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

“Mama’s right, Papa. Charlie hasn’t had her nap.”


Papa didn’t look reassured, but he hadn’t lived with the baby of the family for the past three years. It would take a while for her to get used to him, time they really didn’t have now.


George rubbed his arm, then put on his coat and hat and led the way through the kitchen and out the door.


“She doesn’t know me. Even Noelle doesn’t remember me very much.”


“This damned war.” He bit his lip, waiting for Papa to scold him for swearing, but Papa just strode into the stable. George knew Papa was upset when he didn’t chide George for his language. “The war will be over soon, won’t it?”


“I hope so. Both sides are war weary, but the South can’t go on for much longer. They just don’t have the supplies.”


And it might be time to change the subject. “How’s Sunrise, Papa?” he asked as they saddled the horses.


Chapter 58