CATCH A MATE is a fun, sexy romp. I almost missed it. Glad I didn't.

I started this book once, twice...three times before I could get through it. The writing was good, the author highly recommended. I just wasn't that interested in the premise.

In CATCH A MATE, Jillian Greene works for an agency that spies on men suspected of cheating. She and her co-workers approach the accused flirtatiously, dressed to impress and offering up whatever is necessary to get them to take the bait. The whole thing is caught on tape and later shared with their often already heartbroken clients, giving solid proof of their betrayal.

I'm not big on the topic of cheaters. Don't watch the similarly named television show; don't read many novels where infidelity is the main conflict. Just don't like them. So how I could possibly enjoy a book whose entire premise is built on the subject? Also, because Ms. Showalter packed this story with sexual tension from page one, I couldn't see where this story could go other than to some very explicit sexcapades. Some like it hot, some like it very, very hot! For me, extra hot is better left to the imagination.

I'm happy to say that I was wrong on both counts.

First, CATCH A MATE is a delightful, sexy, playful story about a man and woman, both of whom have been burned by unfaithful partners and are determined to help others keep from experiencing the same pain. Both Jillian and Marcus Brody, the hunky new addition to the agency's roster for the purpose of catching cheating women, desire to find a faithful love but both are a bit gun shy. It is clear from the beginning that these two are going to end up happily together. The fun is in getting them there as they resist every step of the way.

I won't give away anything but there are more than a few unexpected turns, including a change that threatens to put the brakes on Jillian and Marcus' hot and heavy antics. The delicious twists just keep coming.

CATCH A MATE also enjoys a tender and sensual side, both in the can't-quite-get-out-of-the-gate romance between Jillian's best friend, Georgia, and her brother, Brent. Very sweet, their story is a cool but nice contrast to the heat of Jillian and Marcus.

Add CATCH A MATE to your list if you're looking for a sizzling summer read.