At twenty, Sam Malick just wants to live a normal life in his small hometown in southern Indiana. He envisions running the family farm and someday raising a family on it, as his ancestors have done before him. But in the span of a few months, his life is turned upside down. His best friend is killed in Vietnam and then his own lottery number is drawn on draft day. Nothing will ever seem normal to him again. At nineteen, Maddie Taylor is looking for a way out for herself and her younger sister, Emily. Her father's binge drinking is becoming an every day occurrence and she fears it's only a matter of time before he turns his violence from her to five-year-old Emily. With family and country against them, the last thing Sam and Maddie expect is to fall in love. Praise for George Clidienst and his debut novel, "The Protege" "Riveting. A thrilling glimpse into the white collar world of a young man climbing his way to the top." -"Wichita Falls Times Record News" "Captivating. A book you will want to read from start to finish, as quickly as possible." -"Daily Oklahoman" "A writer with wit, sensitivity, insight, and a remarkable gift for storytelling." -"Wisconsin Bookwatch"