Book excerpt: A Southern State of Mind-a lighthearted, contemporary Christian romance-takes place in the fictitious town of Mullerton, Mississippi, located between Jackson and Hattiesburg. It is the story of the Willis family who own prosperous Willis Farms. Matriarch Olivia Willis, not wanting to be responsible for such a large enterprise after the death of her husband, divides up the farm, giving it to loyal family members who have worked there for so many years. After receiving an unwelcome proposal at work, granddaughter Rose Ann Willis is not sure she can continue working at the prestigious Pausey and Associates Law Firm in Jackson. Since her lifelong dream has been to own her own restaurant, maybe it is time to try her hand at running a business. Grandmother Olivia helps make this a reality by providing some of the necessary finances for a Southern State of Mind Café. While remodeling the house that will serve as the new restaurant, Rose Ann is surprised to see her close high school friend, Landon Cummings, who has returned to Mullerton to repair the family home after his grandfather caused a fire at the house. He volunteers to help her get her new endeavor off the ground. Will he stay in Mullerton or go back to his girlfriend and fancy career in New York? Rose Ann and her best friend, Ava-Lynn Watson, both single, are ready for new directions in their lives. What does the future hold? Can they both find love? The answers lie in A Southern State of Mind!