This narrative centers on a private investigator, Spenser, who is hired by Patty Giacomin to retrieve her son, Paul, from his estranged father, Mel. Paul, a disaffected and whiny teenager, becomes a central figure as Spenser attempts to extract him from a dysfunctional family environment where both parents use him as a pawn. After a confrontation where Spenser successfully retrieves Paul, it becomes clear neither parent truly desires custody, only to spite the other. Spenser, with the help of his girlfriend Susan and an enforcer named Hawk, takes Paul to a remote cabin in Maine to teach him self-reliance and build a new house together. Throughout their time in Maine, Paul undergoes a physical and emotional transformation, learning to work, exercise, and develop a sense of self. The story culminates with Spenser uncovering Mel Giacomin's illegal activities and negotiating a settlement to ensure Paul's financial and personal independence. The narrative concludes with Paul heading off to a new school, having gained autonomy and a direction for his life, while Spenser and Susan plan a trip, their relationship deepened by the experience.