A middle-aged woman and a young street-smart man navigate the social and cultural friction of their unconventional relationship. The protagonist, Liz, attempts to bridge the divide between her middle-class existence and the volatile, marginalized world of Billy, a young Maori man. Their connection faces intense scrutiny from a society uncomfortable with their age, ethnic, and class disparities. The narrative examines the raw realities of their lives, stripping away societal pretenses to expose the core of their bond as they struggle against external pressures and internal instability.

Discussion often centers on the author's unflinching approach to sensitive social themes and the stark realism of the character interactions. Readers frequently highlight the book's ability to maintain a sense of authenticity while navigating complex cultural and personal conflicts. Critics have noted the work's dual success as both a compelling narrative and a detailed observation of specific social strata. The pacing is described as deliberate, allowing for a deep examination of the protagonists' motivations and the environmental factors that shape their choices.