In dangers way is a fact of life for most cops but Samuel O'Brien is fourteen. Following in his sister Hanna Rae's footsteps solving a mystery is in his blood. His mother's words 'even seasoned cops get hurt' made no difference because he simply doesn't get it.

Life is full of mysteries and Sam's relationship with his father was beyond understanding. His father wasn't around for the first nine years. The last five he's been around more than what Sam wants. Things become shaky with the uncertainty of a move from the only home Sam has known.

Solving the case of the missing dogs left Sam with fifteen stitches. It could have happened anywhere but that's not what his parents feel. His father doesn't even live with them but convinces Sam's mother to send him away to summer camp.

Making new friends at camp was easier than Sam thought. Once they were told Willie's Island was off limits with no explanation, the mystery was ignited. A few shady characters plus some unsettling stories about the island's history peak their curiosity. Mack and Nyla became Sam's partners in the summer's canoe challenge and solving the mystery of Willie's Island.