Limecello’s review of Secret Agent Man by Diana Palmer
Contemporary Romance published by Silhouette Desire on Dec 93
Released again in Mar 08 as one-half of Man of the Hour (see end of review)
I really like this book. I enjoyed reading about the characters, and found both the story line and subplots interesting, and important. What I really appreciate about the book is a minor aspect, but one I think is important, and love when romances “teach” real life lessons. Here, it’s how important knowledge of self defense is for women.
Kirry Campbell is a great heroine (especially for a Diana Palmer book). She’s smart, a business executive, and isn’t naïve. If you’ve read other Ms. Palmer books, you’ll understand what I’m talking about. She had a relationship with Lang, but that ended badly, and while it did affect her, she doesn’t approach him like a wounded puppy. I like how Kirry stands up for herself, and doesn’t particularly have a terrible past. She’s a regular career girl, and a good person. I also loved the fact that Kirry is never pathetic in regards to Lang.
Lang Patton is an interesting character. In other novels, he’s something of a clown, and torments other characters much to the reader’s delight. Here in his own story, however, he’s much more serious, and it’s rare for his strange (yet fun) sense of humor to make an appearance. Likely because Kirry has him tied in knots and he’s rather out of control. The impact is greater when you know Lang is a former CIA agent who has come home to take over as head of security for a private security job (in San Antonio).
As usual, misunderstand kept these two lovebirds apart. A bad situation, outside factors, words exchanged in the heat of anger, and personal hang-ups all worked against them. Also, their age, and the fact that each still wanted, and needed to live their lives. I thought it was interesting that Lang was the one who had issues with marriage and intimacy. It isn’t often the hero has the baggage and issues (although in Ms. Palmer’s books almost every character has a tragic story).
The development of Kirry and Lang’s relationship is natural and believable. The steps they take and how they react to secondary characters and outside factors was realistic, and enjoyable. One major plot device that throws the two together is Kirry’s stalker. Lang moves next door to her to protect her. He also teaches her self-defense, which comes in quite handy for Kirry. The serious and important undertones of the book are something I think every person should consider. (Although I will admit to being too lazy to look up whether or not stalking was/is a crime, etc.)
There are a number of secondary characters both good and bad, but I liked how they all acted as a “supporting cast” and never detracted from Kirry and Lang’s story. Too often a secondary character steals the show, but Ms. Palmer balances the two perfectly. Seeing how Kirry and Lang work through their issues and build an actual relationship (the second time around) is gratifying. The selfless acts of the characters, their personalities, and the plot all make Secret Agent Man a welcome read.
I did think it was interesting the publisher decided to put Night of Love and Secret Agent Man together in a novel – I would have thought King’s Ransom would have taken the place of Secret Agent Man – or at least it would have been included as well. King’s Ransom is a satisfying end to this little series, and is a book I still need to find.
Grade: B-
The Man: Lang Patton, former secret agent, scarred – body and soul,
His Mission: Adjust to everyday life and avoid romance at all costs.
The Obstacle in His Way: Ex-fiancée Kirry Campbell, currently being stalked by one very angry admirer.
Lang Patton had battled his conscience for years after breaking his engagement o pretty Kirry Campbell. She had wanted promises he couldn’t make, needed him in ways he couldn’t fulfill. Now Kirry was back in his life, whether he wanted her there or not. She desperately needed his skills to protect her from a violent pursuer. And this time, Lang vowed not to let her down – or let her go!
Man of the Month: He knows what he wants and he knows how to get it!
Secret Agent Man can also be found as one half of the single-author anthology Man of the Hour (HQN, 1 Mar 08). The other half is Night of Love – review to follow.
