In 1833, Star Dancer, a Sichangu (Brule Sioux) is promised in marriage to Stalking Wolf, an Oglala warrior whom she has never met. Against her wishes she must travel with her new husband to the Oglala's land far from her home and family. What begins as a loveless union develops into a moving story of a man and a woman led by powers beyond their control. Star Dancer grows to understand that not only her father, but the spirits also, have blessed the union between her and Stalking Wolf. Together Star Dancer and Stalking Wolf come to realize that it is their destiny to lead their people toward a future made wholly uncertain by the encroaching White Man.