n nRuth and her beloved brother Philip find solace in the expanse of the Tanglewoods property. There they escape into bird watching, climbing, and general misadventures with their friend Terry. n nBut life with their Aunt is harsh, and Ruth suffers from an incorrigible temper. Just when she thinks she cant take it anymore, she learns a very special secret about a very special Shepherd. When a dreadful accident hurts one they love, Ruth and Philip learn that the Tanglewoods Secret isnt meant to be kept a secret. nn