In a small town in Indiana, on the cusp of the new millennium, local reporter Alice Becotte wants what should be simple: a baby to fill her heart and complete her family. But Alice's husband Rolly, a talented sculptor, harbors ambitions that draw him away from a steady teaching gig at a "backwater" college and unravel the couple's moorings. Principles of Navigation explores Alice and Rolly's journey through loss, infidelity and heartbreak. When each partner is tested and found wanting, they are forced to find a way to move on, without map or compass, guided only by fragile and fleeting glimpses of grace.