It is 1862 in England, and life for the fifteen-year-old Sarah and her cousin, Maud, is anything but easy. So when Sarah overhears what sounds like a good opportunity for work relief from their orphanage, she convinces Maud to volunteer for the positions. Unaware they are intended as brides for the gold rush prospector, several orphans are boarded into the hull of a ship destined for Canada. By the time they understand their predicament, there is no escape. Despite the dreadful living conditions of their quarters, Sarah just might be able to survive the trip. But Maud's constant cough and seasickness are a growing concern. Will Sarah be able to face what lies ahead when the ship reaches its final destination?