REVIEW: Code Word Romance by Carlie Walker

Code Word Romance by Carlie Walker: Max is just your average girl, living a normal boring life, that is until it all changed…she never expected her life to take such a dramatic turn, one where she would find herself impersonating an European Prime Minister to prevent a political disaster. Now tasked with impersonating the prime minister while she enjoys her annual Italian vacation should be a breeze after all Max is enjoying all the finer things in life, well it would have been if only she didn’t have to contend with a few pesky assassins and her annoying ex, Flynn. However when danger strikes, max has no choice but to rely on Flynn, putting aside their rocky past. With the stakes at an all time high Max and Flynn have to navigate perilous threats, unravel international intrigue, and confront the unresolved emotions that still simmer between them. As they race against time, the sparks between them reignite, but can they trust each other again—both in the field and in love?

A suspense-filled, action packed romcom, yes please! Code Word Romance was an absolute treat to read, this book combines everything I love about romcoms and silly spy movies all into one catchy page turner. The story is fast-paced, blending thrilling espionage with heartfelt romance, making it a unique and exciting read that I had no idea how much I would love!

Max was such a treat to follow, she was easily one of my favourite leading ladies to date. She’s resourceful, quick-thinking, and incredibly capable, which makes her an excellent choice for a high-stakes mission like impersonating a European prime minister, while still being a totally normal girl behind it all. I loved her quick wit and her general sassy demeanour. Despite her confident exterior, Max has vulnerabilities, especially when it comes to Flynn and their unresolved past. I really enjoyed getting to see her work through her insecurities and learn to open up about her feelings even while she was nervous about getting hurt. Now for our hero, well Flynn was totally giving of all those hot bodyguard vibes and I for one was loving every bit of this. While our guy comes across as your typical brooding and mysterious hero, he does hide a well of emotions, especially when it comes to his mistakes. I really enjoyed getting to see him opening up to Max as their mission went on and they were forced to face their past. We really get to see the more emotional side to Flynn and get to see him confront his unresolved feelings for Max.

“You’re my bodyguard. You’re supposed to keep me safe, not make my heart race every time you look at me.”

There is no denying the strong chemistry between Max and Flynn, with their forced proximity they have no choice but to face their shared past and the lingering feelings that haunt both of them. While their connection was both heartwarming and exciting it also touched on a bit frustrating, these two really danced around their issues for a good long while. Their interactions oscillate between moments of bickering and tender emotional exchanges. Flynn’s protective instincts often clash with Max’s independent streak, but their evolving relationship is what makes the book so emotionally resonant. The more time they spend together, the more they must confront their own vulnerabilities, leading to a satisfying and redemptive arc for both characters.

Whether you’re a fan of spy thrillers or swoon-worthy romance, this book offers the perfect blend of both. It’s an exciting, heartwarming, and fun ride from start to finish, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a book that will keep them entertained, engaged, and rooting for the couple all the way through.

Book Info:

Publication: March 18, 2025 | Berkley |

Two exes. One mission. A trip she’ll never forget…

Max is just your average girl. She works odd jobs, has a soul-crushing amount of debt and just happens to have an uncanny resemblance to Europe’s youngest female prime minister, Sofia Christensen . . .

So when the prime minister receives a credible death threat, the CIA approaches Max with a a life-changing amount of money if she pretends to be Sofia on the prime minister’s annual Italian trip.

It would be a dream if it weren’t for those pesky assassins and Flynn, Max’s ridiculously hot handler – the man who broke her heart years and years ago.

With her life now on the line, Max knows she has no choice but to lose herself in the role. But losing her heart to Flynn again? Now that’s a risk that she isn’t willing to take . . .