IF THE TIDE TURNS
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Set in the Golden Age of Pirates and the shadowy aftermath of the Salem witch trials, this vivid, gorgeously written novel inspired by a captivating true story combines high seas adventure, star-crossed longing, and the emotionally satisfying tale of one strong-willed young woman determined to choose her own path.
1715, Eastham, Massachusetts: As the daughter of a wealthy family, Maria Brown has a secure future mapped out for her, yet it is not the future she wants. Young, headstrong, and restless, Maria has no desire to marry the aging, mean-spirited John Hallett, regardless of his fortune and her parents’ wishes. As for what Maria does want—only one person has ever even asked her that question.
Samuel Bellamy, an orphaned sailor searching for work, meets Maria by chance, enthralling her with talk of far-flung places and blasphemous ideals. But neither is free from the social order into which they were born. When Sam is banished from Maria’s parents’ home after asking for her hand, he vows to return a wealthy man, and Maria promises to keep the faith until then.
Sam is drawn into piracy and discovers a brotherhood more equal and fulfilling than any on land, despite its dangers. Beguiled by the chance to both fight for justice and make a fortune to bring home to Maria, Sam is torn between duty to his crew and his desire to return. Separated by more than just the ocean, time slips by as Sam and Maria cling to their love for each other. Maria is determined to stay strong in her conviction in Sam, but as rumors swirl and her position in Eastham turns perilous, Maria is forced into an impossible decision.
Now, on a journey no less treacherous and eventful than Sam’s, Maria draws on every shred of her courage and resilience not merely to survive, but to honor her own yearning for freedom . . .
MARCH 26, 2024
ADVANCE PRAISE
“IF THE TIDE TURNS weaves together two fascinating worlds in a page-turning story of love, friendship, and self-discovery. It transports the reader to the time of witch trials and piracy, shrugging off popular caricatures and exploring real-life people—the hardships they faced and the hope that sustained them. A stirring and luminous read!”
“Rachel Rueckert delivers a sweeping adventure perfectly seasoned with a lyrical love story that grabs you from the beginning and doesn’t let go. Her scintillating writing weaves a tale that stays with you long after you finish.”
“A vivid page-turner with forbidden romance, pirates, and adventure
upon the open sea. The human spirit can be bent and beaten, but it
will not break in either Maria or Sam.”
“Two lovers, separated by their stations in life, fight their way back to each other’s arms. On land and on the sea, Sam and Maria overcome the hardships of the mid-1700s in this tale of daring, courage, aching loneliness, and two people willing to face any obstacles to be together.”
“A captivating reimagining of the legendary relationship between Pirate Samuel Bellamy and Cape Codder, Maria. A guaranteed page-turner that will entertain you until the very last word.”
“Rueckert works in themes of love and sisterhood and brotherhood into her debut. The will to live through perilous struggles and become resilient is strong in these characters. This journey into tumultuous history will keep readers engaged and committed until the very end.”
“A delicious debut awash in lore and amazing historical detail, as wild and characteristically unpredictable as the sea that gives it life. Rachel Rueckert is a writer to be reckoned with. Maria and Sam’s romantic travails grab you like a riptide and won’t let go!”
“Rachel Rueckert’s IF THE TIDE TURNS is a stunning, unapologetic story of two young people caught up in unfair circumstances in 18th century New England, who nevertheless remain determined to forge their own paths and unswerving in their devotion to one another. Meticulously researched and gorgeously written, this historical novel inspired by true events is a gripping tale of piracy, love, and most of all, the costs (and joys) of self-determination.”
“Both a swashbuckling adventure and a great love story.”
“Pirates, romance, and witchcraft! If you’re in for an adventurous historical ride as well as rooting for a strong-willed heroine, you will want to read IF THE TIDE TURNS.”
