*** This review contains affiliate links***
The novel Secrets by Verity Lucia tells the story of teenaged, Elise, who goes down a path of choices which leads her to an unexpected pregnancy. In the story, she struggles greatly with how to handle this pregnancy and the less-than-ideal support from those around her. This tale is full of very real emotion and real situations which makes the reader keep wanting to turn the page. Although I genuinely enjoyed this narrative as an adult, I believe that teens will also be drawn to the story and some of its more imaginative elements…look out for a special bracelet.
I honestly went into reading this novel not quite sure what to expect. I knew that the premise was one of an unwed teen who wrestles with a pro-life message but I was unsure as to how the complex situation would be dealt with in an appropriate manner. I think that Verity Lucia does a masterful job of showing a teen who has made some choices that lead them to a place they might not want to be found without glorifying that type of behavior. The author has chosen to include some instances of curse words but only the first letter so it keeps it clean and appropriate for all readers. Additionally, the scenes of romance stay on a purely “sweet” side even when discussing serious matters.
The intended audience of this book is teenagers. As a mother of a teen, I feel that this book is very relevant to teens who may be grappling with issues such as: teen pregnancy, under-age drinking, and difficult peer and family relationships. I think that very mature 13-14 year olds will be able to handle the serious nature of this book and all older teens should certainly be ready to read this book.
Overall, I highly recommend this book both for its literary value and for its beautiful prolife message. It is certainly a message that needs to spread far and wide in our modern world. May all children be loved and cherished!
This novel is the second in a series of books. The first book is Hidden. The third book is Stolen (coming soon). The fourth book is Warrior (coming soon). I am excited to delve into these other books by Verity Lucia.
Thank you to Verity Lucia for a review copy of this wonderful novel.
Danielle Read Right Rating System
Clean from Profanity/Sex: 8/10 There are several instances where the characters curse, however, this is almost always blanked out after the first letter. There are also scenes with kissing and implied sexual intercourse, but the book stays on the “sweet” side.
Christian Worldview: 10/10 This book completely aligns with a Christian worldview. While some characters are shown making poor decisions, the consequences of those decisions make clear that these are to be avoided. The prolife issue is clearly and proudly shared.
Compelling Story: 9/10 This was a book that was hard to put down. The characters reacted realistically as to how I would have thought they would act in real life.
Attractive Cover which matches Narrative: 8/10 The cover is well designed and clearly indicates the themes of the book.
Well-Edited: 9/10 The book is well-edited with very few, if any, typos and mistakes.
Total Score: 43/50 Definitely worth a read!
~ This post contains affiliate links. As always, all recommendations are genuinely my own opinion based upon the materials I have reviewed, and I have not been paid to review the materials. ~
Leave a Reply