I second PLL's suggestion.

My commuter is not women-specific. I got a Trek 1.2 first and was using an old steel as my commuter. So, I didn't know any different when I bought it. It's fine for 1-10 miles or even up to 20, but the drops do not fit my hands well. I would never use it as my sole bike.

Ride as many as you can. Bikes have COMPLETELY different feels. My Giant is a different ride COMPLETELY from my Trek. I much prefer the feel of the Trek. If there is a big store in the area, go there. Even if you have to drive a bit. I was lucky to have the Trek Store and about 5 other shops that carried everything from Trek to Bianchi to Specialized to Felt, etc. I am glad I tried as many as I did (and put up with bike store BS) because now I knew what I wanted and where I did and did not want to buy a bike!