Book Review-In Leah's Wake

IN LEAH'S WAKE
October 2010
354 pages
Published by Createspace
Summery Taken From Goodreads:
The Tylers have a perfect life--beautiful home, established careers, two sweet and talented daughters. Their eldest, Leah, an exceptional soccer player, is on track for a prestigious scholarship. Their youngest, Justine, more responsible than seems possible for her 12 years, just wants her sister's approval. With Leah nearing the end of high school and Justine a seemingly together kid, the parents are set to enjoy a peaceful life...until Leah meets Todd, a former roadie for a rock band.

As Leah's parents fight to save their daughter from a world of drugs, sex, and wild parties, their divided approach drives their daughter out of their home and a wedge into their marriage. Meanwhile, twelve-year-old Justine observes her sister's rebellion from the shadows of their fragmented family-leaving her to question whether anyone loves her and if God even knows she exists. Can this family survive in Leah's wake? What happens when love just isn't enough?
My Thoughts:
Author Terri Giuliano tells a story that is realistic and heartbreaking.
A family that looks perfect from the outside is quickly falling apart on the inside.
Parents, Will and Zoe are desperately trying to keep their family together. A high pressure job keeps Will in another city working long hours. Zoe is trying to balance a career and take care of her family.
Their eldest daughter Leah starts to date Todd-an older boy with a record. Right away Will and Zoe see warning signs and try to get their daughter to stay away from Todd but unfortunately the more they push the harder she pulls away.
Suddenly Leah's choices go from bad to worse affecting not only her but her family as well. Will and Zoe go from working together to fighting not only with their daughter but with each other. Sadly, their youngest daughter Justine is caught between her parents and a sister she idolizes.
Each family member's story is told in this tale so the reader gets a look at Leah's self destruction from all angles. I felt connected to each character and the issues they dealt with. As a mother of a teenager it was easy to get caught up in the fear and frustration that Zoe and Will felt. My heart ached for Leah and her family as she wrestled with loyalty to her family and her first love.
This author's debut novel is well worth a look. I beleive that this complicated family with it's real life issues will stay with you long after you have finished In Leah's Wake.