Holland Jaeger's senior year is filled with school activities, college applications and her boyfriend Seth. She is intrigued when meeting the new girl in school one morning. Cece is friendly and attractive. She's also an out-and-proud lesbian.
Soon, Holland finds she can't get Cece out of her mind. Thoughts of Seth are replaced. Suddenly, college applications don't seem as important as getting to know CeCe. Holland dumps Seth and pursues a relationship. Cece is willing but, against her usual openness, wants to keep their bond a secret. Holland doesn't understand why she can't be publicly honest about her feelings.
Naturally, the secret gets out and Holland feels her first taste of flagrant homophobia. Cece is right there to support Holland as she comes to grips with her feelings and reorganizes her priorities. Their relationship is detailed in Keeping You a Secret.
This Julie Anne Peters novel introduces genuine characters in a realistic high school setting. Strong Cece proves sensitive in matters of love. Caring Holland shows her strength when faced with adversity. Variations in the supporting cast add depth to the story as well.
Keeping You a Secret follows Holland on the path to self-discovery. All facets of her relationship with Cece are examined. They pay a high price for being together. Readers on both ends of the sexual orientation spectrum (or anywhere in between) will be impacted by this heartfelt honest tale. This novel is written and highly recommended for teenage readers. However, Peters' ability to tackle a tough subject in a compelling manner makes Keeping You a Secret worthy of adult readership as well.
