The coming-of-age tale contains magic and resonating insight for most writers and readers. Rarely, however, do we find the adventure and romance in this genre that drives the pages of Lisa Jensen's fantastic tale, The Witch from the Sea. Young Tory Lightfoot, a young girl trying to retain the freedom inherited from her Indian heritage and to escape the rigid, abusive Worthen Academy for Women environment, runs away and dares to stow herself onto a merchant ship in 1823.

Upon her discovery, but before she can be returned to Boston's life-depleting atmosphere, Tory speaks a riddle that will save Captain Calhoun and the New Hope crew and earn Tory a place on the invading pirate ship, Providence. Now begins the life for which she has dreamed but never imagined could be a daily, enchanting fight for survival. In the tradition of Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island, the Providence sails the Islands route to discover, steal and share treasure fairly shared, but the joy each experiences stems more from the adventure than the rewards.

Swash-buckling battle scenes, spying for information that will become future raids, and fast, furious escapes from near-capture by the American "West India Squadron" keep this novel moving at a pleasant yet provocative, swift pace.

Jensen does a superb job of presenting the personalities of the main characters, the tough and fair Captain Hart, the rebellious gentleman-turned pirate Mattie, the reserved but compassionate Jack, and numerous other vivacious men and women who strive to relish life as it presents itself. Survival, success and disasters delightfully draw the reader into this engaging, exciting story.

After a rather harrowing sexual experience, Tory gradually begins to learn about and eventually revel in the romance that arises from those who share their secrets, unique histories, and life-saving, terrifying escapades. Who will Tory love the most? Why do the men she favors hold themselves in reserve? What happens that eventually explodes into a shared passion never before imagined?

As light as this nineteenth-century could be, a wonderful picture dramatically enfolds of sea-faring entrepreneurs who dare to live a life free from the humdrum standards of land-faring, conforming citizens. Don't be surprised if your dreams and aspirations join the world of Tory Lightfoot during this exciting historical, romantic romp of old.