Just Like That

Tallahassee, Florida: Bella Books, 2005. First Edition. Trade Paperback. Fine. 5x0x8. First edition. Fine. 2005 Trade Paperback. 205 pp. Karin Kallmaker's lesbian retelling of Pride and Prejudice pits first impressions against last chances in this lush wine country story. Syrah Ardani tried independence - but the call of the Napa Valley hills and rolling vineyards of her family's winery have brought her home again. She is content with her ordered world until she learns that her father's feckless management has put Ardani Vineyards into receivership. Corporate turnaround specialist Toni Blanchard's arrival is preceded by tales of her slash-and-burn techniques. Determined to meet this soulless corporate raider head on, Syrah proudly prepares to do battle for her home and family business. Toni has reason to retreat from a high-pressure Manhattan lifestyle, not the least of which is a bitter break up. She's been told that Syrah Ardani is attractive and single, but Toni never mixes business and pleasure. Creditors clamor for a quick sale and payment. The beautiful--and hostile--Syrah wants Toni off her land and out of her life. Their clashes smolder with distrust and resentment, but also threaten to light a completely different kind of fire. Most dangerous of all is the one thing Toni can't control--the way her heart reacts when Syrah looks at her...just like that.