In Rides Trouble

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. (Sept.)