Captain Sean Mulkerin comes home from the sea to find his family home in jeopardy. After the death of his father, Sean’s determined mother, Eileen, took it upon herself to run the sprawling Rancho Malibu—until a fire destroyed her hard-earned profits. Now, on the edge of financial ruin, Eileen hopes Sean can help them find a way out. The rumor is that her late husband found gold in the wild and haunted California hills, but the only clue...

After her harrowing journey west to California, Lee Westfall has finally found a new home, one rich in gold, thanks to her magical power, a power that seems to be changing every day. But this home is rich in other ways, too: with friends who are searching for a place to be themselves, just as she is, and with love. Jefferson, her longtime best friend, hasn't stopped trying to win her heart. And Lee is more and more tempted to say yes. But her uncle...

"Adam O'Kee is the half-Cherokee son of a prosperous brothel owner from the gold rush town of Bodie, California. Young and strong-willed, Adam is forced to grow up quickly after the unexpected death of his beloved mother. Left without family, Adam flees the little town to begin his life anew at the tender age of eight. Mathilda Jamison and her family are on their way to California when they are left stranded with their covered wagon on the vast plains...