LOVE: UNDERCOVER

While many readers will identify with this book's sensible but secretly passionate heroine, the romance itself lacks the fresh, sexy sparkle that the book cover—depicting a woman's legs in fishnet stockings and red heels poking out of a photo booth alongside a man's—suggests. Abandoned by the college boyfriend who got her pregnant, librarian Jenifer Wright has raised two children alone in sleepy Doolittle, Ark. Though independent, successful and beloved by a colorful family, Jenifer has little in the way of a sex life. But when mysterious "investor" Eric Hamilton strolls into her library, she immediately envisions having a fling with him. Eric, who's actually an undercover agent investigating a counterfeiting ring, also feels the pull of attraction. The two flirt madly at family cookouts and bowling nights, but their tryst is postponed by a seemingly endless series of crises involving family and friends, as well as the illegal intrigue brewing at the local paper mill. To Jeni's surprise, Eric turns out to be supportive as well as sexy, and he, in turn, is surprised to find himself wanting to put down roots for the first time. The mystery and romance plot threads generate little suspense, which will disappoint those seeking thrills or edgy eroticism. Nevertheless, North's (Opposites Attract , etc.) playful voice and evocation of small-town relationships make this an appealing read. Agent, Mel Berger . (June)