Once I started this book l really didn't want to put it down. It's not an easy, light-hearted read at all as it covers several distressing topics. A cafe owner, Robert, is busy as usual with his morning rush when a young man bursts in. They argue and the man leaves but returns soon after with a gun and shoots Robert. Panic ensues and although many customers escape and a few are released a small group are held hostage. Gradually we learn about each of the three hostages, one a compulsive gambler who has ended up on the streets, one whose almost entire family was murdered , one desperate to start her own family and Sam,the gunman whose life was ruined by Robert.The story has many twists and turns to keep the reader interested.