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

She’d been terrified the morning she woke up to find her nightgown covered in blood. Her screams had brought the servants as well as Aunt Hester, who’d taken one look and sent the servants away.


“Hush your carrying on,” she’d scolded.


“But…but I’m bleeding to death!”


“Nonsense. You’ve become a young lady.”


Olivia stared at her in confusion. “Haven’t I always been a young lady?”


Aunt Hester gave a huff and shook her head. “Stupid child. Never mind about that. From this day forward, you are neverto be alone with a man.”


“What about Father? He isn’t going to be pleased if I—”


“Of course I’m not including your father or your brother. Now pay attention. Once you’re married, you’ll belong to your husband. He’ll teach you everything you need to know about…” Aunt Hester turned as red as the blood that stained Olivia’s nightgown and waved her hands. “About things.”


Chapter 28