When Cassidy Maxwell turns sixteen, she believes she is on the precipice of freedom, first love, and teenage escapades. Unbeknownst to the Maxwell family, a simmering inferno is beginning to boil, threatening the entire town of Franklin and all they hold dear. As Cassidy envisions her newfound liberation allowing her to break free from the intense but smothering love of her mother, a tie that will bind them together forever is being sinisterly woven. When a school shooter enters the safe and predictable world of North Franklin High School, all the security Cassidy knows is unraveled in a moment. She faces a decision that will have her choosing between her heart's desire and one true love, and risking it all to protect all she's ever known. Cassidy and all those trapped inside North Franklin High School with their captor must call on their own wits, courage, and even sacrificial love. As Cassidy gains an unexpected ally, she will make a choice that leaves not only the Maxwell family but the entire Franklin community reeling.