12 Feb Book Review: Can You Keep a Secret? by Sophie Kinsella

I recently picked up Can You Keep a Secret? by Sophie Kinsella, drawn by its reputation as a lighthearted and humorous read. As someone who enjoys character-driven stories with a blend of romance and comedy, I was eager to dive into this novel.

What’s it about?

The story centers on Emma Corrigan, a young marketing assistant in London who is eager to climb the corporate ladder at Panther Cola, a multinational beverage company. Emma is in a stable but uninspiring relationship with her boyfriend, Connor, and often feels overshadowed by her seemingly perfect cousin, Kerry.

On a turbulent flight back from a disastrous business meeting, convinced she’s about to die, Emma spills all her personal secrets to the handsome stranger seated next to her. She confesses everything from her dissatisfaction with her job to her little white lies and insecurities. Relieved to have survived the flight, Emma believes she’ll never see the stranger again.

However, her world is turned upside down when the stranger arrives at her workplace the next day, introduced as Jack Harper, the elusive CEO of Panther Cola. Aware of all her embarrassing secrets, Jack’s presence makes Emma’s life increasingly complicated. As they interact, Emma navigates a series of humorous and awkward situations, leading her to question her relationships, career aspirations, and the importance of honesty.

Throughout the novel, Emma’s journey is filled with comedic misadventures, personal growth, and the exploration of authenticity in both her personal and professional life.

What This Chick Thinks

Diving into Can You Keep a Secret?, I was immediately charmed by Kinsella’s witty and engaging writing style. Emma is a relatable protagonist, and her candidness about her insecurities and desires makes her both endearing and humorous. The situations she finds herself in are laugh-out-loud funny, yet they also offer insight into the pressures many young women face in balancing career ambitions and personal relationships.

The dynamic between Emma and Jack is delightful, with their interactions providing both tension and amusement. Jack’s enigmatic character adds an element of intrigue, and as their relationship develops, it brings forward themes of trust and vulnerability.

However, some readers might find certain plot points predictable, and the ending, while satisfying, may feel a bit rushed. Despite these minor critiques, the novel’s humor and heart make it a thoroughly enjoyable read.

Final Thoughts

Can You Keep a Secret? is a delightful blend of humor, romance, and personal growth. Sophie Kinsella crafts a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making it a perfect pick for those seeking a light yet meaningful read. I’d rate it an 8 out of 10 for its engaging narrative and relatable characters.

Try it if you like:

• “Bridget Jones’s Diary” by Helen Fielding
  A humorous exploration of a single woman’s life in London, filled with personal confessions and romantic escapades.
• “The Undomestic Goddess” by Sophie Kinsella
  Another of Kinsella’s novels, this one follows a high-powered attorney who finds herself working as a housekeeper, leading to comedic and heartfelt moments.
• “I’ve Got Your Number” by Sophie Kinsella
  A charming story about a woman who, after losing her engagement ring and phone, stumbles into a series of humorous and romantic situations.