Hot and Bothered

Men are totally confused, women needlessly exasperated, and many of both genders have given up on sex and romance, according to this funny, racy appraisal of sexually revolutionized, AIDS-haunted American mating mores. Canadian journalist Dennis here interviews very witty people, and her breezy recap of their comments amuses as it instructs. She describes how male anxiety over contradictory female expectations leads to men withholding sex or faking orgasms, even--in the most extreme cases--to murder. Her on-target comparison of dating in the 1950s with dating today may make readers long for the rituals of yesteryear. Now, she writes, nobody wants to admit they're on a date; guys don't have a clue about whether or when to make a move, while women get angry if they don't. Dennis offers sound advice to end ``date fatigue,'' settling such matters as who brings the condom, who picks up the check and whether a man should say ``I'll call you'' when he doesn't intend to. (He shouldn't.) Tips for those in marital or extramarital distress add to the value of this sharp, entertaining primer. ( Sept. )