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

He nodded at George. “Good day, Georgie.”


George pulled Bella to a halt again. “George,” he corrected. “Only my parents call me Georgie.”


St. Claire’s lips tightened for a brief moment, but then he smiled. “I beg your pardon. George.”


George kicked Bella, and she snorted and broke into a canter. He waited until they were out of earshot before he patted her neck. “Sorry, querida.”


“I don’t like him, George,” Noelle whispered.


“Neither do I. Don’t say anything to Mama. He’s her brother, after all.”


“You’re a nicer brother than he is.”


She reached up and patted his cheek, and he smiled at her.


Mama came trotting up. “George, we’re still going to the Thompsons, aren’t we?” she asked


“Yes.” He wanted to say I know he’s your brother, but he makes me nervous, but he didn’t. He risked a quick glance behind him, but St. Claire wasn’t there.


They turned the horses and headed in the direction of the rectory.


Chapter 61