Exile

by Daisy Joseph-Cole

Clara Mayhew has always been told that she was too talkative, too large and altogether too much.

At a high society soiree she keeps to herself, no longer having to play the confusing games of courtship now that she’s engaged. But an errant spark lights the city on fire and with smoke and chaos everywhere, Clara ends up alone and terrified on the cobblestone streets. After a piece of falling building knocks her unconscious, she wakes up on a pirate ship, already out to sea and at the mercy of a bunch of criminals.

Cass, captain of The Exile, does not want a pampered lady on her ship.

But now she’s stuck with her until they next make port, all because her first mate decided to be a good samaritan and bring her on board. Unfortunately, Cass has a weakness for pretty girls and finds herself more and more drawn to their accidental hostage.

At first Clara writes off the captain as just another cruel girl, but she can’t help but be entranced by the skin at the base of her throat and the stars tattooed on her fingers. Soon enough worlds collide as Clara learns that there are versions of love that she never even suspected.

Sometimes freedom looks like exile.

244 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 30, 2025

Reviews

[escapism isn’t cheap · Rating 5 out of 5]

Devoured this book like the delicacy it is. I know nothing was exactly a surprise for me which makes its enjoyability all the more commendable. I loved the more in depth perspective of not just our main characters but more on the side characters as well. (Jimmy is too sweet I wanna pinch his cheeks). The use as the ocean as another perspective and narrator was beautifully poetic and I’m now obsessed with the idea of a story being told from nature’s perspective. I was even tearing up during Cass’s injury, and I’m rarely so throughly moved let along to tears. I will have no choice but to eagerly and obsessively await more morsels from our lovely author to whom’s creations has once again brightened my life.

[M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly, one of the best things I have ever read. The descriptions are impeccable and so beautifully written and the plot is just stunning. I have a lot of love for the characters and relationship both of which were so pure and realistic - I adore Clara. If you read any book this year, let it be this one it is truly, truly amazing. So poetic and raw and beautiful all wrapped into one and I can't wait to read more.

[Eller · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was honestly so fun to read. I read it in about 5 hours. The story is a beautiful and the set up for the sequel is 10/10. I love the way the author spoke for the water. Using the water as its own story teller is genius. I highly recommend this book to anyone.

[Paulien · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sapphic pirates, need I say more?
This is the book that got me out of a 5 year reading slump.
Please do yourself a favour and read it.