As settlers on the Appalachian frontier forge their identity as Americans, deeper conflicts test their faith and resolve as citizens of the emerging nation. Though the war for American Independence has come to an end, Nathanael "Fox" Carter still struggles to survive the tragic loss he has suffered. When greed and selfish ambition threaten to destroy the only home he has known, Fox and his mother flee over the Misty Mountains to start a new life. But with growing hostilities between the settlers and the Cherokee, Fox soon discovers frontier life is a daily battle for survival. Half-Cherokee himself, Fox is caught in the middle of the region's increasing unrest. Befriended by Hannah Spencer, he begins to explore his ancestry and discover where he belongs. Little does he know that forces from both sides of his heritage are conspiring to destroy him. Will Hannah be able to convince Fox to follow the path of peace?