Sydney’s life seemed placed in a storybook setting in East Texas: a beautiful mother, ruggedly handsome father, picturesque home, and good family name. But bad choices are soon made leaving Sydney vulnerable to the people around her and to the terrible things that can happen in this world. Sydney’s teen years are marked by the reckless decisions that so often plague young victims of abuse, and she enters adulthood determined to leave her difficult past behind. But when a shocking revelation brings her old nightmares front and center, Sydney learns that buried secrets have a life of their own. As she fights within the arenas of courtroom and family, Sydney discovers a hunger for justice deep within. As she struggles against the darkness she has uncovered, she clings tightly to her faith…and to the hope and promise that were always her destiny. The first in a series, keep·er takes the reader on a harrowing journey as Sydney struggles to “right the wrongs” of the injustice and abuse she finds woven in the fabric of her family and society. More than simply a novel, the book closes with a message from the author offering invaluable resources for anyone who has suffered or witnessed childhood abuse. Ten percent of net proceeds will go to benefit victims and the organizations that support them. "How to describe "keep-er: Sydney Keane Series: The Beginning" other than say it is by far one of the most unique and captivating novels I've read in a long time! ..." (5 stars) Karen Matthews-Goodreads, Shelfari; Indie Book Reviewers "Oh wow, I was in no way prepared for how much this book would totally affect me! ... I never wanted to stop reading it, even late into the evening. An important book with relevant themes and valuable resources at the end. Recommend." (5 stars) Gillian Hancock-Goodreads, Shelfari; Indie Book Reviewers "... I loved how seamlessly everything flowed in "keep-er: The Sydney Keane Series" by Laryl Dixon. It had it all, seriously...romance, drama, humor, danger, friends, enemies...all come together to create an unforgettable, and ultimately fulfilling rollercoaster ride that I won't soon forget. Warning, that there are some serious issues discussed that may upset more sensitive readers and while it is a very important and powerful message, it is one that doesn't hold anything back. Recommend for adults only..." (4 stars) Laura Clarke-Goodreads, Shelfari; Indie Book Reviewers "... I think that "keep-er: Sydney Keane Series" is one of the more well thought out and relevant books I've read in a while. I loved how Ms. Dixon writes very descriptively and with great passion. ... Nicely done! Ready for the next one in the series! Note, this has some disturbing subject matter at times and deals with some harsh realities. Not gratuitous at all, just a fair warning." (4-5 stars) Sam Ryan-Goodreads, Shelfari; Indie Book Reviewers "... Read this book, even if it's not your normal type. A fulfilling read and a good experience overall, even if some parts are a bit tough to take. I give props to the author for tackling such sensitive subjects in a respectful manner and for the notes at the end regarding exploitation and abuse. Hopefully it will help people." (4-5 stars) Kaylee Stevens-Goodreads, Shelfari; Indie Book Reviewers " ... author voice is almost everything, and it will make or break a novel and my enjoyment of it. ... What impressed me the most here was that I thought that Ms. Dixon's writing style has the confidence and delightful quirkiness of a much more seasoned pro... The characters had that elusive 'flavor' that only comes when they are fully realized and fleshed out, something that is not easily done, especially in a novel of this depth and magnitude of complex issues. A great read. Recommend for older teens through adults." (4 stars) Darlene Cupp-Goodreads, Shelfari; Indie Book Reviewers Laryl Dixon was born in East Texas and has lived most of her life in Houston, Texas. She married young and gave birth to a beautiful son. While her marriage didn't fare well, the goals she set for herself did. She went on to own a successful company in Houston before pursuing her passion as an author. Laryl's long-time passion for writing has been fueled by life experiences, the dark, the mysterious, and the ugly. It has also enabled her to share her message regarding abuse. Laryl continues to live in Houston and frequents her family's homestead in East Texas. She shares her life with her partner of many years and spends much time with her family. Her adult son is a successful musician, also residing in Texas. It is Laryl's wish that you read her series and enjoy the "bad guys" getting their due, while also remaining fully aware that these issues are real and WE HAVE A VOICE.