Jules Wernersbach's debut 'Work to Do' offers a rare glimpse behind queer entrepreneurship. The novel follows a gay businessman running a supermarket in America's Midwest. Wernersbach writes with energy and understands daily tensions in this world.

The novel goes far beyond business operations alone. Wernersbach also addresses climate change and class inequality. The main character struggles with his own position: successful entrepreneur and vulnerable LGBTQ+ person. This dual role gives the story depth. The supermarket becomes where these feelings collide.

What stands out: the book doesn't view entrepreneurship as purely positive. The author shows how growth and profit can conflict with values like sustainability and fair worker treatment. Staff members have their own dreams and concerns. They are not background characters, but fully developed people with stories.

'Work to Do' differs from much contemporary queer fiction by deliberately not centring identity. It explores work, money and debt. The owner being gay is simply part of who he is. For readers wanting more than typical queer themes, this novel is worth reading.