Review: Tell me a secret by Cupala

Tell Me A Secret by Holly Cupala

Link goes to and teaser from Goodreads.com

"Tell me a secret, and I'll tell you one…

In the five years since her bad-girl sister Xanda’s death, Miranda Mathison has wondered about the secret her sister took to the grave, and what really happened the night she died. Now, just as Miranda is on the cusp of her dreams—a best friend to unlock her sister’s world, a ticket to art school, and a boyfriend to fly her away from it all—Miranda has a secret all her own.

Then two lines on a pregnancy test confirm her worst fears. Stripped of her former life, Miranda must make a choice with tremendous consequences and finally face her sister’s demons and her own.

In this powerful debut novel, stunning new talent Holly Cupala illuminates the dark struggle of a girl who must let go of her past to find a way into her own future."

**My rating: 4 of 5 stars**

*My short but sweet review*


This is an emotional novel exploring the issues of teen pregnancy and death of a sibling, and it does both well. The main character Miranda (Mandy or Rand if I switch up are nicknames) is easy to relate to and understand. Though the first few chapters talk about characters in depth with not much explanation who they are or where they come in the story. But it slowly unfolds and you realize who these people are to Miranda- or at least you think you know.
Essence, the old best friend, was pretty much who I thought she would be, but Delaney, the new best friend and Kamran the love interest, turn out totally different. But I can't really tell you why because it would be a huge spoiler. All of the younger characters are well developed, but the parents are typical of those found in YA novels, withdrawn, and totally favoring the dead sister, the mom is a tyrant and extends that control to the relationship of father and daughter.
The plot is well paced, though the sequencing with past and present confused me some. It was not poorly done, I just had to remember what I did and did not know.
Overall, this is a book that I would say you should pick up- it has depth and good writing.

Spoilers below- highlight to read
The relationship between Lexi and Miranda is sweet. I love how she takes to the baby and the depth of her love. I am glad that she decided to keep the baby and it brings the family together. 

I would love to hear what you think, and if you have reviewed, feel free to link and I will check it out!