«The Pirate Queen» by Diana Norman

The powerful story of a woman and a country fighting for the freedom that is rightfully theirs, set against the vivid and colourful background of the Elizabethan age

When Elizabeth the First learns of the hereditary treasure of the Irish O’Flaherty clan, she immediately lays claim to it. But the key to the treasure lies in finding the missing grandchild of the pirate queen, Grace O’Malley.

Streetwise Barbary Clampett is wrenched from the stews of London to be groomed as the long-lost heir. But Barbary has a secret, and the woman who eventually goes to Ireland on the Queen's treasure hunt has allegiance only to herself.

Caught up in the cruelty and beauty of Ireland, however, she is allowed no neutrality. She falls in love and becomes drawn into the last great Irish rebellion. Now Barbary must ask herself - who is the real pirate queen, Grace O’Malley or Elizabeth herself?

This gripping historical odyssey is perfect for fans of Elizabeth Chadwick and Kate Mosse.

Praise for The Pirate Queen

‘A spirited and at times highly amusing account of a ghastly episode in Irish history, told from the female point of view.’ The Times

‘Very powerful. Opens fresh windows onto known history. Filled with delectable, unforgettable characters, humorous and sinewy (sometimes bawdy) prose. Strongly recommended.’ Good Book Guide