This is the story of Swift, son of famous poets, himself infamous (but talented) former poet, former addict and now (honorary) professor of literature in a small town. He has been clean for 6 years and for 3 years he has been in a relationship with Max, the Chief of Police. The difference between Max and Swift is huge: background, experience, personality, social/family situation... And they have a great chemistry. 
 Then murder happens in the little town and everything in Swift's life gets messed up. It is a very tough time for Swift, especially since Max is a very "by the book" kind of guy. 
 We follow Swift as he fights to gain control of his unravelling life. And really, Swift's strength and courage blew me away! 
 I don't know why, but I keep seeing Swift using this mantra: 
 "I'm the master of my fate: 
 I'm the captain of my soul" 
 He doesn't do that in the book, but his life, his problems, his struggles and his courage make me think of Invictus, the poem written by W. E. Henley. 
 Out of the night that covers me, 
 Black as the Pit from pole to pole, 
 I thank whatever gods may be 
 For my unconquerable soul. 
 In the fell clutch of circumstance 
 I have not winced nor cried aloud. 
 Under the bludgeonings of chance 
 My head is bloody, but unbowed. 
 Beyond this place of wrath and tears 
 Looms but the Horror of the shade, 
 And yet the menace of the years 
 Finds, and shall find, me unafraid. 
 It matters not how strait the gate, 
 How charged with punishments the scroll. 
 I am the master of my fate: 
 I am the captain of my soul.