It's the year 1900, and Jocelyn Belle Royal has lost her farm to the bank. She joins a mule drive, hoping to earn back what she lost. Unexpectedly, she finds herself stranded on an abandoned ranch with the mules after her new companions, Whit Hanley and Sam Birdwhistle, leave her behind. To make matters worse, Sam reveals that their former outlaw gang might be after them.
Despite the challenges, Jocelyn refuses to abandon the mules she's caring for and is determined to be paid by the mule boss. Meanwhile, a renewed friendship with Pete Pladson, a cowhand and western artist, brings her some happiness.
As Jocelyn becomes more involved with the mules, outlaws, and Pete, she also takes an interest in women's suffrage and gets involved in a disagreement over the governor's mansion. While she wonders if she will ever realize her dream and reclaim her farm, she is also left questioning whether the fragrance of her mother's shawl and the few items it contains will be all the home she ever has.