Publisher's Synopsis
****** Saint Jude Children's Hospital will receive 100% of the proceeds earned on Amazon.com ****** The O'Farrell Family Farm in Santa Rosa, California, was a lush, serene homestead when operated with love by its namesakes. But after several family tragedies, 12-year-old Conor O'Farrell is forced to live with his evil stepfather, Hess McAlister, who seemingly inherits the farm. Hess is a violent and abusive alcoholic with a hidden past, and he uses Conor to work the land like an indentured Irish laborer. Conor cherishes the property and its animals but is trapped in an unloving and cruel home life. Three young friends, including Dillon O'Malley, defend Conor against abuse at the hands of Hess, leading to a bloody confrontation. Later, law enforcement and others search for Hess who is wanted for murder. Without options, Conor goes to live with relatives in Iowa. Many hearts are broken, but hope is never lost that Conor will return home one day. The years progress quickly as the lonely farm enters a long probate period and fights for its life against the environment's natural selection. In parallel, Dillon O'Malley finds himself in his own life and death struggle, but Conor is unaware of his dear friend's plight. Will Hess McAlister ever be captured? Will Conor ever return home? Can the farm and Dillon survive their respective battles for life?
