A Woman of Substance

Emma Harte is a self-made magnate who builds Harte's Department Store and expands into property and oil. She navigates love, betrayal, and family dynamics to secure a lasting empire. Her intellect and determination drive the story, even as she guards a deeply personal motive to safeguard her grandchildren's future.

Laura is Emma's loyal ally and grounding presence in her early life. She provides friendship, shelter, and a stable home base as Emma builds her business and forges new alliances. Her steadfast support helps Emma navigate the challenges of rising to power.

Shane 'Blackie' O'Neill is a rough-edged yet dependable ally who helps Emma start anew. He provides practical support and acts as a confidant during her transition from hardship to opportunity. His presence embodies loyalty and resilience in the face of adversity.

Edwin Fairley is the Fairley family's younger son who impregnates Emma and refuses to marry her, triggering early life upheavals. His actions set Emma on a path that intertwines romance with ambition and consequence. He remains a pivotal figure in Emma's backstory and the Fairley clan dynamics.

Paul McGill is Emma's wartime love and ally; an Australian Army officer whose return and later life twist influence Emma deeply. His eventual death leaves a lasting impact on Emma and shapes the boundaries of power and inheritance within the family. He embodies both passion and the fragility of life during tumultuous times.

Edwina is Emma's daughter born from the early chapters of her life; she grows up within the Harte empire and represents the next generation of the dynasty. Her position in the family circle underscores the theme of legacy and succession. Edwina's presence links Emma's past with the future of the Harte name.

Paula is Emma's granddaughter who ultimately inherits Harte's Department Store; she embodies Emma's strategy of passing power to the younger generation. Her engagement to Jim Fairley ties together the intertwined families and marks a transition of authority. Paula stands as a symbol of Emma's long-term planning and ambition realized.

Adele Fairley is a member of the Fairley family who appears in the network of relations surrounding Emma's life. Her involvement illustrates the social dynamics and alliances within the era's upper-class circles. Adele's presence adds to the web of familial ties that shape Emma's decisions and the unfolding plot.

Joe Lowther becomes Emma's partner for protection and stability; they marry for security and have a son named Kit. His role anchors Emma's domestic life amid the empire-building, illustrating how personal relationships intersect with business strategy. Joe's support helps Emma navigate the volatile times she faces.