Books in True-to-life Series from Hamilton High series

Eddie Barajas just wants to enjoy senior year, but everyone -- even his girlfriend -- thinks he should aim for college. His decision to join his stepfather in the house painting business leaves him carefree--until he takes a stand against racism. When white supremacists target him, old fears from his childhood trauma emerge, challenging all his coping skills. What are the right choices to make, and can Eddie make them? In this stand-alone sequel to SHUT UP, where he was a victim of sexual abuse as a young boy, Eddie experiences his first love and learns what it means to be a true American.

When their mother is called to Iraq with her National Guard unit, 17-year-old Mario Barajas and his 10-year-old brother, Eddie, move in with their Aunt Carmen. Eddie, hungry for the love of a father, happily soaks up the attention their aunt's boyfriend, Denton, freely gives. Mario is caught up with a girlfriend who is his first love, with high school soccer, and with work. He barely notices as his little brother becomes more and more withdrawn. Then, returning home earlier than expected one evening, he walks in on the terrible secret. Mario must take desperate measures to protect Eddie. This is a gripping tale of trust, betrayal, and secrets that should never be kept. Above all, this is the story of the bond of love between two brothers.

Melissa doesn't consider herself abused-Rudy only hits her occasionally when he's drinking-until she realizes the effect his abuse is having on their child. Finally Melissa leaves Rudy, and she and Cheyenne go to the shelter for battered women. As difficulties with group living arise, however, she misses the good times with Rudy. The clarity of Melissa's decision soon fades, and she finds herself again in a dangerous situation, more trapped than ever before.