Is it possible that America's most feared mobster, Anthony Gambino, has one of the most innocent sons, Tony, or does he have a dark side? The Gambino family moves in next door to an ordinary family who has a beautiful teenage daughter, Gabriella Thomas. The Thomases are skeptical of allowing the friendship to commence, but the two quickly develop an interesting and complicated relationship, which soon develops into a dramatic, passionate, and, in some respects, even a violent love story. Tony has a hard time gaining acceptance from his new town and fitting into his new school. By being introduced to Gabriella's friends, joining the basketball team, and being nominated for the student body council, Tony begins to blend into the lifestyle of a typical high school student. But will Tony Gambino's true identity be discovered and will his background come back to haunt him? Will Gabriella's parents forever question their decision on allowing her to associate with Tony? In a plot that reveals vulnerability in each of the teens, Zaccari has illustrated a strong and vivid metaphor in many respects for the emotions that can overwhelm us all.