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Dre Thomas and Angela Evans #3
Abuse of Discretion
Graylin Alexander is a model fourteen-year-old. When his adolescent curiosity gets the best of him, Graylin finds himself embroiled in a sexting scandal that threatens to ruin his life. Jenny Ungerman, the attorney hired to defend Graylin, is smart, confident and committed. She isn’t thrilled, however, when ex-prosecutor Angela Evans joins Graylin’s defense team. The two women instantly butt heads. Can they put aside their differences long enough to ensure Graylin gets justice?
Unbeknownst to Angela, her boyfriend Dre is wrestling with his own drama. Someone from his past wants him dead. For Dre, his response is simple—kill or be killed.
READ AN EXCERPT!
Chapter 1
Graylin
“What’s the matter, Mrs. Singletary? Why do I have to go to the principal’s office?”
I’m walking side-by-side down the hallway with my second-period teacher. Students are huddled together staring and pointing at us like we’re zoo animals. When a teacher at Marcus Preparatory Academy escorts you to the principal’s office, it’s a big deal. Nothing like this has ever happened to me before. I’m a good student. I never get in trouble.
Mrs. Singletary won’t answer my questions or even look at me. I hope she knows she’s only making me more nervous.
“Mrs. Singletary, please tell me what’s wrong?”
“Just follow me. You’ll find out in a minute.”
I’m about to ask her another question when it hits me. Something happened to my mama!
My mama has been on and off drugs for as long as I can remember. I haven’t seen her in months and I don’t even know where she lives. No one does. I act like it doesn’t bother me, but it does. I’ve prayed to God a million times to get her off drugs. Even though my granny says God answers prayers, He hasn’t answered mine, so I stopped asking.
I jump in front of my teacher, forcing her to stop. “Was there a death in my family, Mrs. Singletary? Did something happen to my mama?”
“No, there wasn’t a death.”
She swerves around me and keeps going. I have to take giant steps to keep up with her.
Once we’re inside the main office, Mrs. Singletary points at a wooden chair outside Principal Keller’s office. “Have a seat and don’t move.”
She goes into the principal’s office and closes the door. My head begins to throb like somebody’s banging on it from the inside. I close my eyes and try to calm down. I didn’t do anything wrong. It’s probably just—Oh snap! The picture!
I slide down in the chair and pull my iPhone from my right pocket. My hands are trembling so bad I have to concentrate to keep from dropping it. I open the photos app and delete the last picture on my camera roll. If anyone saw that picture, I’d be screwed.
Loud voices seep through the closed door. I lean forward, straining to hear. It almost sounds like Mrs. Singletary and Principal Keller are arguing.
“It’s only an allegation. We don’t even know if it’s true.”
“I don’t care. We have to follow protocol.
Unbeknownst to Angela, her boyfriend Dre is wrestling with his own drama. Someone from his past wants him dead. For Dre, his response is simple—kill or be killed.
READ AN EXCERPT!
Chapter 1
Graylin
“What’s the matter, Mrs. Singletary? Why do I have to go to the principal’s office?”
I’m walking side-by-side down the hallway with my second-period teacher. Students are huddled together staring and pointing at us like we’re zoo animals. When a teacher at Marcus Preparatory Academy escorts you to the principal’s office, it’s a big deal. Nothing like this has ever happened to me before. I’m a good student. I never get in trouble.
Mrs. Singletary won’t answer my questions or even look at me. I hope she knows she’s only making me more nervous.
“Mrs. Singletary, please tell me what’s wrong?”
“Just follow me. You’ll find out in a minute.”
I’m about to ask her another question when it hits me. Something happened to my mama!
My mama has been on and off drugs for as long as I can remember. I haven’t seen her in months and I don’t even know where she lives. No one does. I act like it doesn’t bother me, but it does. I’ve prayed to God a million times to get her off drugs. Even though my granny says God answers prayers, He hasn’t answered mine, so I stopped asking.
I jump in front of my teacher, forcing her to stop. “Was there a death in my family, Mrs. Singletary? Did something happen to my mama?”
“No, there wasn’t a death.”
She swerves around me and keeps going. I have to take giant steps to keep up with her.
Once we’re inside the main office, Mrs. Singletary points at a wooden chair outside Principal Keller’s office. “Have a seat and don’t move.”
She goes into the principal’s office and closes the door. My head begins to throb like somebody’s banging on it from the inside. I close my eyes and try to calm down. I didn’t do anything wrong. It’s probably just—Oh snap! The picture!
I slide down in the chair and pull my iPhone from my right pocket. My hands are trembling so bad I have to concentrate to keep from dropping it. I open the photos app and delete the last picture on my camera roll. If anyone saw that picture, I’d be screwed.
Loud voices seep through the closed door. I lean forward, straining to hear. It almost sounds like Mrs. Singletary and Principal Keller are arguing.
“It’s only an allegation. We don’t even know if it’s true.”
“I don’t care. We have to follow protocol.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 25, 2017
153 people are currently reading
506 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Samuels Young
28 books457 followersAward-winning author and attorney Pamela Samuels Young writes mysteries that matter. Dubbed “John Grisham with a sister’s twist” by one reviewer, Pamela’s fast-paced novels tackle important social issues.
Her most recent legal thriller, Failure to Protect, takes on the bullying epidemic and its devastating aftermath. Pamela won the prestigious NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Fiction for her thriller Anybody’s Daughter, which provides a realistic look inside the world of child sex trafficking. Her courtroom drama Abuse of Discretion centers around a troubling teen sexting case. #Anybody’s Daughter and #Abuse of Discretion are young adult editions of the two books. A young adult version of Failure to Protect is forthcoming.
Pamela also writes erotically sassy romantic suspense under the pen name Sassy Sinclair. A natural hair enthusiast, Pamela writes about her own empowering natural hair journey in Kinky Coily: A Natural Hair Resource Guide.
Prior to retiring from the practice of law to write full time, Pamela worked as Managing Counsel for Toyota specializing in labor and employment law. A former journalist, she spent several years as a television news writer and associate producer in Detroit and Los Angeles. Pamela received her bachelor’s degree from USC and also earned graduate degrees from Northwestern University and UC Berkeley School of Law. The Compton native is a frequent speaker on the topics of sex trafficking, bullying, online safety, fiction writing, self-empowerment, and pursuing your passion.
Pamela loves connecting with her fans! To invite her to a speaking engage or a book club meeting via Skype, Facebook Live, FaceTime, Zoom, speakerphone or in person, email her at authorpamelasamuelsyoung@gmail.com. To read excerpts of Pamela’s books, visit her websites at www.pamelasamuelsyoung.com and www.sassysinclair.com .
Her most recent legal thriller, Failure to Protect, takes on the bullying epidemic and its devastating aftermath. Pamela won the prestigious NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Fiction for her thriller Anybody’s Daughter, which provides a realistic look inside the world of child sex trafficking. Her courtroom drama Abuse of Discretion centers around a troubling teen sexting case. #Anybody’s Daughter and #Abuse of Discretion are young adult editions of the two books. A young adult version of Failure to Protect is forthcoming.
Pamela also writes erotically sassy romantic suspense under the pen name Sassy Sinclair. A natural hair enthusiast, Pamela writes about her own empowering natural hair journey in Kinky Coily: A Natural Hair Resource Guide.
Prior to retiring from the practice of law to write full time, Pamela worked as Managing Counsel for Toyota specializing in labor and employment law. A former journalist, she spent several years as a television news writer and associate producer in Detroit and Los Angeles. Pamela received her bachelor’s degree from USC and also earned graduate degrees from Northwestern University and UC Berkeley School of Law. The Compton native is a frequent speaker on the topics of sex trafficking, bullying, online safety, fiction writing, self-empowerment, and pursuing your passion.
Pamela loves connecting with her fans! To invite her to a speaking engage or a book club meeting via Skype, Facebook Live, FaceTime, Zoom, speakerphone or in person, email her at authorpamelasamuelsyoung@gmail.com. To read excerpts of Pamela’s books, visit her websites at www.pamelasamuelsyoung.com and www.sassysinclair.com .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
September 28, 2017
Must read.
Author Pamela Samuels Young always write about our societies problems, especially youngsters. She knows intimately what she is writing, always trying to open our eyes and be better parents, grandparents. Technology in our youngsters hand not only educational, also exposing them many things that harms them. This book about how innocent fourteen years old boy dragged to court for the picture he received on his cell phone at the school.
Author Pamela Samuels Young always write about our societies problems, especially youngsters. She knows intimately what she is writing, always trying to open our eyes and be better parents, grandparents. Technology in our youngsters hand not only educational, also exposing them many things that harms them. This book about how innocent fourteen years old boy dragged to court for the picture he received on his cell phone at the school.
April 8, 2018
I wish I could give this book ten stars
Pamela Samuels young had done it again. In this third book in the series, Dre and his niece Brianna are back. Not only are they be g threatened, but Graylin, son of Dre's friend, Gus is in trouble for receiving a picture of a naked classmate and is in danger of being convicted and having to register as a sex offender at the age of 14. this book is powerful, and I had to put it down several time just to keep from totally losing it and get too upset. A must read for teenagers and any adult with teenagers in their lives.
Pamela Samuels young had done it again. In this third book in the series, Dre and his niece Brianna are back. Not only are they be g threatened, but Graylin, son of Dre's friend, Gus is in trouble for receiving a picture of a naked classmate and is in danger of being convicted and having to register as a sex offender at the age of 14. this book is powerful, and I had to put it down several time just to keep from totally losing it and get too upset. A must read for teenagers and any adult with teenagers in their lives.
January 9, 2020
Great read!
This book was everything! It had me mad as hell at the judicial system and its politics, and on the edge of my seat. As a parent to an 11yr old with a phone I'm definitely having an in depth conversation about sexting with her. Great read.
This book was everything! It had me mad as hell at the judicial system and its politics, and on the edge of my seat. As a parent to an 11yr old with a phone I'm definitely having an in depth conversation about sexting with her. Great read.
March 20, 2019
Parents beware! If you haven’t checked your children’s cell phones recently, you may be so inclined to do so after having read this shocking new book by my favorite legal author, Pamela Samuels Young.
Do you remember when you were 14 years old? For some of us, that may be too far back to remember, but I can tell you one thing, sexting wasn’t something that any of us knew about, let alone heard of. Graylin Alexander is living in the here and now. And unfortunately, he’s been summoned to the Principal’s office unaware of why he’s being asked to go. As he nervously awaits, he’s greeted by two police officers with critical issues in mind. When Graylin asks what he did wrong, the officers immediately tell him he’s been accused of harboring pornography—and not just any pornography but a naked picture of one of his schoolmates. Of course, Graylin flat out denies this allegation, and when further probed by the police, they ask if he has his cell phone on him, which, again, Graylin denies. But what you must keep in mind is that Graylin specifically, on more than one occasion, told the police he was not permitted to speak with them without his father being present. Humph, did that matter to the police? Hell no! They continued to grill Graylin as if he was some hardened criminal.
What felt like an eternity to Graylin only amounted to about fifteen minutes of an interrogation, but Graylin being a basic good kid and having excellent grades, just wanted to get to his grandma and be in the creature comforts he knew to be his home. When his cell phone begins ringing in his back pocket, the police knew they had their man—oh, my bad, their teen. Or so it would seem? They continually demanded he give up his password to his phone, and after much intimidation tactics, Graylin does so unwillingly, and there beholds the naked picture of his schoolmate. What was Graylin to do? All the smarts in the world wasn’t going to get him out of this one.
Finally, Gus, Graylin’s father, gets to the school to try and sort the whole misunderstanding out, the police had no time to explain their position to him. They handcuffed Graylin, put him in the police car and drove him off to a world he had never known—juvenile hall. This young man didn’t have anything on his squeaky-clean record, is now in the system blemished. So, what did Graylin do when he was locked up in a kid’s prison? Resorted to be a kid and cried his eyes out. What did he do that was so wrong? Hell, boys back in the day hid Playboy magazines and any others in their bedrooms to look at for self-satisfaction. But kids today have technology and it is not always on their side.
This was a tough story to read because it felt so damn real. OMG, I found myself screaming at the situation because it was so unfair for what happened to Graylin. He was a typical young boy, curious about the opposite sex, not trying to hurt anyone, and because someone texted him a sexted picture through Snapchat, his world literally turned upside down and back around again. Wow, I had no idea this sort of thing was happening in real life. There are tons of kids facing real adult court with heavy adult charges put upon them simply because they possessed nude photos of teens their age or a little older. To treat these children like they are pedophiles is downright preposterous to me. What are the court systems thinking by doing this to kids?
As usual, Young never lets me down. When I tell you this sista can write, that is truly an understatement. She’s a happening author of today! She makes the reader pay attention to real-life issues like it’s nobody’s business. If you don’t come away learning something from her novels, then you are incapable of understanding what it means to be educated. I’m here to tell you this book blew me away. I just did not want to believe our courts are being bogged down with these idiotic cases that don’t have any business taking up the people’s time and taxpayers’ money. My God, where does it end?
I give Abuse of Discretion five righteous stars! Wowwwww! I tell you, readers, Pamela Samuels Young is one of my favorite authors for a reason. She never ever lets me down. If you’re looking for an author that is socially adept and brings the drama, you don’t need to look any further—this author will do that for you and more! What an outstanding read, and, as usual, I devoured the book too quickly, but it cannot be helped. When the writing is that good and the storyline is so spot on, how do you put a book down like that? Umm, you don’t.
Do you remember when you were 14 years old? For some of us, that may be too far back to remember, but I can tell you one thing, sexting wasn’t something that any of us knew about, let alone heard of. Graylin Alexander is living in the here and now. And unfortunately, he’s been summoned to the Principal’s office unaware of why he’s being asked to go. As he nervously awaits, he’s greeted by two police officers with critical issues in mind. When Graylin asks what he did wrong, the officers immediately tell him he’s been accused of harboring pornography—and not just any pornography but a naked picture of one of his schoolmates. Of course, Graylin flat out denies this allegation, and when further probed by the police, they ask if he has his cell phone on him, which, again, Graylin denies. But what you must keep in mind is that Graylin specifically, on more than one occasion, told the police he was not permitted to speak with them without his father being present. Humph, did that matter to the police? Hell no! They continued to grill Graylin as if he was some hardened criminal.
What felt like an eternity to Graylin only amounted to about fifteen minutes of an interrogation, but Graylin being a basic good kid and having excellent grades, just wanted to get to his grandma and be in the creature comforts he knew to be his home. When his cell phone begins ringing in his back pocket, the police knew they had their man—oh, my bad, their teen. Or so it would seem? They continually demanded he give up his password to his phone, and after much intimidation tactics, Graylin does so unwillingly, and there beholds the naked picture of his schoolmate. What was Graylin to do? All the smarts in the world wasn’t going to get him out of this one.
Finally, Gus, Graylin’s father, gets to the school to try and sort the whole misunderstanding out, the police had no time to explain their position to him. They handcuffed Graylin, put him in the police car and drove him off to a world he had never known—juvenile hall. This young man didn’t have anything on his squeaky-clean record, is now in the system blemished. So, what did Graylin do when he was locked up in a kid’s prison? Resorted to be a kid and cried his eyes out. What did he do that was so wrong? Hell, boys back in the day hid Playboy magazines and any others in their bedrooms to look at for self-satisfaction. But kids today have technology and it is not always on their side.
This was a tough story to read because it felt so damn real. OMG, I found myself screaming at the situation because it was so unfair for what happened to Graylin. He was a typical young boy, curious about the opposite sex, not trying to hurt anyone, and because someone texted him a sexted picture through Snapchat, his world literally turned upside down and back around again. Wow, I had no idea this sort of thing was happening in real life. There are tons of kids facing real adult court with heavy adult charges put upon them simply because they possessed nude photos of teens their age or a little older. To treat these children like they are pedophiles is downright preposterous to me. What are the court systems thinking by doing this to kids?
As usual, Young never lets me down. When I tell you this sista can write, that is truly an understatement. She’s a happening author of today! She makes the reader pay attention to real-life issues like it’s nobody’s business. If you don’t come away learning something from her novels, then you are incapable of understanding what it means to be educated. I’m here to tell you this book blew me away. I just did not want to believe our courts are being bogged down with these idiotic cases that don’t have any business taking up the people’s time and taxpayers’ money. My God, where does it end?
I give Abuse of Discretion five righteous stars! Wowwwww! I tell you, readers, Pamela Samuels Young is one of my favorite authors for a reason. She never ever lets me down. If you’re looking for an author that is socially adept and brings the drama, you don’t need to look any further—this author will do that for you and more! What an outstanding read, and, as usual, I devoured the book too quickly, but it cannot be helped. When the writing is that good and the storyline is so spot on, how do you put a book down like that? Umm, you don’t.
November 29, 2017
This is the second book I have read by this author. This book features Angela Evans from one of the author's other series as well as her boyfriend, Dre. I have not read the series featuring Angela but I liked what I experienced in regards to her driven personality. Plus, I thought that she and Dre made a good couple.
Back to Angela. She is a strong but smart woman and that is why in the beginning she and Jenny did butt heads. Yet, this is only because Jenny was talented as well. However, when these two women got together, they were a strong powerhouse. It was nice to see them in action. Which the case that they had involving Graylin was an interesting one. I like the author did not realize just how serious the nature of receiving a nude picture from a minor is. I knew that sending one was really bad and of course receiving one is bad as well but if you did not prompt the sender from sending you the photo; should you be branded a sex offender for life. Graylin seemed like a good kid. I liked all of the characters and the storyline was nicely done. I now want to go back and read the prior novels to get more background about the characters. Abuse of Discretion is worth you time to check out.
Back to Angela. She is a strong but smart woman and that is why in the beginning she and Jenny did butt heads. Yet, this is only because Jenny was talented as well. However, when these two women got together, they were a strong powerhouse. It was nice to see them in action. Which the case that they had involving Graylin was an interesting one. I like the author did not realize just how serious the nature of receiving a nude picture from a minor is. I knew that sending one was really bad and of course receiving one is bad as well but if you did not prompt the sender from sending you the photo; should you be branded a sex offender for life. Graylin seemed like a good kid. I liked all of the characters and the storyline was nicely done. I now want to go back and read the prior novels to get more background about the characters. Abuse of Discretion is worth you time to check out.
January 3, 2018
Abuse of Discretion is about a boy that saves a picture of and is the one that got accused of something he did not do. What will the justice system do about it? Is the adult system better than the juvenile criminal justice system?
The author takes you inside the juvenile criminal justice system with this story and plot. It about a boy and sex-texting. Will Graylin be put in jail for something he did not do or will be saved interact and that he got a photo of a classmate saved on his phone? He was just doing what young kids do at their age of fourteen. Will the truth be set him free or not.
Why do juvenile criminal justice system judges like to lock up teens and not let them go? It could have to do with something about the law written by the state. We get an inside of the system and to find out what happens we see Pamela and Angelica take on the case of depending Graylin.
Dres Thomas has his own problems to deal with. Will he outwit the Shepard or will he be killed himself? You will need to find out by reading. Pamela Samuels Young write the plot well. She throws in twist and turns and mystery throughout the book.
The author takes you inside the juvenile criminal justice system with this story and plot. It about a boy and sex-texting. Will Graylin be put in jail for something he did not do or will be saved interact and that he got a photo of a classmate saved on his phone? He was just doing what young kids do at their age of fourteen. Will the truth be set him free or not.
Why do juvenile criminal justice system judges like to lock up teens and not let them go? It could have to do with something about the law written by the state. We get an inside of the system and to find out what happens we see Pamela and Angelica take on the case of depending Graylin.
Dres Thomas has his own problems to deal with. Will he outwit the Shepard or will he be killed himself? You will need to find out by reading. Pamela Samuels Young write the plot well. She throws in twist and turns and mystery throughout the book.
November 9, 2017
Very Emotional Read
This was a very emotional book, I have heard all of her books are informative and emotional. I was so sad and mad through out this book I had to stop reading and go find out the outcome because my nerves were so tore up I could not take it. This author educated me on this subject, I highly recommend this book to all parents.
Victorious Ladies Reading Book Club
This was a very emotional book, I have heard all of her books are informative and emotional. I was so sad and mad through out this book I had to stop reading and go find out the outcome because my nerves were so tore up I could not take it. This author educated me on this subject, I highly recommend this book to all parents.
Victorious Ladies Reading Book Club
October 1, 2017
This book is a must read. I was enlightened to a lot about child pornography and sexting. I think everyone that reads this book should educate the young people they come in contact with about technology, social media etc. Great job Pamela Samuels Young for opening our eyes to this hot topic involving our young people.
October 9, 2017
Excellent.
February 27, 2018
Sexting is the topic of this excellent courtroom drama. Fourteen-year-old Graylin has a nude photo of a classmate on his cell phone, and someone has tipped off the police. Graylin didn’t take the photo; someone Snapchatted him anonymously, but he took a screenshot and now faces charges of possession of child pornography. He hasn’t distributed it or even shown it to his best friend, but if he is found guilty as charged, this straight-A student and all-around good kid will go on record as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
Compounding the odds against him is the fact that he is a black kid with an ex-con for a dad and a drug-addicted mother who has disappeared from his life. His school friends and family and his attorney, Angela Evans, are all black, as is the author, which gives this novel a welcome freshness in point of view and experience. And, it is a fast-paced, all-absorbing story that was hard to put down.
The story is told through the eyes of several individuals, including Graylin, his friends and family, Angela, and also The Shepherd, a sex trafficker who specializes in kidnapping children. As book three in the Dre Thomas Series, it continues the story of Angela’s boyfriend, Dre Thomas, whose niece was taken by The Shepherd. His testimony has put The Shepherd in prison, and The Shepherd is out for revenge.
Author Pamela Samuels Young is an attorney with experience in the juvenile justice system, and online safety is one of her areas of interest. Sex trafficking in the United States is another topic she covers in an effort to raise awareness about dangers facing young people today. Abuse of Discretion makes a thought-provoking statement about current-day sexual permissiveness in advertising, movies, and television: How can we blame today’s children for accepting as normal what we have allowed to become ubiquitous in their environment?
Compounding the odds against him is the fact that he is a black kid with an ex-con for a dad and a drug-addicted mother who has disappeared from his life. His school friends and family and his attorney, Angela Evans, are all black, as is the author, which gives this novel a welcome freshness in point of view and experience. And, it is a fast-paced, all-absorbing story that was hard to put down.
The story is told through the eyes of several individuals, including Graylin, his friends and family, Angela, and also The Shepherd, a sex trafficker who specializes in kidnapping children. As book three in the Dre Thomas Series, it continues the story of Angela’s boyfriend, Dre Thomas, whose niece was taken by The Shepherd. His testimony has put The Shepherd in prison, and The Shepherd is out for revenge.
Author Pamela Samuels Young is an attorney with experience in the juvenile justice system, and online safety is one of her areas of interest. Sex trafficking in the United States is another topic she covers in an effort to raise awareness about dangers facing young people today. Abuse of Discretion makes a thought-provoking statement about current-day sexual permissiveness in advertising, movies, and television: How can we blame today’s children for accepting as normal what we have allowed to become ubiquitous in their environment?
December 11, 2017
I did not expect this book to enrage me and pull at my heartstrings at the same time.
This is the 3rd in a series and while reading the first two might help understand a few situations a little better, it is fine to read on its own.
You might have heard of sexting and that many teens do it all the time. This book takes a look at that issue and the case where the state of California is charging those teens as sex offenders and in same cases with a felony. If you stop for a moment and think of the long term effects should a 12-17 year old be charged with a felony of possession of pornography, it can be quite startling. Sure not all kids are angels but imagine a seemingly innocent child taken to the extremes because of how a law is being interpreted.
This story kept me on edge because it was hard to know how this was going to turn out. The various twists and turns of the legal system, the parents of the young woman affected and even the underlying story about Dre and his past was enough to keep me on my toes trying to figure out how it might end. I liked how Jenny and Angela came together to defend Graylin and despite some of Graylin's actions, I felt bad for the situation in which he was placed by over zealous parents and the DA's office.
I didn't want the story to end and appreciated the notes from the author at the end to discuss this topic and how it needs to be discussed with your children, no matter their age. I plan to have a discussion with mine!
This is the 3rd in a series and while reading the first two might help understand a few situations a little better, it is fine to read on its own.
You might have heard of sexting and that many teens do it all the time. This book takes a look at that issue and the case where the state of California is charging those teens as sex offenders and in same cases with a felony. If you stop for a moment and think of the long term effects should a 12-17 year old be charged with a felony of possession of pornography, it can be quite startling. Sure not all kids are angels but imagine a seemingly innocent child taken to the extremes because of how a law is being interpreted.
This story kept me on edge because it was hard to know how this was going to turn out. The various twists and turns of the legal system, the parents of the young woman affected and even the underlying story about Dre and his past was enough to keep me on my toes trying to figure out how it might end. I liked how Jenny and Angela came together to defend Graylin and despite some of Graylin's actions, I felt bad for the situation in which he was placed by over zealous parents and the DA's office.
I didn't want the story to end and appreciated the notes from the author at the end to discuss this topic and how it needs to be discussed with your children, no matter their age. I plan to have a discussion with mine!
May 24, 2018
Reality
This book touched home for me. I’m an educator that has witnessed charges being pressed against a 6th grader due to “sexting”. I could feel all of the emotions of each character as the author peeled back all of the daunting causes and effects of today’s “ikids”. I have never finished a book that was this long in such a short period of time. It kept me engaged and I’m glad Graylin had a happy ending. Unfortunately there are so many students I know that didn’t get such luck.
This book touched home for me. I’m an educator that has witnessed charges being pressed against a 6th grader due to “sexting”. I could feel all of the emotions of each character as the author peeled back all of the daunting causes and effects of today’s “ikids”. I have never finished a book that was this long in such a short period of time. It kept me engaged and I’m glad Graylin had a happy ending. Unfortunately there are so many students I know that didn’t get such luck.
October 11, 2018
Informative and unfortunately, necessary
Pamela Samuels Young has done it again! The story was gripping, as all of her stories have been. She did an outstanding job educating readers about the consequences of teens sexting and the fact that several states need to revisit their laws regarding cases such as Graylin's.
Pamela Samuels Young has done it again! The story was gripping, as all of her stories have been. She did an outstanding job educating readers about the consequences of teens sexting and the fact that several states need to revisit their laws regarding cases such as Graylin's.
September 28, 2017
*More in-depth review to come*
This a timely novel, especially for parents.
With a thicket of subplots and told from several points of view, the story is well-written.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This a timely novel, especially for parents.
With a thicket of subplots and told from several points of view, the story is well-written.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 30, 2017
Amazing read. I highly recommend to parents with teenage children. I found this book to be educational and entertaining. Bravo Ms. Young!!
March 25, 2018
EXCELLENT
Me Young each time I read one of your books I end up tired the next day, cause I couldn't put it down. I will tell all of my friends and colleagues to check their children,'s pbone. Fast paced, great read
Me Young each time I read one of your books I end up tired the next day, cause I couldn't put it down. I will tell all of my friends and colleagues to check their children,'s pbone. Fast paced, great read
September 6, 2018
A sign of the times
I recently saw book 1 So I started it Then after not being able to put it down I read 2 immediately after 1 Now after 3 I'm greedy, I wan t more
I recently saw book 1 So I started it Then after not being able to put it down I read 2 immediately after 1 Now after 3 I'm greedy, I wan t more
November 9, 2017
Fantastic writing! Very informative! Keep up the great work!
I have read all of Ms. Youngs books! The subject matter is always relevant and very well written! Great job!
I have read all of Ms. Youngs books! The subject matter is always relevant and very well written! Great job!
November 17, 2017
Chapters Book Club- This was an excellent read!! The idea of what sexting means in the 21st century and how it has the potential to ruining the lives of our children is astonishing!! Our judicial system is flawed in the worst way and the author gave us a scary glimpse of how any one of can be GUILTY until proven innocent and sometimes justice comes about in ways we cannot see coming!! I'm glad that both of my children made it to their 18th birthdays with no run-ins with our unjust system of justice, but I also know that adulthood isn't a free pass...Stay Woke!!!
November 1, 2017
The third book in the Dre Thomas series addresses sexting amongst teenagers and the consequences if caught.
Someone has reported that 14 year old Graylin is in possession of a nude picture of one of his classmates, and he's charged with possession of pornography. Angela and Jenny join forces to have the charges dropped…before it's too late.
I learned so much about the negative effects of giving your teenager a smartphone and highly recommend that parents of teens and tweens read it as well.
NAACP Image Award winner @authorpsy is becoming one of my favorites, because she uses her former profession as a lawyer to educate her readers. This book deserves 💎💎💎💎💎. I'm looking forward to catching up with all of her books.
Someone has reported that 14 year old Graylin is in possession of a nude picture of one of his classmates, and he's charged with possession of pornography. Angela and Jenny join forces to have the charges dropped…before it's too late.
I learned so much about the negative effects of giving your teenager a smartphone and highly recommend that parents of teens and tweens read it as well.
NAACP Image Award winner @authorpsy is becoming one of my favorites, because she uses her former profession as a lawyer to educate her readers. This book deserves 💎💎💎💎💎. I'm looking forward to catching up with all of her books.
November 8, 2017
Fast paced and exciting
Pamela Samuels Young doesn't let me down in this third title of Dre Thomas series. I like the way she writes: short chapters with plot twists and cliff hangers. One could actually read her thrillers in a few days if schedule allowed. Can't wait to catch up with Angela and Dre in their next life episode.
Pamela Samuels Young doesn't let me down in this third title of Dre Thomas series. I like the way she writes: short chapters with plot twists and cliff hangers. One could actually read her thrillers in a few days if schedule allowed. Can't wait to catch up with Angela and Dre in their next life episode.
November 12, 2017
Another great read or in my case listen by Pamela Samuels Young. I have read three of her other books and have loved every one of them. This one is the story of a 14 year old boy accused of possession of child pornography. I loved how the author told the story, however, wasn't a fan of the narrator's female voices but the men, boys, and grandmother was great. The story flowed really well and I was never zoning while listening to it. It kept my attention and wasn't too predictable, which I really appreciate.
Even with the seriousness of the story I did get a few LOL moments. "The devil is a lie!" LOL. But of course there were some tearing moments as well. Not good while driving, but a thumbs up for the author who was able to bring out all kinds of emotions, mad, sad, confused, and finally very pleased. This is a recommended read for everyone, especially if you have a kid with a smart phone and/or computer.
As for why I took one star off, it's because I wasn't too impressed with the side story about the Shepherd from the previous books in this series. This book is a part of the Dre Thomas Series, but Dre's drama was very secondary to me. I don't mind having a side story going on but in this case I felt distracted by it. Perhaps because of being anxious to find out what happens in the main storyline. Either way it was a quick read and I really enjoyed it.
Even with the seriousness of the story I did get a few LOL moments. "The devil is a lie!" LOL. But of course there were some tearing moments as well. Not good while driving, but a thumbs up for the author who was able to bring out all kinds of emotions, mad, sad, confused, and finally very pleased. This is a recommended read for everyone, especially if you have a kid with a smart phone and/or computer.
As for why I took one star off, it's because I wasn't too impressed with the side story about the Shepherd from the previous books in this series. This book is a part of the Dre Thomas Series, but Dre's drama was very secondary to me. I don't mind having a side story going on but in this case I felt distracted by it. Perhaps because of being anxious to find out what happens in the main storyline. Either way it was a quick read and I really enjoyed it.
October 24, 2017
This book grabbed my attention from the very first page, and didn't let me go until the last page, exhausted, trembling, and very emotional. I could actually feel the anguish of what Graylin’s poor decisions caused. It opened my eyes to a serious issue that is going on around us daily – sexting, and how social media is both a gift and a curse. It really made me think long and hard, because I have nieces, nephews, and grandkids. (I will be buying them a copy to read!) All through the book, the thought that it could be one of them really struck me!
This is a MUST READ for everyone with teenagers who have electronics means of communications. This happens every day, in any town to young kids who think, "It can't happen to me, I'm way too smart for that!"
Pamela Samuels Young definitely brought her A-game once again when writing this book; I'm a fan for life!!!
This is a MUST READ for everyone with teenagers who have electronics means of communications. This happens every day, in any town to young kids who think, "It can't happen to me, I'm way too smart for that!"
Pamela Samuels Young definitely brought her A-game once again when writing this book; I'm a fan for life!!!
March 26, 2021
Good read but Ms. Pamela Samuels Young always delivers so I wasn’t surprised that I finished the entire book in 3 days.
October 27, 2017
Great book by a fabulous writer.
This book was an eye-opener. It made me realize the consequences of your actions. Teens have to be aware of their actions.
This book was an eye-opener. It made me realize the consequences of your actions. Teens have to be aware of their actions.
October 23, 2017
Omg; Going to Have Conversation with Grandson Today
Nicely Done, was entertaining and extremely informative. Calling my children today so they can check grandsons phones, computers, iPads, etc.. we truly treat our children badly in this country.
Thank you for bringing this issue to the forefront; looking forward to your next book.
Nicely Done, was entertaining and extremely informative. Calling my children today so they can check grandsons phones, computers, iPads, etc.. we truly treat our children badly in this country.
Thank you for bringing this issue to the forefront; looking forward to your next book.
October 11, 2017
Social Media the gift and the curse...
Graylin Alexander is the kid that every parent would want. With proper manners and perfect grades every body loves his sweet personality. So how is it that he finds himself caught up in a sexual scandal at just 14 years old. Not understanding he turns to his dad for help.
Jenny Ungerman is good at what she do . When she is hired to be Graylin lawyer, she soon finds out that it wont be a one -woman show Angela will also be helping her out.
Will these women be able to put all the pieces of the puzzle together to get Graylin out or will his life be ruined forever?
Excellent read. As usual Pamela pens another story that is an eye-opener for parents. In these days and times we have to be mindful of what our kids are doing on social media because it might can just save their life. I understood the message loud and clear in this book. Great job.
Graylin Alexander is the kid that every parent would want. With proper manners and perfect grades every body loves his sweet personality. So how is it that he finds himself caught up in a sexual scandal at just 14 years old. Not understanding he turns to his dad for help.
Jenny Ungerman is good at what she do . When she is hired to be Graylin lawyer, she soon finds out that it wont be a one -woman show Angela will also be helping her out.
Will these women be able to put all the pieces of the puzzle together to get Graylin out or will his life be ruined forever?
Excellent read. As usual Pamela pens another story that is an eye-opener for parents. In these days and times we have to be mindful of what our kids are doing on social media because it might can just save their life. I understood the message loud and clear in this book. Great job.
October 1, 2017
A First Rate Legal Drama
The author has done it again, writing an extraordinary, gripping, and page-turning novel filled with suspense, scandal, deception, mystery, legal shenanigans, police misconduct, and lots of prison transgressions, revenge and murder. If you read Anybody’s Daughter, protagonist Dre Thomas, and antagonist Rodney Merriweather are back, and some of the old and new multi-faceted characters come into play, drawing you into their world and creating more conflict, dark and gritty scenarios, family discord, infidelity, sharp twists and turns, secrets and lies, where nothing is quite as it seems and where money, power and influence will determine one’s fate, slowly building up to a explosive ending. The narrative leaves the reader with the following thoughts: when you make bad decisions, you will have to face the consequences, and no matter how many illicit activities law enforcement may shut down, there will always be more to follow and unawareness of the law is no excuse. The story covers vital issues affecting teens and their cavalier activities in the digital world, which makes this book a must read by every parent, teacher and anyone who works with children.
The author has done it again, writing an extraordinary, gripping, and page-turning novel filled with suspense, scandal, deception, mystery, legal shenanigans, police misconduct, and lots of prison transgressions, revenge and murder. If you read Anybody’s Daughter, protagonist Dre Thomas, and antagonist Rodney Merriweather are back, and some of the old and new multi-faceted characters come into play, drawing you into their world and creating more conflict, dark and gritty scenarios, family discord, infidelity, sharp twists and turns, secrets and lies, where nothing is quite as it seems and where money, power and influence will determine one’s fate, slowly building up to a explosive ending. The narrative leaves the reader with the following thoughts: when you make bad decisions, you will have to face the consequences, and no matter how many illicit activities law enforcement may shut down, there will always be more to follow and unawareness of the law is no excuse. The story covers vital issues affecting teens and their cavalier activities in the digital world, which makes this book a must read by every parent, teacher and anyone who works with children.
October 10, 2017
Pamela has done it again, another awesome book! This book talks about the juvenile legal system and sexting. Sexting is a big issue among pre-teens and teens. The legal system was not being fair to this young teen. This book is an awesome read and you will gain knowledge while reading this book.
October 2, 2017
Another winner!
Of course for a fan like me, every book by this author has rated 5-PLUS stars. I have followed Dre Thomas and his boys in this series from the beginning and they never cease to keep me interested in the storyline.
Pam writes very politically correct stories, written to engage her readers in a big way.
This novel about teenagers and sexting should be read by every parent. You don't realize how dangerous it can be. Jaylin's story could be your child's story.
Of course for a fan like me, every book by this author has rated 5-PLUS stars. I have followed Dre Thomas and his boys in this series from the beginning and they never cease to keep me interested in the storyline.
Pam writes very politically correct stories, written to engage her readers in a big way.
This novel about teenagers and sexting should be read by every parent. You don't realize how dangerous it can be. Jaylin's story could be your child's story.
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