Everything but the Truth

Gr 9 Up—This book reads like an English version of Cecily von Ziegesar's "Gossip Girl" series (Little, Brown). Love is in the air at the ultra elite St. Cecilia's boarding school. Alice Rochester and Tally Abbott are on the prowl for the hottest and smartest guys around. Alice, who is struggling to get over a breakup with her boyfriend, has her head turned by a new (bad boy) beau, while Tally can't resist her attraction to her English teacher. However, the two friends are up against some challenges, especially when the truth about love is often hidden in lies and secrets. Although the book starts off slowly, eventually the plot picks up a little. While Kingsley's characters are shallow, she does allow them to grow, albeit very gradually. However, the ending is a bit rushed. Still, fans of the series will not be dismayed at the outcome. As per the protagonists' lifestyle, the narrative incorporates strong language, drinking and drug use, and sexual themes.—Sherry Rampey, Gaston Branch Library, SC