Below the Belt

Murray (Loving Him off the Field) focuses on the romantic destinies of the men of the Marine Corps Boxing Team, as she launches a series for fans of uniforms, discipline, and athletic prowess. First Lt. Brad Costa, a little older than the other boxing team hopefuls, dreams of making the team to honor his father’s memory. Unfortunately, he injures his knee early on and must hide it if he wants to make the cut. Marianne Cook, the sexy, indomitable athletic trainer, suspects something’s wrong, but that doesn’t stop the two from engaging in a sizzling love affair that soon blossoms into a sweetly genuine relationship. But if Brad comes clean about his injury, he may lose the woman of his dreams and the chance of a lifetime. The core romance is strengthened by a playful sense of humor and real chemistry between the characters, as well as steamy bedroom scenes. A colorfully memorable supporting cast helps flesh things out. However, for a book ostensibly about boxing Marines, there’s very little pugilism or military flavor. Agent: Emmanuelle Morgen, Stonesong Agency. (Apr.)