Tryst

This sizzling second in Jennings's explosive Sexual Education series (after Taint) asks the timeworn question: Is cheating with permission still cheating? High-powered Manhattan publicist Heidi DuCane has a deep hunger for rock star Ransom Reed, who just happens to be her new client. Her sainted husband, Tucker tells her to pursue the rocker; credible characterization makes Tucker's generosity and lack of jealousy feel entirely plausible. Whether one likes Heidi or not%E2%80%94because she's not sure she even likes herself%E2%80%94she does make a fascinating protagonist as she struggles with submissive sexual desires that Tucker either won't or can't satisfy. He loves her and doesn't want to cause her pain; Reed, on the other hand, is more than happy to give her what she wants. Hyper-steamy fun and mind games ensue until somebody falls in love. Then the story that has been building to a screaming crescendo gets thrown over in a genuinely surprising plot twist that will cinch the series' appeal for Jennings fans. (Nov.)