Book excerpt: Lusty career girls! Scandalous exploits! And guaranteed job satisfaction. "Madcap" Maxie Mainwaring has been leading a gay life in Bay City, courtesy of her wealthy parents' generous allowance. Then she's discovered in the powder room at the Daughters of the American Pioneers Annual Luncheon, boldly exploring new territory with a female attendee. Maxie gets an ultimatum: move back to the Mainwaring Manse, or pay her own way. Plenty of girls can testify to Maxie's enthusiasm and talent--but can the "dilettante debutante" earn a paycheck? Over the course of one adventurous summer, Maxie will hone her skills with the help of acquaintances old and new, including: Velma, a comely dry cleaning mogul with some dirty secrets Stella, the aspiring novelist who has a way with more than words Kathy, an FBI agent who views Maxie as a definite person of interest Lon, the laconic loner who knows more than she tells And Pamela, the businesswoman with a body made for pleasure From gritty school cafeterias to cosmopolitan magazine offices, Maxie is discovering new positions and getting valuable hands-on experience--and love could be the most exciting job perk of all. . .