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

Doc Choate took George’s hand and gave it a firm shake. “You’re welcome, both of you.”


Tom got Dr. Choate’s coat and handed it to him. The Doc slid his arms into the sleeves, clapped his hat on his head, and picked up his black bag.


“Merry Christmas.” He nodded at them, and Tom saw him to the door.


George was smiling down at the amazing bundle in his arms when Tom returned. “I’m your big brother, Noelle. I’m going to teach you so many things.” He placed a tender kiss on her forehead, rocked her gently, and hummed a familiar song, the one about the lilacs.


“Let me take her now, son.” Tom held out his arms, and George carefully transferred his sister into them.


“We’ll see how she’s feeling.” Tom walked into the bedroom. He hummed the same song.


“Here’s the newest addition to our family, querida. Thank you.”


“For giving me this lovely little girl.”


She gazed at him, her eyes sheened with tears.


Chapter 48