Make-up artist Gillian McCormick has the unfortunate luck to witness a murder committed by the step-son of a mafia boss using a purple pair of stiletto-heeled Jimmy Choos. Fearing for her life, she agrees to go on a nerd cruise with her dear friend, octogenarian Cora. Fearing for Gillian's safety, former Hollywood actress Cora assists plain-Jane Gillian with a disguise, making her over in the image of Cora's friend from the old days, Marilyn Monroe. Cora also arranges for two private investigators to accompany them on the cruise.

Lex Manchester and his partner, Dante Fiorello, are less than thrilled at having to undergo a nerd makeover for their latest case, but the money is good, and Lex is willing to do anything for the lovely Gillian, even if it means revealing his inner nerd to the world. The cruise ship appears to be the best place to hide from the mafia, so armed with walkie-talkies and code names Norma Jean, Clark Kent, Screen Goddess and Italian Stallion, the four join a ship full of nerds and others looking for love on the high seas.

Unfortunately, someone searches Gillian and Cora's room shortly after their arrival, and a game of cat and mouse and secret identities begins. Things really start to heat up when Lex and Gillian end up sharing a cabin. Between karaoke and limbo contests, the couple are scoping out possible mafia hitmen. Could it be Little Ben, Cora's new companion, or BJ, Dante's nerdy hook-up? Time is fast running out as someone begins making attempts on Gillian's life.

NERDS LIKE IT HOT is without a doubt the best in Ms. Thompson's hilarious nerd series. Gillian and Lex are made for each other. Cora and Dante and their respective nerds are perfect foils for their friends, and the twists and turns throughout the story will have readers laughing out loud. Sure, we know who the bad guy is, but it's a fun ride to the end, and a few surprises are saved for the finale. Fans of Ms. Thompson and her nerds are going to love NERDS LIKE IT HOT!