Code Word Romance by Carlie Walker (March 18, 2025) Huge thanks to Berkley Romance and PRH audio for the gifted digital and audiobook copies of this absolutely delicious romantic suspense novel!
Max is barely scraping by, juggling odd jobs while drowning in debt from a failed business venture. But when the CIA approaches her with a very unusual offer, she can’t afford to say no—literally. Max happens to be a dead ringer for Sofia Christensen, Europe’s youngest female prime minister, and the target of an assassination plot. The CIA wants Max to be Sofia, acting as bait to lure out the would-be assassin. In exchange, she’ll be set financially. Easy decision, right? Until she meets her CIA handler. Flynn. The man who shattered her heart over a decade ago. Now, Max is impersonating a prime minister across Italy, dodging danger at every turn, and trying—but mostly failing—not to fall back in love with Flynn.
This book was an absolute blast! I’m fully obsessed with romantic suspense right now, and Code Word Romance delivers everything I love: action, humor, mystery, and serious swoon-worthy moments. Beyond the romance, I loved how quirky and thoughtful this book was—Max’s roommate and parents add depth to her character, and Flynn’s complicated relationship with the CIA makes him so much more than just a swoony love interest. This story is full of adventure, heart, and all the European charm you could want. By the end, you’ll be craving gelato, pizza, and a Vespa ride through Italy.
🎧 About the Audiobook 🎧 @snemethparker nails the solo narration, perfectly balancing the tender, broken-hearted second chance romance, the intense, pulse-pounding suspense, and the over-the-top hilarity of impersonating a world leader. This audiobook is pure fun, and I highly recommend listening!
Book: 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
Audiobook performance: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Book Smart Kate 