After the disastrous fire in 1613, a young man, Isaac Stanfield, leaves Dorchester to become a sailor on a merchantman, the Sweet Rose. Through resilience, initiative, and luck, Isaac finds himself a participant and observer in the explorations that preceded the arrival of the Mayflower in New England in 1620.

Isaac's thirst for adventure is tempered by the love and support of friends while his youthful exuberance and charm attract many important people to engage him in their endeavors.

This story describes events in the period 1613-1620. It is also the story of Isaac's coming of age in those turbulent times.