A Deep Dark Secret

Kimberla Lawson Roby explores the consequences of a life-altering family trauma in A Deep Dark Secret, tackling controversy with the same storytelling brio and startling insight into human nature that made her previous books New York Times bestsellers. Leaving behind the world of philandering preacher Curtis Black and his family—featured in her acclaimed novels Too Much of a Good Thing, Love and Lies, Sin No More, and The Best of Everything—Roby enters the life of a little girl hiding A Deep Dark Secret and gets to the troubling root of an all too prevalent societal and family issue. Both groundbreaking and ultimately hopeful, this coming-of-age story is powerful, brave, and unforgettable.

The New York Times bestselling author returns with the moving story of a family who learns to overcome betrayal and secrets with courage and love

On the outside, twelve-year-old Jillian Maxwell is the perfect child. She's helpful with chores around the house, gets straight As in school, has plans for college, and stays out of trouble. She seems to have everything a girl could want: a big, beautiful new home, an adoring little sister, a mother who cares about her, and an attentive stepfather.

But inside, Jillian harbors a terrible secret.

Too frightened to tell, convinced that her friends and loved ones, especially her mother, won't understand—and worse, will blame her—Jillian endures her pain in silence, believing that things will get better. However, as time passes and her dilemma intensifies, the bright, hardworking girl becomes sullen and disinterested in her studies. Then, just when it seems she's on the verge of losing everything, Jillian discovers she has more strength than she ever imagined…and the power to change her fate.

With sensitivity and grace, Kimberla Lawson Roby addresses a very real and serious issue, while delivering the inspiring tale of one family's mission to shed light into the darkest corner of their lives.

“Powerful....An intense gem in an authentic voice.” - Publishers Weekly

“Roby dishes up enough drama, heartbreak, violence, and redemption to keep the pages turning.” - Washington Post

“Roby, a bestselling author with a devoted audience, knows well the recipe for success: equal parts heartbreak and romance, with liberal dashes of sexual satisfaction added regularly.” - Albany Times Union

“Kimberla Lawson Roby is a true writer, a storyteller at the top of her game.” - Eric Jerome Dickey

“Kimberla’s writing is magical. She weaves a spell with characters that pull you in and keep you bound to the very last word.” - Lolita Files, author of Scenes from a Sistah

“A fast-paced tale . . . hilarious, heartbreaking and a blast to read.” - Crystal McCrary Anthony, author of Gotham Diaries on Too Much of a Good Thing

“A Taste of Reality is a powerful and deeply satisfying read. It’s Kimberla Lawson Roby at her best.” - E. Lynn Harris

“A thought-provoking novel about relationships between partners, coworkers, and family.” - Booklist on A Taste of Reality

“Kimberla Lawson Roby really knows how to cook up treats for her readers. And just like we clamor for goodies at The Cheesecake Factory, you’re going to devour her first novella, One in a Million, as if it were that restaurant’s Brownie Sundae Cheesecake.” - Essence

“Once again Roby pulls you in until you’re hooked. A great read.” - Indianapolis Recorder