Freedom is a pipe dream. At least, that’s what Olivia Cruikshank believes. Transported to Van Diemen’s Land for petty theft, she has lost all hope. Six years in and out of the Cascades Female Factory has taught her none can be trusted and that her future, like her innocence, are as a vapour in the breeze. Until Michael Reeve shows up — a prison guard unlike any other. What kind of turnkey shows compassion instead of cruelty, encouragement instead of scorn? He talks and acts like Olivia matters. Like her future matters. And he’s not about to give up, despite opposition from every angle. Opposition that hints of danger ahead. Can Olivia learn to trust before it’s too late? Will Mick’s kindness lead to love, or will it be his undoing? The Captive’s Song is an Australian retelling with elements of Rapunzel, complete with a tower, a long braid and a beautiful song.