Under the Southern Cross

Rating:
Summary: One of my favorites
Review: Every writer has touchstone books that they turn to for fresh air -- a relief from their own words. Under the Southern Cross is one of mine. Though I enjoy Claire's mysteries, she really shines in this book. The main characters are complicated, and their fears are as real as their passion. Claire creates two women with the strength to achieve their dreams, but places them in the real world, where strength alone is not enough. Add the lush landscape that she describes so beautifully and this book is a rare romance indeed.

Rating:
Summary: Familiar struggle
Review: How honest should you be with your life? That is a question that every gay or lesbian eventually has to answer. The question lies at the heart of this book. How much should you risk to be comfortable with yourself? And don't let anyone tell you that being "out" is the answer for everybody. It was interesting to see that Karin Kallmaker wrote a review for this book. Kallmaker has to be THE premier writer of lesbian novels right now, but she doesn't mind giving praise to another writer's work. I agree with her about Under the Southern Cross. The Carol Ashton series by McNab is entertaining reading, but this book is much better developed.