Overview
In a storm off the coast of the Bahamas, Elizabeth is pushed off a sailboat by her husband and left for dead. But she survives—and begins a journey of inner transformation. From courtroom battles to life-or-death encounters, Lessons from a Barracuda blends suspense, social issues, and psychological depth to show one woman’s evolution from codependence to strength.
Themes
Resilience
Women's empowerment
Workplace discrimination
Survival and self-discovery
Nature as guide and teacher
Not just a flower child
An excerpt from Lessons from a Barracuda
“I’m so glad we could get together today, because I have some big news to share with you,” Shelly says, grinning from ear to ear. It’s a nice summer day, and Sandy, Shelly and I are sipping drinks and snacking on chips and dip on my deck after work.
“Ben and I have worked through our differences about having children,” Shelly announces, “and we’re having a baby. I’m pregnant!”
Sandy and I scream and rush to her and hug her, then we celebrate with a toast to the mother-to-be.
At about 7 p.m., it’s still daylight, and we’re laughing and talking about babies’ names when my phone rings.
“Ms. McBride? This is the police. I have an important message for you. I need you to go inside your house if you’re not already inside, and stay there. Luke Jelke escaped from prison this morning, and we have reason to believe he may be headed your way. You could be in serious danger.”