If the Tide Turns

Set during the Golden Age of Pirates and the shadowy aftermath of the Salem witch trials, this vivid literary debut is inspired by the captivating true story of real-life pirate Samuel Bellamy, combining high seas adventure, star-crossed longing, surprisingly timely questions about social justice and freedom, and the emotionally satisfying tale of one strong-willed young woman determined to choose her own path. 1715, Eastham, Massachusetts: As the daughter of a wealthy family, Maria Brown has a secure future mapped out for her, yet it is not the future she wants. Seventeen, headstrong, and restless, Maria has no desire to marry the aging, mean-spirited John Hallett, regardless of his fortune and her parents' wishes. As for what Maria does want-only one person has ever asked her that question. Samuel Bellamy, an orphaned sailor searching for work, meets Maria by chance, enthralling her with talk of far-flung places and blasphemous ideals. But neither is free from the social order into which they were born. When Sam is banished from Maria's parents' home after asking for her hand, he vows to return a wealthy man, and Maria promises to keep the faith until then. Drawn into piracy, Sam discovers a brotherhood more equal than any on land, despite its dangers. But Maria, pregnant and forced into an abusive marriage, is accused of witchcraft when tragedy strikes. Pressed to confess to fabricated sins, she instead chooses exile. Now, on a journey no less treacherous and eventful than Samuel's, she draws on every shred of her courage and resilience not merely to survive, but to honor her own yearning for freedom . . .