It is the summer after high school graduation and Mike Newlin is an average 18 year old, except his father has killed his secretary with whom he was having an affair. Now he has left to parts unknown. It is very hard for Mike to go on after his father is gone. He must look out for his mother who thinks that her life is nothing without her husband, his girlfriend who is clinging to him all the time, and the fact that he is in love with his boss' wife. 

Because this is a very depressing read, I found it hard to stay with. The story line flowed so well that you felt every hurt and pain that Mike goes through at his young age. As you read this book keep the Kleenex box handy because you will need them.

Judy Troy is the author of two New York Times Notable books and a Whiting Award Winner.