While We Were Away: The Children Grew Up. The Parents Grew Apart.
Paperback
Publisher: Independently Published
Published: Jun 30 2026
Pages: 274
Weight: 0.74
Height: 0.68 Width: 6.00 Depth: 9.00
Language: English
They left to build a better future. They never imagined how much of the present they would lose.
For years, Roberto and Elena Santos worked overseas, believing that every sacrifice, every missed birthday, and every lonely holiday would be worth it if it meant providing a better life for their children.
Back home, their sons were raised by Lola Rosa, the grandmother who became both mother and father in their absence.
Chris, the eldest, grows into adulthood carrying the silent weight of abandonment, eventually losing himself in a world of parties, alcohol, and bad choices. Loyd, his younger brother with special needs, becomes the family's source of unconditional love and quiet strength.
Meanwhile, oceans apart, Roberto and Elena slowly drift away from one another. What begins as loneliness leads to secrets that threaten to shatter everything they have built.
As hidden truths emerge, the Santos family is forced to face painful realities about love, responsibility, betrayal, and forgiveness.
While We Were Away is an emotional and unforgettable family drama that explores the true cost of sacrifice, the challenges faced by families separated by distance, and the healing power of grace and second chances.
Perfect for readers who enjoy heartfelt stories about family, resilience, redemption, and the enduring bonds that survive even life's greatest trials.
Because sometimes the longest journey is not crossing an ocean-it's finding your way back home.
Also from
Manalo, Darwin
SOLOMON Son Of Trials: "Poverty delayed him. Faith carried him." A Motivational Life Story Inspired by True Events
Manalo, Darwin
Paperback
When Hope Refused To Die: A Mother's Journey Through Grief, Sacrifice, and Love
Manalo, Darwin
Paperback
Until We Became Strangers: We Were Each Other's Future... Until We Became Strangers
Manalo, Darwin
Paperback
