If you love a sapphic, enemies-to-lovers workplace romance with diverse characters, this one is for you!

Told in dual POVs, the story follows Cat, a romance-loving writer and gamer, and Andi, her sexy yet infuriating boss. Cat is hired to add romantic elements to a highly anticipated video game, but she immediately faces resistance from Andi, who is fiercely protective of their work.

Andi, a talented game developer, faced internet trolling after the success of a game. It was revealed that Andi isn't just another white dude in the gaming industry, but is a person who alternates between she/her and they/them pronouns. Used to a single-player lifestyle, Andi struggles with trusting others—but Cat’s talent and passion eventually break through those walls.

As sparks fly between them, Cat uncovers a plot to destroy Andi’s career. Forced to team up, they fight to save the game—and Andi’s reputation—all while falling hopelessly for each other.

This was such a fun and entertaining audiobook! If this premise sounds up your alley, I definitely recommend picking it up.

Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the ALC!

Fun sapphic romance for gamers (that also features a genderqueer character)! If you’re not a gamer, there will definitely be parts that don’t make as much sense to you but non-gamers can definitely still enjoy this.

3.5 stars!

ALC Review: Single Player by Tara Tai
Pub Date: January 7, 2025
Narrator: Natalie Naudus

A sapphic, game developing, enemies to lovers workplace romance?? Say less! And I'm so happy to say that I really loved this one! It's definitely one of my top sapphic books I've read this year.

I really enjoyed the relationship development between Andi and Cat. Andi is somewhat standoffish after being doxxed a few years ago and struggles to open up or rely on others. But slowly over time, she learns to trust Cat and open up to her. This story is romantic and complex but also sweet and understated. I really liked the workplace setting and the third act conflict felt well fleshed out and didn't result in a breakup! There's a really satisfying outcome for a crappy character.

And of course, I loved the narration by Natalie Naudus. Though I usually prefer dual narration for a dual POV story, I never had a hard time telling which POV I was in and a large part of that was due to her narration!

Thank you to Dreamscape Media for the ALC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Tara Tai’s Single Player is a refreshing addition to the sapphic romance genre, blending nerd culture with heartfelt storytelling. While the narrative begins at a measured pace, it gradually builds momentum, rewarding readers with a story that is as charming as it is unique.

The romance at the heart of the novel is sweet and understated, offering a delightful contrast to the more common tropes seen in LGBTQ+ romances. Tai’s characters feel authentic and relatable, particularly for readers who see themselves in the geeky, game-loving protagonists. The gaming references are a standout feature, adding depth and nostalgia, especially for those familiar with the titles mentioned (including a fan-favorite that adds a personal touch for some readers).

What sets Single Player apart is its ability to weave gaming culture into the story without overshadowing the emotional core. Tai deftly balances lighthearted moments with sincere exploration of identity, connection, and love.

Though it might take a little patience to get into the story, the payoff is worth it. Single Player is an endearing read that will resonate with gamers and romance fans alike. It’s a testament to the magic of finding love where you least expect it—both in the digital and real worlds.

I received an advanced listening copy of the audiobook for review. This is my own opinion.

Cat and Andi are workplace annoyances to lovers. Cat’s trouble with dating IRL makes her want to write more romance in games—defined paths and playing a character just make sense. Andi is the complete opposite, especially after being doxxed and subsequently dumped.

What I find interesting is the way the traumas of these two characters (Cat by her family’s constant comparisons/belittling and Andi by her boss/the doxxing) are presented. Neither really addresses those things but leaves them as more of a constant undercurrent, the background art if you will, for the way they move through their lives.

Full of game references (that I as a baby gamer only partially understood) Single Player is entertaining and still accessible for those of us who don't speak the lingo. I definitely recommend this to my gamer nerds and sapphic romance readers alike.

Also, Natalie Naudus is a gem.

Thanks to Netgalley and Dreamscape for the ALC!

4.5/5 stars

Thank you Netgalley and dreamscape media for the free ALC. My opinions are being left voluntarily. I loved this. Felt fresh and unique.i read alot of queer books and pretty sure this is one of few 2 Asian queer folk. I loved the fake dating, boss employee. It took awhile for the steam but definitely had me sweating.

4.5/5☆

Sapphic gamers - literally say less! This was so freaking cute. I really can’t think of anything I’d want to see change in this story. I’m so excited to see what the author does next because this debut is ah-mazing!

This was a really fun dual POV Sapphic grumpy x sunshine coworker romance debut that sees two women videogame designers forced to work together to come up with some new romantic storylines. Amazing on audio narrated by my very fav, Natalie Naudus, this had great women in STEM rep, lots of D&D gameplay, a cast of diverse, queer characters and the perfect amount of spice. Perfect for fans of authors like Cathy Yardley or Jeevani Charika. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio and digital copy in exchange for my honest review!