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

"They call me Valentino for a reason," and Vanessa recognized a sly tone in his voice that reminded her of the way Mr. Johnny was whispering to Jalissa one day. Vanessa had demanded to know what the man had said to her, but Jalissa just shrugged it off and said she didn't know. She ignored his foolishness. 


"Now you put your trust in me and I will take us places." Tino continued. "You will be living even better than you remember up on the Hilltop. Will you trust me? Will you trust me?" He whispered sounding insane. She was scared now. He stroked her hair and said shhh even though she hadn't said a word. Then he kissed her again and this time his mouth lingered and moved over hers and she realized that he was kissing her like the people in the movies!


She pulled back quickly, cringing from him.


"Trust me. Will you trust me?" He whispered staring deeply into her eyes.


"I … I have to go home now." She whispered. But he wouldn't back up and allow her to get up.


Chapter 47