A review by nouhcake
Most Ardently: A Pride & Prejudice Remix by Gabe Cole Novoa

emotional funny medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

‘Most Ardently’ is a queer remixed version of ‘Pride and Prejudice’, where Elizabeth is reimagines as transgender boy named Oliver. 

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This most definitely will be a hot take, but I must say that I love this iteration so much more. I was not at all expecting this to have me giggling, kicking my feet, and even crying at times. The author, Gabe Cole Novoa, does a great job at intricately handling Oliver’s pronouns. The narrator recognizes Oliver as such from the beginning, while characters that only know of ‘Elizabeth’ will continue to misgender him. As characters learn of Oliver’s true identity, they immediately change the way they acknowledge the character. I adored all of the relationships between characters in this novel, as they are somehow more endearing and tender than of those in ‘Pride and Prejudice’. I enjoyed the relationship between Oliver and Jane from the very beginning. It was beautiful to see Jane recognize Oliver’s trans identity with no hesitation. For me, this version of Darcy feels so much easier to connect with and love. The addition of queer characters just adds a layer of depth and complexity that is so well put together. I found it very insightful to see the world through Oliver’s eyes, as I do not have the lived trans experience. This is a must read for any lovers of ‘Pride and Prejudice’!