Duchess Day Radley, at thirteen years old, is carrying more than her share of responsibility. Her mother, Star, seems incapable of taking care of herself much less Duchess and her five year old brother, Robin.  Fiercely independent and ferocious in protecting her brother, Duchess has managed to find food, keep her brother clean and safe while keeping her grades up just enough to avoid uncomfortable questions from the school. Walker, who is the chief of police, knew her mother when they were younger and he keeps a watchful eye on Star and brings her home or takes her to the hospital when she overdoses. Things are rough but they have been manageable, but now Vincent King is going to be released after spending 30 years in prison and Duchess fears things are only going to get worse.

King was convicted of killing Star’s younger sister, and it was Walker who turned in his best friend. Walker has regretted his actions in helping convict King ever since and hopes he can find way to atone for it. For Duchess, King is the person who has caused so much of the pain in her life and his return to town is just one more complication she does not need.

But they are not the only ones impacted by King’s return and the unexpected violence that is unleashed changes each one of their lives forever.

Whitaker has created some interesting characters. Duchess shines with her prickly suspicious nature. King is an enigma, and Walker seems unable to move on from his past. The twists and turns of this story keep surprising you and the redemption at the end is very satisfying. I look forward to hearing more from this author!

Brenda’s Rating: **** (4 Out Of 5 Stars)

Recommend this book to: Sharon, Keith and Marian.

Book Study Worthy? Yes

Read in e-library format.