Nina Wachsman’s The Courtesan's Pirate delivers a historical adventure full of intrigue, romance, and high-stakes drama set against the backdrop of 17th-century Venice and the Caribbean. With a protagonist as captivating as Belladonna, a former courtesan turned pirate’s lover, the novel offers an engaging tale of loyalty, love, and cunning. Though it successfully blends action and romance, it occasionally falls short in terms of pacing and depth.

The story follows Belladonna as she faces a new set of challenges in her quest to save Isaak, her pirate captain lover, who has been captured by the Spanish and is facing execution. Wachsman does an excellent job in establishing the stakes early on, creating a sense of urgency as Belladonna must leave the safety of Jamaica and return to Venice. The tension between the chaotic, dangerous world of the Caribbean and the political intrigue of Venice is one of the novel’s highlights, with each setting providing its own set of perils for Belladonna to navigate.

Belladonna herself is an intriguing character—strong, resourceful, and willing to use both her charm and intellect to achieve her goals. Her evolution from a courtesan to a woman of influence gives the story a unique edge, and her determination to save Isaak adds emotional weight. However, the complexity of her character could have been explored further. While her motivations are clear, the novel occasionally misses opportunities to delve deeper into her internal struggles, particularly her conflicting feelings about returning to a society that once valued her for her beauty and influence, but now sees her power waning.

The romance between Belladonna and Isaak provides a solid emotional anchor for the story, though Isaak’s role is more passive as the captive awaiting rescue. Their love feels genuine, but the separation between the two for much of the novel limits the development of their relationship on the page. Instead, Belladonna’s love for Isaak is more of a driving force behind her actions, which works well for the plot but doesn’t allow for much romantic tension or growth between the characters.

Where the novel truly shines is in its portrayal of political intrigue and shifting alliances. The Venetian court is filled with cunning adversaries, and Wachsman deftly weaves together a web of betrayals, hidden motives, and dangerous power plays. Belladonna’s struggle to reclaim her influence in a city where alliances are fleeting keeps the reader engaged, though the sheer number of players in the political game can sometimes feel overwhelming. The stakes are high, and Belladonna’s clever maneuvering and reliance on her old allies—and some new ones—make for an engaging read.

That said, the pacing of The Courtesan's Pirate is uneven at times. The middle of the novel, where Belladonna returns to Venice and begins plotting Isaak’s rescue, can feel slow compared to the more action-packed opening and closing sections. While the political maneuvering is interesting, it occasionally drags, leaving the reader eager for the next big development. The conclusion, however, ramps up the tension once again, with a daring rescue attempt that brings the story to a satisfying close.

The historical setting is well-researched, and Wachsman effectively transports the reader to both the sun-soaked islands of the Caribbean and the opulent yet treacherous streets of Venice. The contrast between these worlds adds richness to the narrative, though at times, more vivid descriptions of the settings could have deepened the reader’s immersion in the historical world.

Final Thoughts:
The Courtesan's Pirate is a captivating tale of love, intrigue, and adventure, with a strong, determined protagonist at its center. Nina Wachsman successfully balances political intrigue with romance, though the pacing and character depth could have been more consistent. Fans of historical fiction with a dash of romance and suspense will find much to enjoy here, especially those who appreciate stories of clever women navigating treacherous political waters. A solid 3.5-star read that entertains and intrigues, even if it leaves a little more to be desired in some areas.

Thanks to Netgalley for this ARC.

I read the first two books in this series and was looking forward to getting caught up with the interesting characters. Though it was nice to see how their stories developed I found the book a little all over the place as it switched POV and storylines. The novel focuses on Belladonna, a former Venetian courtesan, former Jew, once wealthy and powerful who has moved to Jamaica with her Jewish lover Isaak, a cunning pirate. The two must separate and Belladonna struggles to survive hurricanes and Spanish invaders, while leading her sister in law and nephew to safety back across the ocean in Europe. Meanwhile Isaak has his own adventures on the high seas and is ultimately taken prisoner.

It almost seemed like two different books, and I didn't really enjoy Isaak's escapades. I also found it hard to follow Belladonna's political intrigue when she returns to Venice. The different sections of the book just seemed disjointed to me.

I did enjoy the sumptuous descriptions of Venice in the 1600s and learning about the Jewish Ghetto. It still seems like there are some loose ends to tie up so maybe there will be a 4th novel??

Book Title:
The Courtesan’s Pirate
A Venice Beauties Mystery
Book 3 of 3

Author:
Nina Wachsman

Publisher:
Level Best Books-Level Historia


Publication Date:
September 3, 2024

Genre:
Historical Mysteries
International Mystery & Crime

Print Length:
352 pages

Book Reviewed By Sylvia J.

This is the last book in the series titled A Venice Beauties Mystery. I adored the first two books. They were exceptional. The last book has me hooked from the very first line, so it does not disappoint and it is just as good. The writer is quite gifted and has quite a way of writing. Her books will draw any reader in so much that you will want to stay up and keep reading throughout the night.


The year is 1614. Belladonna is told by Isaak, her love, that he’s taking a short trip and will be right back. Who is Isaak? He is a pirate captain on the island of Jamaica. Will he come back or will they be separated? What will tear them apart? Will she have to save him? If she does, will she be in danger doing it?

The end of Jamaica independence was near, and once the Spanish took over, both she and Isaac, as well as her newfound family would be in danger because of their Jewish blood.


The inquisition had murdered Belladonna ‘s parents just because of their Jewish heritage. This forced Belladonna to leave her country to escape war and prosecution. Isaak rescued her and thanks to him, she was taken to Venice.

5 stars!