Tide of Life follows the fortunes of young housekeeper, Emily Kennedy, as she learns about relationships with three very different men. Forced from home of her first employer, Sep McGilby after his plans to marry her come to tragic end, Emily finds work as housekeeper for farmer, Larry Birch. Another tragedy occurs, and when Nick Stuart inherits the farm owned by Birch's wife, Nick gives Emily a new future.

Emily har fått en bra plats som hushållerska åt paret McGilby. Allt förändras när Mr. McGilbys invalidiserade hustru dör, inte minst Mr. McGilby själv. Han ber Emily att gifta sig med honom och hon accepterar trots att hon inte älskar honom.