Family Secrets

Overview

Sharon Rhodes' debut novel begins on June 8, 1976 when Shelia Robertson was just fourteen. On this hot day in June, Shelia never dreamt she would experience a terrifying nightmare that would later come back to haunt her thirty four years later. However, she swore to forget that dreadful day and vowed never to look back.

As the book jumps forward to present day, Shelia is faced again with another dilemma. She should be happy as she walks into the room filled with family and friends. After all, it is a celebration. Instead, Shelia is terrified of how her family will react. For years, she's kept a secret hidden deep inside and figured she'd take it to the grave. But she has no choice; she has to tell it. She owes it to her husband, children, and friends. Now, she's determined to shine a light on what she's buried. But can they handle the truth?

Apparently, Shelia isn't the only one with a secret. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Shelia's family members and her two best friends are also concealing something. One by one, they're being exposed. And for some of them, it's a matter of life and death. For others, the truth will change their lives irrevocably.

Derrick the perfect son, a sophomore at University of North Carolina has brought a stranger to his mother's celebration but who is this stranger? It's not his girlfriend that his family adores. When introduced to the family, Derrick's parents are sure they have met this girl but neither is sure where until Derrick's father makes a revelation about their guest that could turn his marriage into a tailspin.

Sada, the daughter has a dirty little secret too. She married her high school sweetheart who is the father of her twins. But is Michael really the father and why does she accepts his infidelity? This question has caused many sleepless nights for Sada. The paternity of her children is disclosed when Brandon their son is involved in a serious accident that threatens his life. You will be surprised when a DNA test reveals the truth.

Karen, Shelia's long time childhood friend arrived at Shelia's celebration without her husband. Why is she lying about his whereabouts? Will she defy her husband's wish and reveal his hideout? She is torn between honoring her husband's wish and deceiving her best friend.

Veronica, Shelia's long time military friend blames herself for her husband's death so she seeks therapy to help cope with her guilt but she also seeks help elsewhere, from a relationship that is taboo.

Filled with family intrigue, dynamic plot shifts, and a whole lot of mystery, Family Secrets is about the surprises that lurk inside all of us and the courage it takes to open up.