Based loosely on a true story the novel tells 'A story of passion, prejudice and triumph set in the Victoria's 19th century gold-fields'. It is the story of a young woman sent to Australia by her father because of an unplanned pregnancy. The plan is for her to find a suitable husband and return to England. She initially settles in Jolimont where plans go awry and she makes her way to the gold fields. Challenges and setbacks abound but eventually she carves out a new and successful life for herself. Set partially in Jolimont with references to East Melbourne.