Terry Ohlsson

Wales in the 19th Century. Becca is married to Dai, who is transported to the penal colony of Diemen's Land (Tasmania) for rebellion. His brother Gwylim, who is a minister, travels after him by signing on as a ship's chaplain on a ship. He and Becca pretend to be husband and wife so she can come along. The pastor and his sister-in-law start a relationship.

Sydney homicide detective Sergeant Scobie Malone and his offsider investigate the murder of Helga, whose corpse is found in the basement of the Sydney Opera House.