Hearts of Gold — Janet Woods

Fourteen year old Sarette Maitland is orphaned when her father dies of a snake bite on the Australian goldfields. Left to fend for herself by her father's villainous partner, she is rescued by a wealthy adventurer, John Kern, and takes the place in his heart once occupied by his own dead daughter. Several years later he reluctantly sends her back to England, to learn the manners society expects of a beautiful young woman. After tragedy strikes, Sarette is introduced to her mentor's heir and nephew, Magnus Kern, who had been appointed her guardian. When Magnus learns that his uncle has left the entrancing Sarette a considerable fortune, both his honesty and heart are put to the test. But Magnus has a rival for her heart in his dashing friend Gerald Grimble, and the pair indulge in a lighthearted wager over who will win her hand. Then Sarette is abducted by the man who killed John Kern, and the game becomes deadly serious.