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

“No. Er…no. I wanted to apologize for my unforgivable behavior last evening, so I thought I’d do a little straightening.” She waved a hand to indicate the room.


“That’s kind of you. Thank you. I was going to do that myself.”


“Well, that’s saved you from doing woman’s work. I…er…was certain Miss St. Claire would be home alone.”


“Mrs. Pettigrew,” George corrected again. “I was a witness at the wedding.”


“I see. Of course, that’s what I meant to say.”


“I made something as a luncheon for her. It was a good thing I did a little nosing around in the kitchen. As I suspected, the larder is bare. Men.” Her laugh was patronizing, even George could tell that.


“Papa sent me to fetch this for dinner.” He held up the duck, which was wrapped in butcher paper.


She cleared her throat. “I was sure Miss…Mrs. Pettigrew wouldn’t feel up to cooking—you knew she’s in a delicate condition, don’t you?”


“Yes. I’m going to be a big brother.”


Chapter 35