What happens to a person left destitute with none of life's normal chattels. Without property, clothes on their back, no money and alone, burned, broken and naked in the desert. Nineteen year old Paula Smythe faces such a world. All that is left her is an indomitable will and spirit to find a way back to a new life and destiny. Follow Paula's journey out of the desert and into the town of Misery Flats and meet Mary, the town nurse and her son Gary who help her on the road to recovery. Continue with Paula on her journey as she grapples with the demands and rigours of an education she never would have envisioned. Meet the people who help and the others who don't. But once on her path to a new destiny her inner strength, resources and faith give her the courage to stay the course. The surprise conclusion confirms she has overcome the demons of her past and has now found her place in the world exactly where she wants to be. If you have ever felt completely down and out and need a lift, think of Paula.