Call of Duty

Lovelace's military romances (her last was Duty & Dishonor) have garnered a justifiably large following. It may be that there's still something special about a guy (and gal) in uniform, but this is good writing, too. Computer specialist Captain Jennifer Varga is targeted by a secret paramilitary group when she innocently backs up the files of a co-worker who'd dropped dead of a heart attack. The man was on the group's payroll, and the files contain incriminating evidence of clandestine activity, some of which has been taking place on military bases. Adding to Jennifer's troubles is her boss, handsome, strictly-by-the-rulebook career airman Lieutenant Colonel Mike Page, who's trying to keep Jennifer in the service while fighting his powerful sexual attraction to her, his subordinate. Fascinating, behind-the-scenes details of military life and the serious consequences of falling into forbidden relationships makes this fast-paced thriller both a gripping as well as a timely read. If you're a sucker for An Officer and a Gentleman or JAG, you'll eat this up. (Aug.)