MK Staple's novel, the Squatters borrows from her travels of the Smoky Mountains, Virginia Beach, Myrtle Beach, and the Florida Gulf Coast. The main character Judas George is a tragic figure born of a seriously dysfunctional and poor family. A catastrophic family tragedy blows his world apart, and he escapes from the Smoky Mountains with his sister Lara in the hope of finding a better life! Their adventure takes them down the South East USA coastline, ultimately ending their odyssey in Treasure Island, Florida. Another tumultuous event separates Judas George and Lara for what seems a lifetime. The years pass and the Smoky Mountains hold the key to their eventual reunion. But many obstacles are in the way. Lara's new life may be the biggest obstacle of all!