George Pettigrew and his papa must leave the California rancho they'd lived on since his birth. They end up in New York City, where Papa marries and George gets a new beloved mama. George also meets Frank and Bart who become fast friends, and in Bart's case, even more.<br><br>The start of the Civil War leaves George the man of the family, but although he’s found a job, it’s difficult to pay the ever-increasing rent. Then Papa dies at Appomattox and Mama falls ill.<br><br>After Mama dies, her father takes George’s siblings. When George learns his younger sister is being abused, he rescues the three children. But will dressing his sisters as boys and himself as a woman be enough of a disguise to keep them safe until they can reach the valley he’s dreamed of? Will Bart leave behind his own family and go with the man he loves?

Home Before Sundown

“I don’t have the leather just now, but a man I know should be coming into town in a few days.” He grinned at George, showing a gap between his teeth. “Want me to dye the leather? I can make it black like your horse.”


George would like that, but they couldn’t stay that long. He glanced at Papa, surprised to see his intent gaze. “Papa?”


Papa turned back to the saddle maker. “How much?” he asked.


Se?orIke told him, and Papa let out a whistle.


“It’s gonna cost enough,” Papa said.


“Tell you what. If you ain’t happy with it, you won’t owe me a single red cent.”


“What do you say?” Papa glanced at George.


“I don’t need a saddle now.” He knew the money belt Papa wore under his shirt was starting to get thin.


“You’re breaking my heart, kid. A man’s gotta make a living.”


“I reckon so. It’ll be your birthday soon, son,” Papa said. “Okay, Ike. You make that saddle, and if it’s as fine as you say it will be, I’ll pay your price.”


Chapter 4