The body of a young woman is found roughly buried in a remote spot in the Queensland Gulf Country. Forensic evidence from maggots in the body suggests that she must have been killed in Papua New Guinea, but the body could not possibly have moved from PNG to the Gulf within the timeline available. Further investigation shows that she might have been caught up with drug smugglers and cattle thieves, but clues are still not forthcoming. A maggot expert investigates in northern Cape York, aided by a young aboriginal girl who knows her country and its wildlife well. Together they try and work out what must have happened when, and who did it. They are aided by a wise hotel chambermaid, and a bird of paradise and a tree kangaroo.