Book excerpt: In the early 1820s, Maia and Taygeto, two young Polynesian friends, followed a treasure map taking them on an exciting adventure to Volcano Island. What they found revealed a civilization hidden for generations. Their discovery had lifelong effects on them. Their lives changed dramatically with the coming of European explorers and settlers in the 1830s. They each faced new challenges that separated them for many years. Though dire circumstances brought Maia and Taygeto back together, their love for each other had endured. They went on yet another adventure of discovery back to Volcano Island that led to long-lasting prosperity for their culture and their people.