"Tennis Lessons" by Susannah Dickey is a poignant exploration of identity, relationships, and the complexities of self-discovery. The story follows a young woman who moves to a coastal town to work as a tennis coach, hoping to escape her troubled past and find a new beginning. Through her interactions with her students and the local community, she navigates themes of loneliness, desire, and the search for meaning.

The novel is structured around her tennis lessons, each chapter titled after a different stroke or aspect of the game, metaphorically mirroring the ups and downs of her life. As she teaches and observes her students, she reflects on her own relationships, particularly her tumultuous romantic entanglements with a woman named Kate and a man named Dan.

Dickey's prose is intimate and introspective, delving deep into the protagonist's psyche as she grapples with her own insecurities and desires. The narrative shifts seamlessly between past and present, offering glimpses into her upbringing and the events that have shaped her. Through lyrical language and vivid imagery, Dickey captures the essence of coastal life and the sensory experiences that define it – from the smell of the sea to the sound of tennis balls bouncing on the court.

Ultimately, "Tennis Lessons" is a meditation on the complexities of human connection and the ways in which we seek meaning and fulfillment in our lives. It is a beautifully written debut novel that explores themes of love, loss, and self-acceptance with sensitivity and depth. 🤍✨