For five years, seventeen-year-old Oscar has never been without his dog, Mr. Cigar. The two have made a pretty good life for themselves in North Texas, though Oscar's mother spends all her time with her new boyfriend. As for Oscar's older sister, Rachel she fled after Mr. Cigar bit off her left hand. Oscar was twelve. But he alone knows the truth: his beloved pet is no menace. Mr. Cigar is a supernatural companion. After years of silence, Rachel calls out of the blue. She's being held hostage and will only be released if she pays a debt she owes. At the same time, Oscar is warned to get Mr. Cigar out of town. The truth of Rachel's circumstances ultimately uncovers the truth of Oscar's own... and the truth about Mr. Cigar.