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Book excerpt: Life has never been easy for Holly; every day is a struggle to survive the hurt and pain she feels. Not only does she feel all alone, but, she's also dealing with a horrible secret about what happens to her almost daily behind closed doors. While Holly knows that she needs to tell someone, she can't bear the thought of not being believed. Her whole life, people have called her a liar, a troublemaker, and a bad influence, and in more ways than one, she has lived up to those labels. Determined to hide her secret, Holly goes to school each day angry and confused. She takes her anger and frustrations out on others, especially those who she feels have more than her. She becomes a bully, determined to hide her vulnerabilities by being a self-proclaimed mean girl. Matt Shulman is the new kid from LA and to Holly; he seems to have it all. However, contrary to what Holly believes, Matt does not have a perfect life. Confused and plagued with thoughts of wanting to rid themselves of their pain, Matt and Holly are drawn into events that end in unspeakable tragedy and heartache for both teens and their families.