Excerpt

Billy Costello, newly arrived in northern California during the 1850 Gold Rush now must set his course to make his fortune. Having been a legal intern and apprentice in his earlier days in Missouri, he connects with a local lawyer who needs an assistant.

A gold miner, who has discovered a hidden rich vein of gold, asks Billy to help and Billy shows his native expertise in this unusual enterprise, at the end of which he is well on the way to his attorneys license and a nice bundle of cash.

Meanwhile, he has the usual ups and downs of any young lad, especially with women. His intended gets more and more bossy so Billy has to make some difficult choices. In the Gold Country there are very few eligible young ladies.

With a quick ability to size up various situations, and with the timely help of friends, he maneuvers his way through some treacherous shoals. He learns from his mistakes and adapts readily to life in the Wild West of California.

But, tragedy lurks nearby and he has a brush with it; this leaves a bitter reminder that life can be difficult, sometimes nearly impossible.

As he grows from youthfulness to manhood, with no parental guidance, he must make his way carefully, but with strong determination, choosing the way that will be best for him. Can he do it?

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