Five year old Alex and his imaginary friend Joe play with a new Tonka dump truck. His father ends his extra-marital affair with Alex's mother because he now has a son with his wife. He steps out of the back door, says to Alex, "Try your best to be your best," and leaves his life. At age thirteen Alex is smitten and falls deeply in love. Abused and neglected, he allows his alcoholic mother to die. He feels free, but cannot be rid of her. He loathes and blames his half brother for everything. His life unfolds in a trail of angst and chaos. Your hope will be kindled and dashed along with Alex whose actions will entertain, intrigue, sadden and thrill you. This mystery thriller is a must-read that'll sweep you in and carry you to an end that both relieves and satisfies.