Sixteen-year-old Jamie longs for an escape from the violence that surrounds him in Adelaide's northern suburbs. His salvation arrives in the form of John, a charismatic man who unexpectedly comes to his aid.

However, as events occur around him, including the disappearance of several people, Jamie begins to harbour deep suspicions about John and his motivations. When the truth is finally revealed, Jamie’s hopes of happiness are threatened by both his loyalty for, and fear of, his father figure - John Bunting, Australia's most notorious serial killer.