The story begins with Isabel and her sister in Rhode Island. The two girls believe that they are free; however, through a turn of events, they are sold back into slavery at the Lockton household. The Lockton family lives in Manhattan. A large part of the book takes place inside of the Lockton's home, but Isabel will spend time in Lady Seymour's house as well as Bridewell prison where Curzon is being held. Readers are taken to various other parts of Manhattan too. For example, the Tea Water Pump winds up being an important location for Isabel's mental health. As for the time period of the book, it is taking place during the American Revolutionary war, and that is why New York is a powder keg of contention between the Loyalists and the Patriots. More specifically, the book takes place between May, 1776 and January, 1777. Each chapter is labelled with the date that tells readers when that chapter's events are occurring.

Chains takes place in Manhattan during the Revolutionary War. Isabel, the story's protagonist, lives there, working as a slave for the Lockton family. At the time in which the novel is set, the institution of slavery was widespread in the American colonies, including New York. One of the many interesting things about the novel is the way that Isabel is an active participant in these exciting historical times, yet at the same time, remains a permanent outsider on account of her race and her status as a slave. Isabel soon realizes that both sides in the rapidly developing conflict appear to share the same views on slavery. Whichever side prevails, Isabel will continue to be treated as a second-class citizen. Under the circumstances, it's no wonder that she often considers running away.