It may be that the bike shop will be able to change a few things to make you feel more comfortable. If you're not used to a road bike, it may just feel that way at first. I know the first time I got on one, I felt like I could just head straight on over the handlebars. I just bought my hubby a road bike (his first) yesterday and he said the same thing. I'm 5'4" and have a 51cm Bianchi Eros (Celeste) -- it fits me fine -- but, that was after having more narrow handlebars put on it and a different stem. I also have a short torso and long limbs. I would have probably gone for the Eros Donna if I had researched well enough to know that there were bikes specifically designed for women. At the time, I did not.

Hope it all works out for you!