The Ballad of Jacquotte Delahaye: A Novel BY Briony Cameron

"The Ballad of Jacquotte Delahaye" is an epic tale inspired by true events, chronicling the rise of Jacquotte Delahaye, one of the few female pirate captains in history. Set in the 17th century Caribbean, the story begins in the town of Yquimo, Santo Domingo, where Jacquotte works as a shipwright, her ambitions constrained by her circumstances and her self-serving French father.

When the town's power dynamics shift, threatening her safety, Jacquotte flees with a diverse group of refugees, including a mysterious woman named Teresa. They fall under the control of the notorious pirate captain Blackhand, enduring his harsh rule as indentured servants aboard his ship. Despite the hardships, Jacquotte and Teresa develop a forbidden love, navigating their contrasting backgrounds and the perilous life at sea.

As Blackhand plans to seize a Portuguese treasure shipment, Jacquotte must use her ingenuity and the help of her crew to survive. However, she soon uncovers a deeper conspiracy that endangers them all. Faced with a choice, Jacquotte must decide how far she is willing to go to secure freedom and a better future for herself and her companions.

This novel, divided into three parts, combines thrilling pirate adventures with a tender exploration of themes such as friendship, love, and the quest for freedom and home. "The Ballad of Jacquotte Delahaye" offers a vivid portrayal of a remarkable woman who defied the norms of her time, weaving a story of resilience and courage on the high seas.