Pepper writes stories that span the gamut from humorous to heartfelt, however the common theme is crossing boundaries. Pepper's unique stories often tackle taboo topics such as mental illness and homelessness. Readers will find themselves questioning their own sense of right and wrong, attraction and desire. In addition to writing, the author is also an artist, an introverted recluse, a self proclaimed empath and a foodie. Pepper Pace can be contacted at: pepperpace.author@yahoo.com

In 1977 12-year old Vanessa White lives just out of reach of the projects that both scare and entice her. It is the year that she meets 14-year old Scotty Tremont, one of the few white boys to live in the ghetto. Initially afraid that Scotty intends to beat her up because her cousin called him white trash, Vanessa soon learns that although Scotty is a ‘Trick Baby’ and will probably be a dope boy just like his brother, he also somehow manages to be compassionate. 

Scotty is learning something as well; that his path has not been laid out before him and that everything isn’t necessarily everything. This book series takes the reader back to the 70’s style urban lit stories of life in the ghetto. It begins in the 70s and moves throughout the decades following the lives of people whose stories have intertwined in a romantic, tragic, sometimes funny, tale of street life. This story is for adult readers only and contains mature themes including language, sex, violence, drugs and racism. 


Everything is Everything

Juan Carlos, her mother, Scotty's mother and Tino; these were all images that fueled her nightmares, and thankfully they were forgotten as soon as she awakened the next morning, although she would wear the evidence of her sleepless night in the dark circles beneath her eyes.  


Leelah went down the hill to pick up Jalissa while Vanessa ate cereal, still in pajamas despite the fact that she should be in class right now. 


When she returned with the unusually quiet girl Vanessa didn't comment on Jalissa's black eye or the scratches that ran down her face. When she took off her coat Vanessa saw a fresh bite mark on her arm and anger welled up in her. 


Silently Vanessa got up and retrieved a bowl and spoon and then got the milk out of the refrigerator. She put it in front of Jalissa who poured Sugar Corn Puffs into her bowl along with a large amount of milk. The younger girl always used too much milk because she said what was left in the bowl was dessert.


Chapter 33