Emma's Secret by Steena Holmes

For two years, Megan, Peter, and their two older daughters, Alexis and Hannah, dream of nothing but being reunited with the family’s youngest child, Emma, who was kidnapped just before her third birthday. When Emma is miraculously found living with an elderly couple just miles from the family’s home, they are hopeful that her return will heal the wounds her disappearance created.

But Emma is vastly different from the sunny toddler they remember. She barely remembers her parents or her older sisters. She is quiet and withdrawn, and, worst of all, longs for the very people who kidnapped her.

Megan is consumed with bitterness, while Peter works later and later nights in the company of his gorgeous business partner. And in the middle of everything, Megan’s best friend has become suddenly distant and secretive.

Then a chance encounter in town leads to a secret that changes everything again for Emma. And Peter must decide between the happiness of his youngest daughter and the trust of his family.

Emma's Secret is the sequel to Finding Emma - a book that I really enjoyed.  I enjoyed re-visiting characters and seeing how Emma is getting along now that she's back with her real family.  It saddens me that this little girl is so sad because she misses the ones that took her. Also, the family dynamics are really crazy - everyone's on edge and afraid to let Emma out of their sight.  I imagine I would be too, though.

Great family dynamics, wonderful character building and a slow building story that delves into a secret and whether or not Megan, Emma's mom, will relent and let Emma see Jack (one who took her).  It's a sad story, a happy story, at times frustrating, but I was always invested in the story, from the first page.  If you read Finding Emma, you'll want to read Emma's Secret.  An emotional read on so many levels that I'm still thinking about long after I've finished it. Another winner for Holmes!

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.