Nothing in the Prescotts’ eastern, merchant-class lives could prepare them for the sacrifice and hardship of the Alberta frontier.
Charles Prescott is general manager of the prestigious Danbury Hotel and fully expects to become its owner upon old Mr. Danbury’s death. But an unforeseen disinheritance forces him to consider alternate means by which to maintain his livelihood and the social comforts expected by his wife, Abigail, and their daughter.
Blinded by impending poverty, he is lured by the promise of prosperity touted for the new towns along the western rail lines, and ensnared by the desire for his own success. But when business does not proceed as intended, he has no option but to consider a surprising source of revenue.
Abigail is drawn to the romantic ideal of nature but is unprepared for the harsh realities of settler life. As her family struggles to improve their station, her chance encounter with an influential investor may switch the track of their lives forever.