Breaking Free from Purity

Livvy stands at the ocean's edge, clutching her purity ring, a symbol of her evangelical upbringing. Her sister Vanessa questions her need to discard it, but Livvy is determined to break free from the constraints that have kept her from living fully. Her best friend Cole, who she secretly loves, is back in town, and Livvy is ready to take control of her life, including her sexuality. Encouraged by her friend Mariana, Livvy sets a deadline to lose her virginity by the end of summer, hoping to shed the weight of her past and embrace a new future.

Unspoken Desires Revealed

Cole returns home from college, grappling with his parents' impending divorce and his complicated feelings for Livvy. Despite his attempts to maintain their friendship, his attraction to her is undeniable. Livvy, emboldened by her decision to change, asks Cole to take her virginity. Though initially hesitant, Cole is drawn to the idea, realizing his feelings for Livvy run deeper than friendship. Their mutual desire is a catalyst for change, challenging the boundaries they've maintained for years.

The Weight of Expectations

Livvy faces her father's disapproval as she challenges the purity culture she was raised in. Her father's reaction is harsh, but Livvy stands firm, determined to live life on her terms. Meanwhile, Cole struggles with his father's infidelity and the impact it has had on his family. Both Livvy and Cole are forced to confront the expectations placed upon them by their families and society, pushing them to redefine their identities and relationships.

A New Beginning

Livvy and Cole embark on a week-long journey of intimacy, exploring their desires and deepening their connection. Livvy's initial nervousness gives way to empowerment as she embraces her sexuality. Cole, too, finds freedom in expressing his long-suppressed feelings for Livvy. Their time together is transformative, allowing them to shed past insecurities and embrace a future filled with possibility and love.

Confronting the Past

As Livvy and Cole grow closer, they must confront the lingering shadows of their pasts. Livvy's father struggles to accept her newfound independence, while Cole learns the truth about his parents' marriage. These revelations force them to reevaluate their relationships with their families and each other, ultimately strengthening their resolve to live authentically.

The Power of Vulnerability

Livvy and Cole's relationship reaches a turning point as they open up about their deepest fears and desires. Livvy's confession of love challenges Cole to confront his own feelings, leading to a moment of vulnerability that solidifies their bond. This openness paves the way for a deeper, more meaningful connection, allowing them to move forward together with clarity and purpose.

Love and Letting Go

Despite their deepening connection, Livvy and Cole must navigate the complexities of love and commitment. Cole's fear of losing Livvy leads him to make a bold decision to let her go, allowing her the freedom to explore her identity without constraint. This act of love and selflessness demonstrates Cole's growth and understanding of what it means to truly love someone.

A Leap of Faith

Livvy, empowered by her journey of self-discovery, decides to take a leap of faith and choose love over fear. She realizes that true love requires risk and vulnerability, and she is ready to embrace both with Cole. Their reunion is a testament to their resilience and commitment to each other, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

Embracing Change

As Livvy and Cole embrace their new relationship, they redefine their identities and the roles they play in each other's lives. They learn to balance love and independence, supporting each other's growth while maintaining their individuality. This balance allows them to build a strong, lasting partnership rooted in mutual respect and understanding.

The Courage to Love

Livvy and Cole's journey culminates in a shared vision for the future, built on a foundation of love, trust, and courage. They have overcome the challenges of their pasts and are ready to face whatever comes next, together. Their story is a testament to the power of love to transform and heal, offering hope and inspiration to those who dare to embrace it.

Characters

Livvy

Livvy is a young woman raised in evangelical purity culture, struggling to reconcile her upbringing with her desire for independence and self-discovery. Her journey is one of empowerment, as she challenges societal and familial expectations to embrace her true self. Her love for Cole is a driving force in her transformation, pushing her to confront her fears and take control of her life.

Cole

Cole is Livvy's best friend, secretly in love with her for years. He grapples with his parents' troubled marriage and his own fear of commitment. Cole's journey is one of self-realization, as he learns to let go of his fears and embrace the possibility of love with Livvy. His vulnerability and willingness to change are key to their relationship's success.

Vanessa

Vanessa is Livvy's younger sister, struggling to understand her sibling's transformation. Raised in the same purity culture, Vanessa initially resists Livvy's changes but ultimately supports her journey. Her relationship with Livvy is a testament to the power of sisterhood and unconditional love.

Mariana

Mariana is Livvy's outspoken friend, encouraging her to break free from the constraints of purity culture. Her confidence and independence serve as a model for Livvy, helping her navigate the complexities of love and identity. Mariana's unwavering support is crucial to Livvy's growth and self-discovery.

Livvy's Father

Livvy's father represents the rigid expectations of purity culture, struggling to accept his daughter's independence. His disapproval and attempts to control Livvy's life highlight the challenges of breaking free from deeply ingrained beliefs. His journey is one of gradual acceptance and understanding.

Livvy's Mother

Livvy's mother is a quieter figure in her life, offering support and understanding as Livvy navigates her journey. Her presence is a source of comfort and stability, providing Livvy with the space to explore her identity without judgment.

Cole's Father

Cole's father is a source of pain and confusion, his infidelity casting a shadow over Cole's life. Despite his flaws, he represents the complexities of love and marriage, forcing Cole to confront his own fears and beliefs about relationships.

Cole's Mother

Cole's mother is a strong, resilient figure, navigating the challenges of her marriage with grace and determination. Her strength and love for her children serve as an inspiration for Cole, guiding him through his own journey of self-discovery and love.

Plot Devices

Purity Culture

Purity culture is a central theme, representing the control and expectations placed on Livvy. Her journey to break free from its constraints is a powerful narrative of self-discovery and empowerment, challenging societal norms and redefining her identity.

Friends-to-Lovers

The friends-to-lovers trope is a key plot device, highlighting the deep emotional connection between Livvy and Cole. Their transition from friendship to romance is a journey of vulnerability and growth, exploring the complexities of love and commitment.

Family Dynamics

Family dynamics play a significant role, influencing Livvy and Cole's decisions and identities. Their struggles with parental expectations and the impact of their families' pasts are central to their journeys, shaping their paths to self-discovery and love.

Self-Discovery

Self-discovery is a driving force, as Livvy and Cole navigate their identities and desires. Their journeys are marked by moments of vulnerability and courage, ultimately leading to empowerment and a deeper understanding of themselves and each other.

Analysis

"Purity" by Skyler Mason is a powerful exploration of love, identity, and empowerment. Through Livvy and Cole's journeys, the novel challenges societal norms and expectations, highlighting the complexities of love and the courage required to embrace it. The narrative delves into the impact of purity culture and familial expectations, offering a nuanced portrayal of the struggle for independence and self-discovery. At its core, "Purity" is a testament to the transformative power of love and the strength found in vulnerability, inspiring readers to embrace their true selves and the possibilities of love.

Last updated: March 25, 2025