La Habra, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 09/10/2013 -- While the modern world is used to associating ‘hero’ status with A-list celebrities that walk down red carpets and sportspeople who make millions of dollars each week, a compelling new novel by Dr. Eichin Chang-Lim is helping thousands recognize and appreciate the true heroes that surround everyone.

‘Tough Scratches: Book One – Love, The Tangled Knot’ puts this philosophy into a literary context; with a thought-provoking narrative that demonstrates the importance of never losing hope.

Synopsis:

How does young love survive high school? Through long distance? Through prison?

Kayla is a seventeen-year-old wit who is content to deliver ‘real-talk’ to her boy-crazy best friend, Breeana, while running the high school’s environmentalist club. In contrast to Breeana, she has no time or desire for boys, viewing even a crush as a commitment. But when Russell Mancini joins Beach Cleanup Day, Kayla learns she’s a sucker for teen love just like her peers.

Even though their relationship seems perfect, fate conspires against the pair. The ambitious Kayla’s dreams are shattered when she becomes pregnant. Struggling to make ends meet, Russell makes a decision that threatens to destroy their relationship, irrevocably steering his course away from Kayla and their daughter. Kayla finds herself pitted in a conflict she would never have expected.

As Russell’s fate unfolds, Kayla must pick up the pieces. Along the way, her sister, Veronica, and her sassy neighbor Dorothy lift her spirits but tempt her to reconsider her path. Kayla’s humor keeps her afloat in tragedy, but how can any couple survive the ‘tough scratches’ her and Russell experience?

As the author explains, her narrative was boldly inspired by her own struggles.

“I was so despaired and heart broken when my son was diagnosed with a genetic disorder- ‘Waardenburg syndrome’. The genetic condition causes him profoundly hearing-impaired and premature gray hair. As his mother, I went through several invasive surgeries with him during his growing up years. Coping with the emotional turmoil and accepting the challenges of raising a special child led me to become more sensitive to other people’s struggles and their little personal stories,” says Chang-Lim, who admits to always having an affinity with the biographies of famous historical figures who struggled.

Continuing, “I learned to appreciate the fact that almost everyone I encounter daily having some ‘heroic’ nature in them and some inspiring stories to share regardless his/her background or status. I want to write the stories about them. ‘Tough Scratches’ is just one of them.”

Critics praise the author for the diligent attempts she is making to inspire readers through her powerful prose. With book two in the works and plans to pitch her story to movie executives, Chang-Lim has a busy few years ahead.

With the book expected to be in high demand, interested readers are urged to purchase their copies as soon as possible after launch.

‘Tough Scratches: Book One – Love, The Tangled Knot’ is due for release on September 17th: http://amzn.to/1aXZlq0.

About the Author: Dr. Eichin Chang-Lim
Dr. Eichin Chang-Lim was born in Taiwan. She earned her doctorate in optometry from Southern California College of Optometry and is currently in a private practice with her husband near L.A. They have one son, Theodore, and one daughter, Victoria, and live in Orange County. Eichin is passionate about writing and enjoys listening to classical music and opera.