Every human mind has an ominous dark side, whether genetically inherited or induced by disturbing events, and Dr Karl Kurnoff, a Polynesian-born psychiatrist, is no exception.

At the age of just 18, a tormneted Karl makes a life-saving escape from the Polynesian island of Nepotia to the far-flung Australian state of Tasmania. His tumultous life story is signposted by love, hate, revenge and murder, finally unfolding to a devastating conclusion when he is irresistibily drawn back to avenge the brutal killing of his parents.

His proud forebears were once prominent landowners on the island, but tragically Karl's beloved ancestral home is now ruled by a despotic king personifying corruption and greed.