Set in the late nineteenth century, this sweeping saga of interwoven lives describes an epic journey across the old west. Charles Gaunt, a disillusioned English artist, and his tormented older brother are searching for Charles's twin, who disappeared in a Montana blizzard. Enlisting the services of a Metis guide, they are soon joined by Lucy Stoveall, a tough beauty bent upon avenging her younger sister's murder ; Custis Straw, the heavy-drinking Civil War veteran who loves her ; and Custis's friend and protector Aloysius Dooley. Together, this unlikely posse becomes entangled in an unfolding drama of revenge, romance and redemption.