Shy and introverted Amber begins her first job out of high school cleaning kennels for Helping All Animals, moving quickly into their writing/researching staff using skills gained at her high school's newspaper. Tom, a one-eyed cat Amber rescued from a hoarder's house, becomes her best friend and confidant. Hikes into the surrounding New Mexico hills provide her with some solace.

Surrounded by people who speak out against cruelty, Amber gradually awakens to the insidious and pervasive effects her relationship with an older man is having in her own life. Revealing her story to others, even in the face of horror, disgust, and rejection, is her first step towards healing. With the help of Tom's non-judgmental ear and a friend from work, she fights to peel herself away from the abuse and its effects.

Gradually, Amber learns how to connect with the world, discovering along the way her own inner strength and wisdom.