Aphrodisiac

Roy, Allyson. Aphrodisiac. Berkley Sensation: Penguin Group (USA). Sept. 2008. c.368p. pap. ~ This debut romantic thriller from a husband-and-wife team features a smart, sassy heroine, an urban setting, and a humorous tone. Although a bit formulaic, it is likely to appeal to fans of Janet Evanovich and Jennifer Crusie. Recommended for large public libraries. Background: Sex therapist Saylor Oz is determined to figure out what really happened to her old friend, brilliant perfumier Gwen Applebee. She knows Gwen didn't really kill herself, despite the enigmatic suicide note she left behind. When Saylor discovers a secret message hidden in Gwen's note, she and her feisty sidekick, Binnie, set off on the trail of Gwen's killer. They have less than a week before the murderer comes after them, but Saylor still finds time to indulge in a hot flirtation with a lusty local boxer. Although it's unfortunate that one of the book's chief mysteries is given away by the title, the twists and turns of Saylor's adventures make for an entertaining beach read.--Jeanne Bogino, New Lebanon Lib., NY.