STOP IN THE NAME OF LOVE

by Nancy Rue ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 1, 1988

A storybook high-school romance that takes an ugly turn, told from two points of view. Kyle is a top student, an athlete, and president of the junior class; when he begins plying beautiful Holly Goddard with cards and flowers, she doesn't put up much resistance, and they're quickly an Item. She sees him as strong, loving, and protective; he has her on a pedestal and gets increasingly irritated when she steps down to act silly or talk to her friends. Outwardly serene, their relationship quickly degenerates into a series of violent arguments followed by ever-more-frantic make-ups. Though sex is not part of Kyle's fairy-tale, he ultimately allows Holly to seduce him; but the fights don't stop, and Kyle beats her so severely that she can't hide her bruises. In a weak but all-too-realistic ending, Holly seeks counselling, her parents agree not to press charges, and Kyle just goes on as before, a little guilty but relieved when all the furor dies down and a teacher offers some help. Adults are wheeled in and out for particular purposes, seldom taking an active part. Readers will be left wondering why Kyle and Holly let things go so far out of hand; other books, such as Posner's Sweet Pain, offer clearer answers.

Pub Date: Sept. 1, 1988

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: 281

Publisher: Rosen

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 1988

Categories: CHILDREN'S