Based on the novel The Unbelieved by Vikki Petraitis. Dustfall is described as a propulsive, atmospheric Tropic Noir that follows a detective whose deep sense of justice is challenged by a world where victims are doubted, predators hide in plain sight, and the legal system too often falls short. When seasoned detective Tig (Torv), returning to her hometown of North Gap after years in the city, uncovers a string of drink spiking assaults, the case is turned on its head when one of the main suspects is found murdered.

The advocate for a young Iranian refugee held in detention. Amir Ali claims to be an Iranian student persecuted by the government but the Department of Immigration dispute his identity. When Julia meets Amir, he is severely depressed and close to deportation. Julia throws herself obsessively into Amir's case, causing friction between Julia and her husband, Peter. Julia eventually frees Amir and the young Iranian man moves in with Peter and Julia. As Julia helps Amir adjust to ordinary life, she finds herself increasingly attracted to this handsome, damaged young man. But she also starts to see the subtle cracks in Amir's story. Is he really who he claims he is? Or does he have a darker, more dangerous history?