Samuel Trace, broken and bitter at the end of Americas North-South conflict, returned home to Philadelphia much changed and now a solemn, distant young man unable to settle into his future that is, until treachery by Zeke Tuning gave Sam the reason and opportunity to run away from facing his demons. Sam rides west with purpose and relief. He will destroy Zeke Tuning and, with a little luck, escape his mothers prayers and ease her heartbreak. Will the journey bring Samuel Trace destruction and death or redemption? Are the losses suffered simply too much to overcome?