“The Queen That Wears the Crown”: A must-see Caribbean Thriller in 2025

The Queen that Wears the Crown

“The Queen that Wears the Crown” written by Horane Smith, an iconic figure in Jamaican-Canadian literature, returns to the forefront with his 15th novel. Published by Baymar Publishing, this book plunges the reader into the heart of a thrilling plot, skilfully blending suspense, social criticism and lush Caribbean landscapes. But behind the literary escapism, “The Queen that Wears the Crown” tackles poignant themes such as human trafficking and the challenges faced by deportees.

A novel rooted in Caribbean reality

The story of “The Queen that Wears the Crown” takes root in the small Jamaican village of St. Elizabeth, dear to the author’s heart. The plot then moves to Brooklyn, New York, and Toronto, Canada, weaving a complex tale where buried secrets and ever-present threats test the resolve of social activist Carmen Young. When three young girls go missing, Carmen embarks on a quest for the truth that will lead her to uncover a web of lies and betrayals, confronting her own demons and jeopardizing her future.

The Queen that Wears the Crown
The Queen that Wears the Crown.

A hard-hitting look at human trafficking

Beyond the suspense, “The Queen that Wears the Crown” is a committed work, raising public awareness of the dark realities of human trafficking. Horane Smith, a former journalist, forcefully denounces the disastrous consequences of this global scourge, while highlighting the difficulties encountered by deportees. By exploring these delicate themes, the novel offers a unique perspective on the social and economic issues affecting Caribbean communities, both on the island and abroad.

A novel born of a personal story

The story of “The Queen that Wears the Crown” is intimately linked to its author’s career. First written in 1977 as “The Village Queen”, the manuscript was shelved after Horane Smith emigrated to Canada. It was only years later, encouraged by his wife, that he decided to revisit his work and enrich it with contemporary themes. This particular genesis lends the novel a depth and authenticity that are sure to touch the reader.

Horane Smith: A committed Caribbean author

With “The Queen that Wears the Crown”, Horane Smith confirms his status as an essential author of Caribbean literature. Renowned for his landmark work, “Lover’s Leap”, which explores the complex relationship between masters and slaves, Smith has also been hailed for his contribution to the spread of Jamaican culture throughout the world. Horane Smith’s commitment to social issues and his talent as a storyteller make him an important and respected voice on the contemporary literary landscape.

The Queen that Wears the Crown
Horane Smith. Source: Horane Smith

Why read "The Queen that Wears the Crown"?

  • A thriller that captivates: Let yourself be carried away by a plot full of suspense and twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.
  • Reflecting on crucial issues: Journey to the heart of poignant themes such as human trafficking and the challenges faced by deportees.
  • An immersion in Caribbean culture: Discover Jamaica’s landscapes, traditions and social realities through the eyes of an authentic author.
  • A committed novel: Support Horane Smith, a writer who uses his talent to denounce injustice and raise awareness of the issues affecting Caribbean communities.

“The Queen that Wears the Crown” is available online, in major bookshops and on the following websites www.baymarpublishing.com and horanesmith.com. Don’t miss this Caribbean thriller that will thrill you to the rhythm of Jamaica while confronting you with shocking realities. With its gripping narrative, rich cultural backdrop, and unforgettable characters, this novel promises to keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Whether you’re a fan of mystery, history, or simply a great story, this book offers a captivating journey through the heart of the Caribbean experience.

4 Responses

  1. This is such a well-written piece of work that encapsulates the theme, imagery, and essence of what I’ve tried to portray in this narrative – primarily the “silent disgrace,” of human trafficking and the stigma associated with deportees. My heartfelt gratitude to Riches Karayib (RK) for highlighting and publicizing The Queen that Wears the Crown and the message it’s trying to bring across to the public. My best wishes and keep up the good work! Awesome!

    1. Thank you so much, Mr. Horane Smith.
      It was a pleasure to write an article about your book.
      If you need some collaboration, don’t hesitate to talk with us.
      Thank you for your awesome book.

  2. I’ve read it and found it held me captive from beginning to end. Truly a great novel. I’d love to see this made into a movie.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More articles from RK

Oil Down
CULINARY ART
Tolotra

Grenada — Oil Down, the national dish that tells the island’s story

Oil Down, Grenada’s national dish, fits into a single pot but represents much more than just a meal. Breadfruit, callaloo, coconut milk, dumplings, meats, and spices all simmer together in it. As the liquid evaporates, something else takes shape: a way of cooking, of passing on traditions, and of coming together. A pot that brings people together It all starts with a simple gesture. We fill the pot in layers. The breadfruit takes its place alongside the vegetables, greens, dumplings, and pieces of meat. The seasoned coconut milk envelops the whole mixture before it’s cooked slowly, without stirring. This arrangement is just as important as the ingredients. Preparing this dish isn’t just about combining ingredients. It’s about creating a dish where each element cooks alongside the others and gradually absorbs the flavors around it. The pot then becomes a reflection of the meal itself. Multiple ingredients, multiple journeys, but a

Read More »
Ser’i Neger
HISTORY & HERITAGE
Tolotra

Ser’i Neger, 231 years after the Battle of Tula.

In Curaçao, Ser’i Neger today bears witness to the history of the former Fontein plantation. On August 25, 1795, this landscape became one of the main theaters of the revolt led by Tula against slavery. Two hundred thirty-one years later, the story of this battle has returned to the forefront, along with an urgent heritage issue. How can we preserve a site where a crucial chapter in Curaçao’s struggle for freedom was written? On August 17, 1795, it all began in Kenepa Eight days before the Battle of Ser’i Neger, the revolt began at the Kenepa plantation, now also known as Knip. On August 17, enslaved people, led by Tula, refused to return to work and demanded their freedom. The official website of Curaçao describes this event as the beginning of the most significant resistance to slavery in the island’s history. The movement was not limited to Kenepa. The insurgents

Read More »
¿Qué lo que?
HISTORY & HERITAGE
Tolotra

“¿Qué lo que?” Three words, three letters, one identity

In the Dominican Republic, an encounter can begin with three words that might baffle anyone who translates Spanish literally. A friend arrives, a message pops up, a conversation begins, and out comes this familiar phrase: “¿QuĂ© lo que?” It doesn’t require a complicated explanation. Above all, it establishes a connection. Behind this phrase lies a social convention, a way of speaking, and, now, three very recognizable letters: KLK. What does “ÂżQuĂ© lo que?” really mean? The closest equivalent would be “what’s new?”, “what’s going on?”, or, in English, “what’s up?”. SpanishDictionary classifies the expression as a regionalism used in Dominican Republic and as a greeting. In other words, a literal translation isn’t very helpful. In conversation, “¿QuĂ© lo que?” primarily serves as a casual opening. The response, therefore, doesn’t need to be a detailed account of one’s day. Like many greetings, the expression can simply establish a sense of closeness

Read More »

conTACT RK

we'd love to have your feedback on your experience so far

Join The List

Join our Richès Karayib community!  Sign up for our newsletter.

Want To Maximize Your Business Presence On Riches Karayib?

Complete the form to start the application