In the rugged Black Hills of South Dakota, a childhood friendship matures into an adult passion when something--or someone--threatens Lil Chance and her dream to open a wildlife refuge. The heartless killing of Lil's beloved cougar and recollections of an unsolved murder catapult New York investigator Coop Sullivan into action to keep Lil safe.

After visiting a great ape sanctuary, Marty and her friends set out to raise the money to "adopt" a chimpanzee by organizing a talent show at school and starting a pet-sitting business in Marty's basement--which soon gets out of hand.

"Evie is making her way to the Sanctuary, [a dog rescue program high atop a mountain]. She has lied to gain entry. She has pretended to know more than she does about dogs, but she is learning fast. Once the indomitable Mrs. Auberchon lets her pass, she will find her way. Like the racing greyhound who refuses to move, the golden retriever who returns to his job as the Sanctuary's butler every time he's adopted, and the Rottweiler who's a hopeless candidate...