Bed and Breakup

Dumond’s breezy latest (after Looking for a Sign) is just as fun and astrologically influenced as fans will expect. Ex-wives Molly, a stained glass artist, and Robin, a celebrity chef, unexpectedly come face-to-face after seven years apart when they both return to the site of their breakup: the Hummingbird Inn, the queer-friendly bed-and-breakfast they co-own but which fell into disuse after their breakup and the Covid pandemic. Molly’s there to work on a piece, while Robin needs to lick her wounds after a career setback. Surrounded by the remnants of their old life together in Eureka Springs, Ark., the women recall all the things they enjoyed and missed rather than dwell on their anger toward each other. It’s almost a Parent Trap situation, except instead of offspring forcing them together, it’s a piece of property—as well as the matchmaking locals, who are all eager to see Molly and Robin back together. The plot plays out somewhat predictably and there’s not quite enough to distinguish the heroines from one another, but the romance is sweet and the setting is endearing. Lovers of small-town lesbian romance are sure to be entertained. Agent: Jamie Carr, Book Group. (June)

Correction: A previous version of this review mistakenly described the book as Clark’s sophomore novel. It is her third book, not her second.