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

“Never mind,” Junior said hastily. “Give us coffee.”


“This ain’t a restaurant, y’know.”


“I’m quite aware of that, my good man.” Julius St. Claire peered down his nose at Joe, an interesting feat, since he was sitting and Joe was standing.


“I’ll have to charge you what I would for whiskey.”


Joe stared at him for a second, then rolled his eyes and shook his head.


Sam took out the makings and rolled himself a cigarette. By the time he was done, Joe was back with two cups of coffee, which he put on the table with a snap, indicating his resentment. He tossed Sam a box of matches and stomped back behind the bar.


“Thanks.” Sam called after him. He took out a match, struck it on his boot heel, and touched the flame to the tip of his cigarette. He drew in a lungful of smoke and blew out a series of smoke rings. Only then did he ask, “What can I do for you?”


St. Claire senior answered before his son could. “I want my daughter and her children back under my roof.”


Chapter 86