In early-nineteenth century Prussia, Hanne and her Lutheran family escape religious persecution by securing passage to the new colony of South Australia. Sharing the diabolical conditions of shipboard life is Hanne's friend, Thea. By journey's end, a bond has been forged that is so strong, nothing can break it. A shared existence in a new land is impossible - God, society and the natural order say so - but within the impossible, there is devotion.