BRIARCLIFF PREP

A 14-year-old girl discovers a dangerous secret that puts her relationships to the test.

Avielle LeBeau has dreamed of carrying on her family’s legacy of attending Historically Black Boarding Schools at Briarcliff Preparatory School for Girls, especially since it means being with her older sister, Belle, and near her twin brothers, who attend all-boys Preston Academy. Despite her excitement, Avi worries about landing a spot on the prestigious school paper and adjusting to life away from home. Her hectic schedule fills with extracurriculars, homework, a budding romance, and social events—but it doesn’t escape her notice that Belle’s boyfriend seems off. Avi notices how controlling he is, telling Belle how to dress and who to be friends with, and after witnessing an explosive argument between them, she knows something is wrong. Suddenly Avi’s problems seem small as this larger crisis unfolds. Debut author Peppins’ thoughtful, realistic writing shows the alienation that victims of domestic violence endure along with the impact it can have on those who love them but have a limited ability to bring about real change. Through limited omniscient narration, readers enjoy a detailed account of Avi’s life at an HBBS; however, the author doesn’t skimp on the characterizations of members of Avi’s core support system. Many people and subjects significant to Black culture are woven into the story and will spark recognition for many readers.

A necessary story, full of emotion and with a hopeful ending.