CODE WORD by Traci Hunter Abramson

The media portrayed the military operation as a complete success, but Navy SEAL Jay Wellman wouldn’t describe it that way. He was there. As he tries to come to terms with his role that fateful night, he notices something different about his teammates and wonders if there may be more to their beliefs than he first thought.

When she heard the gunshots, Carina Channing knew the past had caught up with her. She may have changed her last name, but she can’t change who her father is. Carina understands the evil that lurks in “The Family,” and she is determined to steer clear of that life and any other emotional connections.

When they meet, it seems Jay and Carina have only two things in common—mutual attraction and the fact that they are both struggling to overcome devastating trauma. But when a member of The Family arrives and upsets the delicate balance in Carina’s life, Jay chisels away at the barrier Carina has erected around her heart and offers himself as her protector and friend. But can Jay’s Navy SEAL skills, military connections, and loyal Saint Squad friends keep Carina and her sisters safe? And with their different beliefs, can Jay and Carina’s friendship grow into anything more?

First line:
"Carina Channing navigated her way through the outskirts of Denver and listened to her two younger sisters chat about their summer plans."

I enjoy reading Traci's stories for three reasons:
1. She knows what she's talking about when it comes to knowledge about CIA, FBI and other secretive stuff.
2. She develops her all characters really, really, well.
3.  She always has great romantic tension.

Carina's father is a mob boss and in prison for killing his wife. Lou, a friend and bodyguard, has helped Carina and her two sisters stay away from the family and safe. Carina meets Jay, a Navy SEAL, and there is a connection between them but Carina doesn't trust anyone because of her crazy family. 
Jay is a good, strong man who isn't easily intimidated, even by people sent from the Mafia to gather up Carina and her sisters. Jay helps keep them safe when the bad guys come looking for them.
I enjoyed reading Jay's story and the story between Jay and Carina. I did skim a little on the parts where there was a lot of interior dialogue. But overall, this is a good, clean, intriguing read. Keep up the good work, Traci!


Rating: PG 13
V: Mafia, shootings, intense moments
L: No
S: No

Liked:
Jay! I loved Jay!

Disliked:
I had to wait to long for the main couple to get together :)
Skimming a little 

4 1/2 STARS