This was a good read, an interesting yet illicit account of how one young man, Benjamin Porter, who is just 17 years of age, manages his coming of age. Joan Ponti is his girlfriend who uses him rather than loving him. We see him develop a relationship with Emma Patricce, an older woman with whom he falls in love.. She becomes very influential in his life both romantically and spiritually. Through Benjamin we learn how vulnerable and impressionable teens are, how good guidance is necessary and how they must be encouraged and welcomed to speak about their feelings. I give this book 3.5 stars.