Jessica Anthony’s novel "The Most" centers on a pivotal Sunday in November when the troubled relationship of a married couple reaches a critical turning point. Set in the mid-20th century, the story follows Virgil and Kathleen Beckett, a family living in Acropolis Place, a pentagon-shaped apartment complex on the outskirts of Newark, Delaware. After Virgil abruptly leaves his job in Rhode Island, the family relocates to this suburban setting, where the marriage's underlying tensions begin to surface.

On the day the story unfolds, Kathleen unexpectedly chooses to skip church, donning her old college-era red swimsuit and immersing herself in the complex’s shared pool, refusing to leave. This act marks a break from her routine and sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the couple’s hidden struggles. Both Kathleen and Virgil carry deeply held secrets, and their separate reflections throughout the day gradually lead to a consequential reckoning between them.

Anthony’s narrative delves into the disintegration of a seemingly conventional WASP family, exposing themes of dissatisfaction, deception, and betrayal, including affairs and cover-ups. The novel’s strength lies in its sharp and evocative prose that balances melodramatic elements with literary sophistication. The author vividly portrays the couple’s emotional turmoil, notably capturing the nuances of marital discontent through Kathleen’s perspective. For example, Kathleen imagines herself in the mold of infamous literary wives, highlighting her psychological distress and isolation.

At a concise 133 pages, "The Most" offers a compact yet intense examination of marriage, identity, and societal expectations. The book’s economy of language and incisive character study have earned it recognition as a National Book Award finalist, distinguishing it within the contemporary American literary landscape. The novel may appeal to readers interested in nuanced domestic dramas and psychological narratives.