In 1837 west of Shanghai Baozhai is a gorgeous girl who at age 4 charms everyone to get her way. When promised in marriage at age 14, she refuses to become someone else's property and flees home with enough business skills and guts to take on the world. In 1840 north of Shanghai, Wei is brought up without his mum, bullied when young, and after learning Kung Fu , he overcomes his tormentors. He marries at age 20 but is devastated 3 years later when his wife leaves him for a rich man. He decides he can make his fortune on the Australian goldfields. These 2 people, both from farming backgrounds, meet by chance and their attraction is instant and powerful. They challenge each other almost daily but overcome everything through their mutual love and respect. In 1856 they face the challenges of a long sea voyage, learning English, an overland trek, staking a claim on the goldfields and finally building "Destiny Cottage". It's compelling reading as we follow their journey.