Friendship and conflict in Van Diemen’s Land.

Umarrah, a young Aboriginal man, is rescued from drowning by George, a young Van Diemen’s Land settler. Umarrah uses their emerging friendship to gain information on his sister’s abduction and intelligence on the island’s invaders.

As the early years of relative peace are replaced by increasing violence, Umarrah becomes entangled in government efforts to conciliate Aboriginal people, while also leading others in the fight for his homeland.

Meanwhile, George’s plans for his farm are thwarted by the authorities and he fears he is suspected of colluding with the enemy. Umarrah and George’s relationship comes under increasing strain.

Featuring characters and events from the historical record, the narrative moves between the rivers and plains of Tasmania’s northern midlands to the centre of colonial government. At its heart is a complicated friendship between a feared Aboriginal leader determined to save his people and a young settler struggling to build a future.