Audacity Book Club: June Read

By Nic Daniels

TW: Transphobia, use of dead names, misgendering

Hello, audacious readers! Its that time of year again!

Welcome to the 3rd annual Hot Love Summer, where you get all the love all summer long. Last month, we explored people finding understanding and peace with Before We Say Goodbye by Toshikazu Kawaguchi. This month, we’re exploring longing for self-expression and love in Most Ardently: a Pride & Prejudice Remix by Gabe Cole Novoa.

To the world, he is “Elizabeth Bennett,” second eldest daughter of the Bennett family and in need of a husband. However, behind closed doors and to a trusted few, he identifies as Oliver, the Bennett’s oldest son trapped in a body and image that is a stranger to him. But it’s 1813 England and he doesn’t dare defy social expectations. Rather, he solace in the few times he is able to go out and be his true self.

During thes occasions, he starts to become acquainted with Mr. Darcy. While unimpressed with “Elizabeth,” Darcy and Oliver become friends, with Oliver quickly becoming charmed by Darcy’s awkward but sincere personality. However, as the season goes on, his mother becomes more insistent about him getting married and suitors are becoming bolder by the day. Soon, he will have to decide between living as the world expects him to or being his true self, no matter the consequences.

A true retelling of a swoon worthy romance, Most Ardently is personal triumph that still holds up the moral of the original Jane Austen tale: only accept the love you deserve. This book is available wherever books are sold and hopefully in your local library (i.e. book bans really suck so make sure to double check). I hope you enjoy it, and I will see you at the end of the month for the full review.

Until then, don’t forget to read audaciously!