Devil's Ballast

Anne Bonny was eighteen when she ran away from her violent husband, James, into the arms of pirate captain Calico Jack Rackham. Now she’s ensconced aboard Jack’s ship Ranger, passing as a cabin boy and playing her ruthless part in a crew that is raining down mayhem and murder on the ships of the Caribbean. But James Bonny is willing to pay to get his ‘property’ back. And pirate-hunter Captain Barnet is happy to take his money. The Ranger’s a fast ship: Anne might just be able to outrun Barnet. But can she outrun the consequences of her relationship with Calico Jack?

Devil's Ballast is action-packed yet nuanced, culturally relevant and sharp as a cutlass. Based on the true story of Anne Bonny, this new novel by the remarkable Meg Caddy brings to life one of history’s most fascinating anti-heroines.

‘Meg Caddy sure knows how to write an adventure. Devil’s Ballast is a rollicking, heartfelt and fun novel…a must for anyone looking for a story with a sharp-tongued, cutlass-wielding, savvy female pirate!’ Booktopia

‘With the novel’s exploration of deeply personal themes, characterisation is vital, and Caddy gets it spot on…action-filled and exciting.’ ReadPlus

‘This swashbuckling tale of early eighteenth-century Caribbean piracy manages to be hilarious and harrowing...Caddy successfully incorporates issues of sexuality, abuse, and male dominance, proving them as relevant then as now. An invigorating page-turner!’ Booklist

‘Devil’s Ballast is great for readers of action-filled historical fiction.’ Books+Publishing