Everything is Everything

Everything #1

by Pepper Pace

Everything is Everything Book 1 is the exciting urban tale that first appeared in the smash hit box set, Scandalous Heroes. Now Pepper Pace has re-released this highly acclaimed novel with edits and additional material removed from the version appearing in the box set. "I had to edit the novel's size down in order for it to appear the box set. But I knew that once I published it independently I would add everything back into it. I hope you enjoy the newly edited version of Scotty and Vanessa's story." 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 two part 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.

Genres: Interracial Romance, Adult Fiction, Dark, Romance

263 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 15, 2014

About the author

Who is Pepper Pace?

Pepper Pace is the pen name used by the author. Born and raised in Cincinnati, she has always enjoyed creativity. At a very young age, Pepper had a gift for art and would spend most of her spare time drawing images that she later began adding stories behind. Soon writing became more important than the illustrations and though she still loved art, it took a back seat to her real love.

Pepper wrote her first novel when she was 12 years old and had written 2 more by the age of 18. Too shy to share her work with anyone, Pepper stock piled her many stories into notebooks until she came upon Literotica.com and was compelled to share her craft.

Pepper became instantly popular and won several awards each year in which she submitted a story to the site. After receiving popular feedback, she grew in confidence and created a popular blog entitled Writing Feedback where she encourages her readers to interact with her on topics concerning, music, writing, art and pop culture, and can be contacted at her blog:
pepperpacefeedback.blogspot.com/

Pepper lives in Cincinnati where many of her characters also reside.

Other Websites:

http://pepperpacefeedback.blogspot.com/
http://pepperpace.tumblr.com/

Reviews

[Michelle [Helen Geek] · Rating 4 out of 5]

10/12/2014 --

I'm going right into the review. The normal grid for my review is at the bottom. I just have to get these thoughts out of my head so I can sleep. It's 6am here.

I thought this would be an important story; survival and hope. Now, I'm now not so sure. I don't think I'll read the rest of the series. It disturbed me in a deep dark place.

What did I like about this one?
1 -- The era. Young kids in 1977. This spans 5 years or so in the late 70's/early 80's. What a strange time. I was just a bit older than these two at the time so loved that a book could take me back to this era. Not necessarily the "good times" for the world, but for me, my young adulthood. It was a raw time. We were coming out of a war that no one believed in. Many in the US were living in hopeless conditions. Remember the Saturday Night Fever craze? Well, did you pay attention to the story? Why was this guy dancing his heart out on Saturday nights? Very simple. An escape. There was a darkness there that wasn't largely explored. This could have very easily been the background for that story. The story that wasn't told ... minus the dancing.

2 -- The main characters; Scottie and Vanessa. Scottie especially. He had nothing good. Nothing. Until he started noticing this little girl Vanessa. She stood out in the projects. He's known her forever, but she didn't know him. Vanessa's mother gave all that she had to try to give her daughter a chance. Scottie, on the other hand, his mother was a drug using 'ho with eight kids at the age of 32. Scottie was the unofficial protector of his younger sibs. Hes always had this role. You can't even picture him as the littlest one running around in a diaper. He must have always been old; born old. Old man eyes. You know those people?

Neither Scottie nor Vanessa have great surroundings. They live in the projects. It has to be better somewhere, right? They really have no clue how the rest of the world lives. In their world, "Everything is Everything" .. it is what it is. Just trying to get by .. day by day. They notice each other and become the others' peace; their own personal touchstone. When they see each other, they know it will be okay, they'll be safe. For today anyway.

3 -- The story development was sound. Well developed and accurate. It disturbed me. Obviously the author has talent. Can't fault that, but the story itself is disturbing. More on this in a minute.

4 -- The secondary character development was good. There was detail and importance in the people you are introduced to.

Things that disturbed me about this one.
1 -- The drug culture portrayed in this book. In the beginning, there is a clear understanding that drugs are a blight on society. The underpinnings of this story are drugs in inner-city USA. Both Scottie and Vanessa have this topic woven throughout their lives. They survive and learn the role it will or won't play in their own story. Then, the story takes a turn. You see the excuses that are given and allowed for life to continue -- or should I say survival to continue. To use this a a means or an opportunity to escape. You, outside looking in, know this will go nowhere. Nothing good can come when this is the foundation. Nothing.

Drugs - for me is personal. When I thought the clear message was "Drugs are THE #1 blight on society", I was good with the story. I'm not seeing a good future for these two. How will they ever get out of the hole being dug for them. Do I want a front row seat at this show? This is not entertainment for me. Love can not survive with this as the rock it is built on.

2 -- The ending. What now? Did they get anything settled? Am I happy with where I think the story is going? Do I think there could EVER be any "happily ever blah blah" here? No. Just don't. Then we had the epilogue ...

3 -- The epilogue. I honestly couldn't read all of it. I could have predicted it. So, this is a series. You don't really have a cliffhanger here because how can it get better. Realistically, I don't think it can. I guess #2 will be built on fantasy because the reality .. hell .. you could go to any drug neighborhood in any city in America and see how this story ends. No happy in it.

Maybe I'm idealistic, but I try to take a lesson from every story I read. Maybe this is why I demand so much from my reads. I don't care if they are fiction, there has to be some bigger message. Maybe it's something like love will win over all, or sometimes smart people make stupid decisions, or there can be happy in the littlest things. Something... Here? There really isn't any good message. I like the title "Everything is Everything" -- this book is exactly that -- "IT is what it IS." Where is the happy in that? Where is the overarching lesson or message to take from this book? I can't see Scottie and Vanessa ending in a happy place. Just can't.

Yeah, I'm pissed. This read depressed the hell out of me. I don't find drugs or the drug culture romantic. Not in the slightest. I've seen too many friends lose everything for the sake of drugs. I've seen friends of my children become these fiends. As a mother, once you have your child past the age where you are no longer fearful daily of the kiddie snatchers, this awfulness is there. Nothing good comes from any of it. Can you win the war? Yes. Definitely. Its personal and it isn't cheap and there will be casualties. Sometimes the only way to win is to die. Bet you know that person.

This is a disturbing read. You may find it enjoyable. For me, not so much. However, for an author to pull such strong emotion out in the reader [me], shows the talent. This book has such a rawness about it. Enter at your own risk.

Happy Reading!

===================================================
Overall Rating = 4.5 Stars
Book Cover / Book Blurb / Book Title = 3 / 4 / 5 = 4 Stars
Writer’s Voice = 4 Stars
Character / Secondary Character Development = 5 / 4 = 4.5 Stars
“Did I like” Hero / Heroine = 5 / 4 = 4.5 Stars
Story / Background Story Development = 4 / 4 = 4 Stars
“Did I like the Damned Thing” = 3 Stars
Ending = 2 Stars
Worth the Chili = 4 Stars -- [$3.99 on Amazon]
Smexy [HEAT] Rating = Mild
247 pages

Note: this is a case where the grid didn't reflect my gut rating [4.5 Stars]. I went with my gut. According to my grading scale, the calculation is 3.5 Stars.

[~*~Princess Nya Vasiliev~*~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED this book! I really cannot wait until book 2 comes. It ends on a cliffy :( but it's an awesome read. Get this one people.

If you love Ms. Pace, you will not be disappointed with this one.

IMO, it's P. Pace at her best. Just under a different scope/tone. But it's brilliant! Read it!


Here you go...

[Deloris · Rating 5 out of 5]

An APB Perspective Review:

All I can say is Everything is Everything, I simply love this book Young Scotty and Vanessa's story took me in from the very first page. I enjoyed the telling of their story, from the beginning Vanessa felt a connection to Scotty but doesn't understand it and it starts out as a innocent childhood crush for Vanessa that grows into friendship and love . Scotty has a hard life that , Vanessa can't even imagine until she starts staying at her cousins house . The adventures they have remind you of being a child , even if you didn't live in the ghetto , but the hard childhood makes the story that much better. I know this story is going to stay with me,I am so invested in this couple I waited for their relationship to change , from kids to teenagers , to lovers but that was just the beginning , I can't wait to see what happens next in book 2. And while I'm waiting I'm reading more Pepper Pace books.

[Jacinta Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everything is Everything is a layered, emotional read that once I started, I simply couldn't put down. Pepper Pace has a lot of great things going for her as a writer, but her pure storytelling ability is probably her best asset. She draws you in from the very start and even if you don't like the story she's relaying, it's so compelling you can't help but crawl into her world and remain there. You don't feel like a visitor in her world, you feel like a tenant. That said, this book is dark and moody and sometimes skates on the line of being almost overbearing, though it thankfully never quite dips into that territory. If you're looking for something quick and light, this book ain't it. But if you're looking for emotional depth and superb storytelling, this book is for you. It's a great read that'll have you thinking after you've read the last word.

[Laurie Solawetz]

This story is awesome. now the movie is out. Read it first.

[Lily Java · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first read something by Pepper Pace about 2 or 3 years ago. Her skills in marrying awesome,interesting characters and deep storylines are so natural that more than any other writer I've read she speaks to my personal experiences even when she's writing about situations and people I have almost nothing in common with. That naturalism is what I think makes her storytelling so impactful.

This time in Everything is Everything she writes about a time, a place, and people I am very familiar with although my experiences weren't in the same part of the country. It is a hard existence she writes about but she also gives us the truth about the hope, love, loyalty, and integrity that is common among humans anywhere and everywhere no matter how bad our circumstances are. She shows us in humorous ways and in mysterious, scary ones. More importantly even though not every character is good or smart, they were all perfectly written because they felt real.

I couldn't help feeling throughout reading it that this wasn't what typical "Urban Lit" is or has become. But then nothing about Pepper Pace's writing is typical is it? A worthy read . . . and reminder.

[Frankly Frankie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hmm so this one was okay. There was one scene that surprised me so much I dropped my iPad and had to leave the room but other than that this was a coming of age/life in the projects story. If book 1 and book 2 came together I'd be more satisfied but now I'm not sure I really want to pay the extra 6 dollars to find out what happens to our h&h. Some pretty sad things are gearing up to happen and I'm not really here for the sads as you know.

[Jacque Golden-raines · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a whole 'nother type of HEA book. This book spans decades and the story line is gritty or should I say the story lines. The characters are REAL. As a person born in the 60s and who survived the 80s in the 'Hood, THIS book kept it all the way real. I actually read some of this book out loud to my husband because the beginning of the 'Crack Epidemic-Plague' devastated members in both our families so it took us back. It reminded me so much of me and my hubby's story without the IR component. The characters were well flashed out and the story was consistently shocking. I bought book 1 & 2 at the same time therefore I did not experience the heartbreak and angst a lot of readers did. If you're looking for a wild ride, full of bumps, bruises and triumphs then this is your Double Dose of goodness. Enjoy. Definitely a rainyALL day read.

[Valerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic Read

Pepper Pace has perfected the art of efficacious storytelling. Her naturalness and ability to bring her characters to life sets her apart, captivating and holding the reader in thrall. In Everything is Everything the passion and sorrow of Vanessa and Scotty’s story are matched only by the brilliance of the language used to express it. With resonant reflections on race, poverty, relationships, friendships and sex the narrative is highly relatable. Although the circumstances in this book do not reflect my childhood in any way it was a cathartic experience for me. It is so rich in sad pathos at times it eviscerated my soul. It is heartbreaking, hopeful (rooting for Scotty and Vanessa) and hauntingly beautiful. Authentically written from the heart…..utterly blown away. Now on to book 2.

[LaKisha Dunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg

Great book. Highly recommend. I have loved every Pepper Pace I have ever read. I initially didn't want to read this book but I'm glad I did. Jalissa and Aunty need some get back. Karma needs to stomp them. I'm concerned about Scotty's friend and the blow back that will come to Vanessa bc of Jalissa. And what's gonna happen to Scotty when they try to rope him back into the drug game. I'm excited abt the 2nd book. I hope it's better than book 1. I'm also curious abt Tino and the rest of Scotty's siblings. I can't wait for my questions to be answered in book 2. Please read this book it is fresking awesome.

[Eve Alacran · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need a minute to process this book. I really don't know how to describe my thoughts about it, this book had everything and so much more. It wasn't an easy book, I would think about something but it was always the other thing happening, so much twists, secrets, lies. The characters were flawed, but crafted in a beautiful way I loved it. I didn't agree with a lot of things they did, but it was understable, and human. Pepper Pace has this gift to make you invest in her stories, it's always intriguing and mind blowing, heartbreaking too.

I loved this book, and really think it was one of the most memorable books I read, I still can't get over it. Thank you for this Pepper !

[evette w · Rating 4 out of 5]

Explosive!!

This was not only an eye opener of a story about life in an urban neighborhood but it's about what some people will do to get out ,to survive or simply to escape. The writer in usual fashion sets the story with a wonderful build up were you.get to.meet all the players and get to learn everyone 'a secrets.This was a well developed story and good character development. The story ends a cliffhanger but you are going to appreciate this because you don't want it to end.

[Jessica James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

These books never have hot and steamy sex scenes. But this woman is a great writer that bei g said I love the way she tells the stories I found myself wondering what would happen slmetgi g I fi d lacking withal the other romance writer's I read. Great book great story amd I'm buying the next 1 now.

[Kay Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Back in the Day

Pepper Pace transported my back to my own childhood in the 70s and 80s with this true to life tale. So poetic, nostalgic, and fierce is her storytelling; it reads more like a memoir than even romantic fiction. Mind. Blown.

[Benita Cleaves · Rating 4 out of 5]

!!!

I liked this book and the development of the characters and relationships. I'm hoping for good things with Scotty and Vanessa, will find out in book 2.

[Claudette F. Butler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Different

I have read a lot of books by this author. This is the first time have read one of her books in this vein.

[kittykat AKA Ms. Tortitude · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Connie · Rating 4 out of 5]

If I ever want to read a complicated and not really a love story but more like a trial by fire, love them or leave them story, I know I can count on Pepper Pace. Everything is Everything is a story of what young people feel for one another when they are each other’s first loves. Vanessa is a 12 year old girl, not quite a teenager who is in love with a boy who is the product of a trick. Scotty is a boy who takes the world and puts it on his shoulders. With being the second sibling of 8 from a mother who is a prostitute, nothing in his life comes easily, especially with an older brother who shows him what it’s like to truly live on the wrong side of the tracks. Most of the book lays the foundation of their budding innocent love and how things take a turn for the worst for everyone in that story. There is no innocence left behind. Geez! This story is mostly depressing but I love it. Not all the time will there be fairy tale loves and the decisions that people make, truly does affect others and the lives that is carved out for them. I read this story for it of the Scandalous Hero’s book set that I own, but the author says that she revised and expanded the story so I should get it again but I don’t know if I could reread something like that again so soon. The first story didn’t end up quite so well and it’s like watching a scary story that you didn’t want to watch but can’t help it because you need to find out what happens in the end; not sure if there really will even be one.

Pepper Pace writes some of the most foul, yet compelling fucked up romances that I have come across. Not in the fact that they are extremely dark and sadistic but that she has such flawed complex characters. :) I love it.

[D · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everything is Everything takes place in the mid-seventies when the two main characters, Scotty and Vanessa, are young teenagers and the story continues for the next five years of their lives. Scotty is a very smart young man who wants more for his life but he's unsure how to get it. He's surrounded by prostitution and drugs and his has several younger siblings who depend on him for a measure of stability. Vanessa is a talented singer whose Mom moved her from the projects and is working hard to build a new life for them. Vanessa soon learns that there are things happening behind the scenes that she never knew about and it changes her perspective on her life. Vanessa and Scotty meet and she begins to develop a crush on him. Scotty begins to find solace in Vanessa and she begins to represent the peace he hopes to have in his life. As time goes on, Scotty's feelings for Vanessa deepens but before they can act on it, tragedy strikes and forces Vanessa to relocate. Several years later she returns to her old neighborhood to discover her feelings for Scotty are still there and he feels the same way. However, lies, betrayal and circumstance threatens to tear them apart again.

I loved this story. It began slow for me but picked up in the middle. I feel like I know the characters well and I'm hoping they know each other as well as they should as we continue their story in book 2. I am hoping, probably as hard as the characters are, for their happy ending. They certainly deserve it after what they've faced.

[Tamara · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know you're reading a good book when you realize you're 75% done before the first kiss even happens... Even still, I was still so invested in the story and its characters. Scotty, Vanessa and the supporting cast took you on a journey from adolescence to what they perceived to be adulthood. Even after the book was over, the cliffhanger wasn't so blatant to the point where I found myself absolutely needing part 2.

Pepper Pace is the ultimate storyteller down to the point where you find yourself so engrossed - the characters emotions then becomes yours! Everything is Everything IS everything!

[evergreencrime · Rating 2 out of 5]

Disappointed. Won't be buying part 2. Can't believe this came from pepper pace.

[Kimmiko · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great story!

I love how she tells a story. This is seventh book I've read by Pepper Pace. I've loved everyone. Looking forward to book 2.

[Chelsey Brosier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read!!

[Bonita · Rating 5 out of 5]

PHENOMENAL!

[Carolin · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

[Alicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, I got so involved in the lives of these two kids, I had to put the book down for a day or two while I braced myself for the trouble to come. But, it's a romance, so there has to be a happy ending....riiight?