. .

. and the boys had better run.

Jesse Dellerose never expected to find himself unemployed and out on the street before his dream job even began. Perhaps a group of lovable small-time crooks can teach him how to survive when life deals Jesse a bum hand?When he was offered a position as Associate Innkeeper at the soon-to-open Holiday Lodge in Bottsburg, PA, Jesse Dellerose thought that his career had finally taken off.

However. after arriving in town for his first day of work in April of 1966, Jesse got thrown a curve ball that derailed his plans leaving him unemployed and homeless.

Stranded in a strange town, Jesse was completely lost until chance introduced him to a charismatic young woman who seemed to have all the answers. Under the wing of Darla DeLucia, Jesse soon found himself sheltered and working with an unconventional cast of characters whose activities were suspect if not downright criminal.

Now, as he experienced the world in ways that challenged his scruples and beliefs, Jesse would be forced to make some tough choices that would alter the course of his life-- that is, if he survived that fateful year. Professor and culture enthusiast, John Mincarelli once again turns out an entertaining yarn that is not your typical crime novel.

In this wise and witty coming-of-age story, he has created a cast of unforgettable characters who will poke your funny bone before they touch your heart. .