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

“Salida is too tired to make that trip, Georgie. Socks can carry you.” The pony was almost as tall as Salida. “Here.” Noelle handed him her hat. She must have overheard what he’d said.


“Thanks, Noelle.” He put it on and tucked his hair under it. “How do I look?”


“Like you did back home. Be careful, Georgie.”


He pulled her into a hug. “I will. I promise.” His heart tugged as he realized he’d just given her the same vow he’d given their Mama. “I’ll be back in a couple of hours. You two are in charge.” He hugged Charlie. “I’m so proud of you. Stay safe.”


He adjusted the stirrups and swung onto Socks’s back, then rubbed her neck. “All right, girl. Let’s go.”


Except for the lights and the tinny music coming from the saloon, the town was dark and quiet. George rode behind the shops until he came to the building with the barred window. He urged Socks as close as she could get, then kicked free of the stirrups, got his feet onto the saddle, and rose.


Chapter 107