The Faded Flower (Paperback or Softback)

Lilly Abbigail Smith was the proud daughter of Zelda and Jeremiah Parks. She was conceived out of desperation and birthed from tragedy. After ten years of experimenting with aphrodisiac drug and supplements and four miscarriages by her mother, she survived a horrific automobile accident that claimed her mother's life and left her Jerry to grapple over the reality of mothering and fathering her.

Both parents had their share of misfortune. Zell overcame a rape and Jerry stood up on the verge of getting married. They met on an unusual circumstance and she later got married to the one man who became her confidant, father figure and friend. They then set sail on a world-wind journey to have a child which defied them until Abby was born. Unfortunate Zell did not survive to enjoy the fruit of their toil. Yet Jerry from a very shaky start became an outstanding father.

Abby grew up being supported by "My Daddy." She has struggled against factions, defied many odds and rose to stardom to fulfil her mother's dreams. She was invited to her Al-Mamata to deliver the commencement address when she came face to face with the only man whom she ever loved but played hard to get only to have the tide turned as she was swept off her feet.

Derrick Harding hails from the fruitful community of Miles Town in Western Jamaica. After discovering early on that education ensured a bright future, he subsequently earned a degree in education. Now retired from teaching, he currently lives in Miami, Florida.