Audible is releasing an audiobook adaptation of Jilly Cooper’s short story “A Pressing Engagement,” based on a piece first published by the Rivals author, Dame Jilly Cooper. The story is set in London in 1978 and follows Hester, a secretary whose routine office work keeps her stuck in “administrative” monotony, while her older boyfriend Julian will not make a commitment. When Hester is offered a role assisting a film producer, she sees an opportunity to change her life, but leaving means disappointing her boss and complicated personal relationships. To navigate the situation, she hatches a plan involving a fake engagement.
The voice cast includes Rhea Norwood and Corey Mylchreest in lead roles, with Hannah Waddingham, Richard Ayoade, Vivian Oparah and Bessie Carter also appearing. Multiple outlets report that Hester’s supposed fiancé is a childhood friend named Nico, who initially has no idea about the deception. As the performances and the lie continue, Hester and Nico grow closer, raising the question of whether the engagement can or should remain fake. Audible’s production is set to drop on 16 July.
