Jess Santucci, a listless young man, takes a mundane position as assistant to a reclusive historian who has achieved global renown for his unique insights into the lives of historical figures. The historian has a secret. The unsuspecting Jess is drawn into a world of stolen ancient artifacts, Russian spies, illegal and potentially lethal technology, accidental murder, and dangerous romance, and experiences “pokes” back in time. As the modern world closes in on him, Jess encounters a bizarrely erratic scientist, gets drafted by Colonel Theodore Roosevelt, and develops an abiding father-son relationship with Benjamin Franklin—who is in danger of being erased from existence. With the course of American history in the balance, Jess faces a life-changing decision.