Book excerpt: The sequel to Charlie's Secret: Inspired by a true story If you haven't read it yet, you can get it here -- https: //www.amazon.com/dp/B00HVOE3VK After the death of her abusive mother, Sam's life was finally turning around. She had married her high school sweetheart, Jake, and was reveling in the birth of their son. Her abusive past was ancient history, and she knew that love would be the only emotion filling her family home. However, sometimes things aren't always what we envision, and Sam's expectations are definitely not matching reality. Now a raging alcoholic, Jake isn't keen on his new role in life and Sam is the brunt of his frustration. Waging a constant war between her head and her heart has become the new normal, and with everyone at work telling her to end her marriage, Sam is at her breaking point. How can she leave the love of her life at a time when he needs her the most?As the health of a family member takes a turn for the worst, Sam must face some past demons. Her mother's medical records disclose shocking information, and she and Charlie are shaken to the core by the revelations. Leaning on one another for support, they say goodbye to someone they've loved-and hated - for the second time in their lives, while trying to make sense of all of the secrets. Just as Sam's life hits its breaking point, Luke, a local divorcee, enters the bar with some friends one night, and offers a nice distraction from all the chaos. However, her decisions will have consequences - consequences that may just land her in the hospital. Once again finding herself at the other end of a police officer's questioning, Sam isn't so sure she can go through it all again, and leans on an unexpected friend for support. Will Sam finally find the love and safety she deserves? Or, is she destined to repeat the cycle of abuse, forever?Love this author? Find more about her here: www.clheckman.com