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

“Don’t pay any mind to me. I’m not thinking straight.” He held out his palm to reveal the large red brooch he held.


“Yeah. I’ve got to go to Mr. Feinstein’s. Hopefully he’ll give me enough to tide us over until Papa gets paid.”


“Has the Army held back his wages again?”


“Yes, but it’s not just him. They’re late with everyone’s pay.”


“I’m sorry, Georgie. Look, suppose I go with you?”


“Would you? I could use you at my side—for moral support. This brooch was my mother’s, and I feel awful having to sell it. Which is foolish, since I’ve sold all Mama’s jewels, and she hasn’t shed a single tear over them.”


Bart patted his shoulder. He knew George’s pa had been married before—although George called his pa’s wife “mama,” he’d lost his real ma when he was just a tyke. “I can’t explain women,” was all he could offer.


That was the truth: there were six of them, not counting Ma.


Chapter 64