Seaborne

"1703. In Kinsale, County Cork, Anne Coleman is the illegitimate child of a local lawyer and his maid; disguised as ‘Anthony’ to protect reputations, the mask suits her just fine. But, obsessed with boats and the sea, Anne struggles to fit in, and her devoted mother fears for her fiercely independent and impulsive daughter.

When secrets are exposed, the family emigrates to the new colony of Carolina, but this fresh start brings huge loss and stifling responsibilities. A lonely and transgressive Anne finds comfort only with Bedelia, servant and intimate friend. But her craving for the sea-wandering life and a misjudged marriage to Gabriel Bonny compel Anne to take to the sea again, this time to the islands of the Caribbean, famous for plunder and piracy.

Adventure and freedom await, but so do violence and disappointment. While exploring her sexuality, and ideals around friendship and self-belief, Anne Bonny must also face her own privilege and the sacrifices required for enduring love.

Seaborne is the thrilling and sensuous portrait of a young woman out of step with her time and place, but never her heart."

(nualaoconnor.com)