The Fence Line — Sean Patrick O'Mordha

Since his father's death nine years ago, Ryan's mother and boyfriend have been on a constant move trying to avoid something or someone. Landing in Gage Valley, Nebraska, he suddenly finds himself thrown out of the house by the boyfriend. Perched on a rock as it begins to rain, he is on the verge of suicide when Martin drives up and coaxes him into The Beast, and takes him to the Marshall Ranch where Uncle John and Aunt Flo take Ryan into their family and finds consistency, stability, and love--from the Marshall family and from Martin who is gay. Over the course of time, he learns about hard work and his own sexuality with the help of Michelle (Mike) who shares his love. However, it's not all roses as he comes under condemnation from the local minister and racists bigots because he is not White. Bardley Sorensen, the town bully pushes the wrong buttons that ignites the powder keg within Ryan. When Ryan discovers his true heritage and is adopted by Henry Winter Eagle, life seems to be leveling off until Bardley is murdered and he and his friends are suspects. Clues have been laid throughout the story as the reader follows Det. Jorgenson's investigation to a Charlie Chan climax.