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’s got good breath to her chest. She’s a little thick through the girth, though.” He ran a hand over her barrel. “Hmm.”


“I think she may be in foal.” He ran a firm hand over her side again. “Late fall or early winter, I’d say.”


“Then we got two horses for the price of one, Papa?”


Olivia clapped her hands, and Tom smiled at her.


He rubbed the mare’s neck, then smoothed her mane. “Come along, Bella. We’re taking you home.” 19


George knew a number of boys at the academy he attended, boys he’d say hello to or smile at, but none that he was interested in pursuing a friendship with.


“They’re acquaintances, Georgie, and that’s fine. Don’t let it worry you.”


Chapter 43