Janet I'd suggest borrowing a machine or looking for an inexpensive one at a garage sale, resale shop,or even eBay.
I borrowed one several years ago, tried 3 loaves of bread and had 3 failures. Gave the machine back and didn't make a loaf since. The other day I found a 'like new' machine at a church rummage sale. I've tried 3 loaves and have had 3 wonderful successes!
An article I read said something about trying a store bought machine a few times and if you can't get it to produce a good loaf of bread - take the machine back! I'm sure the store would have to have an easy return policy.
I'm glad I found this topic. I'm eager to try othe recipes as I've only made basic white bread. I purchased Pillsbury bread flour, whole wheat flour and that Kings bread flour. Between Pillsbury and the King's, I think the King's might produce a 'denser' bread. Has anyone else found this to be true?