What the flood exposed, she must rebuild.

As a new military spouse, Collette is embarking on a life-changing journey, leaving behind all she’s ever known in Cleveland, Ohio, to follow her husband on military orders to New Orleans, Louisiana. Just as she’s learning to ignore her anxiety and adapt to life in NOLA, Hurricane Katrina destroys the city and shocks the entire country. Suddenly, she is confronted with the harsh new realities of married, military, and southern life all at once. Losing her home is only the first of the challenges Collette must face as the hurricane reveals the cracks in the foundation of her house and identity.

Allisan Beck’s debut novel, When the Bowl Filled, is an emotional story that embodies the realities of those rocked by natural disaster and unforeseen circumstances. Collette’s experiences give you a glimpse into what life was like in NOLA before, during, and after the storm, and shed light on the sacrifices military families underwent to rebuild the city. As she works to slowly rebuild her home, Collette must also try to rebuild her life or risk living with permanent damage.