Mine

Georgia Beers
Bold Strokes Books

After a year of skimming every novel from this publisher, I've come to suspect that there are a lot of nervous lesbians in the world. Who else would buy a timid romance like this? This isn't one of those Harlequin bodice rippers set in an exotic locale and filled with fiery characters. Instead of the fun of escapism, Mine offers the comfort of familiarity in its meticulous examination of everyday life. Courtney is a teacher trying to get on with her life after the death of her partner three years ago. Selling the house they once shared is tough enough for the fragile widow even before the insensitive Rachel, a hotshot realtor, enters the picture. Despite getting off to a bad start, soon sparks are flying between the two. This is meant to be an example of opposites attracting but it's really like calling to like, because both women are nervous lesbians. Courtney's operatic emotions include "a sudden surge of panic" when using the phone; she "nearly whimpers in protest" when Rachel stops smiling; and when a neighbor says hello "it made Courtney literally flinch in her seat." This girl doesn't need a date, she needs Paxil. Rachel puts up a better front, but when she muses, "I don't know if I can face her," you know it's a match made in heaven.