Novel by Gabe Cole Novoa
The dedication alone made me want to cry, the first chapter repeated the feeling. As an aim (romances that sweep trans people off their feet) it’s a noble one and it is my humble belief that the author achieves it.
There are a lot of changes from the original Pride and Prejudice on which this is based; it’s set in London, everyone is younger (referred to as boys), there are a lot of anachronisms and, oh yeah, Lizzy Bennet is Oliver Bennet. I’ve no doubt there have been queer and trans individuals throughout time, but I do doubt they would be as easily accepted as Oliver is (but then having Jane as a sister – she’d accept you no matter who you were).
For every boy who wished that Darcy would love them, this book is wish fulfilment for you. For every transman who wished for acceptance from their family, this story may tell part of your journey. Oliver fears how he will be treated but so desperately wishes to be himself (trigger warning for gender dysphoria).
Some Austenites are purists but I adore each new retelling especially when it delves into unexplored areas. Austen was inventive and revolutionary in a quiet way; I believe she’d cheer on those that follow in her footsteps.