The Oystercatcher of Southwark

by Erica Colahan

Philadelphia, 1897—When Italian Catholic immigrant Mary Paragano runs away to marry a Jewish boy named Jakob, she does not find her happily ever after. Instead, she is disowned by her father, abandoned by her husband, and pursued by a jealous gangster. She ends her life in an asylum, accused of trying to murder her own children.

Philadelphia, present-day—While Bella, Mary’s great-great-granddaughter, tries to cope with the pain of her recent divorce, she is approached by Sophie, a stranger claiming to be a relative of Jakob, the man who abandoned Mary to her horrible fate 125 years before. As the women piece together what happened on that tragic night, they soon realize things are not always what they seem. Was Jakob a scoundrel and Mary insane? And how have deceptions more than a century old affected their lives even in the present day?

Based on the actual events of the life of the author’s great-great-grandmother, The Oystercatcher of Southwark is a journey through the immigrant neighborhoods of South Philadelphia that focuses on the intense love of a mother for her children and the redemptive hope that God offers to all creation.

PRAISE FOR THE OYSTERCATCHER OF SOUTHWARK

“Author Erica Colahan immediately caught my interest with her debut novel, The Oystercatcher of Southwark. This multi-generational story is a testament to the strength of a mother’s love and the poignancy of youthful romance tempered with the often harsh edge of reality. Always, though, hope abounds and truth will be found out.” —Kimberley Duffy, Author of The Weight of Air

“Riveting! A remarkable tale inspired by an equally remarkable true story, The Oystercatcher of Southwark features strong, complicated characters whose search for truth, justice, self-knowledge, and faith will resonate with a diverse readership.” —Rhonda Ortiz, award-winning author of the Molly Chase series

“Based on a true story, The Oystercatcher of Southwark by Erica Colahan is an emotional journey of discovery, forgiveness, and freedom. This split-time saga displays the struggles of Italian and Jewish immigrants when prejudice and power are wielded against them. However, the tragic life of one Italian woman will inspire a future generation and readers alike.” —Danielle Grandinetti, award-winning author of The Harbored in Crow’s Nest series

“From the first heartbreaking scene of The Oystercatcher of Southwark, author Erica Colahan takes the reader on a journey that spans a century and two divergent cultures. Her use of imagery paints a clear picture and makes the story come alive through well-drawn characters. Be prepared to weep, cringe, and chuckle as you walk with Mary and Jakob through their tumultuous relationship. The strength of family theme that runs throughout will stay with you long after you finish the book.” —Susan Pope Sloan, author of Notable Book award winner Rescuing Rose, Loving Lydia, and Managing Millie

“The Oystercatcher of Southwark is a beautiful story where unimaginable struggles, faith, and ultimately redemption weave together into a narrative that’s both heartbreaking and inspiring. Colahan’s unique voice shines through this debut dual-time novel that will enthrall readers from beginning to end.” —Alyssa Schwarz, author of The Glass Cottage and Fields of Glass