In the Shadow of the Cedar

On her family's farm in the Deep South, 14-year-old Sarah Jane clashes with her mother. At every turn, Momma crushes her daughter's dreams. Worst of all, Michael Hutchinson's warm brown eyes witness her humiliation. Sarah Jane must find a way to survive the abuse, for her young brother's sake as well as her own.

Leaving behind all they have ever known and loved, Sarah-Jane and Zeke Hunter struggle to fit into their new lives with an aunt and uncle they barely know. Although Liza and Howard Barnett appear nice enough, could they be the reason Sarah Jane is treated as an outcast at her new school? And worst of all is Michael. His behavior leads to nothing but heartbreak.

Sarah Jane Hunter had a blissful life planned--to move back home, to the farm that held precious memories and the promise of new life. The bombing of Pearl Harbor shatters her dreams. Michael's former girlfriend, Sylvia, threatens to plunge her into misery. Will her insidious assaults destroy all Sarah Jane holds dear? Or will Sarah Jane find the grit she needs to withstand, not only the turmoil of war, but also the threat to her family's security? As always, she must seek... in the shadow of the cedar.

Sarah Jane Hutchinson dreams of her husband's return from World War II. His return is nothing like her dreams. A series of accidents and illnesses have left her weary and stressed. Michael Hutchinson returns in time to see the latest accident that leaves their son scarred for life. He blames Laurie, Sarah Jane's cousin, for the mishap. Furthermore, Michael does not return alone. A vicious military dog is with him, threatening the safety of Sarah Jane and their three-year-old son.