Mercedes wants everyone to leave her alone—especially her stalker.

Ephraim is looking for a distraction from his crumbling life—something bigger than a sugar addiction.

January is done being the perfect role model—she's burned her tuba and isn't turning back.

Old scars make it impossible for Walden to rely on anyone but himself. After years of living under his father's obsessive control, Walden is desperate to shrug him off. Escaping military school was the easy part. Now he's stuck in his decaying hometown with no cash.

When Walden is pulled into strange events by an unlikely group—his childhood crush, a fanny-pack-wearing candy addict, and a tuba-hating rat enthusiast—he has two options: stay tethered to dear old Dad or depend on his new friends. Tough choice.

As lighthearted shenanigans morph into a disturbing mystery, Walden risks more than losing his sanity. He must find a way to trust again—or die trying.