Papua New Guinea l968. When Merryn O'Neill's fiance, Jake Hawkins, an officer with the Pacific Islands Regiment in Port Moresby, breaks off their engagement, so he can marry the daughter of his commanding officer, her world is torn apart. Arriving reluctantly in Port Moresby to take up a prearranged flying position, Merryn doesn't envisage the magical spell this strange and seductive land, particularly one of its own people, will cast over her. But Merryn and Jake share a secret from the past Merryn can't forget. No matter how much she tries. Set during the period of the Vietnam War, against a backdrop of evocative tropical heat, menace, and intrigue, Bird of Paradise explores the misdemeanors of love, loss, and betrayal, climaxing in dramatic and unexpected consequences.