This is a standalone book and the 2nd book of a series. I have not read the 1st book and think it would be a good book to read. Emily at the age of 13 years witnesses her mother and younger sister being raped and killed. She manages to escape and knows that the killers are looking for her. She meets, Lucas, an older man and former gang member who mentors her on how to survive. Emily has been on the run for 3 years when another life threating situation occurs. She is arrested and is tried for murder. Emily is a smart girl. She studies the law books while in the prison because she has a court appointed attorney and feels she needs to know the law to protect herself. She ends up representing herself before the court when her attorney is rushed to the hospital. Emily uses her survival skills while in prison and during her trial. This is an excellent story and you are cheering for her as you turn each page.