Upright Women Wanted is a novella by Sarah Gailey. The story takes place in the future on the west coast, where something happened to make humans less dependent on tech. The world is very toxic masculinity and anti-queer. Ester is trying to find her way in this world. 

 

I really enjoyed this novella. It is a modern western take on homophobia, sexism, and transphobia that is currently happening. The story is a novella, and I think it could have really been a novel. It would have given it the space to flush out the characters and world building a bit more. 

 

I was lost at the start of the book. I couldn’t place where I was or what was going on. Once there was a bit more world building then I was hooked and didn’t want to put it down. But I still want more from this world. For example, why is Utah the safe space? Having run from Utah I found this an interesting choice. 

 

The is my second read by Sarah Gailey and I can’t wait to pick up more.