Living in the shadow of the mighty Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, miles from the village, Ellie, Luke and Blake exist in a world of spirits, mystical wolves, and stories told by their grandfather, the keeper of the lighthouse. In this five volume series, the three children of the Jennette family travel back in time to discover the origin of their ancestors and the events that shaped the civilization of Cape Hatteras Island. Throughout the series, islanders live as they did when only an occasional mail boat kept them connected to the rest of the world---before a bridge linked the island to the mainland, before tourists flocked to the area during the summer season, and before the government became involved in managing the land. Isolated from others, they created a life of comfort and community, one that is long lost. In each subsequent volume, the children meet the people and experience the events that gradually transformed Cape Hatteras Island to the popular resort area it is today.

In Pirates, the children are transported back in time to meet their more colorful ancestors. They begin to take adventures away from the family compound, as mobility is enhanced by the addition of two special horses, Pegasus, Luke' Christmas present, and Blue, for Ellie. Learning of an old mansion in the woods, they are awestruck when Grandpop takes them there. Frequent secret visits form a bond between the children and the mysteries held by the 250 year old stone dwelling. Ellie's power grows, as do the powers given to the boys by the old indian shaman. Luke is introduced to Blackbeard and his cronies, and uncovers a family secret Community events bring the villages together to celebrate their collective history of Pirates, as the island begins to stir with the looming threat of WWII.