Meanwhile, Desi’s FBI fiancé Tony Lucano is in Boston working on a case involving drugs and kidnapping of young women destined for prostitution in the United States. The FBI suspects a Mexican drug cartel, the Fraternidad de la Garra, headed up by the infamous and illusive El Jaguar. When the FBI learns that kidnapped women are going to be unloaded from a ship in Boston harbor, they conduct a stakeout. During the ensuing fight, Tony tumbles into freezing water, and then remains in a coma at the hospital.

Shortly after Desi arrives at the airport in Merida, she spies her competitor, Clayton Greybeck. She’s aware that Greybeck and Sons has begun a smear campaign to destroy her firm’s reputation and, in an effort to elude Clayton, Desi dons a disguise. Then she discovers that the man seated next to her on the plane stole an ancient medallion from her. A few minutes later, a thief steals her carry-on and the engagement ring she hid in the side-pocket. After Desi finds private lodgings, a fire breaks out and she discovers her cell phone and credit card are missing. Although the phone and credit card are eventually returned, Desi is certain she’s being watched, but by whom?

Upon learning about Tony’s condition, Desi flies back to Boston and rushes to the hospital, where she meets Tony’s mother.  Tony comes out of his coma, but needs time to recover and is concerned about his job with the FBI. Meanwhile, Desi faces doubts about the future of her company and her marriage.

But when Tony decides they should get married and head to Cancun for their honeymoon, the real danger begins...

Reluctant Smuggler is a suspenseful thriller, packed with non-stop action and intrigue involving missing artifacts, drug cartels and human trafficking. Ms. Nelson has written a suspenseful, tight plot providing an excellent, fast-paced read.