together." Which yes happens but we usually get to see the couple get to know one another and build an intimacy.
Easton did not spend too much time with giving insight into the first book. But just enough of VIncent (he is a astronaut) and Amerie to give insight into their lives currently. Also got to see some of Brianna's relationship with her sister Camille who seems like such a wonderful person.
i love the concept of being in this controlled environment away from everyone over the summer. In my head I just picture the movie The Martian and the different space tasks that they had to do.
I started this book doing tandem reading but ultimately ended up just reading with my ears. Sisi Aisha Johnson did such a great job with narration! She gave just enough sass and confidence that was needed for Brianna. I also like how she embodied the other cast of characters that were in the simulation.
Looking forward to see if Easton sticks with space theme books (which I would be here for) or where she would pivot too!
May 15, 2025
Special thanks to @berkleypub @berkleyromance for my gifted copy‼️
The Love Simulation is my first book by the author and while it was a cute story the book didn’t really hit like I wanted. Vice principal Brianna Rogers is determined to get funds approved for the school’s library renovations. But the principal seems to block her in every direction. When the perfect opportunity comes along she doesn’t hesitate spending her summer in a Mars simulation to win prize money for the school. But when the principal’s son/the science teacher Roman Major shows up at the simulation Brianna suspects nothing but trouble.
Most of the characters lacked development in this one Bri was really the only one with real depth. I also found her character to be really uptight, very concerned with how others perceive her especially at work, and her obsession with Rome being out to sabotage her was sending me. After a while it’s like okay sis relax let your hair down a bit. The interactions between both MC’s honestly seemed awkward and forced. The spice was black pepper which we could’ve done without. The last few chapters were also a little predictable to me. Overall, the book was meh could just be me but if you’ve read her first book The Kiss Countdown then you might enjoy this one too‼️
The Love Simulation is my first book by the author and while it was a cute story the book didn’t really hit like I wanted. Vice principal Brianna Rogers is determined to get funds approved for the school’s library renovations. But the principal seems to block her in every direction. When the perfect opportunity comes along she doesn’t hesitate spending her summer in a Mars simulation to win prize money for the school. But when the principal’s son/the science teacher Roman Major shows up at the simulation Brianna suspects nothing but trouble.
Most of the characters lacked development in this one Bri was really the only one with real depth. I also found her character to be really uptight, very concerned with how others perceive her especially at work, and her obsession with Rome being out to sabotage her was sending me. After a while it’s like okay sis relax let your hair down a bit. The interactions between both MC’s honestly seemed awkward and forced. The spice was black pepper which we could’ve done without. The last few chapters were also a little predictable to me. Overall, the book was meh could just be me but if you’ve read her first book The Kiss Countdown then you might enjoy this one too‼️
May 31, 2025
What a fun read! It’s a cute, rom-com like style of a read though not a rom-com. Really enjoyed the writing. I was smiling through quite a bit of the book. There’s a lot of personality to it and moments that made me giggle.
This is a low-angst, slow-burn and also low heat read. There are a couple open door scenes but they are very mild.
I liked both Brianna and Roman. Bri just seemed really cool and trying her best to make something of herself, passionate about her ideals and pursuing things she wants no matter what obstacles come up in the way - they just make her hit harder! Roman is a total hottie but also just sounds so sweet, quiet but confident and smooth.
As I said, it is low angst. I will say Bri makes a pretty big assumption about Roman which fuels the conflict that could have just not been there had she not assumed - I was a little annoyed by that and felt bad for Roman! But it works out in the end, she just can’t resist Roman - who could??
I also enjoyed the side characters - Angie in particular was really a hoot and had some great lines that made me laugh 😄
Just a light, fun, and heartwarming read. I really enjoyed it and would recommend it! I liked the first book as well and will be looking forward to others from this author!
4/5 ⭐️
This is a low-angst, slow-burn and also low heat read. There are a couple open door scenes but they are very mild.
I liked both Brianna and Roman. Bri just seemed really cool and trying her best to make something of herself, passionate about her ideals and pursuing things she wants no matter what obstacles come up in the way - they just make her hit harder! Roman is a total hottie but also just sounds so sweet, quiet but confident and smooth.
As I said, it is low angst. I will say Bri makes a pretty big assumption about Roman which fuels the conflict that could have just not been there had she not assumed - I was a little annoyed by that and felt bad for Roman! But it works out in the end, she just can’t resist Roman - who could??
I also enjoyed the side characters - Angie in particular was really a hoot and had some great lines that made me laugh 😄
Just a light, fun, and heartwarming read. I really enjoyed it and would recommend it! I liked the first book as well and will be looking forward to others from this author!
4/5 ⭐️
March 19, 2025
The Love Simulation by Etta Easton is the perfect he-falls-first workplace adjacent rivals to lovers story. Brianna is a vice-principal who just wants to get a library remodel built after the old library was partially destroyed. Her principal is trying to get her out by any means necessary to get his son (Roman) the job so he uses the money assigned to the library remodel to a new football field. To keep her word, Brianna decides to participate in a reality show competition that would pay for the remodel with some of her colleagues who are there for their own reasons. Roman shows up out of now "Houston, we've got a problem" because she just knows he is there to sabotage her so he can get her job. However, not everything is at seems and they start developing a friendship that could easily turn into more.
Okay so I loved this book. This book reminded me of the book "The Martian" in a "what if this was a love story?" sort of way. I thought the book was fast paced and the characters were very lovable. I also really liked that Brianna was trying to keep her professional boundaries as much as she could while also integrating herself into the group. I also loved the end of the simulation which might be a controversial take, I don't know but it made a lot of sense. Basically, if you like a closed door rivals to lovers story I think you will really like this book!
Tropes: workplace adjacent, rivals to lovers, he-falls-first
Thank you to NetGalley, Berkley Publishing Group | Berkley, and Etta Easton for giving me the opportunity to review this book. All opinions are my own.
Okay so I loved this book. This book reminded me of the book "The Martian" in a "what if this was a love story?" sort of way. I thought the book was fast paced and the characters were very lovable. I also really liked that Brianna was trying to keep her professional boundaries as much as she could while also integrating herself into the group. I also loved the end of the simulation which might be a controversial take, I don't know but it made a lot of sense. Basically, if you like a closed door rivals to lovers story I think you will really like this book!
Tropes: workplace adjacent, rivals to lovers, he-falls-first
Thank you to NetGalley, Berkley Publishing Group | Berkley, and Etta Easton for giving me the opportunity to review this book. All opinions are my own.
May 26, 2025
I really love Etta Easton’s writing. While her first book is still my fave by her - I really enjoyed this one and seeing how Roman and Brianna fell for each other. It was a sweet, fun, forced proximity romance. Let’s be real, I was suspicious of Roman too!!
As someone whose dear friend is a librarian, I was rooting for Brianna the whole way!!! Fund our libraries!!! Kids deserve better!!! Women in leadership!! Yes to all!!
Also, Angie had me cracking up. I LOVED HER. And Simone and Jordan too. The whole crew. Very fun.
I had a great time.
As someone whose dear friend is a librarian, I was rooting for Brianna the whole way!!! Fund our libraries!!! Kids deserve better!!! Women in leadership!! Yes to all!!
Also, Angie had me cracking up. I LOVED HER. And Simone and Jordan too. The whole crew. Very fun.
I had a great time.
March 6, 2025
3.5 rounded up-This was such a cute read! I totally nerded out over all the space elements and loved that the story took place in a unique setting, far from a traditional backdrop. The plot revolves around Brianna, a vice principal, and Roman, a science teacher, who unexpectedly end up competing together in a space-themed competition. Brianna has always kept her crush on Roman in check, maintaining professional boundaries. But with six weeks stuck together in the competition, will she be able to stick to those boundaries? If you’re a fan of forced proximity and slow-burn romance, you’ll definitely enjoy this charming rom-com.
Thanks so much to @berkleypub @berkleyromance for the free book!
Thanks so much to @berkleypub @berkleyromance for the free book!
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