A high-school senior unearths a dormant lead regarding the disappearance of his childhood babysitter, forcing him to confront a cold case that has defined his family's history. Marty Oliver, a track athlete, seeks to resolve the trauma of an abduction that occurred twelve years prior. He faces opposition from those who prefer the past to remain buried and must navigate the physical risks of investigating a dangerous criminal mystery while balancing his academic and athletic responsibilities. The narrative follows his perspective as he transitions from a passive observer of his own history to an active investigator.

Readers frequently highlight the book's focus on the lingering effects of unresolved trauma within a suburban setting. Discussion often centers on the protagonist's transition from a typical high-school student to an amateur investigator. Critics note the pacing remains steady as the mystery unfolds through the eyes of a teenager. The narrative effectively balances the mundane aspects of school life with the escalating danger of the investigation. Many readers appreciate the grounded approach to the mystery, which avoids overly complex tropes in favor of character-driven development.