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The Pirate's Daughter
A multi-generational story based around the extraordinary true story of Errol Flynn's arrival in 1940s Jamaica. The Pirate's Daughter follows Ida, a young girl who falls for Flynn's legendary charms. Through the eyes of Ida and her daughter, May, it also tells the story of their home, Jamaica before and after independence.
503 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2007
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2100 people want to read
About the author
Margaret Cezair-Thompson
2 books51 followersMargaret Cezair-Thompson is the author of a widely acclaimed previous novel, The True History of Paradise. Other publications include short fiction, essays, and articles in Callaloo, The Washington Post, Journal of Commonwealth Literature, Graham House Review, and Elle. Born in Jamaica, West Indies, she teaches literature and creative writing at Wellesley College."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 341 reviews
February 20, 2008
*Note: Spoilers included -- This book was quite a page turner (atleast the first 3/4s). Having frequently visited Jamaica myself, I was impressed with how Cezair-Thompson captured the native dialect, landscape, and political instability that came with Jamaica's independence from Great Britain in the 60s. Also, she does well describing the prejudice often experienced by white Jamaicans, or even people of lighter skin - this actually turns out to be one of the central components of May's struggle to discover her own identity. Much of what happens in the book rings true with people/situations I know, especially the irony of having to leave those you love the most in order to better support them, an unfortunate consequence of living in an impoverished nation. The characters were well fleshed out so that one could not help but feel strongly about them. I cared for both Ida and May, and sympathised with the hardships they had to endure for the rest of their lives resulting from Ida's brief affair with Errol Flynn. I loathed Errol himself for being such a selfish jerk (even moreso knowing that the description of Errol's character was more or less true in reality). A few weaknesses of the book: the pirate/treasure allegory was well-intended but got old and didn't really add any power to the book. Karl's mysterious past being revealed within the last few pages: this didn't have much relevance to what had already occured, and was not even close to something one would suspect or insinuate based on clues earlier in the book. Something as scandalous/traumatic as that should have been a whole other book in itself. Also, I just felt like the last 1/4 dragged on - mainly the part between Errol's death and Navy Island getting ransacked. Don't know how to describe it other than that, but the book lost its luster for me at that point. But overall, I applaud this book and I'm glad I read it.
September 28, 2015
This has all the right ingredients for historical fiction - exotic setting, a famous film star as a character, real events woven into the story, a coming of age story and a feel for the local culture in Jamaica at the time. I have read about 2/3 of it and just don't feel compelled to read more. Hard to put my finger on it. I think I don't really care for the MC all that much and there are some issues with respect to children that bother me. (I have a hard time with stories that are sad with respect to children's circumstances - trying not to spoil here.) But there is nothing atrocious about the writing or the story. I have not really figured out how the title fits but maybe I am being obtuse. So not very helpful here but it was just average for me.
August 20, 2008
In 1946 Errol Flynn's boat was shipwrecked in Jamaica on its way to Haiti; he fell in love with the country and bought a small uninhabited island off the coast of Port Antonio called Navy Island, continuing his rascally ways, hosting wild parties where he drove Truman Capote into the swimming pool, and Marilyn Munro danced ... and a young local girl called Ida, infatuated with the handsome movie star, becomes his lover at 16 and gives birth to a baby girl, May.
This is the story of Ida and May and Jamaica, and the characters that come and go throughout three decades of peace and upheaval. While Errol Flynn was a real person, and his manner of arrival in Jamaica and his flashy lifestyle on Navy Island, are all based on fact - and here it's obvious the author's read Flynn's own autobiography, as well as other works - the rest is fictional. His British friend and author of spy novels, Nigel Fletcher, is obviously based on Ian Fleming who lived in Jamaica and wrote his first Bond books there, but this isn't a biography or anything of that nature.
As far as the story goes, it's a very good tale, and feels very real. I learnt a lot of little things about Jamaica I'd had no idea about - like how, since the beginning, it wasn't just a matter of white people and black people, but white, black, Chinese, Indian, Syrian, Lebanese and so on; it must have been one of the earliest, truly multicultural countries around. The portrayal of Jamaica is vibrant and sensual, in the sense that I felt like I could see it, hear it, smell it, feel it. In a way, it felt like the island nation was the real star of the book.
Ida and May are two very distinct characters, verging on likeable but always holding back. I hate reading about women who throw their lives away on the love of a man who doesn't deserve it, doesn't appreciate it and, even worse, doesn't even notice it. Ida came close to being just such a woman, but luckily it never went down that truly melodrammatic path. In fact, the novel never slipped into corny self-indulgence or melodrama; but part of that could be because of how it was written.
The prose is where I think the book fell flat for me. Perhaps it's because the author read biographies and history texts etc., but it was written in a completely "tell" way. What I mean is, the omniscient narrator - who shifts perspectives constantly - simply tells us everything, leaving us entirely dependent on what is doled out to us, what is revealed and kept hidden, giving us no opportunity to discover things for ourselves, draw our own conclusions, or get to the characters in a more intimate way. And I would have liked to, very much. Especially Karl, who I thought was the most interesting character, but whom you never get the chance to really appreciate the way you want to. Mostly because of Ida.
In its own way, the prose works - it's constant, consistent, very nicely paced and well-structured - almost like it was written to a metronome. It gives the book the feel of historical accuracy, but it also greatly distances the reader from the story, way more than was intended I'm sure. Here's a short paragraph, chosen randomly, to give you a feel for the prose:
He [Errol] looked at the clock. It was a little after ten and his head was pounding. Today he would try not to have a drink until lunchtime. Not that he was worried about being an alcoholic. It was just that the morning cocktails stopped him from getting any work done. In the morning, while Brenda slept, was the best time for writing, and he wanted to finish his screenplay about the Cuban rebels by the end of the month. (p.187)
The only things I knew about Errol Flynn before reading this book was that he was born in Tasmania, like me, and that he was a famous Hollywood actor - and the one movie I knew he'd starred in was Robin Hood. Here his pirate films are more important, and I did feel like I was reading a pretty accurate portrayal of the actor. I can't say I liked him very much.
While I didn't find it as satisfying as I'd hoped - because of the way it was written - I did enjoy the story, for what it's worth. It's just that I find the two - prose and plot - inseparable, and one impacts on the other. It's a good story that could have been told better, rather than a dull story told well - it's the better option of the two, and for that alone I'd recommend it, especially if you're interested in the era, the country, the culture, Errol Flynn or pirate stories.
This is the story of Ida and May and Jamaica, and the characters that come and go throughout three decades of peace and upheaval. While Errol Flynn was a real person, and his manner of arrival in Jamaica and his flashy lifestyle on Navy Island, are all based on fact - and here it's obvious the author's read Flynn's own autobiography, as well as other works - the rest is fictional. His British friend and author of spy novels, Nigel Fletcher, is obviously based on Ian Fleming who lived in Jamaica and wrote his first Bond books there, but this isn't a biography or anything of that nature.
As far as the story goes, it's a very good tale, and feels very real. I learnt a lot of little things about Jamaica I'd had no idea about - like how, since the beginning, it wasn't just a matter of white people and black people, but white, black, Chinese, Indian, Syrian, Lebanese and so on; it must have been one of the earliest, truly multicultural countries around. The portrayal of Jamaica is vibrant and sensual, in the sense that I felt like I could see it, hear it, smell it, feel it. In a way, it felt like the island nation was the real star of the book.
Ida and May are two very distinct characters, verging on likeable but always holding back. I hate reading about women who throw their lives away on the love of a man who doesn't deserve it, doesn't appreciate it and, even worse, doesn't even notice it. Ida came close to being just such a woman, but luckily it never went down that truly melodrammatic path. In fact, the novel never slipped into corny self-indulgence or melodrama; but part of that could be because of how it was written.
The prose is where I think the book fell flat for me. Perhaps it's because the author read biographies and history texts etc., but it was written in a completely "tell" way. What I mean is, the omniscient narrator - who shifts perspectives constantly - simply tells us everything, leaving us entirely dependent on what is doled out to us, what is revealed and kept hidden, giving us no opportunity to discover things for ourselves, draw our own conclusions, or get to the characters in a more intimate way. And I would have liked to, very much. Especially Karl, who I thought was the most interesting character, but whom you never get the chance to really appreciate the way you want to. Mostly because of Ida.
In its own way, the prose works - it's constant, consistent, very nicely paced and well-structured - almost like it was written to a metronome. It gives the book the feel of historical accuracy, but it also greatly distances the reader from the story, way more than was intended I'm sure. Here's a short paragraph, chosen randomly, to give you a feel for the prose:
He [Errol] looked at the clock. It was a little after ten and his head was pounding. Today he would try not to have a drink until lunchtime. Not that he was worried about being an alcoholic. It was just that the morning cocktails stopped him from getting any work done. In the morning, while Brenda slept, was the best time for writing, and he wanted to finish his screenplay about the Cuban rebels by the end of the month. (p.187)
The only things I knew about Errol Flynn before reading this book was that he was born in Tasmania, like me, and that he was a famous Hollywood actor - and the one movie I knew he'd starred in was Robin Hood. Here his pirate films are more important, and I did feel like I was reading a pretty accurate portrayal of the actor. I can't say I liked him very much.
While I didn't find it as satisfying as I'd hoped - because of the way it was written - I did enjoy the story, for what it's worth. It's just that I find the two - prose and plot - inseparable, and one impacts on the other. It's a good story that could have been told better, rather than a dull story told well - it's the better option of the two, and for that alone I'd recommend it, especially if you're interested in the era, the country, the culture, Errol Flynn or pirate stories.
September 21, 2008
Sometimes when I'm on the subway, there will be an ad for a Caribbean island, and I just want to dive in (Remember the girl on the beach in Barton Fink?) That was this book. Every night I picked up the book and dove into the picture.
Lush, vibrant prose. I was utterly transported! No stock characters, honest, real, grabs you in and holds you through the whole story. Swashbuckling pirates, beautiful women, Obeah women.....Cezair-Thompson is a brilliant novelist.
Lush, vibrant prose. I was utterly transported! No stock characters, honest, real, grabs you in and holds you through the whole story. Swashbuckling pirates, beautiful women, Obeah women.....Cezair-Thompson is a brilliant novelist.
June 26, 2021
Truthfully a slow burn. The last 200 pages really seal the story so you have to be buckled in for the. It's totally worth it
January 13, 2018
Definitely a book similar to "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn", just not as good.
January 17, 2021
I read a few reviews about the book, and thought it was a catch. Unfortunately, what a disappointment...
Very boring, with no actual plot. Some parts were enjoyable, but the story just didn't wanna end! It took me a while to finish it, as I was curious (and hopeful) that something good will come out at the end.
Not a recommendation read at all, unless you are bored!
Very boring, with no actual plot. Some parts were enjoyable, but the story just didn't wanna end! It took me a while to finish it, as I was curious (and hopeful) that something good will come out at the end.
Not a recommendation read at all, unless you are bored!
September 28, 2025
This was a DNF for me. Had a hard time staying with engaged.
October 21, 2011
This book was up and down to me. It was a nice read but sometimes I was missing something. It needed more and less. Does that make sense? There were times when I wanted more information and then there were things that could have been left out and served no purpose. I loved the whole entwining Errol Flynn and Jamaica. How many stories are set in Jamaica? AND the best part was the Bob Marley was not mentioned until page 300. It was a shock! I thought for sure it would have been mentioned in the title.
This was an interesting read and I am glad I read it. I had to google more about Errol Flynn though (In like Flynn). I knew about him and his playboy life but I had to get a better image of him and I think that the author did a great job with weaving fact and fiction. It was what made the book so interesting. Everything else was mere "meh" but because she wove in Flynn it just gave it more magic. It is definitely a good book club book. It makes for great conversation and it is truly a comfort read.
This was an interesting read and I am glad I read it. I had to google more about Errol Flynn though (In like Flynn). I knew about him and his playboy life but I had to get a better image of him and I think that the author did a great job with weaving fact and fiction. It was what made the book so interesting. Everything else was mere "meh" but because she wove in Flynn it just gave it more magic. It is definitely a good book club book. It makes for great conversation and it is truly a comfort read.
November 26, 2020
I really enjoyed this one. Loved the imagery of Jamaica through the years and felt like I have been on a journey with the characters.
August 30, 2022
A very well written summer read.
May 2, 2017
A powerful and evocative look at Jamaica through the eyes of a young woman, and later her daughter; the child of an illicit and passionate love affair with the Hollywood heart-throb Errol Flynn. Although fabricated, Flynn really did own Navy Island off the coast of Jamaica in the middle of the 20th century and this story is the result of the author's fictional imaginings of events that took place during this time.
The descriptions of the Caribbean are very vivid and Cezair-Thompson's rendering of the complex relationships within the novel are excellent. I found the gentle unwinding of the story, spanning over 20 years, powerful and emotive; leaving me with a profound sense of loss and regret as it drew to a close. I felt like I was closing the door on the mess of unfinished business which was striking but also somewhat dissatisfying.
The descriptions of the Caribbean are very vivid and Cezair-Thompson's rendering of the complex relationships within the novel are excellent. I found the gentle unwinding of the story, spanning over 20 years, powerful and emotive; leaving me with a profound sense of loss and regret as it drew to a close. I felt like I was closing the door on the mess of unfinished business which was striking but also somewhat dissatisfying.
November 28, 2025
Interesting read, slow to start but drew me in and in the end I really enjoyed the story.
June 20, 2010
I read this book as it was featured a few years ago on "Richard and Judy's Book Club", and I was not dissappointed by it.
The story is separated into different parts, three is in 3rd person narrative and two in 1st person narrative in the forms of letters. The parts written as letters I enjoyed the most as they just focused on the thoughts and feelings of just May and Ida.
The two main characters are Ida and May. Ida is a teenager when the story begins, she is a real daddy's girl and is desperate to go with him to show the 40 year old movie star, Errol Flynn around the island of Jamaica. However she is forced by her unwell mother to go and visit her grandmother in the mountains. However, Ida does eventually meet Errol and as soon as she does she is besotted with him. The first part of the story focuses on this meeting and how their relationship develops. It ends with Ida having to deal with the aftermath of their relationship. The second part is full of letters from Ida to all of her friends and family, detailing her life in New York, this is when you really get to know Ida and start to understand her goals and feelings.
You get to know May in the next two parts of the book, it focuses on her life and the way she deals with the return of her mother and step-father, the move to her a new home, and the relationships she has with other characters in the book. Part 3 follows letters from May to various characters, from college in Switzerland. You really start to see the effects that her mother leaving her and her not knowing her father has on her, her life and her relationships with men.
The remaining parts of the book focus on what the effects of a new government and Independence has on Jamaica and all the characters. You also learn more about Errol and why he stayed in Jamaica without having anything to do with May.
I really liked this book, it was chick lit with some mystery thrown in. I will definitely be looking out for more books by this author.
The story is separated into different parts, three is in 3rd person narrative and two in 1st person narrative in the forms of letters. The parts written as letters I enjoyed the most as they just focused on the thoughts and feelings of just May and Ida.
The two main characters are Ida and May. Ida is a teenager when the story begins, she is a real daddy's girl and is desperate to go with him to show the 40 year old movie star, Errol Flynn around the island of Jamaica. However she is forced by her unwell mother to go and visit her grandmother in the mountains. However, Ida does eventually meet Errol and as soon as she does she is besotted with him. The first part of the story focuses on this meeting and how their relationship develops. It ends with Ida having to deal with the aftermath of their relationship. The second part is full of letters from Ida to all of her friends and family, detailing her life in New York, this is when you really get to know Ida and start to understand her goals and feelings.
You get to know May in the next two parts of the book, it focuses on her life and the way she deals with the return of her mother and step-father, the move to her a new home, and the relationships she has with other characters in the book. Part 3 follows letters from May to various characters, from college in Switzerland. You really start to see the effects that her mother leaving her and her not knowing her father has on her, her life and her relationships with men.
The remaining parts of the book focus on what the effects of a new government and Independence has on Jamaica and all the characters. You also learn more about Errol and why he stayed in Jamaica without having anything to do with May.
I really liked this book, it was chick lit with some mystery thrown in. I will definitely be looking out for more books by this author.
April 5, 2015
I struggled to get through this novel. It took so long to get going and it never grabbed me. It's the story of Ida, a Jamaican girl who meets the actor Errol Flynn as a young girl and ends up having a daughter with him. Although the daughter May is the title character, she doesn't really come into the story until the second half of the book. The first part is all about how Ida meets Errol and eventually becomes his lover at the age of 16. The relationship doesn't last and Ida is left to raise her daughter on her own, although she does later marry.
The book is very slow - oddly so, because a lot happens, but the action parts are rushed and the parts between dragged out. The synopsis makes it sound so exciting: pirates' tales, hunting for lost treasure and appearances by stars like Tony Curtis and Marilyn Monroe. All I can say is while these things are mentioned, they are hardly major elements of the story. It's a book that is more character driven than plot driven: unfortunately the characters are not particularly likeable or even interesting.
Cezair-Thompson seems intimidated by the idea of incorporating Errol Flynn as a fictional character: he never feels real in the way that the other characters do. The idea of using a real person in a piece of fiction is far from new - for example, William Boyd does it very skillfully in "Any Human Heart". But here it feels clumsy and contrived.
Some of the dialogue is written in the Jamaican dialect. Reading other reviews, I guess I'm the minority here, but I found that distracting. It irritates me when I need to slow down my reading to decipher what is being said by sentences like: "Wha'fe you cyan be unfe you".
The one thing that I really loved about this book is the descriptions of Jamaica, which are gorgeous. You can almost smell the rain-scented forests, feel the tropical breezes, see the white bougainvillea fringing the colorfully painted houses. But overall, this book was a disappointment to me.
The book is very slow - oddly so, because a lot happens, but the action parts are rushed and the parts between dragged out. The synopsis makes it sound so exciting: pirates' tales, hunting for lost treasure and appearances by stars like Tony Curtis and Marilyn Monroe. All I can say is while these things are mentioned, they are hardly major elements of the story. It's a book that is more character driven than plot driven: unfortunately the characters are not particularly likeable or even interesting.
Cezair-Thompson seems intimidated by the idea of incorporating Errol Flynn as a fictional character: he never feels real in the way that the other characters do. The idea of using a real person in a piece of fiction is far from new - for example, William Boyd does it very skillfully in "Any Human Heart". But here it feels clumsy and contrived.
Some of the dialogue is written in the Jamaican dialect. Reading other reviews, I guess I'm the minority here, but I found that distracting. It irritates me when I need to slow down my reading to decipher what is being said by sentences like: "Wha'fe you cyan be unfe you".
The one thing that I really loved about this book is the descriptions of Jamaica, which are gorgeous. You can almost smell the rain-scented forests, feel the tropical breezes, see the white bougainvillea fringing the colorfully painted houses. But overall, this book was a disappointment to me.
April 14, 2022
4.5 stars
This book is told through the eyes of Ida and her daughter May, mixed race Jamaican women living in Jamaica from the time of Errol Flynn’s arrival there in the 1940’s, through to the 1970’s. As well as their own family stories, this covers the time before and after Jamaica’s independence.
Although this book doesn’t have an overly fantastic review on Goodreads (3.5 stars), I thoroughly enjoyed it. The descriptions of Jamaica were lush and vivid and I felt transported there. In fact, I would go so far as to say this book has some of the most immersive descriptions of a country that I’ve ever read. Close your eyes and you could see the landscape, feel the weather, smell the food, hear the water lapping and the unique way that Jamaican’s speak.
The characters were interesting and well defined and I enjoyed the inclusion of Errol Flynn (who did actually live on the north coast of Jamaica for a while) and the old Hollywood glamour it brought to the story….as well as his infamous and decidedly less glamorous side.
This is not a plot heavy book, but I found it an engaging glimpse into four generations of this family and their struggle for identity and Ida and May’s search for belonging….as well as that of their beautiful and beloved country. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5.
This book is told through the eyes of Ida and her daughter May, mixed race Jamaican women living in Jamaica from the time of Errol Flynn’s arrival there in the 1940’s, through to the 1970’s. As well as their own family stories, this covers the time before and after Jamaica’s independence.
Although this book doesn’t have an overly fantastic review on Goodreads (3.5 stars), I thoroughly enjoyed it. The descriptions of Jamaica were lush and vivid and I felt transported there. In fact, I would go so far as to say this book has some of the most immersive descriptions of a country that I’ve ever read. Close your eyes and you could see the landscape, feel the weather, smell the food, hear the water lapping and the unique way that Jamaican’s speak.
The characters were interesting and well defined and I enjoyed the inclusion of Errol Flynn (who did actually live on the north coast of Jamaica for a while) and the old Hollywood glamour it brought to the story….as well as his infamous and decidedly less glamorous side.
This is not a plot heavy book, but I found it an engaging glimpse into four generations of this family and their struggle for identity and Ida and May’s search for belonging….as well as that of their beautiful and beloved country. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5.
August 14, 2022
Story itself is very interesting, it had me captivated and invested to read it, but it’s not for relaxing type of reading. Around characters, author built and included problems relating to racism, classes and differences that were to be overcome in 20th century and to enter new age, age of change that was not easy at all for generations that lived in that time. As someone who only learns about things from that period, but didn’t live in that time, this book really describes even more problems of that era. I loved it. Sadness, madness, love, heartbreak, family and its problems, complicated relationships and hardships - this book has it all.
The only reason I rated it 4 was because some parts of book were unnecessarily longer and I wish we could’ve learn more about Mej’s stepfather Karl / Max more, but also about Erol’s side of thinking, pov of his. I think it would’ve given even more fire to some parts of story and helped us understand his real character more.
But all in all, very well-written piece and story. I like it.
The only reason I rated it 4 was because some parts of book were unnecessarily longer and I wish we could’ve learn more about Mej’s stepfather Karl / Max more, but also about Erol’s side of thinking, pov of his. I think it would’ve given even more fire to some parts of story and helped us understand his real character more.
But all in all, very well-written piece and story. I like it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2021
I really liked the first 200 pages or so. It was a good story and competently told, it had a clear focus and a kind of veracity to it. However, it seems to me that the book was trying to be too many things and have too many threads. At some point it became simply a sequential retelling of 30 years in a family's life. The POVs became scattered and a bit random and there was no focus driving the narration forward. One might argue real life is episodic and unfocused so the book is faithful to life. But that does not make for a very compelling read, and besides, the story didn't feel real enough to imitate reality. I think the author endeavoured (often successfully) to show many facets of Jamaican life and how Jamaica had changed over the years, but for half of the book failed to supply a compelling story to superimpose on the cultural and political background.
December 7, 2008
This was an entertaining read - for me, more like a summer book, nothing too heady, just fun. I loved getting a sense of the dialect and some of the political strife faced by the islanders in the 60's.
May 17, 2011
I really enjoyed this book. I would recommend it to anyone who loves fictional stories based on real events, history, or the lives of real people. Find it and enjoy!
December 6, 2017
Onvan : The Pirate's Daughter - Nevisande : Margaret Cezair-Thompson - ISBN : 1932961402 - ISBN13 : 9781932961409 - Dar 432 Safhe - Saal e Chap : 2007
March 6, 2020
I know I have finish a good book, when the words stay with me long after I have closed the back cover. Margaret Cezair Thompson's words are poetic, and intelligent. This is the type of novel I long to read. The Pirate's Daughter is a multi generational story, that spans a little over 40 years. The main character Ida, is introduced as a young Jamaican girl born to unwed parents. Her mother is African Chinese and her father is Syrian which most Jamaican's of the time considered white. Ida possesses an unparalleled beauty, so it is no surprise when she catches the eye of the 1940's silver screen movie star Errol Flynn when he shipwrecks off the coast of Jamaica. Ida's Humble home complete with a Tin roof, goats in the yard, and mattresses on the floor, paints the picture of poverty not to be pitied, but something of greater value. A simple life, with a strong community of genuine people who care for their neighbors. From the colorful priest who drinks heavily and plays a mean game of cards with his parishioners, to the school yard kids Ida grows up with. But when Errol Flynn arrives he shows Ida's family the glamour of money. He purchases Navy Island and builds a Mansion that he names Belle Vista, just off the coast of Port Antonio where Ida lives. Errol introduces his famous friends from Author Nigel Fleming and his sons Martin and Ian Fleming. who live in their own mansion in Orcabessa, and Baron Karl Von Austenburg. This side by side comparison of one life to another shapes Ida's Opinions and ambitions throughout her life. At the age of seventeen Ida becomes the mother to the aging stars daughter. Desperate to provide for May in a failing economy as a single parent Ida leaves behind Jamaica, her daughter and father in search of a job. Ida is gone for a period of five years and in that time May grows into a precocious and unruly child. Ida's returns to her home as the wife to a man she doesn't exactly love, and a stranger to her daughter. Ida has been robbed of a life with the only man she has ever loved. The story continues on to shadow May's Journey, a young adventurous tom boy of a girl who is more interested in the exploration of the rugged landscape then the finer things in life. While the story is lighthearted in some ways, there are some dark themes that are explored, such as the difference of the racism found in Jamaica from that of it's counterpart that existed in the United States, and other parts of the world, to the political unrest, drug abuse, and greed that existed in different forms throughout the generations. There were scenes I almost found too uncomfortable to read like the desire Errol Flynn has for girls not yet of age. I was appreciative to the author for keeping these scenes to a brief minimum. Overall the book was an incredible well researched novel and had a beautiful intangible quality to it. As a frequent traveler to the Island, the basic premise, and the setting was what invited me to dive into reading this novel, but the full rich history of paradise, the lyricism of the writing, and the continual probe into the depth of how the past, present and future affect each other is what made me stay.
August 4, 2023
"The Pirate's Daughter" by Margaret Cezair Thompson is a historical novel that sails through the turbulent waters of Jamaica's past. Set against the backdrop of the captivating Caribbean landscape, the novel tells the story of a young woman's journey of self-discovery and the complexities of identity.
One of the strengths of the book is the lush and evocative prose that brings the vibrant Jamaican setting to life. The author's vivid descriptions transport readers to the sun-soaked beaches and lush tropical forests, immersing them in the rich culture and history of the island.
The novel explores themes of race, colonialism, and the legacy of piracy, providing an insightful glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of the characters as they navigate the tumultuous historical events that shaped their lives. The historical context adds depth and authenticity to the story, making it more than just a tale of romance and adventure.
The characters in "The Pirate's Daughter" are well-developed and multifaceted, each grappling with their own inner conflicts and desires. The protagonist, May, undergoes a significant transformation throughout the narrative, as she confronts her heritage and identity in the midst of societal expectations and cultural clashes.
While the historical and cultural aspects of the book are commendable, the pacing of the story can be uneven at times. Certain sections feel slow-moving, and the narrative occasionally loses momentum, which can make it challenging to maintain a consistent level of engagement.
Moreover, the romance elements in the novel are somewhat predictable, and the development of the love story lacks the depth and complexity needed to truly resonate with readers.
In conclusion, "The Pirate's Daughter" is a captivating historical novel that delves into the intricate tapestry of Jamaica's past, offering a captivating portrait of the island's culture and history. The evocative writing and well-drawn characters make it an enjoyable read. However, the uneven pacing and predictable romance prevent the book from reaching its full potential. For readers interested in exploring the complexities of identity and history in a lush Caribbean setting, this book is worth a read, but it falls just short of being a truly exceptional literary voyage.
One of the strengths of the book is the lush and evocative prose that brings the vibrant Jamaican setting to life. The author's vivid descriptions transport readers to the sun-soaked beaches and lush tropical forests, immersing them in the rich culture and history of the island.
The novel explores themes of race, colonialism, and the legacy of piracy, providing an insightful glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of the characters as they navigate the tumultuous historical events that shaped their lives. The historical context adds depth and authenticity to the story, making it more than just a tale of romance and adventure.
The characters in "The Pirate's Daughter" are well-developed and multifaceted, each grappling with their own inner conflicts and desires. The protagonist, May, undergoes a significant transformation throughout the narrative, as she confronts her heritage and identity in the midst of societal expectations and cultural clashes.
While the historical and cultural aspects of the book are commendable, the pacing of the story can be uneven at times. Certain sections feel slow-moving, and the narrative occasionally loses momentum, which can make it challenging to maintain a consistent level of engagement.
Moreover, the romance elements in the novel are somewhat predictable, and the development of the love story lacks the depth and complexity needed to truly resonate with readers.
In conclusion, "The Pirate's Daughter" is a captivating historical novel that delves into the intricate tapestry of Jamaica's past, offering a captivating portrait of the island's culture and history. The evocative writing and well-drawn characters make it an enjoyable read. However, the uneven pacing and predictable romance prevent the book from reaching its full potential. For readers interested in exploring the complexities of identity and history in a lush Caribbean setting, this book is worth a read, but it falls just short of being a truly exceptional literary voyage.
February 15, 2018
This was a most unusual book and a most unusual choice for me to read. I found this rather obscure, but beautifully produced book, at the library book sale. I picked it up thinking it would probably be a titillating piece of Hollywood froth, mostly about Errol Flynn and his cronies. Well, it is not a piece of Hollywood froth, but there is quite a bit about Flynn's life as lived on his private island just a mile or so off the mainland of Jamaica. However, the main story line follows two women forever connected to Flynn, a young mixed race Jamaican girl and their love child daughter. These women are fictionalized, but completely believable given Flynn's propensities for very young girls and the probable offspring of those affairs. The book has too much raw sex for my taste, but I do believe that the author is trying to make the point that true happiness does NOT lie in money, casual sex, drugs, fame or power. Ironically, my favorite character was Baron Kurt Von Ausberg, who eventually becomes the reluctant stepfather of Errol Flynn's illegitimate daughter, May. It is their relationship and how it developed over the years that was the pay-off for me in this saga.
For this reason, I was able to get past parts in the book which bothered me and did not advance the plot. Also, there were a few tales of animal cruelty that I just plain skipped.
All that aside, this book presents an insider's look at some of the problems and issues that plagued Jamaica during the 60's & 70's, events I was unaware of.
For this reason, I was able to get past parts in the book which bothered me and did not advance the plot. Also, there were a few tales of animal cruelty that I just plain skipped.
All that aside, this book presents an insider's look at some of the problems and issues that plagued Jamaica during the 60's & 70's, events I was unaware of.
August 31, 2021
This book was wonderful for the way it explored the mind of women over 3 generations long. And set at a time and place that was going through a lot of changes while also being stuck to the past. I loved the way how the author has written each character's immense love for something that it becomes a part of their personality, Errol and the sea, Eli and his theatre, Oni and nature, Karl and his artifacts, May and her Treasure Cove..... And how Ida and her fascination with Errol both defined her and was her undoing- I felt that was beautifully shown too.
Where I would have liked more detail is how Ida's character arc goes from the time she encounters Errol as a starry eyed teen to finally making a choice about her future after she leaves Jamaica. I felt it was rushed. In a lot of ways, May's not very smooth relationship with her mother is largely due to that gap and the things that occured(Ida's decisions) in that time frame. That gap became a "missing chapter" of sorts for me. And I kept missing it even after I finished the book.
But the most beautiful part of the book was about May and Nigel. It was beautifully written and felt like an award winning stage performance through sheer underplaying of the actors! For that alone, I changed my initial thought of giving 3 stars to 4 stars.
Overall, even with a few "could have more"s, this book delivered that feeling of having lived a life with the characters that it promises to.
Where I would have liked more detail is how Ida's character arc goes from the time she encounters Errol as a starry eyed teen to finally making a choice about her future after she leaves Jamaica. I felt it was rushed. In a lot of ways, May's not very smooth relationship with her mother is largely due to that gap and the things that occured(Ida's decisions) in that time frame. That gap became a "missing chapter" of sorts for me. And I kept missing it even after I finished the book.
But the most beautiful part of the book was about May and Nigel. It was beautifully written and felt like an award winning stage performance through sheer underplaying of the actors! For that alone, I changed my initial thought of giving 3 stars to 4 stars.
Overall, even with a few "could have more"s, this book delivered that feeling of having lived a life with the characters that it promises to.
October 28, 2025
This was an enjoyable read. The main characters, Ida and May are well developed and I grew more attached to Ida than her daughter (although Ida's attitude towards her husband at the end felt out of character). Learning about life in Jamaica in the years leading up it it's independence and just after was very educational for me and seeing how life was for wealthier, non Black Jamaicans was very interesting.
The real character of the book is Jamaica. Thompson does a great job in presenting this island as the natural paradise it is. There are a few issues with the book. One being that Karl remains too mysterious throughout and by the time you learn the truth, the book is almost done and his backstop could have been better weaved throughout the narrative. I also didn't like the extracts of May's story and felt it added nothing to the development of the book. Errol Flynn is portrayed well but I would have preferred if more facts were kept in about him. There is a bit too much blurring of what's real about him and what wasn't. The same with Nigel, who is clearly based on Ian Fleming. I would prefer characters who are purely fictional or heavily based on the real person. The pace of the book in the last quarter was very slow and it was unclear what climax it was leading up to. By the time you reach it, the book is done but it does have an ending that reflects the hope of a nation in a newly independent Jamaica.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and recommend it.
The real character of the book is Jamaica. Thompson does a great job in presenting this island as the natural paradise it is. There are a few issues with the book. One being that Karl remains too mysterious throughout and by the time you learn the truth, the book is almost done and his backstop could have been better weaved throughout the narrative. I also didn't like the extracts of May's story and felt it added nothing to the development of the book. Errol Flynn is portrayed well but I would have preferred if more facts were kept in about him. There is a bit too much blurring of what's real about him and what wasn't. The same with Nigel, who is clearly based on Ian Fleming. I would prefer characters who are purely fictional or heavily based on the real person. The pace of the book in the last quarter was very slow and it was unclear what climax it was leading up to. By the time you reach it, the book is done but it does have an ending that reflects the hope of a nation in a newly independent Jamaica.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and recommend it.
January 15, 2023
4 - 4 1/2 star read. This book was a Richard and Judy (UK) Book Club Selection in 2008 and that brought it to my attention. I thought this would be a bit of fluffy beach reading but it was a very good and well researched historical fiction book that was a family saga with strong characters. It also combines some glamour with Errol Flynn, movie matinee idol arriving in his storm tossed boat in Jamaica and deciding to build a house there. The author imagines what Flynn's life was like based on stories about his life and times in Jamaica and imagines that he had an affair with a young biracial island girl, Ida. Ida becomes pregnant and has a daughter May and gets no help from Flynn and is forced to make a life for herself. The book follows the two women as they navigate their lives and meet the challenges that being neither black nor white in that society brought. I found it to be a very good read.
February 13, 2021
I nearly put this book down several times. It managed to stay just interesting enough to keep me reading. Unfortunately, I have finished the book wishing I didn't bother.
The vast majority of the relationships in the book are somewhat creepy to my reading. It's interesting because the author said in her notes that she didn't want to write her characters as naive young women being taken advantage of by powerful older white men, but unfortunately to my reading that's exactly how it came across. Don't get me wrong, they have their own personalities and are by no means weak women, but I still felt they had definitely been taken advantage of, especially Ida.
It does give an interesting, if a little one-sided snapshot of a significant period in Jamaica's history. I'd like to read more about that at some point but this book just didn't do it for me.
The vast majority of the relationships in the book are somewhat creepy to my reading. It's interesting because the author said in her notes that she didn't want to write her characters as naive young women being taken advantage of by powerful older white men, but unfortunately to my reading that's exactly how it came across. Don't get me wrong, they have their own personalities and are by no means weak women, but I still felt they had definitely been taken advantage of, especially Ida.
It does give an interesting, if a little one-sided snapshot of a significant period in Jamaica's history. I'd like to read more about that at some point but this book just didn't do it for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2018
I don't know what to say . . .in a lot of ways, it feels shallow. So many big things are woven into this book, difficult things, but they are just barely touched upon. Perhaps intentionally: there are so many enormous and historic things going on around all of us every day, but we aren't personally affected very deeply by many of them. The same seems true of the book's characters. So perhaps, it's very true to life.
People ebb and flow in the story much like tides. Their stories are not always satisfactorily concluded. They often are just swept away like a sand castle at high tide. Merely gone.
One feels Jamaica when reading this book; her unrest, her beauty, her despair, her lilting accent.
I enjoyed it, but feel it was either not deep enough for me or I am not deep enough for it.
People ebb and flow in the story much like tides. Their stories are not always satisfactorily concluded. They often are just swept away like a sand castle at high tide. Merely gone.
One feels Jamaica when reading this book; her unrest, her beauty, her despair, her lilting accent.
I enjoyed it, but feel it was either not deep enough for me or I am not deep enough for it.
August 16, 2019
Part of a Richard and Judy summer reads collection I was gifted over a decade ago, The Pirate's Daughter had sat on my shelf accusingly for long enough when I realised I could read something from Jamaica and kill two birds with one stone (I have a scratch map for reading). Once you get past the statutory rape and constant older men with younger women aspect, this is a very interesting novel with well-crafted characters and many layers. Oddly, the two Anglo Caribbean books I have read have centered around white characters who feel a sense of otherness in their native country, and I wonder how typical an experience this is. Maybe I should ensure I find more representative characters in the future...
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