‘Prep’ yourself for a great read

By Emily Barksdale
St. Marys High School

Julie Anne Peters’ “Keeping You a Secret” is a surprising read, not because of the subject matter (teen sexuality) but because of the enjoyment factor. This book starts out very slowly, and then picks up all of a sudden. The only bad part is that it seems like just as the book gets good, it’s over.

That’s not to say that the first half of “Secret” is completely uninteresting - far from it. The story focuses on high school senior Holland Jaeger, who is one of those girls that everyone loves to hate. She has everything from good grades and a gorgeous guy to a spot on the swim team.

But when proud lesbian Cece Goddard transfers to her school, Holland’s life changes drastically. Things aren’t stable at home, anyway — Holland’s stepfather and Gothic stepsister seem to be trying to ruin her life on a constant basis, and she’s distancing herself from her friends partly for fear of the future. (She’s not too sure about college and not nearly as excited about it as her friends are.)

When she strikes up a friendship with Cece, she can’t help but question her own sexuality. So, as Cece endures hate crimes and harassment, Holland falls for her.

This complicates things on more than one level. First of all, Holland can’t come out to anyone for fear of ridicule. And, besides, she’s not even sure what’s going on. Also, she can’t be sure whether or not Cece is reciprocating her feelings.

Of course, it’s inevitable that Holland’s “network” discovers what she’s been hiding. Before you know it, Holland’s family and friends, as well as the rest of the school, know. This leads to drastic consequences that leave her wondering how she will finish her senior year. As the reader, you feel Holland’s pain and try to stay optimistic with her throughout her hardships.

“Keeping You a Secret” is a well-written, quick and easy read. It unfolds and builds on itself very nicely. Author Julie Anne Peters has a great, conversational style. It tells the story in a way that makes it relatable.

Even though the material is “questionable,” this book makes homosexuality seem nothing short of normal, which is an interesting perspective from which to read. (And in case you’re worried, everything is written in exceptionally good taste.) After a while, you rid yourself of prejudice and root for these two throughout the rest of the book.

Bottom line, don’t read this novel if all you do is judge people. However, if you consider yourself to be accepting and open-minded, “Keeping You a Secret” will warm your heart.