The Pirate Queen by Patricia Hickman

Saphora Warren's plan was to leave her adulterous husband, Bender Warren, and spend some time alone at their coastal home in Oriental, North Carolina. Unfortunately, Bender announces that he's dying of brain cancer on the very day Saphora had planned to leave. Against her personal desires, Saphora takes Bender and their grandson to Oriental. In the midst of the Bender's physical decline, family and friends flood their home and Saphora's dream of solitude evaporates. As it becomes clear that Bender will not recover, he searches for truth and Saphora finds her animosity replaced by sympathy. Bender's search leads Saphora on her own quest and to her surprise, treasure is found in the unlikeliest of places.

When I picked up The Pirate Queen, I wasn't sure if I would like it or not. I am happy to say that I did enjoy it. It wasn't a book that kept me riveted and constantly wanting to read it, but the desire to know what would happen with the characters kept pulling me back to the book. In books where a spouse has committed adultery, I think it is important that forgiveness be authentic if it occurs. Saphora's forgiveness was gradual and realistic, in my opinion. The writing was engaging. When tragedy occurred, I cried. When the final chapter concluded, I smiled. I loved the ending.

To read an excerpt from The Pirate Queen, click here.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from WaterBrook Press as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."