In 1837, seventeen-year-old Toby Macklin and his parents boarded a ship in England to start their journey for a new life in America. The excitement they felt that morning was in sharp contrast to the devastation experienced while onboard the ship. When the ship finally docked in the New York harbor, Toby found himself alone and almost penniless.

The ship’s first mate, Sam Newsome, takes Toby underwing and introduces him to a cousin in New York. The cousin, Ezra, is organizing an expedition to trap furs in the Western Frontier.

Joining the group, Toby makes close friendships with a variety of people, including experienced mountain men who also become mentors for Toby on their journey west.

Early in the journey, Toby meets two young Mandan girls, who are twins, along with their older brother. Both young women are wise and gifted in different ways and have a powerful impact on Toby’s life.

The story is action-packed as the group endures life-threatening weather events, attacks from hostile tribes, renegade trappers, and dangerous wildlife. Love and heartache follow their journey. Close and lasting friendships are made as they try to build a future in the west.