In 1914, San Clemente, New Mexico, USA, is a rut in the road to nowhere. The people live the same quiet existence that their father's-father's lived. The prime rules: don't rock the boat, don't make waves, don't try and change what has worked for generations. Winnie Anderson has never conformed and delights in flouting convention. One day she enthusiastically learns that someone new, and different is moving to town. Only after she meets the tall, dark stranger does Winnie accept how stale her life has become. In one rash moment she decides to join in a scheme that will turn her life, and the lives of everyone in the community upside down.