Best Lesbian Romance 2013

Despite the “Best” title, most of these stories are both previously unpublished and competently built but not particularly notable, lacking the narrative punch that romantic vignettes need to create character, build tension, and satisfyingly release it in such a short format. The strongest pieces are Sacchi Green’s “Sgt. Rae,” which dances through themes of military dominance, power, and disability in an intensely erotic eight-page package; Joey Bass’s “Color of Autumn,” which probes the inside of a schoolgirl fascination; and Andrea Dale’s “The Last Rays of the Summer Sun,” a hilariously sexy game of forfeits that captures the playfulness of a happy longtime couple. Longtime author and editor Radclyffe (Crossroads) has created a very safe, unchallenging collection for mainstream lesbians looking to see themselves in gentle stories of women who win love when they become brave enough to take a chance. (Feb.)