cover image Just Say Yes

Just Say Yes

Judith McDaniel. Firebrand Books, $10.95 (176pp) ISBN 978-0-932379-96-2

This simplistic novel goes for titillating erotica while providing only superficial characterization and plot development. It tells of the loves of Lindsey, a 28-year-old lesbian waitress working in a seaside summer resort town in Massachusetts. Lindsey flits between two lovers: Ra, a sexually sophisticated teacher in her 30s, instructs Lindsey about the darker side of sex, while Carol, a wholesome 20-something ex-nun, offers a loving relationship. Lindsey's affairs unfold against incidents of gay-bashing (a boy is stabbed to death on the beach and the word ``FAG'' is carved on his chest) and drug-related killings. Angered by this violence, Lindsey becomes involved in political organizing on behalf of the gay community. Although McDaniel's lovemaking scenes are sensual, her plot is marred by preaching about homophobia (an organizer describes the dead boy as ``a symbol of gay oppression'') and the need for gay solidarity. The dialogue never rises above the pedestrian, and McDaniel ( November Woman ) presents readers with a frustratingly limited perspective. (Apr.)