When a young widow brings her son to the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition, she is unaware of the odyssey of inspiration and healing that is about to begin. Junaluska Lewis is convinced that her future lies in the hands of her son, Henry, reluctant heir to the family business. To that end, she agrees that he be mentored during the world's fair by her family's Chicago agent. With time on her hands, Juna explores the grand exhibition halls and Venice-like waterways, opening her eyes to new possibilities for herself as a modern businesswoman. Risking family disapproval with a daring business idea, she finds an unexpected ally in Henry's mentor, who encourages her endeavor. As their relationship deepens, boundaries become blurred. When Henry discovers incriminating evidence about the man, Juna is forced to confront what is real and what is illusion