The Blonde Who Came in from the Cold

Bestseller Carter combines suspense, sizzle, and snark in this delightful standalone sequel to The Blonde Identity. CIA operative Alexandra Sterling (twin sister of Zoe, the heroine of the first book) has spent a decade reinventing herself for undercover missions, along the way falling in and out of love with fellow spy Michael “King” Kingsley. Alex is on the verge of tendering her resignation when she wakes up handcuffed to King in an unknown location. The estranged lovers work together to get free and then team up to discover who abducted them and why. While dodging death at every turn, King and Alex realize the spark between them never dimmed. But will they stay alive long enough to enjoy it? Carter skillfully fleshes out Alex and King’s tumultuous relationship with flashbacks to their past missions and romantic liaisons. The tone stays light and fun even as plentiful action—including red herrings, double crosses, and gun fights—keeps the pages turning. With snappy dialogue, slow-burning romantic tension, and some exciting twists, this makes for an entertaining diversion. (Aug.)