Nora Tamasin travels in Australian to become the ward of lynx Herrick,, ruler of a vast empire in the savage gold country.

Thirty-five years ago Lynx came to Australia as a convict in chains, now, obsessed with the power of gold, he seeks to buy revenge against his accusers. Nora becomes unwillingly involved in his campaign of tyranny towards Minta Cardew, last heiress of Whiteladies.