Starred review from June 18, 2012
In the superlative second installment of the Black Knights Inc. romantic suspense series (after Hell on Wheels), Walker brings together Becky Reichert, “a tattooed, sharp-tongued, Harley-riding motorcycle designer,” and alpha male and former SEAL Frank Knight, who now runs a covert military contracting operation disguised as a motorcycle shop. Becky’s ready to jump into romance, but Frank has a litany of excuses: she’s a co-worker, his buddy’s sister, and 13 years his junior (reminding Frank uncomfortably of his philandering father’s taste for teenagers). Becky heads to the Seychelles with a friend, but their boat is commandeered by pirates. Frank organizes a rescue and Becky knifes one of the pirates in the process, leaving him determined to get revenge. Throw in the mysterious woman Frank keeps visiting in Chicago, and happily-ever-after is a giant question mark. Walker’s deft characterization, skillful pacing, touches of humor, and red-hot love scenes rev up this highly recommended roller-coaster. Agent: Nicole Resciniti, the Seymour Agency.