The Pelican Tide: A Novel

In Sharon J. Wishnows debut novel, "The Spice Queen of the Bayou," a Louisiana family and community face disaster after an oil spill threatens their shores. Chef Josie Babineaux must reconcile debts, repair relationships, and hide the true reason she left her husband while hiding the true reason she left her husband. When an explosion on an oil platform shatters their plans, Josie realizes they need more than financial recovery; they must reconcile their past and reveal the truth to find renewal.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 364 pages
Publication date: 11 June 2024
Publisher: Amazon Publishing

In the aftermath of a devastating disaster, a Louisiana family and their community face the daunting challenge of proving the strength of their bond amidst the looming threat of oil that jeopardizes their shores. Sharon J. Wishnows captivating debut novel delves into the lives of Chef Josie Babineaux, who has spent six months grappling with the debts left behind by her husband's gambling addiction and the shattered remains of her broken heart. However, with the arrival of a promising tourist season and a travel magazine heralding her as the spice queen of the bayou, Josie holds the potential to save her family's historic Cajun restaurant.

Yet, repairing her relationship with her daughter, Minnow, while concealing the true reason for her departure from her husband poses a greater challenge. Just as the first tourists flock to their island community, an explosion on an oil platform in the Gulf of Mexico disrupts their fragile plans, casting a shadow of uncertainty over everything, including the beloved mascot of the restaurant—a brown pelican that holds a special place in the family's heart.

Josie realizes that mere financial recovery is insufficient for her family. They need to confront their past and reveal the truth to cleanse the guilt and pain that have been simmering beneath the surface. In this quest for renewal, Josie embarks on a journey of self-discovery, seeking solace in the memories of her childhood and the wisdom of her grandmother. Through her struggles, she learns to embrace her authenticity and embrace the possibility of a new beginning.

As the oil spill spreads, Josie and her family find themselves at the center of the crisis, facing the imminent threat of losing their home, their livelihood, and the cherished memories they have built together. However, their resilience and determination shine through, as they rally together, offering support and assistance to their neighbors and community.

In the face of adversity, Josie discovers the true meaning of family and the power of love. She realizes that forgiveness is not just about absolving others but also about forgiving oneself. Through her courage and honesty, Josie helps her family heal and find hope for a brighter future.

Ultimately, "The Spice Queen of the Bayou" is a story of resilience, forgiveness, and the indomitable spirit of a community coming together in the face of adversity. It serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always the possibility of renewal and rebirth.

Weight: 372g
Dimension: 138 x 214 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781662518492