The social equilibrium of 1850s Parramatta is challenged as the inhabitants navigate their own moral failings and societal expectations. The narrative follows a collection of residents, including the spirited Juliet McCree and the rigid Dr. Boisragon, as they interact within the confines of a provincial Australian setting. The author employs a series of interconnected vignettes to examine the Seven Deadly Sins, creating a structural framework that functions as a precursor to the discontinuous narrative. These characters must reconcile their personal desires with the rigid standards of middle-class life, often resulting in humorous or revealing social friction.

Readers and critics frequently note the sharp, observant quality of the prose which captures the specific atmosphere of colonial Australia. Discussion often centers on the unique structural choice of using vignettes to build a cohesive narrative rather than a traditional linear plot. Many highlight the balance between the author's affectionate portrayal of her characters and her biting critique of their pretensions. The work is often cited for its ability to remain relevant despite the historical distance of its setting. Readers appreciate how the thematic focus on the Seven Deadly Sins provides a clear logical framework for the various character interactions.