This book follows the journey of Skylar, a young girl trying to survive and keep what is left of her family safe in a government-controlled society. Because of the war there are strict rules in place; boys are forced into battle while many girls are taken to the Birthhouse or are used as human tests for innovative weapons. Her journey starts when she escapes her home city with her two siblings and takes refuge at her Aunt's. However, when a fleet of soldiers shows up to take her brother to the Ranks she must grab her sister and run. The pair survives traveling from city to city looking for somewhere they might be safe. When Skylar hears of a man who helps to free teens from some of the horrible government facilities and hides them, she decides to seek him out. Can Skylar find a permanent home for her and her sister while evading the watchful government eye? Will the growing rebellion finally uncover some of the secrets being hidden from the people? Does Skylar have more of a connection with the tyrant president than she originally thought?