In 1855, when Tuva agrees to marry Isak Nilsson-a man she hardly knows-she fears this will be her life's only adventure. When her new husband gifts her passage on a ship bound for America as a wedding present, it changes the course of her entire future.

The newlyweds sail to the Territory of Minnesota, where they join the rest of the Nilsson family. They've barely settled in when they lose everything in a fire, forcing the Nilsson clan to evaluate their plans.

Upon hearing of copper farther north, the family decides to start over along the banks of Lake Superior. Tuva immediately falls in love with this wild land and the great water it rests on. An unexpected friendship with an Ojibwa woman helps Tuva understand that respect for both is key to survival and prosperity.

As Tuva struggles to find her place in her new family, a brutal attack, tragedy, and war threaten to destroy her marriage and all they are trying to build. Tuva must discover her courage, strength, and love to create the legacy she and Isak dream of to keep the family together, or this place could destroy her and all she holds dear.