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

“Can you show me your room, Thomas? We’ll get you packed up, and then we’ll get out of this place.”


“Okay, Georgie.” Thomas took his hand and led George to the tiny room.


George gritted his teeth. The room was under the eaves and was barely large enough for a cot and a small chest of drawers.


Thomas toddled to the cot, pulled his stuffed lamb over the side, and clutched it to him. George smiled at him, although he was growing anxious. They needed to get out of this house as quickly as possible.


George pulled out the few clothes that were in the drawers, dressed Thomas, then scooped him up and hurried them back to Charlie’s room. 39


George drew the bay horses to a stop in front of the tenement on East 21stStreet and glanced over his shoulder. It had been a rough evening for the little ones, and they were fast asleep in the carriage. He hopped down, ran into the building, and tapped on Bart’s door.


Chapter 92