I loved reading Emily St. James's debut novel, Woodworking. If this is her first novel, I can't wait to see what else she creates.

Woodworking is a story about interconnected lives in a small South Dakota town in 2016. It features multiple trans women in different stages of their lives with varying family dynamics.

Major characters include high school teacher Erika, a recent divorcee who is not entirely out, and her student, Abigail, with whom she forms an unlikely friendship. The story follows these two as they try to figure out their identities and navigate complicated relationships and a toxic political landscape. Erika also helps put on the play Our Town, and St. James does a great job connecting the characters' struggles to the premise of the play. Unlike the characters in Our Town, these characters can break free, question things, find companionship and a chosen family, and live life to the fullest before it is too late.

I loved this book and would love to see it adapted into a limited TV series or film. St. James showcases a spectrum of experiences in a gentle, vulnerable, but witty storytelling style. It's soft, tender, and absolutely amazing! The characters show the courage it takes to live authentically. This book is a lifeline. It has the power to change lives and help people feel seen. Many thanks to Zando and NetGalley for this ARC.