Smart beautiful sometimes uncouth Tanya is now the leader of The Settlement following the death of her father-in law and mentor David. Tanyas leadership is tested by: Other surviving enclaves taking advantage of the leadership change to attack The Settlement. Dealing with her serially unfaithful husband Mark. Contending with the ambitions of brother-in-law General Jonathan Bower head of the Australian military wanting The Settlement to fall under military control. In a series of violent confrontations The Settlement in very difficult situations overcomes all challenges and manages to ensure that the military finally falls under civilian control represented by The Settlement.