Joaquin and Elena, two teenage siblings live in a toxic environment with their alcoholic mother on an island off the Texas Gulf Coast. Elena falls for a new boy who has just arrived from California. Joaquin must wrestle with his decision to stay on Mariposa Island to protect his sister or flee from his mother's abuse. Can fierce love save them, or will their truth tear them apart? 14+ A multilayered novel that explores the nature of secrets, lies, and fierce, destructive love.