Seven Moves

The gift for narrative and character development that Anshaw revealed in her first novel, Aquamarine, are brought to generous fulfillment in this beautifully nuanced novel that traces a woman's troubled search for identity. When lesbian Chicago psychologist Chris Snow realizes that her lover, Taylor Heyes, has left her, it is not only her emotional equilibrium that is threatened. As she eventually discovers, charismatic photographer Taylor had many secrets and a dark side of which others, but not Chris, were aware. Chris fears that since she failed to understand the crucial relationship of her life, perhaps her work as a therapist also has no validity. Anshaw's account of Chris's confusion and grief and her shaky journey to self-understanding is completely absorbing. A fascinating clue to Chris's vulnerability and lack of self-esteem is revealed in flashbacks to her youth, when she was sidekick and accomplice to her father, a charming con man and card-sharp. Other characters are drawn with panache, including the elusive Taylor, the couple's various lesbian friends, Chris's Hispanic clients and her straight partner, even a chronically insecure dog. Anshaw's prose is supple and vigorous, providing quirky and surprising insights and witty dialogue. She surveys the terrain of female sexuality with frankness and compassion. While this novel will surely appeal to a lesbian audience, its truths about human nature should appeal to all thoughtful readers. (Oct.)