In the future frozen country of the Trappers, books are hand-copied so that knowledge may be preserved, but the technology described is mostly lost to these fur-clad hunters. When invaders slaughter most of the Trappers, the small band of survivors heads south, led by a man few of them trust. Holding the remnants of her people together is Doctor Cantania Olsen. The journey into the warm lands will change her; mind, heart and soul. She will gain and lose a love, see great wisdom and greater folly, witness amazing miracles and terrifying sicnece, and, most surprising to herself, become a mother. Finally she will have to choose between her people and her freedom.