This one is the second book in a series. I have not read book one. With that being said I think this could work as a standalone. It read just fine for me being I didn't read book one. It was following a girl named Emily. She ran after her sister and mother were killed. So many dead bodies. She goes to a juvenile detention center where the guards beat and abuse the inmates. Emily tries to find her place in the center. She finally has Paula who will help these inmates the best she can. There are so many struggles and twists in this page turner. Emily's conclusions and choices at the end are mind blowing. I really enjoyed this one. And now I definitely was to read book one just to see what else this author and this story can tell me. If you like a good enthralling juvenile detention center type feel read this book is hands down a winner. I really would highly recommend it.