Hot Shot: Last Shot, Book 2

Two beautiful, insecure, artistic protagonists resist their obvious attraction to each other in Jamieson’s predictable but enjoyable second Last Shot contemporary (after Body Shot). Intuitive Carrie comes from a family of successful type A personalities, and has always felt misunderstood. Years of being objectified in her modeling career make her suspicious of attention from gorgeous Marco, a former Navy SEAL, who “clearly regard[s] her as an airheaded blond bimbo.” He and Carrie’s best friend’s fiancé jointly own the Conquistador Tequila Bar. When Marco asks for her help planning their friends’ engagement party, she agrees but keeps her distance, reinforcing his impression that he’s “the guy nobody wanted.” The slow build to intimacy gives Marco plenty of opportunities to act the gentleman, and the two come to appreciate each other’s artistic talents (photography and welding) before jumping into bed. The anticipatory tension holds more erotic appeal than their steamy sexual encounters. Some uninspired secondary plotlines (her mother’s unhappiness with retirement, his efforts to improve the bar’s food menu) hamper the momentum, but the lovers are likable and their chemistry is strong enough to keep the pages turning. Agent: Emily Sylvan Kim, Prospect. (May)