Dark Delta Deep, Blue Goodbye

Book excerpt: Kimberly Kincaid, sixteen, had to move from the Delta town of Crossroads when her father died in a logging accident, but when Venus Bolton, all-state center on the Crossroads championship basketball team dies giving birth, Kimberly insists in going to her funeral even though she has no car. "Hot" Haliday, carefree, strong, and basically good, gladly takes her in his Z-300 to Sweet Lily Church. Kimberly, the point guard on the basketball team sees her many admirers. She is blessed not only with physical beauty, but with a kind heart, high morals, courage, and common sense. As Venus requested, Kimberly sang "Precious Memories." Afterwards, she confronts the father of Venus' baby boy and cows him down. Then, Kimberly and "Hot" visit Vicki, Kimberly's sister, who struggles to put food on the table for her and her child, born out of wedlock. "Hot" vows that he will return with Kimberly, and he will force some big changes in Crossroads.