The Preacher – Paperback

“Smith very cleverly lays out informational crumbs within the story; however, just when you think you have put all the pieces together, she tosses in a curve ball.” -RT Reviews

Welcome to Layton, Alabama. Population: 11,000.

It’s the kind of place where sweet tea runs through our veins, the air smells like homemade cobbler, and secrets are buried so deep, not even the confessionals are safe.

My name is Sunny Gardner. I’m seventeen years old, and my mother is already on husband number three.

This one is a preacher.

To everyone in Layton, Avery Dawson is a righteous man-a charismatic servant of God devoted to his church and his community. But beneath the Sunday sermons and carefully practiced smiles, my new stepfather is hiding something.

Something dark.

Something evil.

And when I begin uncovering the truth about the man behind the pulpit, I realize his secrets reach far beyond the walls of our home. Avery Dawson hasn’t merely deceived my mother. He has deceived an entire town.

They say the devil can assume many forms.

In Layton, Alabama, he wears a clerical collar.

And if I don’t find the courage to expose him, I may never live long enough to save anyone-including myself.

Previously published as Southern Comfort.

Contains adult subject matter, profanity, and disturbing themes. Recommended for readers eighteen and older.