“It’s a Fabulous Life” by Kelly Farmer is a delightful and clever retelling of the classic “It’s a Wonderful Life.” A sapphic twist on a classic tale, this festive romance sparkles with charm, drag queen guardian angels, and the sweet allure of love in a small town’s holiday hustle.

Set in the modern day, the story follows Bailey George, a realtor tasked with organizing the small town’s annual holiday festival, Winter Wonderfest. However, Bailey dreams of escaping the town’s responsibilities and enjoying a carefree holiday in New York City. Fate has other plans when an emergency prevents her getaway, and the charming Maria, Bailey’s high school crush and the new town librarian, steps in to help.

One of the highlights of the book is the playful incorporation of references from the original movie. Farmer skillfully updates iconic moments, such as the guardian angel being a drag queen named Clara and a humorous twist involving a sprinkler system at the school dance. These small hints from the original movie add a touch of fun to the novel for readers familiar with the source material.

The book succeeds in capturing the spirit of the holiday season, infusing the narrative with a warm Christmas atmosphere. Bailey’s internal struggle between her desire to leave Lanford Falls and the responsibility of running Winter Wonderfest resonates well, and the introduction of Maria adds a sweet romantic element to the story. The character development of Bailey, as she navigates her personal journey and sets boundaries, is both relatable and endearing.

The novel’s charm heavily relies on its references to iconic scenes and characters from “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Without the backdrop of George Bailey’s journey in the original, the parallels and references might not carry the same weight or evoke the same emotional response. While the book offers a fresh perspective and introduces sapphic romance, the narrative might not hit as hard for readers unacquainted with the heartwarming tale that inspired this festive retelling.

While the book may not fully resonate with those less attached to the original movie, its queer romance, charming characters, and the small-town Christmas ambiance still make it an enjoyable read. 

“It’s a Fabulous Life” is a wholesome and heartwarming holiday romance that successfully reimagines a classic tale. Farmer’s modern retelling is a charming addition to the Christmas romance genre, perfect for those seeking a feel-good, cozy read during the holiday season.