This is a book about love, fear and fear of loss. Separate chapters are written from the perspective of each of the main characters in turn throughout the story. The action takes place in two very different countries, America and Scotland. One strand of the story relates Corran's struggle with drug abuse and the pressures this puts on the people trying to help him. Another is about Johnny's illness. The emotions are well portrayed and draw you in to the seesaw from hope to despair in a whole raft of situations pertaining to each of the main characters. The author gradually reveals the underlying, initially hidden problems each of the characters is dealing with. The story is not depressing in any way, you can feel the determination to 'win' in the end, or at least change outcomes to more positive ones. A very enjoyable read.