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On the Account #5
When the Mermaid Sings (Novella prequel story)
When the Mermaid Sings (Novella prequel story)
Independent Reviews
Kristen McQuinn
I have to confess that if I hadn’t received the prequel to this series, I likely wouldn’t have read this, even though I’ve read all of Helen’s other books and loved them. I had never really been too interested in pirates beyond generally romanticizing them like everyone else, and enjoying the Pirates of the Caribbean at Disneyland. It’s not generally the time period I’m into. But she sent me the prequel to review and I LOVED it, and then she sent me this as a gift for some help I gave on her website, and now I want to read the whole series. I wouldn’t say it if it wasn’t true. I LOVE this series so much.
In this first book of the Jesamiah Acorne series, readers are introduced to Jesamiah, obviously, and learn a little of his history. We get to know about life on the sea and I, at least, learned a whole lot of cool things about ships. And some truly delightful expressions and vocabulary. I am well equipped for the next International Talk Like a Pirate Day! This book was chock full of action and adventure, a ton of humor, and plenty of romance. I loved Tiola and her strength, I loved Rue and his wit, and I adore Jes for his bravery and his vulnerability. These are not characters on a page, they are people who breathe and feel and love and suffer and I tell the truth when I say I am going to run right out and pick up the rest of the series. I never thought I’d fall in love with a historical series that wasn’t medieval, Renaissance, or Victorian, but I did. I read this in one sitting and I can’t wait to jump into the next book.
My favorite scene in the whole book (and there were many awesome scene to choose from) was when Jes helped Tiola deliver a baby.
And another scene even had a line that I added to my commonplace book, which doesn’t happen often.
She's a witch.
He's a pirate.
She is young and lovely, and learning the extent of the power of her Craft, and he is flamboyantly handsome, with blue ribbons braided into his long black hair, and a golden acorn in one ear.
What more could the reader in search of romance, adventure and excitement expect?
But wait. There's more. There's a wonderful creation called the Tethys, a supernatural sea-creature who rules "her water realm with unchallenged power and a terrible omnipotence." In Maori myth she would be known as a Taniwha -- a mighty Taniwha, a taniwha nui.
The three powerful spirits clash and intertwine right from the start of this rousing adventure. The witch, young Tiola, has taken passage on a Cape Town-bound ship, fleeing from the Cornwall mob that would have hanged and burned her. The pirate, Jesamiah Acorne, is in hot pursuit of that same ship, determined to seize it, ransack the holds, rob the passengers, and vanish like smoke into the far horizon. In the midst of the frenzy of action that accompanies this, their souls link and cry out to each other, a spiritual questioning that Tethys, the taniwha asleep in the depths below, overhears, rousing her to dangerous awareness.
And so the complicated story begins. There is conflict, there are battles, there are remarkably well described love scenes, marriages of convenience, vendettas, and vivid characters, many of them evil. Real historical figures appear on the same page as the supernatural, and of course there is plenty of rum. It is Pirates of the Caribbean with a twist.
Helen Hollick's forte is her ebulliant imagination. Everything is original, from her writing, which is vivid and yet as economical as conversational French, where unnecessary words ("the", "and") are dropped for fluency. Notable is the lavish use of the color blue, so expensive and cherished at the time, that the cheeky blue of Jesamiah's ribbons is almost eclipsed by the sheer arrogance of painting his ship -- Sea Witch -- the same blue that was the prerogative of monarchs and prelates! And there are wonderful jokes, snitched from real history, such as the raid of a merchant ship by a crew of pirates who merely needed a haul of hats for their heads.
This book is strongly recommended for young adults who want a rousing story, and also for those who want a thought-provoking new approach to the traditional pirate yarn.
AMAZON REVIEWS
VOYAGE ONE :
5 stars
littleangelicrose 15 January 2016
Wow - what a fabulous novel. I knew I would like this, being a
secret naval fan, and I was not disappointed. A novel that races along with
pace and verve with a plot that twists and turns. You can't second guess Ms
Hollick.
Jesemiah is a pirate and this is the story of him. He is larger
than life, bright and vivid with a touch of the Richard Sharpe about him, a
maverick who gains respect from those who matter. This first book in a series
explains who he is and why he is, and what he does about it. As much as he
mixes with a group of men who fill the hearts of others with fear, the person who
is the most vile, twisted and evil is not a pirate, but a well-respected
gentleman.
Ms Hollick has done her research, real personages and real pirates
people her pages, though Jesemiah steals every scene he is in. The detail and
knowledge of the ships she writes about is fantastic, as good as C.S.Forester
and O'Brien. The ships come alive in her hands and as a reader you are waiting
for the arrival of Sea Witch - the Lone Ranger has Silver, Dick Turpin has
Black Bess, Jack Sparrow has the Black Pearl and Jesemiah Acorne, with an 'e',
has Sea Witch.
A fantastic read that will grip you and leave you wanting more.
And thankfully Ms Hollick has provided it.
5 stars
R J DOCKETT 24 October 2015
Wow! What a story. I wasn’t really sure what to expect, I have a
maritime background and have often found the technical stuff in other ‘sea’
stories to be incorrect, which can grate and spoil the experience for me, but
here it was spot on.
And the witchcraft elements fitted in perfectly, they gave an
interesting twist to the tale and felt like they belonged in the setting. The
whole thing flowed and got me reading faster and faster. Historical fiction was
not really my thing, I never liked history as a subject but this story is alive
and exciting, I’m glad I found it. Now I will have to read the next one, I need
to know what happens.
5 stars
snooks 25 June 2015
I have just finished the enthralling novel, 'Sea Witch' by the
talented Helen Hollick. This is the first in the Jesamiah Acorne series and I
am looking forward to the next, 'Pirate Code'. I can still taste the salt, feel
the rain and sea spray on my face, smell the wind and hear the waves crashing
on the barnacled hull. This is a fictional swashbuckling adventure of the first
order with the perfect mix of history and fantasy. Her literary style takes you
back to a time and place of pirates, rogues and legend. Her descriptive
passages engage every sense. The story and characters are vibrant and alive. We
are taken on a rip roaring ride of excitement, love, lust and revenge. If you
love The Pirates of the Caribbean, you will love this book, which I
wholeheartedly recommend.
5 stars
Alan Robert Lancaster 20 June 2015
'Sea Witch' punches above its weight, with the central character
Jesamiah Acorne taking part in scrap after scrap, taking on a bigger ship to
start with (ambitious if nothing else), landing in the condemned cell for
piracy and then being wrecked off Lousiana... The counterpane is a young
Cornish girl developing skills in witchcraft... The background is the sea
'goddess' Tethys, waking from time to time and stretching her limbs to create
storms that test Jesamiah's skills at seamanship.
'Pirates of the Caribbean'? Sissy stuff, this is the genuine
article, heir to 'Treasure Island'.
3 stars
Mrs B 18 May 2015
If you enjoy pirate stories you will enjoy this! There is a lot of
details of ships and fighting which maybe a bit much for some female readers
but you can scan these quickly to get on with the story.
5 stars
JCP 16 April 2015
Have read them all. Read Sea Witch and immediately sent for the
other three. Really well rounded characters in story lines full of historical
detail - these books just whiz along. Where the author has altered history to
suit, she tells you where and why in her Afterword. Difficult to put down, so
allow for some late nights. Really looking forward to Jesemiah's fifth voyage
'On The Account'.
5 stars
L. M. Wilson 8 March 2015
I have previously read all of Helen's books and am a great fan. I
found each one an absorbing and brilliant read. I was intrigued to discover her
first book about the delightful and exciting pirate Jesamiah Acorne! I had
never read anything about pirates, the nearest being books such as the
Hornblower series. I read with interest Helen's description of how Jesamiah was
conceived during a walk along a beach one day. What a treat for us that she
followed through with her pirate novels. Beginning the first book - 'Sea Witch'
it seemed such a jump from her previous work but WOW! I was not disappointed. I
was mesmerised from the very first words in the very first chapter. In an
effort to try and describe how I felt whilst reading on I can only say as other
readers have also commented that I felt I was actually there with Jesamiah and
his fellow pirates; such was the reality of the story. I could almost smell the
sea, feel the wind blowing and hear the sounds of the creaking ship and the
shouts of the pirates preparing for battle. As always Helen's background
research is immaculate and her characterisation overall and in particular with
Jesamiah is immensely powerful. When the mysterious Tiola is introduced and the
first hint of her magical gifts, again I sensed the power and depth of her
character and the first intimation of an enduring love that runs through all of
the books. I read and read and read on, fascinated and totally absorbed by the
full and exciting novel. It is a terrific tale and highly recommended. I
enjoyed every gripping and breathless moment of this fabulous adventure. Read
this book - read them all. You will not regret it. I am just beginning this
first in the series all over again and intend to go on through them all. There
is so much to hold and excite the reader.
5 stars
Janis Pegrum Smith11 February 2015
If you are a fan of Jack Sparrow then I can heartily recommend Sea
Witch. I have been a great fan of Helen Hollick since her Arthurian novels, and
the Sea Witch continues her extremely high standard of historical fiction. This
is an absolutely cracking good read. The love triangle between Jesamiah Acorne,
Tiola Oldstagh and Tethys (the spirit of the sea) is compelling as we follow the
stories of lovable rogue, Jesamiah, and Tiola, the young white witch, who are
old souls reunited in this first book of the series. It is a story of love and
adventure, set around the usual haunts of 18th century pirates with a sterling
cast of supporting characters, good and bad. Expertly researched, it has
everything a good pirate yarn should have, and is a great love story too. I am
really looking forward to reading the next one in the series soon.
5 stars
Roses are Amber 1 February 2015
Sea Witch is a swashbuckler historical fiction tale set in the
1700's around Captain Jesamiah Acorne. He's a notorious pirate who sails the
seas around the Caribbean, Southern US states and across to Cape Town in South
Africa.
This is a time of Dutch East Indian trade-boats, Spanish galleons
laden with Mexican treasure, English traders and privateers. Ships took months
to cross the oceans, explorers where sailing around the world and opportunities
to become rich were often at the mercy of the sea.
Beneath the seas lives Tethys a spiritual being from the beginning
of the world, she sees all, knows all about the oceans, she can whip up a storm
and take down a ship at will claiming the lives of all those aboard. Disturbed
from above by the annoying sounds of cannon fire Tethys investigates and
becomes aware of a man with a golden acorn hanging from his ear, she understands
the connection to an ancient tree and likes what she sees. There is also
another being with a gift who nudges at the outer periphery of her existence.
Tiola Oldstagh is travelling from England to Cape Town with her
guardian, when they are attacked by pirates. Unsuccessful this time Tiola gets
her first glimpse of a man who destiny will bring to her again. At just fifteen
Tiola is wise beyond her years with her skills in the use of "craft"
she'll go to great lengths to be with the one her soul desires.
It's been years since I read any pirate adventures and this one
did not disappoint, it brought all the atmosphere of the great wooden ships,
creaking into the rolling oceans, sails flapping in the winds. Dangers of the
open seas and the realistic harbour-side towns which sprang up to meet the
needs of the ocean going sailors. I look forward to reading the next adventure
for Captain Jesamiah Acorne.
This review is based on a free copy of the book which I won.
5 stars
Lucienne Boyce 4 January 2015
Sea Witch introduces Jesamiah Acorne, the coolest pirate since
Terence Morgan played Sir Francis Drake in the 1960s television show. Buckles
are definitely swashed in this adventure on the high seas as Jesamiah sees off
dastardly villains and evades pirate hunters. He has some tough choices to make
when he falls in love with a far from ordinary woman – Tiola Oldstagh is a
white witch every bit as daring and powerful in her way as Jesamiah is in his.
Jesamiah and Tiola are a great combination in this blending of historical fact
and fantasy, which pits them against natural and supernatural enemies – the
latter in the fascinating and menacing form of Tethys, the Spirit of the Waves.
I look forward to reading more of the series. Highly recommended.
5 stars
Apple Pie 19 September 2014
Helen combines fun, adventure, utterly believable love and a good
conflict. When this is mixed with a little fantasy, it's a pleasure to read.
5 stars
Judith Starkston 11 August 2014
It’s hard not to enjoy a good pirate yarn and Helen Hollick makes
it especially easy with Sea Witch. Pirate lore and a large dose of magic from
the sea witch of the title (and mystical appearances from Tethys, spirit of the
oceans) put this series squarely in the fantastical range, so be sure you enjoy
a leap onto the wild side before you pick up this book.
Once you’ve established that, this is a page-turning, entertaining
read. Hollick builds in the details of pirate life both on ship and in port
with a precision and depth that can only come from good historical research,
but you won’t have time to notice this sturdy framework as her plot twists and
surprises.
We get to know a three-dimensional young woman named Tiola just as
she is cut adrift from her family and known world when her mother is suspected
of being a witch and hanged for the murder of her husband. The irony, as Tiola
points out, is that she is the witch, not her mother—a white witch with very
handy medical skills that she eventually turns into a steady if modest income
in her new surroundings. Through Tiola we watch the limitations on 18th century
women—choose a loveless marriage to a rich man or try to make it alone in a
world that assumes you can’t—with the piquant sauce of knowing that Tiola isn’t
the helpless lass she appears to be.
The hero, Jesamiah Acorne, has a similar origin tale in the sense
that he also as teenager was thrown out to make his life without family or
financial support—despite his upper class start. Generally speaking, men of the
18th century had an easier time making a living than women, but then Jesamiah
doesn’t have any otherworldly powers, so Tiola may not have to fight as hard as
he does. What he does exploit are his natural talents for strategy, reckless
courage and his dead father’s connections to the pirate world. By the time his
path crosses Tiola’s (that he can remember, anyway), he is an accomplished
pirate captain, perpetually in trouble, but as free as can be. Well, mostly.
Prison and pirating do seem to collide at times.
These parallel stories of young people making it alone and turning
themselves into the adults of their choice give this spicy tale a pleasing
resonance that goes beyond “just a good story.” That they face such daunting
enemies keeps the excitement high throughout. Their love story is charming and
full of humor as well as sexual allure.
Nothing happens quite how you expect in this book, which is
certainly how I like my books, unpredictable and fun.
5 starsAhoy
Bookworm 29 April 2014
What a great book. I was totally immersed in the plot and the
characters were adorable. Cannot Wait to start the next book in the series.
5 stars
Debbie Young 28 December 2013
Wow, what a rollicking read - exciting, romantic, so vividly
written that I felt like a stowaway on each of the many ships commandeered by
the charming pirate hero Jesamiah Acorne (or Oakwood or whatever other
pseudonym he takes to save his own skin along the way).
Helen Hollick has added lots of extra depth to this jolly romp -
and I'm not talking fathoms here. Firstly, by weaving in the interesting tale
of the girl after whom the eponymous ship is named - the Cornish maid with
hidden powers of traditional white witchcraft, working sometimes with and
sometimes against the mythical magical powers that dwell beneath the waves.
Both hero and heroine also have an interesting back-story of being
ill-treated as children which has shaped their modern characters - and their
willingness to fight for what is right in their moral code, rather than obeying
the law. The story includes the most lucid, simple explanation of how bullies
are made that I have ever read, and these truths, still very much relevant in
the 21st century, make this much more than a simple Pirates of the Caribbean
style tale.
I was very impressed with the attention to historical detail and
the alluring descriptions of the sea and its sailing ships throughout. The
author confesses that she has taken a few liberties with history to make her
story neat and tidy, but I think these are entirely justified for the sake of
such a compelling tale. I've already downloaded the sequel to this book and am
hopeful that I'll find it as gripping and satisfying as Sea Witch.
5 stars
Guern 26 September 2013
A very good pirate yarn. Once you start reading it is difficult to
put it down, turns and twists all the way thru.
5 stars2012 B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree
Amazon Customer 15 August 2012
We are proud to announce that Sea Witch is a 2012
B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree- this wonderful book is well worth you time and
money!
5 stars
Rosemary Morris 2 May 2012
Having read all of Helen Hollick's earlier novels, I was not
disappointed by Sea Witch, which I read far into the night unable to put it
down and go to sleep. Land, sea and sky become entities breath-takingly
described in all their moods. Indeed, so realistic are Ms Hollick's
descriptions of storms at sea I sometimes felt as though I was on Sea Witch or
in a filthy dungeon in fear of my life.
Sea Witch is well-researched. So realistic are the descriptions of
Sea Witch that I thought Helen Hollick could be a sailor not a land lubber.
The characterisation, not only of human protagonists, but of
supernatural beings is excellent. The opening lines of Sea Witch invoke the
mighty Tethys:-
In the depths, in the abyss of darkness at the very bottom of the
oceans Tethys stirred. She was the soul of the sea, the Spirit of the waves and
was capable, as the mood took her of benign complaisance or malicious
rage..."
And Tethys wants the hero of Sea Witch, the pirate,Jesamiah
Acorne,Tiola's soulmate.
Jesamiah Acorne is a man torn by the cruelties of his past:
"Quck to smile, formidable when angered. Tall, tanned, with
strong arms...His flack hair fell as an untidy chaos of natural curls to his
shoulders, laced into it lengths of blue ribbon..."
In Sea Witch Jesamiah must battle not only Tethys and his
malevolent half-brother but fight for his soulmate, Tiola, who, like previous
generations of women in her family is a healer, a white witch, who must never
use her supernatural powers to harm others.
From beginning to end I wanted Jesamiah and Tiola to triumph over
every adversity, including close encounters with death. At the end of the novel
I wanted more and am now reading the sequel. [...]
5 stars
Rachel Malone 17 August 2011
Despite already owning a copy of this, I may just have to purchase
a new one. You see, my copy has become so dog eared and bent from reading and
re-reading it that I'm worried that it may well fall apart!
Sea Witch is one of the very best historical fiction books I have
ever read. It's a huge adventure with characters that will be with you forever.
Do yourselves a favour and buy this book now!
5 stars
MR LUKE S WARHURST 14 August 2011
Sea Witch is labeled as the first voyage of Jesamiah Acorne, a
pirate cut from a similar cloth to Jack Sparrow. Well, if this novel is any
indication, long may his voyages continue. Sea Witch is a wonderful, rollicking,
swashbuckling, romantic pirate-ride of a novel that I highly recommend to
anyone with a taste for romance, adventure, pirates, or the sway of a deck
beneath their feet. Simply put, to anyone who appreciated a good story, well
told: this book is for you!
4stars
A. L. Rutter 8 August 2011
Helen Hollick's novels about Jesamiah Acorne have long been on my
radar, self-published or no. The reason for this is that I read all of the
historical novels that she wrote and released through a traditional publisher
when I was younger - her trilogy about King Arthur, and books about Harold the
King. Helen has struggled to get to a point where she was even able to release
the Jesamiah books, and eventually decided to self-publish.
And you know what? It is absolutely criminal that her books won't
be read by a wider audience. I equate her writing to that of Diana Gabaldon - a
slight supernatural bent on what is an historical love story. Jesamiah and
Tiola are easily the equal of Clare and Jamie. Sometimes I can see absolutely
why people are releasing self-published books - it is the only way that their
work will see print. Helen should be snapped up by a traditional publisher!
The reason for this? The quality of the prose, the fabulously
strong characters and the sense of absolute fun that imbues the entire text.
Helen was clearly having an absolute blast with her lovable rogue of a pirate.
Helen's prose is an absolute joy to read. It flows incredibly
well, with some beautiful word choices. It is warm and wise. I loved it in her
first novel and I love it now. She certainly bears comparison with Sharon
Penman when considering the manner in which she writes.
Anyone who enjoyed the first Pirates of the Caribbean film - and
fell a little bit in love with Captain Jack Sparrow - will adore Jesamiah
Acorne. He is honourable (as far as it goes), incredibly masculine and has a
good heart. Seriously, I go weak at the knees at the thought of him *grins* He
is well-matched by Tioma, who is clever and capable. The secondary cast are
also written effectively on the whole, although a couple suffered from lack of
page time and ended up feeling a bit two dimensional.
The one problem I could foresee with reader's enjoyment of Sea
Witch is whether you buy into the white witch aspect of the story. Those going
into this expecting a simple pirate yarn/historical adventure will be slightly
missold. There is magic - of a sort - and an immortal foe that hovers in the
background. The Craft takes centre stage on a couple of occasions. I enjoyed it
and feel that there is a market for adding supernatural aspects to historical
events, but other people might struggle to suspend their disbelief.
In terms of the self-published aspect: I found some sentences
where additional commas wouldn't have gone amiss. There were odd words missing
here and there, although the context made it easy to see what should have been
present. Honestly, it wasn't much worse than some of the traditionally
published books I have read.
This is a high quality work that I would firmly encourage people
to pick up. Happily, this is the first in a series of three books (so far) -
even more happily, I have the other two waiting for me. I can't wait to meet
Jesamiah again!
5 stars
MusingCrow 19 July 2011
The story of "Sea Witch" is rooted in the 'golden age'
of piracy - around 1716 - and the action extends from the infamous 'horn of
Africa' to the beaches of the well known pirate haunts in the Caribbean. If you
can, for a moment, consider what Johnny Depp would be like if he was 100 per
cent more charismatic you would have an idea of how good the main protagonist
of the series, Captain Jesamiah Acorn, is. His command of the sailing vessel
"Sea Witch" give series it's name. The main female character, Tiola
Oldstaugh is a white witch and healer who saves Jesamiah from a murderous
attack perpetrated by a band of pirate hunters. Ms. Hollick used an anagram of
"all that is good" to fashion Tiola's name. Brilliant ! I think that
Tethys - the soul of the seas who is portrayed as a living entity - (which I'm
sure some seafarers would swear is true!) is one of my favorite elements of the
series. Tethys has sworn that the handsome, invincible Captain Acorn will be
hers. Tiola's task is to use the forces of her will and her love to prevent the
sea from laying claim to her proud pirate, Jesamiah.
In 'Sea Witch' volume we are also introduced to the characters of
Philippe Moreno, Jesamiah's bullying, vindictive, grasping brother and Stefan
Van Overstreet, the wealthy and domineering Cape Town Dutchman who also wants
Tiola as his wife - for all the wrong reasons. These main characters set the
stage for what becomes a love story, a history of the pirate culture and a
thoroughly engrossing story that you simply will not want to put down. I would
advise that you have the entire series in your hands because as soon as one
book ends you will feel the need to begin reading the next.
5 stars
P. C. Fenton 23 May 2011
There is nothing I like better than a "bad boy" hero and
pirate captain Jesamiah Acorne definitely fits the bill! Of half Spanish descent,
with his dark good looks and sharp wits, he's every woman's dream, but he's
never met a girl he wants to settle down with and has never been in love. He's
a charming rogue who wants nothing more than the freedom to roam the seas,
plundering unsuspecting merchant ships, and he thinks he has the perfect life
until he meets a girl called Tiola, who happens to be a white witch ...
This is a wonderful adventure story with its mixture of pirates,
magic and evil villains. It's much more satisfying than the Pirates of the
Caribbean and a lot more realistic, despite the fantasy elements. And because
of some horrible events that have happened to him in the past, you really
empathise with the hero right from the beginning, rooting for him, wanting him
to overcome his enemies and have his happy ending. I enjoyed every minute of
this of novel and couldn't put it down! For anyone who loves pirates and/or
delicious heroes, this one is a must!
5 stars
Pauline 1 September 2010
Who said you should never judger a book by the cover? Helen
Hollick's cover for her Sea Witch series is perfect. If the cover grabbed you,
then I can promise you, you won't be disappointed when you open this book and
turn back the pages...!
5 stars
Richard Denning 31 August 2010
This is the first of Helen Hollick's books I have read and on the
strength of it I have now bought book 2 as well as the Arthurian series.
This is a fun blend of authentic historical action adventure in
the pirate era - you can almost hear the rigging creak and the wind blow - with
a light touch of fantasy and sorcery. Jesamiah is a engaging hero and Tiola an
at time fierce heroine. I love the way the story winds back and forth between
them.
Well recommended.
5 starsC
Dark Angel 14 May 2009
Fabulous rip roaring Pirate adventure, plenty of action, angst,
romance, all you would need in this wonderful story, an intelligent, very well
researched book, the writer Helen Hollick, has such deep knowledge and
understanding of the Pirates of the day and the history of the period., A very
unusual romance between Captain Jesamiah Acorne (chief and very sexy Pirate)
and his 'woman' Tiola who is a white witch. Very descriptive scenes which I
love, strictly for Pirate loving adults! after this hair raising adventure, my
delight was to read the following installment 'Pirate Code' every bit as
exciting! I am now awaiting the next book in the series with baited breath!
can't wait!!!!! If you haven't read this book then you don't know what you are
missing!!!! go on treat yourself to a good old fashioned Pirate adventure!!!!
you will be sailing into exciting waters!!!!
5 stars
M. J. Morton 13 May 2009
This book is absolutely brilliant! I was unable to put it down.
As with all Helen Hollick's books, it was well researched and a
very enjoyable read from start to finish.
I myself sail and I could smell and taste sea, the description is
so vivid.
Jesamiah is a lovable rogue, in the tradition of that other well
known pirate Jack Sparrow. I confess to being quite jelous of his true love,
the white witch Tiola.
The characters are well drawn, and the story an exciting pirate
adventure.
A truly enthralling read. I can't wait to read the next book in
the series.
Buy this book - you will not be disappointed!
2 stars
Anne-Mette Simonsenon 19 March 2009
My hopes for this book were up after reading the reviews here, but
I must confess I was very disappointed.
First of all, the plot is confusing. There is no clear line
through the book. Second of all, the story is not deep. The characters are not
well described, so their feelings and reactions do not seem natural to them.
Oh, I did understand the love between the two main characters, but only because
it was stated black on white, several times - it is simply not possible for me
to feel this love the two characters apparently share. For me, a book is not
good if I don't at least can feel sympathy for the main characters, and
understand their line of action, and I certainly cannot with this book.
Last, there's an enourmous mount of text used to describe certain
more or less uncomfourtable events. An amount not balanced to the amount of
text used to describe the characters. It seems unnecessary and wrong for the
plot.
So, to me this book is not an example of good writing, not even a
good story. Furthermore, there were several errors in this version of the book,
which is very disturbing. The only reason why I give this book two stars
instead of one is that I actually came through it.
I'm sorry for mistypes and grammatical errors in this review -
English is not my main language.
5 stars
Aly Girl 8 January 2007
I SO disagree with Historical Jude's review! Captain Acorne is
fantastic! I have read Sea Witch four times now - at each reading I find
something I had missed or gadn't realised before about Hesamiah. My Golly he is
a character with depth! I am SO looking forward to the next book in the series.
Yes Historical Jude is right in saying Sea Witch is not as serious
as Miss Hollick's Pendragon's Banner series, but from what I've read on her
website and blog - and her author's note, it is not intended to be! Sea Witch
is fantasy, she wrote it for enjoment. It is written as fun and meant to be
read as fun.... as ENTERTAINMENT!
If you like pirates, if you want to be entertained and transported
to another world in the past where there is a hero to fall in love with ...
THEN READ SEA WITCH and disregard what Historical Jude says!
5 stars
Jane 17 August 2006
Helen - you gave both my husband & I a really good read.It
must have been good as Barry a) grabbed it first and b) took time out to sit
down & read to the last page. He then issued instructions that I had better
hurry up & read it so that he could talk about it!
So well done on a vivid,fast moving romp that leaves your readers
looking for next year's diary so that we can see how long to wait for the next
instalment.
5 starsP
Jester 12 August 2006
I have been a Jack Sparrow fan almost since day 1 of the release
of the Pirates of the Caribbean - the Curse of the Black Pearl. I live, breath,
eat, sleep pirates. I was delighted to discover a new pirate novel for adults,
but was a bit wary of reading Sea Witch - after all, my heart belonged to
Captain Jack.
Well, it now belongs to Jesamiah as wel. I have to say I was a
little disapointed with film 2, Dead Man's Chest. Yes, great film, good laughs,
our Jack Back ... but there was something missing. Having read Sea Witch I
realise what. We only see the surface of Jack - and the film is aimed at
families and a younger audience. In Sea Witch we meet a real, grown up
character, a man so real you can reach out and touch him. Being a novel
Jesamiah has far more depth than Jack (much easier in a book to portray) Yes I
still love Jack Sparrow, but my heart has been lost to the charming, enigmatic
rogue called Jesamiah Acorne.
Ms Hollick - when will we be getting the next book in the series,
Pirate Code, I believe it is called? Very soon I hope!
5 stars
Mary Jess 30 June 2006
I am a pirate fan and I can 150% say this is the best pirate story
I have ever read! It had me hooked from first page to last - and that Jesamiah
.... ooh I'm in love!
There's something here for any reader - male or female - who likes
good rollocking adventure. It is well researched - down to the fine detail, but
all action. Perhaps a little "adult" in places though, (but who's
complaining! It IS an adult book and Cpt Acorne IS a pirate!) but its not for
the younger readers, savvy?
5 stars
Snowangel 26 June 2006
I loved Helen Hollick's historical novels, but I do not normally
like sea stories, too much technical stuff !
Sea Witch is different, as with all Ms Hollick's work, it is
meticulously researched, a wonderful, full blooded adventure with a intriguing
plot, authentic atmosphere and the perfect handsome, roguish hero in Jesamiah
Acorne who I am certain will capture hearts all around the world.
And there's plenty of heart-stopping action to keep the male
readers happy too!
Ms Hollick makes her world so vivid it like a trip in a time
machine, if you want to feel the wind buffet the sails, the rise and fall of
the sea beneath you, smell the hot coast of Africa on the horizon, then I urge
you to read Sea Witch.
If you love pirates, this book is an absolute must read!
5 stars
White Rose 22 June 2006
This book is the equivalent of a film where you just sit down and
be entertained. The story flows (excuse the pun) from chapter to chapter with
just enough historical content to put it into context. The lead character is
definitely swashbuckling and, as in "The Pirates Of The Carribean",
the author has not needed to resort to the graphic violence which was obviously
part of the piratical life of this era. There is sibling rivalry, love interest
and High Seas battles to keep the storyline moving apace and an underlying
mystical element which provides an interesting addition, totally in keeeping
with the beliefs of the time. This was a very entertaining read and I would
also like to commend Helen Hollick for using a white paper and print style
which was a lot easier on the eye than usual. My only criticism is that the
book was not long enough and I will certainly ordering the next one in the
series.
4 stars
M. L. Phillip 13 June 2006
A well-researched book. I enjoy reading sci-fi and fantasy, as
well as historical fiction and adventure. The tale contained all of these
elements, building in pace nicely as the plot unfolds and reaches it's
satisfactory climax.
2stars
graceful rhythms July 13, 2015
It has a very slow pace. Difficult to keep on. And a very
predictable plot. The characters behave, speak and have the mindset of people
born and raised in the 21st century. I was bored.
4 stars
Armen Pogharian May 6, 2015
Sea Witch is the first book in Helen Hollick’s Sea Witch Voyages
fantasy pirate adventure series. Hollick’s Captain Jesamiah Acorne, offers much
more than a simple swashbuckling conqueror of women in every port. He’s a
complicated rogue whose code of ethics allows him to kill the crew of a chase that
puts up a fight, but won’t let him stand by when a young girl is bullied. Of
course the young girl he rescues, Tiola Oldstagh, is more than she seems. She’s
a white witch with a gift of healing and the power of suggestion. She’s also
Acorne’s soulmate.
Hollick imbeds her “luvvers” tale with historical figures and
events from the early 18th century. On top of that solid base she skillfully
weaves nautical terminology, pirate customs, and superstitions to ease the
reader’s acceptance of the supernatural elements of her story. Magic is an
important factor, but it never overshadows the torturously entangled love
affair of Jesamiah and Tiola. Filled with unseen twists and turns, Hollick
takes her “luvvers” on a fantastic journey through hurricane level storms both
at sea and in their hearts.
Is their love strong enough to overcome the hatred of Jesamiah’s
half-brother, the dangers of his pirate life-style, not to mention the
attention of the opposite side of Tiola’s white witch powers?
Sea Witch features many action sequences, a fair number of deaths
and quite a few descriptions of lusty encounters. While Hollick handles all of
them with respect, this book is an adult novel. Appropriate for more mature
YAs, but not for middle graders or tweens. If it was a movie its mild (but
appropriate) language, descriptions of violence, and sexual content would earn
Sea Witch an edgy PG-13 or even an R rating. If you’re comfortable with that, I
highly recommend Sea Witch.
4stars
TrishoMarch 18, 2015
A good read that keeps you engaged.
5 Stars
C. Ripley Miller March 1, 2015
If you like a good adventure story, The Sea Witch is sure to
please. The hero, Jesamiah Acorne, is a pirate rogue with a weakness for the
beautiful lady, Tiola. Their personal battles and the journey they share
together is well worth the read.
5 stars
Roses are Amber February 1, 2015
Sea Witch is a swashbuckler historical fiction tale set in the
1700's around Captain Jesamiah Acorne. He's a notorious pirate who sails the
seas around the Caribbean, Southern US states and across to Cape Town in South
Africa.
This is a time of Dutch East Indian trade-boats, Spanish galleons
laden with Mexican treasure, English traders and privateers. Ships took months
to cross the oceans, explorers where sailing around the world and opportunities
to become rich were often at the mercy of the sea.
Beneath the seas lives Tethys a spiritual being from the beginning
of the world, she sees all, knows all about the oceans, she can whip up a storm
and take down a ship at will claiming the lives of all those aboard. Disturbed
from above by the annoying sounds of cannon fire Tethys investigates and
becomes aware of a man with a golden acorn hanging from his ear, she
understands the connection to an ancient tree and likes what she sees. There is
also another being with a gift who nudges at the outer periphery of her
existence.
Tiola Oldstagh is travelling from England to Cape Town with her
guardian, when they are attacked by pirates. Unsuccessful this time Tiola gets
her first glimpse of a man who destiny will bring to her again. At just fifteen
Tiola is wise beyond her years with her skills in the use of "craft"
she'll go to great lengths to be with the one her soul desires.
It's been years since I read any pirate adventures and this one
did not disappoint, it brought all the atmosphere of the great wooden ships,
creaking into the rolling oceans, sails flapping in the winds. Dangers of the
open seas and the realistic harbour-side towns which sprang up to meet the
needs of the ocean going sailors. I look forward to reading the next adventure
for Captain Jesamiah Acorne.
This review is based on a free copy of the book which I won.
5 stars
Julie R. January 16, 2015
Well written but very formulaic...handsome pirate with heart of
gold, very evil suitor and heroine with magic powers. Having enjoyed Helen
Hollick's arthurian novels and the Forever Queen I was expecting more than I
got from this book.
4stars
N. Hillegonds January 10, 2015
A good story, with interesting characters. I think there was a lot
more to tell and I would have liked to delve deeper into the characters.
5 stars
Amazon Customer January 7, 2015
The Sea Witch has bewitched me. I'm in love with a Pirate!. Thanks
for introducing us Helen Hollick.
Real men laugh, cry, swear, love unconditionally and sometimes
behave badly. I know because that's how Jesamiah Acorne behaves and he is a
real man. It is truly refreshing to read the story of such a strong yet tender
character. Yes, he is a pirate. Yes, he loots and shoots. And yes, he hurts and
bleeds like everyone else. Hollick has written a complete character, with all
his likes, dislikes, failures and accomplishments rounding him out so that he
is believable and even lovable.
Sea Witch by Helen Hollick is not your typical bodice ripper of
old. This is a complete, beautifully written tale of life upon the sea for a
singular group of men during a particularly rugged time in our history. As
such, the sea is as much a character as is Jesamiah and Tiola, the lady who
becomes his love. The ships, both pirate and merchant, are characters in
themselves. Seas and ships are artfully described so that even land lovers can
picture the action.
The setting is during the golden age of piracy, 1716, upon sea and
land in the pirate grounds from Africa to the Caribbean. Jesamiah Acorne has
escaped the bullying of his elder half brother by becoming a pirate. At the
beginning of the story he has only two loves---the sea and his freedom. Ah, but
the Sea Witch changes that.
The Sea Witch. A beautiful ship? Or the beautiful woman with
supernatural powers who steals Jesamiah's heart?
4stars
K. Wasserlein January 1, 2015
Swashbuckling at its best! This was a wonderful romp across the
oceans with a very likable cast of characters, well except that garbage
brother! Looking forward to the next voyage! If anything this has convinced me
that I was born in the right time....the life of a pirate would not be for me!
5 stars
Heidi Anne September 28, 2014
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was full of adventure, and
of course pirates. But it's not like some books that romanticize pirates. Oh,
there is romance, but it doesn't show that the life of a pirate was glamorous.
It shows the good, the bad, and the ugly. The good is that there is loads of
freedom. The bad is there are fleas. And the ugly is the penalty for being a
pirate is hanging. If you enjoy romances with historical accuraces check out
this book.
4stars
Joyce Anderson June 8, 2014
Gave good insight to an era gone by which has never been brought
to iight too much in our times.
3 stars
Cary April 4, 2014
This was good enough to finish, but I didn't want to read more.
The problem is that the paranormal seems to me not to be natural in the story,
but employed heavyhandedly to manipulate the plot. Boy loses girl first because
her powers are taken away by drinking a sleeping potion - which might be fine
if she got them back when she woke up. Instead they mysteriously reappear for
no reason months later when it's time for boy to get girl back. The sea
dwelling spirit is also very contrived, no plot point except to try to kill the
guy, get talked out of it, but at the end prepare us for a sequel by decided to
back out of the deal.
5 stars
Anna B February 4, 2014
Sea Witch is a lot of things, primarily an excellent read with a
detailed and well researched nautical background. Pirates swagger across the
pages, there are cutlasses and men in boots and breeches, we have manipulating
law-abiding bastards and a colourful supporting cast, from ladies' maids to
brothel madams. And then we have Jesamiah Acorne, a man who carries lethal
ribbons in his hair, has a painful past and charms women with his eyes and with
his smile. It would have been easy to build the entire novel around this
wonderful vibrant character, but Ms Hollick is too generous (and accomplished)
a writer to do so, and instead the reader is taken on a delightful - and at
times overly exciting - adventure that criss crosses the seas as Jesamiah
finally faces his demons. Add to this the unfolding love story between Jesamiah
and Teolia, and you have a multlayered, wonderful read.
5 stars
j02 January 29, 2014
I'm a long-time fan of Hollick's Arthur trilogy but pirates aren't
generally my go-to thing. I'm really glad I got over that and gave this a try!
It was so much fun and I came to genuinely care for the characters. So looking
forward to the others in this series...loading them up on the Kindle
immediately.
5 stars
gloria r reader January 2, 2014
I was very surprised at this tale from this author. Very
enjoyable! A mix of a pirate tale with a dash of witchcraft. The pirate is as
dashing and handsome as I desired and his lady love is a white witch who can
only do good. Throw in a dastardly half brother and a greedy and powerful man
who desires the lady( but he doesn't know she is a witch) and you have an
adventure that keeps you involved until the end. Helen Hollick is well known
for her serious historical novels so I bought this out of curiosity and have
already acquired the second installment!
5 stars
BIG Mike July 15, 2013
Had to read this for a course and liked it so much ordered the
second book in series. This should be the next Pirate themed movie series out
of Hollywood!!
5 stars
Lenora Rogers June 11, 2013
This is a great historical fiction, full of adventure on the high
seas. This book has romance, witches, a heroine and a hero. There is so much
going own it will keep you engrossed from beginning to end. If you love Pirates
and adventure, I think you will love this book.
5 stars
KRM April 5, 2013
This is a really good book. Very engrossing and of course you have
to read all of the books in the series after that!
3stars
DragonflyDebbi January 10, 2013
I loved Helen Hollicks other books (I Am The Chosen King, The
Forever Queen, and the Pendragon series) and I found this book disappointing.
Her historical fiction is detailed, well researched and very interesting. This
book was romance meets witchcraft, and was very predictable.
Helen, please write more great historical fiction!
3stars
Robin September 13, 2012
I didn't really like this at first - I'm not a big pirate fan
(though I am a big Helen Hollick fan which is why I decided to try it) and
although I enjoyed the Pirates of the Caribbean movies, which is this somewhat
inspired by, I wasn't sure it would translate well into print. I also wasn't
sure about Helen Hollick, who is known for writing realistic historical
fiction, diving into (no pun intended) more fantasy elements. Especially seeing
as how she herself admits "I don't really do fantasy, do I?" and was
sort of pushed into it by her agent when historical fiction wasn't very popular
like it is now.
So at first, I was a bit disappointed - it felt forced. But I
found the second half much better than the first and the last quarter of it in
particular I couldn't put down. The characters have good back stories and it
has an interesting plot, although I didn't really get into until the second
half. This isn't Hollick's best work and I don't think I'll read the rest of
the series (at least not right now) but it wasn't bad.
5 stars2012 B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree
Amazon Customer August 1, 2012
Sea Witch by Helen Hollick is a great pirate adventure- this 2012
B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree is most certainly worth your time and money!
5 stars
AndreaCon May 21, 2012
I have to admit, I am not generally a fan of nautical adventures.
I have never particularly desired to read, for example, Patrick O'Brian's
Master and Commander or Julian Stockwin's Kydd adventures series (but did, come
to think of it, enjoy Robert Louis Stevenson's Kidnapped, hmm...), so I was a
rather skeptical of my ability to become engrossed in Sea Witch. However,
knowing the author is a writer of enjoyable historical fiction, I was open to
giving this a try.
In all honesty, I have to say this is the best Indie book I've
read to date. In fact, this is one of the best novels I have read in a very
long time.
Sea Witch is set in the golden age of piracy, 1716, in the
"pirate round" from Africa to the Caribbean. This is the story of
Jesamiah Acorne, who is forced to leave his home by an abusive half-brother and
fend for himself at age 15. He becomes a pirate, one of the few options open to
men in this circumstance, and this is the story of his first adventure: a tale
of revenge, love, and struggle, all entwined with his passion for the sea.
There are four books so far in this series, I believe, and you can find all of
Helen Hollick's books on her website: Helen Hollick's website
Everything that an avid reader and reviewer looks for in a novel
is here: strong character development, multidimensional portrayal (one of the
biggest strengths of the book), a superbly plotted story with excellent tempo
and a tight narrative, gripping and fluid language, vivid description, and
tension and release at just the right moments.
This is a pirate adventure with wide appeal; there is something
for everyone. I have been skittish about nautical adventures because to me, the
subject seems geared toward masculine tastes (and having not read many, I could
be completely wrong about that!). Here, we have a pirate who is internally
tormented and struggling with a sense of vulnerability; a character who may
appeal to a more emotional sensibility. On the other hand, our hero is not
"soft"; he is a hardened pirate through-and-through, who takes pride
in his work and is very good at it. He is a complex man, fighting his past,
making the most of his present circumstances, and trying to avoid terrible
possibilities that lurk in the future. He gets into scrapes and makes quite
human mistakes: a multidimensional rogue of sorts.
A deeply moving, but not overly sentimental, love story is also
well done in Sea Witch. Tiola Oldstagh herself has been injured deeply and is
the one woman who could possibly break down Jesamiah's tough barrier. The two
must exercise extraordinary patience and faith during times of great despair,
and we don't know until the conclusion if they will make it--the punches keep
on coming at the end, one after the other after the other, and I couldn't sleep
until I turned the final page.
The details of the ship's workings, the descriptions of the crew's
behavior and pirate culture throughout the book are impressive. The author has
a tight grasp on nautical details (the parts of a ship, sailors' language, the
lifestyle--as far as a novice such as I can tell) and a way of writing about
them that makes this book an entertaining education on top of all else.
My favorite aspect of the story, and one of the reasons, I've
heard, that this book was rejected by mainstream publishers, is the mystical,
supernatural element. The subtle, overarching theme is the epic battle for
Jesamiah's body and soul between the living, immortal "soul of the sea,
spirit of the waves" Tethys and Tiola, the young healer, Jesamiah's soul
mate, who turns out to be a "White Witch," who uses her power of
"The Craft" only for good. This epic battle is a powerful element of
the story. It adds a depth and a spiritual texture that is beautiful and
convincing, even carrying over to the terrifying aspects of Tethys herself.
There is much veneration of nature, of beauty, and of the unknowable in this
theme. Let yourself float off into this element of the story, without judgment
or skepticism, and your enjoyment of the book will only increase.
I appreciated the short length of the chapters--I find that short,
effective chapters don't challenge my concentration and do allow me time to
digest what I've read. The language flows beautifully, with at least one
literary reference that brought a smile to my face:
(In his first meeting with a man who would eventually come to play
an important role in his future, Jesamiah is listening to Captain Woodes Rogers
blathering on...)
"My good friend DeFoe, back in England, so his prattling
letters mention, cannot wait to meet Selkirk here. He intends to write his
experiences down as an adventure story. Says he'll call it Robinson Crusoe to
protect the innocent involved in the tale. Absurd, eh? Haha!" (p. 45)
How interesting to read the opinion of a rather self-indulgent
traveler of the sea about a future classic of literature when it was just a
thought in the author's mind! This is the kind of intelligent detail you will
find in this novel.
The author has included a map, an illustration of a square-rigged
ship with parts identified, as well as a glossary of seafaring terms at the
back of the book, so readers can follow along with the "sailor-speak"
(which, gratefully, does not interfere with the reading flow).
My criticisms are miniscule compared with the overall quality of
this book: more than a few typos and missing words; perhaps the dependent clause-technique
was overused a bit too much for the comfort of my editorially trained ear; and
a cover that is a little dark for my personal taste, but does describe the
atmosphere of the book. Overall, the publication is professionally laid out and
pleasing to look at.
Shame on mainstream publishers for rejecting a book of this
quality. Historical fiction with an infusion of fantasy is not an uncommon or
unpleasant combination in a novel! I think Sea Witch would sell quite well if
it were to be aggressively marketed. This is the work of a professional,
experienced author, not a novice.
I absolutely loved Sea Witch and highly recommend it whether you
are a fan of pirating/seafaring adventures or not--and I will be reading the
next book in the series as soon as I can get my hands on it!
5 stars
vvb August 9, 2011
Wonderful start to a trilogy of pirates, sailing and the intertwining
stories of Captain Acorne and Tiola.
The rich details and supernatural element make this an
entertaining read all the way to the last page.
4stars
Blodeuedd July 24, 2011
Pirates, oh yes, pirates. This book introduces us to Jesamiah who
became a pirate when he was young, because he half-brother was a total ass
(trust me, an ass, but then we also learn why during the book. In the end I
even understood his madness).
Jesamiah does have standards, no rapes so that makes me like this
pirate. Since pirates in the end were not very nice people. But he is a good
man and when he falls in love he becomes an ever better man. Even if he loves
the sea way too much.
The heroine of this book is Tiola, a white witch who escaped
England so no one would find out what she is. A pirate is bad, but a witch is
worse. She is really sweet and wants to help everyone from puppies to a certain
wounded pirate. I am sure her witch powers will come back and bite her in the
behind one day but for now I admire her strength. As for the love story, she
knows they are meant to be from the moment she sees him.
This book is all about Jesamiah being out to sea, loosing ships,
getting new ships and taking over other ships. He loves what he does. But after
these two fall in love the book becomes more. Someone else wants her and he has
power to see it happen. Then there is Jesamiah's evil brother too, oh and do not
forget everyone else who do not like pirates (that is a lot of people.)
This book has a lot of adventure and romance and truth be told I
have not read that many pirate novels. Ok sure harlequin ones but they are
always so pretty while this one is real. Life is hard, especially for a pirate.
Conclusion:
A good historical fiction book with lot to offer. Hollick knows
her history and there is also a list of words at the end for those of us who
has no idea what anything on a ship is called.
5 stars
MusingCrow VINE VOICEon July 19, 2011
The story of "Sea Witch" is rooted in the 'golden age'
of piracy - around 1716 - and the action extends from the infamous 'horn of
Africa' to the beaches of the well known pirate haunts in the Caribbean. If you
can, for a moment, consider what Johnny Depp would be like if he was 100 per
cent more charismatic you would have an idea of how good the main protagonist
of the series, Captain Jesamiah Acorn, is. His command of the sailing vessel
"Sea Witch" give series it's name. The main female character, Tiola
Oldstaugh is a white witch and healer who saves Jesamiah from a murderous
attack perpetrated by a band of pirate hunters. Ms. Hollick used an anagram of
"all that is good" to fashion Tiola's name. Brilliant ! I think that
Tethys - the soul of the seas who is portrayed as a living entity - (which I'm
sure some seafarers would swear is true!) is one of my favorite elements of the
series. Tethys has sworn that the handsome, invincible Captain Acorn will be
hers. Tiola's task is to use the forces of her will and her love to prevent the
sea from laying claim to her proud pirate, Jesamiah.
In 'Sea Witch' volume we are also introduced to the characters of
Philippe Moreno, Jesamiah's bullying, vindictive, grasping brother and Stefan
Van Overstreet, the wealthy and domineering Cape Town Dutchman who also wants
Tiola as his wife - for all the wrong reasons. These main characters set the
stage for what becomes a love story, a history of the pirate culture and a
thoroughly engrossing story that you simply will not want to put down. I would
advise that you have the entire series in your hands because as soon as one
book ends you will feel the need to begin reading the next.
5 stars
LAS Reviewer July 13, 2011
He's too wild and she's too young, but Tiola knows the day will
come when they will be one. Her ageless self that has been since time
immemorial knows their souls have touched before and are meant to be together.
Jesamiah Acorne, a pirate wild and free, learned his trade from the
best. He loves the danger, challenge, and adrenaline rush of the Chase. In his
early twenties, he is already wealthy, but something other than pursuit of
wealth drives him. Viciously abused by his older half-brother Phillipe before
he was fifteen, he watched his inheritance burn and wept in total defeat with
no one to protect him. Then a hand of comfort and protection touched him and
the inner sense of a voice came, saying "fight him".
Jesamiah, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, sets forth to roam
the seas during the early eighteen century, robbing richly laden trade ships
and loving every minute of it. The big trade ship "Cristina Griselle"
eludes him but as she sails away, Jesamiah sees Tiola on the ship's deck. The
hair prickles on his neck.
Tethys, soul of the sea and spirit of the waves, wants the
beautiful, dark-eyed pirate with the blue ribbons in his dark hair. She
whispers to him and does not take kindly to the child-woman witch with her
White Craft that lures him and challenges Tethys' timeless supremacy.
Stefan von Overstratten, a rich, pompous Dutch merchant in Cape
Town, Africa, sets his sights on Tiola for a wife. Even though she works as a
midwife and healer in the squalid part of Cape Town, Stefan is attracted to her
beauty and knows she is from "quality" folks in Cornwall, England,
well-educated, and quite adequate for bearing his children.
Stefan is furious when Tiola drags the pirate out of the filthy
alleys and brings him to her rooms to tend him as he heals from near-fatal
wounds. The ensuing conflicts, filled with greed, social class snobbery, daring
exploits, humor, mayhem, and a touch of magic drive the plot along at a fever
pitch. From Africa to the Caribbean, through storms, earthquake, and times of
tranquility, Jesamiah plies his trade and meets the conflicts head on.
Sea Witch is an armchair adventure of a life time with a
swashbuckling, driven pirate and a White Craft child-woman witch, both of them
very aware that death stalks them and will get them if they let their guards
down.
Helen Hollick's description of the pristine beauty of Cape Town at
a distance along with the description of the squalid, brutal conditions in the
alleys creates vivid pictures for the reader. Her meticulous description of the
ships and ocean brings this adventure a strong sense of place. However, the
most compelling of all are the characters with their deep fears, desires,
needs, loyalties, and loves that propel the action through hate, blood,
brutality, and misery to finally sail into tranquil waters that promise
destinies will be fulfilled--in time.
Sea Witch, the first of a pirate trilogy about Captain Jesamiah
Acorne, is set firmly in a historical time that Helen Hollick brings to life in
the mind and imagination of the reader. This breathtaking, magical love story
with the wild adventures is masterfully written and is an incredible vicarious
journey for the reader.
Originally posted at Long and Short of It Romance Reviews
5 stars
Christy English July 13, 2011
To me, the only good pirate has ever been a dead pirate, but Helen
Hollick has changed my mind. Jesamiah Acorne is cast off his father's
plantation at a young age, forced to make his way in the world. He takes to the
sea, coming to win a ship of his own, the SEA WITCH. Beloved of the white witch
Tiola and the sea goddess Tethys, Jesamiah sails into danger with every tide.
With romance and swash-buckling joy, Helen Hollick leads us into a world where
the oceans are full of magic and where the stars always lead us home. From Cape
Town to Port Royal, to the wilds of the pirate port on Madagascar, Helen
Hollick takes us on a journey of the senses, a romantic adventure of true love
that on the last page leaves us hungering for more. It's a good thing for me
that the SEA WITCH is only the first in this series, and that more installments
are already written.
2stars
R. Goodwin March 26, 2011
This review was for a poorly formatted e-edition which has now been
deletted
5 stars
SueB February 15, 2011
Helen makes this story so enticing you want just don't want it to
end! This is a book that I could not put down and enjoyed very much! Great fun
for all "adult" pirate fans. Super historical information and the
characters lept off the page! The story plot is interesting and fun as well as
the characters, Tiola and Jesamiah and others are well developed and very real!
Huzzah to Helen Hollick!
4stars
Ashley February 14, 2011
I enjoyed this book for the fun and well researched character
driven story it is. Helen obviously knows her stuff and makes the pirate period
appropriate and still sexy. I could have smacked him over the head several
times (men! :p) for his behavior, which makes me think he's just as most real
pirates were.
The female protagonist was a good match for him and her magic was
quite an interesting twist to fit in this action packed piece. It is a quick
read and there are no wasted words here at all. The characters are all
developed fully while the author still moves the story along at a fast clip.
Very entertaining and engaging.
Recommended for folks who love historically accurate but
enjoyable, rollicking fiction.
1 star - removed
5 stars
Nathalie Holmes June 26, 2010
I thoroughly enjoyed my first dabble into the world of Helen
Hollick's writing. The characters came alive for me and it was a good story. I
didn't want it to end! I'm looking forward to the next two.
5 stars
B. Darrell Jennings March 20, 2008
I Loved this book. It was easy to read, wonderful to follow and
took you on a great ride. The characters leap off the pages and right into your
home. I caught myself being scared for them, crying for them, taking up their
cause. It was a wonderful escape from the normalicies of life and into the
world of Pirates and romance.. I highly recommend this book...
1 star = remov ed
5stars
Bruce H. Villas August 7, 2006
Excellent historical fiction novel set in the 1700s about pirates
combinimg elements of adventure, romance, and fantasy. Highly recommended for
lovers of historical fiction.
5 stars
Snowangel July 15, 2006
I hear there is a trend growing to rediscover real men! Well, I
found one reading the wonderfully enjoyable Sea Witch! Helen Hollick's hero,
the pirate captain Jesamiah Acorne is everything a hero should be, charismatic,
courageous, downright sexy but with enough flaws to be fully human.
Sea Witch brings an authentic feel of the wide oceans and the
Golden Age of Piracy, it is exciting with a moving believable love story but
plenty of full blooded, heart-stopping action. I cannot recommend it highly
enough and am holding my breath for the next in what I hope will be a long
series of Sea Witch and Jesamiah Acorne chronicles. My sister has fallen
totally in love with Jesamiah too. His allure is becoming a world wide sensation.
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Helen