News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“The Buzz @ Chicky-Pie’s Café” stirs a sweet recipe of Southern hospitality, redefining family beyond blood, upbringing, or skin color, and explores the poignant journey from the trauma of abuse to healing and hope.

THOUSAND OAKS, CALIFORNIA, NOVEMBER 15, 2023—Award-winning Artist and Author Iris Carignan debuts women’s fiction novel, “The Buzz @ Chicky-Pie’s Café,” Tuesday, November 14, 2023. This Modern Fiction novel is full of hearty, uplifting humor, a gripping plot, and a strong redemptive message.

Carignan draws from her Southern roots and experience working with community-based non-profit organizations Gabriel’s House and Forever Found, to address relevant subjects of women facing abuse and human trafficking with empathy and sensitivity.

Trembling in fear, heart racing, eighteen-year-old Elise escapes the abusive home she’d been confined to since she was six. Fleeing Arizona with a promise to return for Bea, the little girl she nannies, Elise lands on the doorstep of Chicky-Pie’s Café. Nestled in an eclectic border town in modern-day Southern California, the café is run by Mell, the black proprietor with a heart for helping the hurting and homeless. Elise finds courage and hope from a believing husband and friends who embrace her as one of their own.

When the past returns to haunt her, Elise risks everything she’s gained and re-enters the fractured and dangerous world she left behind. Determined to save Bea from a similar fate to her own, she battles for her freedom while awakening to her own deepest need—inner liberation and strength.

“Carignan’s powerful grasp of words in “The Buzz @ Chicky-Pie’s Café” connects us with Elise’s suffering at the hands of evil people and deepens one’s compassion for all who endure similar pain. Amidst the tale’s shadows of despair and brokenness, Carignan beautifully weaves a testament to the unparalleled hope and healing found in our God.” –Shawn Thornton, Senior Pastor, Calvary Community Church, Westlake Village, CA

Iris Carignan is a published author, award-winning painter, and inspirational speaker. Her published works include “Fresh Eyes: Seeing God in the Unexpected” and a children’s book, “Moriah’s Wings,” which she also illustrated. Iris serves on the board of Gabriel’s House, a transitional home for women facing abuse, addiction, and homelessness. She and her husband reside in Thousand Oaks, California.

Published in partnership with Jessica Suggs Marketing, LLC, DBA JSM Book Co., Carignan’s novel is available for distribution through IngramSpark and for purchase in print and eBook on Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, and other retailers.

Carignan is available for interviews, speaking engagements, and book signings. For booking presentations, media appearances, interviews, and/or book signings, contact iris@stillwatersart.com or submit a request at iriscarignan.com.