A PRIDE AND PREJUDICE Retelling with a Trans Protagonist

In Most Ardently, Gabe Cole Novoa recasts Elizabeth Bennet’s character as Oliver Bennet, a trans boy who needs nothing extra to dwell his life as his genuine self and who cringes on the considered changing into somebody’s “wife.” When he and his sisters first attend the ball at Meryton and meet newcomers Bingley and Darcy, Darcy doesn’t make a good impression on Oliver. He’s curt and impolite, and reveals little interest in being well mannered. But when Darcy meets Oliver as his true self the subsequent day, Oliver is shocked to search out a completely different aspect of Darcy. Rather than haughty and merciless, he realizes Darcy is shy and bookish, with little endurance for social pomp. As Mrs. Bennet conspires to arrange Jane and Bingley, Oliver finds himself increasingly more in Darcy’s presence, however as a woman, and realizes that he’s falling for a boy who doesn’t notice who he really is.

I liked this reimagining of Pride & Prejudice, and I assumed it was extraordinarily intelligent how Novoa was in a position to retell the beloved authentic story with a trans protagonist. The adjustments that he makes are actually attention-grabbing—not simply to the plot and character but additionally to the setting. Novoa situates Meryton on the outskirts of London, permitting Oliver to participate in features of London society and tradition which are absent within the authentic market village: molly homes, espresso outlets, gents’s golf equipment, and extra. The historic particulars strike the proper stability of ringing true to the supply materials whereas additionally introducing readers to extra features of Regency life past the drawing room. The romantic pressure is beautiful, particularly as Oliver longs to be his true self with Darcy, and the way in which that sure Austen characters pop up is each shocking and enjoyable. Some deviations are to be anticipated, however each change Novoa makes honors his characters, and you may’t assist however root for them. This is a must-read in case you’re an Austen retelling fan!