This historic romantic novel set in NSW and South Wales coalfields shows how personal ambition jeopardises family relationships. It is the story of Idris Evans from the Swansea Valley in Wales, who decides at seven years of age to become a mine manager. He achieves his goal in Australia in 1929 but realises he wants more. As a manager and owner he treads a fine line between unions, mine owners, banks, politicians and early WW2. The oncoming World War 2 drives the mechanisation of his mines. The self-interest of banks and politicians is mirrored in events today.

Before leaving Wales in 1921 Idris made two Love Spoons, both of which find a home in Australia. Which love prevails, or do both succumb to his driving ambition?