title: The Lake House
author: Cole, Jerry
description: Lieutenant Carlos Vasquez is recuperating at his serene family cabin after a traumatic incident of war left him emotionally scarred. A hard and stoic man, he has spent his life believing that true happiness could never be attainable to a man like him. Having seen the world’s grimmest realities, he harbors a cynical view of fate and has decided that a person’s happiness is based on luck rather than whether they deserve it. A shell of a man, Carlos is shaken out of the grim pattern he lives when he encounters a young girl during a life-threatening incident. He is quickly pulled into her world of irresponsible rock star fathers and soft-hearted pastors. This colorful cast of new people in his life take Carlos on a series of events involving secret coves, fabulous birthday parties, and a long, dramatic, child custody battle. By chance, the wise-cracking girl is connected to a mysterious man from Carlos’ past. The details unfold and the lieutenant discovers that the lives of the people in his life are a lot more involved and complicated than he initially anticipated. Having assumed the least in everyone, his perspective is challenged, but will it stay that way for long? Why is this mysterious man from his past in this girl’s life, and what does he want from Carlos? Will he sacrifice the happiness of a little girl if he pursues happiness, or perhaps, something more? Assisting Carlos in his recovery and foibles in love is his force of nature grandmother, Abuela Maria, who has a history of war, love, and healing of her own. She pushes him further into the lives of others with no small amount of meddling, tough love, and confidence not often found in little old ladies her age. Will Carlos find the happiness everyone so desperately wants for him? Please Note: This book contains Adult Language & Steamy Adult Activities, it is intended for 18+ Adults Only. Novella, approx. 60,000 words in length. HEA (happy ever after ending). Does not end with a "cliffhanger".