The Givenchy Code    by Julie Kenner Order:  USA  Can Downtown Press, 2005 (2005) Paperback, e-Book Read an Excerpt     Reviewed by Kim Atchue-Cusella Melanie Prescott's life seemed to have fallen by the wayside. She's low on rent money, her love life (since the breakup with her boyfriend) is nil, and she can only window-shop for the designer shoes and accessories that she lusts after. Calling her depressed doesn't do her feelings justice when she hooks up with her ex-boyfriend Todd, who's been trying to wheedle a date out of her. Out of the blue, a mystery man gives Melanie an envelope with a code in it - he tells her to 'play or die', and vanishes. But Todd grabs the envelope and takes off, ensuring that she will see him again - big mistake. Matthew Stryker is a handsome ex-marine, assigned as Melanie's protector by the online game Play.Survive.Win. Both Matthew and Melanie submitted profiles to this game, and it seems someone has accessed their data and is transferring the game into the real world. They have to crack a series of codes (hence the title). Each code gives a clue to the next, leading them to the game creator. The prize for winning is a one million dollar reward. If they don't play, they die. Not only could they use the money, they both really want to survive. Julie Kenner creates a unique story full of suspense, a little romance, and a touch of humor. Melanie and Matthew are full of personality. The time they spend together sets off sparks in both of them. Will they live long enough to find out if they're compatible on an everyday basis? The Givenchy Code is a page-turner you won't want to put down. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Mystery books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews