Lucy Hart grew up in a childhood marked by neglect and loneliness, finding solace in the Clock Island series written by Jack Masterson. Now a twenty-six-year-old teacher's aide, she would give anything to adopt 7-year-old Christopher, orphaned by his parents tragic death. But the idea of becoming a family seems like an impossible dream without proper funds and stability. Just when Lucy is about to give up, Jack Masterson announces he's finally written a new book and that four hand-picked readers can compete to win the only copy. For Lucy, a chance to read the first Clock Island book in years is a prize worth fighting for, but the possibility of winning, selling the manuscript, and securing a better future for her and Christopher means everything. But first, Lucy must contend with ruthless book collectors, wily opponents, and the distractingly handsome Hugo Reese, illustrator of the Clock Island books and Jack's only friend. Meanwhile, Jack "the Mastermind" Masterson is plotting the ultimate twist ending that could change all their lives forever.