Title: The Pirate and the Pagan: A Novel
Author: Virginia Henley
First published November 1, 1990
464 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780440206231 (ISBN10: 0440206235)
Rating: 4.01
Overview
As wild as the untamed seas, Lady Isabella sailed her ship along the Caribbean coast. Her past as a notorious pirate had earned her riches, but now she seeks a new life as a respectable woman.
Captain Rafael Santadar seems to be the answer to her prayers, a wealthy businessman with connections to high society. But as their passion ignites, Isabella finds herself torn between her desire for a new life and the thrill of adventure.
Will this dashing captain be her salvation or her downfall? The Pirate and the Pagan is a swashbuckling romance that will leave you breathless.
About the Author
Born on December 5, 1935 in England, Virginia Syddall’s love for history was instilled in her by her father, Thomas Syddall. She went on to obtain a degree in History from the University before marrying Arthur Henley in 1956.
Together, they moved to America and currently reside in St. Petersburg, Florida for most of the year. During the hot summers, they spend time in Ontario, Canada where they are close to their two adult children and three grandsons.
Virginia Henley, a prolific writer of historical novels, has achieved great success, earning her place on the New York Times bestseller list. Her work has been translated into fourteen languages and she has received numerous writing awards, including a Romantic Times Lifetime Achievement Award, a Waldenbooks’ Bestselling Award, and a Maggie Award for Excellence from the Georgia Romance Writers.
Editoral Review
The Pirate and the Pagan: A Novel by Virginia Henley is a captivating historical romance, first published in 1990. Henley is a renowned romance author, known for her ability to create epic love stories set against a backdrop of historical events.
The Pirate and the Pagan is no exception. Set in the 16th century, the novel tells the tale of Raven Carleton, a fierce pirate who captures Lady Catherine, the daughter of an English nobleman.
As Raven and Catherine navigate their newfound relationship, they face obstacles ranging from internal conflict to external battles with enemy ships. In this tale of swashbuckling adventure and forbidden romance, Henley masterfully builds tension around the central question: will Raven and Catherine’s love overcome the odds, or will outside forces tear them apart?
One of the novel’s strengths is its vivid portrayal of setting and history. Henley sets the novel in a tumultuous era, where pirates roamed the seas and countries vied for power.
The story takes place in the Caribbean islands, where the heat, humidity, and lush vegetation are beautifully evoked. The historical context provides readers with a rich tapestry of cultural significance, making The Pirate and the Pagan a fascinating read for anyone interested in 16th-century maritime history.
Another strength is the depth of character development. Raven and Catherine are both complex characters with a range of emotions and desires.
Henley delves into their innermost thoughts and feelings, creating a sense of intimacy that draws readers into the story. The pacing is also well-executed, as the plot twists and turns keep readers engaged throughout the story.
The Pirate and the Pagan is not without its weaknesses, however. While the historical context is fascinating, there are some inaccuracies that may disappoint history buffs.
Additionally, some of the dialogue feels forced and stilted, especially in moments where Henley provides an information dump. Despite these minor faults, overall, The Pirate and the Pagan is a highly enjoyable read.
Henley skillfully weaves together romance, adventure, and history to create a story that captivates from beginning to end. Fans of Henley’s other works will find much to love here, as will anyone looking for a well-crafted historical romance.
With its engaging plot, well-drawn characters, and rich historical context, I highly recommend The Pirate and the Pagan to anyone who loves a good romance or is interested in the history of the high seas. I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars, as it provided a delightful escape into a fascinating world.
