A review by koredayaddams42
Most Ardently by Gabe Cole Novoa

inspiring reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

This is one of the best books I’ve read all year and perhaps within my entire life. The remix of the historical and classic fiction with queer themes and topics without the pretentiousness of classics or historical fiction. The authors take on the characters is quite amazing and hope inspiring, including their forward and afterward that connects the story to both their own life and historical accuracy when it comes to queerness and LGBTQIA+ people. This is definitely a great read and if one is interested in historical fiction, classics, queer and LGBTQIA+ stories/characters, sociocultural hegemonies and challenging them, love, hope and courage in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, then this is a good fit as a read for you. 

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Transphobia

Moderate: Body shaming

Minor: Homophobia

Transphobia, homophobia, and body dysmorphia are the main triggers one might find in this book. However the author approaches these with the care and compassion that can be found with someone who has gone through the issues themselves, and they even say explicitly the same in the forward.