A gifted writer, Stout draws compelling portraits of sociopathic characters, such as Skip, the rich, brilliant boy whose favorite pastime is killing frogs; Doreen, who uses her looks and skill at lying to manipulate and deceive colleagues at work; and Luke, whose vocation is lounging by the pool, sponging off women, and ignoring his own son. Then Stout offers the "13 rules" for defending yourself against sociopaths, such as the "rule of threes." There may be good reasons for people to break one or even two promises, but if they break three, they're habitual liars and you should never give them "your money, your work, your secrets, or your affection." But there is a brighter side to the picture. Stout demonstrates that despite having signs of material success, sociopaths lead empty, meaningless lives, devoid of joy, hope or happiness. Ultimately, living with love is better.