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

Father Ed had been tugging his lower lip, and now he looked up with a pleased expression. “I’ve been giving your request some thought.”


He nodded. “I believe I do know someone.” He turned to his wife. “The Pettigrews need a cook and someone to help around the house. What do you think of suggesting the position to Mrs. Hall, my dear?”


“That’s an excellent idea. I’ve been very worried about her and her brood,” Mrs. Thompson said. “She lost her husband a year or so ago when he burst a blood vessel here.” She touched the center of her chest.


Father Ed nodded and continued. “She’s got eight children, including a set of twins. They range in age from sixteen to two. Bart, her oldest son, is an apprentice carpenter, while Mary Agnes, the oldest girl, works as a maid in a house on Park Avenue. They do their best to help the family, but it’s been difficult for them.”


“I’d like to meet her before I make any decisions. I’ll be leaving my wife in her care, and there was a situation…”


Chapter 32