Grace Livingston Hill 
Not Under the Law 

Life became complicated for Joyce Radway when her beloved aunt died. Joyce was left to live with her cousin and his wife, who saw Joyce as a handy cook, maid and babysitter. But their oppressive and demanding way of treating Joyce drove her out of the house one night and onto the road—destitute and alone.
Joyce narrowly escapes some criminals and ultimately proves just how resourceful she can be as she creates a new life for herself. Then the man who betrayed her in her neediest hour returns to vie for her heart. Is Joyce heading for another bitter heartbreak… or true love?