Failed farmer Andy Stevens' life takes a turn for the better when he meets and marries Sydney barrister Beth Carmichael, but before they can settle into their new life the couple is recruited by the Federal Government as Livestock Theft Investigation officers. Livestock theft - sheep and cattle rustling - is the thriving but little-known sinister underbelly of Australian rural life. Along with their leader, Beau, a no-nonsense former drover, two high-flying young army officers and an aboriginal investigator, the team tackle stock theft head-on and commence a hunt for a killer who is preying on Australian farmers and taking their land. The criminal web they uncover is far reaching and diverse, encompassing native bird and reptile smuggling, counterfeiting and even a fine-art racket dating back to the Second World War. Even as their successes mount, Andy, Beth and their teammates have to watch their backs. Who knows who is really pulling the strings? Reader review: "A thoroughly enjoyable read. Trevor has embraced a significant topic which is often overlooked and seldom, if ever, understood by those who do not live in regional Australia."