Under the Bayou Moon

Luesse (Missing Isaac) charms with this excellent post-WWII love story set in the bayous of Atchafalaya Basin. Cajun Raphe Broussard is raising his nephew Remy on his own when Ellie Fields, the town’s new schoolteacher, arrives from Alabama. Unlike previous teachers, who all wanted to beat the French language out of students, she endears herself to the children and the town with her respect and hard work. She also catches Raphe’s eye. But trouble is stirring as a powerful oil company sets its sights on what could be a fortune in oil buried beneath the town. Luesse’s multifaceted, lyrical tale dazzles with larger-than-life villains searching for a big payday, a mythical albino alligator, a mysterious “esprit Blanc” that allegedly roams the swamps, and a lovable cast. Faith themes are organic and subtle, and the sweet romance between Raphe and Ellie unfolds nicely against the backdrop of Ellie’s introduction to the community. Readers who enjoy Southern romances will love this. (Aug.)