“Cassie’s Secret” brings to life what is a fantasy for many: going back to high school and experiencing the life of one of the most popular, charismatic students instead of the usual indignities and insecurities of adolescence.

When Norman, a successful businessman, runs into an old classmates working at a store, he’s shocked—Cassie used to be the most beautiful, sought-after girl in school and her future seemed bright. He’s even more shocked when she agrees to go with him—and to bed. Something eerie happens, though, and the two switch bodies and flash back to the past—high school, to be exact. Norman gets to experience what it feels like to be adored—and decides he wants to stay Cassie, while Cassie struggles with being the despised nerd. Even if they can figure out how to switch back, will Norman be willing to give up his new life?

“Cassie’s Secret” is a good blend of humor and drama, balancing the absurdity of suddenly being a different gender with the issues that come along with it. I liked how being Cassie gave Norman more of a perspective on the popular kids, and how she had problems he couldn’t realize (for instance, her tumultuous relationship with Rachael); I do wish I could have seen more of Cassie being Norman and whatever realizations it must have given her. I felt the excitement of the New Cassie over how much better life was, and sympathized with the New Norman for being stuck—the author does an excellent job of structuring the story to bring out those emotions.

Overall, “Cassie’s Secret” is well-written and a really fun read, with a magical twist—I would recommend it to readers who like a touch of fantasy in their fiction, especially when it leads to such an enjoyable plot (and the ending, which has a choose-your-own-adventure feel, is a nice and memorable touch—and maybe even teaches you a little about yourself). ( )