Note: This story has been pulled back into our story workshop because we decided it could be better.We’re taking the time to review and rewrite it.We hope to have it back up soon.Visit the FIFTY Series Page to learn more about what we’re up to, or click the Browse button above to find more story suggestions.

When Ambroisine Melange arrived in the French colony Louisiana, she was immediately disappointed. Where were the beautiful buildings? Where were the gardens filled with vegetables? Where were the handsome men she had been promised? But what proved to be the most disappointing of all was the food — nothing but corn mush when she had been promised the most delicious French cuisine. But when Madame Langlois stepped out onto the Governor’s porch, she presented something that turned Ambroisine’s experience upside down — a delicious stew that was called … gumbo.

Note: Though this is historical fiction and the characters have been developed to accommodate a story, their attributes and development may be useful as reference points and inspirations.