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

“We’ve got to get Al buried soon, Georgie.”


George nodded. “Bart, this is Sharps Browne. Steve talked about him.” He turned to Sharps. “This is my husband, Bart Hall.”


Sharps touched the brim of his hat. “Hall.”


“Browne.” Bart handed Davy Crockett’s reins to Steve and dismounted.


The gray tried to sidle closer to Salida, but Sharps tightened his grip on the reins and patted the stallion’s neck to quiet him. The gray’s nostrils flared, but he settled down.


“Good boy, Twilight,” Sharps murmured. He met George’s gaze. “I reckon you should take back your mare.”


“Thank you. I don’t have the money to pay you back for her—”


“Not necessary, ma’am. She was a gift. But you can talk to the captain about it.” He glanced at Steve, who smiled and gave a small nod. “I would like my saddlebags and my rifle?”


“Sure.” George returned his rifle. “You’re a good man.”


Chapter 112