Shae is a poignant coming-of-age story by Mesha Maren, one of the most exciting young queer writers on the literary landscape. This novel invites readers into the life of Shae, a teenager living in a rural small town in West Virginia. Shae's world is turned upside down when she falls in love with Cam, who is on the cusp of an important personal transformation.

When Shae, at the tender age of sixteen, meets Cam, the slightly older new kid in town, she believes she has discovered the ideal companion she's always desired. Their bond quickly escalates from friendship to something more. However, their relationship takes an unexpected turn when Shae becomes pregnant and Cam begins to transition, embracing female pronouns and experimenting with clothes that no longer fit Shae.

Amidst this personal upheaval, Shae faces another challenge - a struggle with opioid addiction following a traumatic C-section and the birth of their daughter, Eva. The story provides a stark look at the opioid crisis, particularly how it affects rural communities like theirs in West Virginia. As Shae grapples with her dependence, Cam continues her journey of self-discovery, confronting the harsh realities of being a trans woman in rural America.

Shae is a deeply emotional exploration of two young women's lives and the place they cherish, despite its flaws. This novel is a testament to Mesha Maren's storytelling prowess, following her acclaimed works Sugar Run and Perpetual West.