Jason Firbeck, shocked to discover land assigned to him is occupied by another, tries to sort out the legal aspects of ownership.

Luke has taken control of the family and has occupied land in the wilderness. The family have thus become 'squatters'.

In squatters territory it is law of the strong that prevails and Cormac Doyle, an English-hating Irishman, sets his sights on occupying Luke's kingdom

In New South Wales in the 1830s convicts were granted "Tickets to Leave" to find employment on their own account. However one mistake, the slightest misdemeanor, and the ticket could be withdrawn.

The Firbecks have been squatters for two years. The building of a timber homestead is finished and an area of land cleared. The arrival of an uninvited guest causes complications for Luke because of an association he builds up with Jassy.

For Jassy, life as a housekeeper to her squatting family has become unbearable. Jason watches anxiously as with each day she grows more tired, more depressed, and more listless.

The Governor has set up a committee to inquire into squatting and the possible granting of Tenancy Rights to the squatters.

It has not rained for four months. Sheep and cattle are dying and settlers are facing ruin. Luke, taking advantage of the dry state of the river bed, is struggling to build an immense dam. However his ambitious plan is plagued by tragedy.

In common with all squatters, Luke is finding the aboriginals troublesome. His sheep are being speared and anger against the aboriginals is growing.

In Lieutenant Elliot's command is a veteran corporal about to retire from the army

Luke has shot a bushranger, leaving his pregnant lover swearing vengeance upon him.

Luke's brooding restlessness is apparent to all who know him with, perhaps the exception of his family who are accustomed to ignoring his many moods.