Carol Preston uses historical research and real characters to create an understanding of life as a convict. William is transported to Australia, after years on the streets. Clinging to the hope of a better life, he looks for possibility in an unknown country. But being a convict isn't easy. When William finds and surprises young Mary with a proposal, their life together begins. Their journey from convict to family life is anything but happily ever after. Through grief, floods, triumphs, friendships, love and faith they grow in the harsh new country. A fictionalised story based on actual events and characters in early settler history.