Close Enough to Touch

Heart wrenching and humorous, Oakley (Before I Go) delivers an out-of-the-ordinary love story with steady quips and endearing characters. Jubilee Jenkins has a rare malady—she’s allergic to human touch. After a kiss leaves her near death in anaphylaxis, Jubilee retreats to her home and doesn’t leave for nine years. When her mother dies, Jubilee’s only source of income dies with her, and she is forced to face her fears head-on. In her new position at the library, she meets handsome Eric and his troubled young son, Aja. Immediately taken with Jubilee, Eric longs to get closer to her, emotionally and physically, but Jubilee keeps him at arm’s length. She’s attracted to him, but she also knows her condition would make a romantic relationship impossible. Jubilee struggles with new opportunities, possibilities, and chances for an ordinary, allergy-controlled existence, and her journey from recluse to recovery is fascinating, aided by supportive and supporting characters. (Feb.)