Lilly and her family and friends had just celebrated Christmas. She and her brother Max received a new puppy, Gracie. She couldn't replace Wanda, but she was adorable. Virgie, Lilly's mother, was the perfect hostess for the gathering and even included Roger and Jesse, Lilly's new best friends. A phone call distracted Lilly, as she watched Red rush to Macy's house. There was a sinking feeling, alerting her to a disruption that would challenge everyone she loved. In this second novel of the Heartbeat Series, Lilly experiences a flood of emotions and challenges she could not have imagined. She also witnesses those around her trying to negotiate their own dilemmas. Again, her faithful dog, Gracie, is the one constant she can trust. "You know, Max and I have had these conversations with Mom since she got home from the hospital. You talk about pissed . . . when your parent chooses alcohol over your well-being that will really piss you off. They're not easy conversations, Michelle, but we always feel better after everyone has said their piece."