In the Face of Major Loss, One Family 's Love for Food is the Bond that Unites and Heals

BEDFORD, Mass. - March 17, 2021 - PRLog -- Jenn Bouchard's debut novel is a romance novel following a woman and her sister as they navigate a major loss in the family and their individual experiences with heartache. "First Course" will be released June 21, 2021.

"First Course" incorporates descriptions of food and cooking and examines how familial bonds strengthen through the act of cooking and eating together. Bouchard says, "I wanted to write a story about life's second acts. I am a huge fan of Nora Ephron, and I loved how she so deftly integrated recipes into HEARTBURN while writing about love and loss. Coastal Maine was the perfect backdrop for a story about an imperfect yet endearing family and the role of food in figuring it all out."

When four life-altering catastrophes hit in just one day—including the loss of her parents in a tragic plane crash—twenty-four-year-old Janie Whitman retreats to her family's summer house in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. Here she tries to provide stability for her older sister Alyssa and two young nieces by cooking them amazing food.

Through a mix-up with the alumni office at her parents' alma mater, Janie meets a young high school guidance counselor named Rocky at a volunteer event, and their fast-tracked romance helps Janie to see possibilities beyond the life she had known just a few weeks prior. But with her ex-boyfriend (and former boss) making overtures beyond her wildest dreams, as well as Alyssa's estranged husband willing to do whatever it takes to win her back, the Whitman sisters are faced with big decisions.

Despite the obstacles in their way, when Janie and Alyssa are tasked with establishing a lasting memorial for their parents, they just might find the second acts they are seeking.

About the Author
Jenn Bouchard has been teaching high school social studies for twenty years. She is an avid cook, volunteer for good causes, and devoted Red Sox fan. A graduate of Bates College and Tufts University, she lives in the Boston suburbs with her husband and two children.

About the Publisher
TouchPoint Press is a traditional publisher of fiction and nonfiction. Our staff is comprised of professionals whose collective experience in publishing, editing, journalism, design, and marketing set the stage behind our growing list of published titles. We are proud to work with talented authors and strive to be as innovative and energetic as possible from acquisitions to promotion before and after publication.