1850s. The distant lands of Tasmania are engulfed in the fire of colonization. The last of the fierce tribes that have fought the whites for so long are on the verge of extinction. The unfortunate orphan Matinna ends up in the family of Jane and John Franklin. The couple are confident that they will be able to make a real lady out of the savage - strict discipline should undoubtedly help them. Meanwhile, Charles Dickens is losing his head over a young actress. And neither nine children, nor a wife - nothing can prevent the writer from surrendering to a new feeling. From now on, desire rules the lives of these people. And only time will tell how far it can lead.