Secrets of the Dark Closet

A young girl's world is shattered, her family shamed and scattered in this coming-of-age story. Webster County, Iowa, 1899. Bessie Kloubec wants to be seen as more grown-up. After all, she's turning eleven. However, she's not prepared for the calamity that begins in the predawn hours of her birthday. Calamity that unravels her formerly happy family and indeed forces her into an adult role.

For the next year, Bessie navigates through a series of family disasters caused by her father's pain-induced alcoholism. Bewildered but brave, she struggles with her own fear and anger while trying to fix her broken family. But can she?

In 1904, Bessie is almost sixteen when the family moves to LaMoure County, North Dakota. Their secrets left behind in Iowa, they are welcomed into the community. However, when a new family scandal breaks out, Bessie's old fear and anger grips her again. Where can she find the healing needed so her heart can move forward?