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Pirate Latitudes

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Set in the 17th century Caribbean, 'Pirate Latitudes' by Michael Crichton follows the daring privateer Charles Hunter as he plans a heist from the Spanish crown. The story is filled with adventurous escapades, hazardous situations, and unexpected twists, all while delving into the world of piracy and privateering. The writing style is described as fast-paced, gripping, and engaging, with well-researched historical details adding depth to the plot.

The novel captures the essence of a classic pirate adventure, complete with memorable characters, intricate schemes, and swashbuckling action sequences. Despite some inconsistencies and rushed parts, 'Pirate Latitudes' offers a fun and entertaining read that transports readers to a world of treasure hunts, betrayals, and high-seas adventures.

Characters:

Characters are vividly sketched but often feel more like archetypes or caricatures than fully developed individuals.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is engaging and fast-moving, effectively conveying action and adventure, but lacks the depth and polish of Crichton's other novels.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot follows Captain Charles Hunter and his crew's adventurous and often dangerous attempts to raid a Spanish galleon, filled with classic pirate tropes like treasure hunts and epic battles.

Setting:

The setting vividly depicts the Caribbean during the 17th century, highlighting the culture and sociopolitical climate of piracy.

Pacing:

The pacing is quick and energetic, keeping readers engaged through a series of adventures, though occasionally at the expense of narrative depth.
SIR JAMES ALMONT, appointed by His Majesty Charles II Governor of Jamaica, was habitually an early riser. This was in part the tendency of an aging widower, in part a consequence of restless sleep fro...

Notes:

Michael Crichton published Pirate Latitudes posthumously in 2009, after being found on his computer.
The novel is set in the Caribbean during the year 1665 and revolves around the adventures of Captain Charles Hunter, a privateer.
The story incorporates historically accurate elements about privateering and piracy, contrasting the two terms.
It features a cast of memorable characters, including pirates, a governor, and a damsel in distress.
Pirate Latitudes reflects Crichton's typical meticulous research, showcasing the dangers of life at sea, battles, and survival in the Caribbean.
The book contains a blend of action, adventure, and some supernatural elements, such as a giant squid dubbed a 'kraken'.
While the novel has been compared to modern pirate tales, it has been noted for its gritty portrayal of pirate culture rather than romanticized depictions.
Some reviews suggest that the novel feels unfinished and lacks some depth typical of Crichton's earlier works.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book contains graphic violence and themes of betrayal which might be unsettling for some readers.

Has Romance?

There are elements of romance but it is not the primary focus of the story.

From The Publisher:

In this New York Times bestselling novel, master of suspense Michael Crichton delivers an irresistible tale of swashbuckling pirates in the New World-a classic story of treasure and betrayal.

The Caribbean, 1665. A remote colony of the English Crown, the island of Jamaica holds out against the vast supremacy of the Spanish empire. Port Royal, its capital, is a cutthroat town of taverns, grog shops, and bawdy houses. In this steamy climate there's a living to be made, a living that can end swiftly by disease-or by dagger. For Captain Charles Hunter, gold in Spanish hands is gold for the taking, and the law of the land rests with those ruthless enough to make it. Word in port is that a galleon, fresh from New Spain, is awaiting repairs in a nearby harbor....

Pirate Latitudes is Michael Crichton at his best: a rollicking adventure tale pulsing with relentless action, crackling atmosphere, and heart-pounding suspense.

Ratings (31)

Incredible (5)
Loved It (8)
Liked It (11)
It Was OK (7)

Reader Stats (60):

Read It (32)
Want To Read (18)
Not Interested (10)

About the Author:

After graduating from Harvard Medical School, Michael Crichton embarked on a career as a writer and filmmaker, whose credits include 'The Andromeda Strain', 'Westworld', 'Jurassic Park', 'Rising Sun', 'Prey' and 'State of Fear' and the TV series 'ER'. He has sold over 150 million books which have been translated into thirty-six languages; twelve have been made into films. He is the only person to have had, at the same time, the number one book, movie and TV show in the United States

 
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