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

He smiled fondly as he watched her bustle away. Then he turned to Tom and Olivia, offering his hand. “Mrs. Pettigrew. Mr. Pettigrew. How do you do? I’m Edward Thompson, Father Ed. My wife tells me you’re new to Chelsea.”


“Yes. We didn’t mean to disrupt your day,” Tom said. “My wife and I and our son have just moved in a few streets away.”


Olivia reached out and twined her fingers with his, and Tom glanced at her.


“I’ll tell you later.” She released his hand, and he missed her touch.


Father Ed cleared his throat. “Please, sit down and tell me what I can do for you.”


“We really don’t want to take up too much of your time.” Tom escorted Olivia to the settee, then sat beside her.


“Not at all. This is my job.” He took a seat across from them in an overstuffed armchair and leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. “Now. What may I do for you?”


Chapter 31