From the publisher:
One fake prime minister, one ridiculously hot handler, and one Italian summer collide in this thrilling adventure rom-com.
Max is just your average girl. She works odd jobs, has a soul-crushing amount of debt, and happens to bear an uncanny resemblance to Europe’s youngest female prime minister, Sofia Christensen. Sofia is powerful, beautiful—and unfortunately, someone is trying quite hard to assassinate her.
When the CIA approaches Max with a deal, a life-changing amount of money if she pretends to be Sofia on the prime minister’s annual Italian vacation, Max packs her bags for the Amalfi Coast. The delicious food, the breathtaking views—this trip would be a dream if it weren’t for those pesky assassins and Flynn, the handler assigned to Max’s case. Flynn, who has an unexpected history with Max, from another sun-drenched summer years and years ago. Now he’s instructed to stay in Max’s suite to protect her, as old passions and assassins collide.
Losing herself in the role of a prime minister is one thing. But losing her heart to Flynn again? Now that’s a risk she isn’t willing to take . . .
“A sharply written novel with surprise comedic twists. Readers will enjoy this tale of two ex-lovers who are reunited by espionage and who ultimately find true love as they race through the beautiful streets of Italy, trying to stay alive.”—Library Journal (STARRED)
“The tightly plotted mystery is leavened by moments of laugh-out-loud humor and endearing supporting characters, especially the scene-stealing Giorgio, a bumbling but jolly hotelier. Walker’s sophomore novel is sure to please existing fans and win her plenty of new ones.”—Publishers Weekly
Max, an ordinary young woman facing severe financial difficulties due to her restaurant’s failure during the pandemic, bears a striking resemblance to Sofia Christensen, Europe’s youngest female prime minister. When a credible death threat is made against the prime minister, the CIA approaches Max with a lucrative offer to impersonate Sofia during her annual Italian vacation.
The assignment, while financially attractive, is complicated by the presence of assassins and Max’s handler, Flynn, who Max fell in love with one summer several years earlier. When Flynn dumped her, she was heartbroken. Max finds herself in a precarious situation, balancing the need to convincingly portray the prime minister while safeguarding her emotions from Flynn.
This book presents a unique blend of high-stakes espionage and second-chance romance. The narrative skillfully combines elements of a spy thriller with a romantic comedy, creating an engaging and multifaceted story. Max’s commitment to her role as the prime minister is commendable, adding depth to her character development.
The novel’s pacing is enhanced by its mystery elements and plot twists, maintaining reader engagement throughout. The author successfully integrates action, humor, and romance, resulting in a reading experience reminiscent of a cinematic action-romance hybrid. This book is particularly recommended for readers who appreciate spy-themed narratives and romances set in Italian locales. Its distinctive premise and well-balanced combination of genres make it a noteworthy addition to contemporary romantic fiction.
3/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch
CODE WORD ROMANCE by Carlie Walker. Berkley (March 18, 2025). ISBN: 978-0593640418. 320p.
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