“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

Trans Guyana Airways aircraft 8R-GAD on the runway, guided by a ground crew member
AIR
Tolotra

Direct Flight Between Guyana and French Guiana: Trans Guyana Airways Promises 1 Hour 15 Minutes Versus 24 Hours by Road

There is currently no direct flight between Guyana and French Guiana. However, following the air services agreement signed on September 30, 2026, which replaces the 1976 agreement, Trans Guyana Airways is planning at least two flights per week between Georgetown and Cayenne, though no dates have been announced. In Georgetown, Guyana, the journey to Cayenne begins with a three- to four-hour drive to Moleson Creek. Next comes a ferry that departs only once a day, a crossing into Suriname, and then a second border crossing. That’s still what it takes in 2026 to reach French Guiana from English-speaking Guyana. The direct flight between Guyana and French Guiana being planned by Trans Guyana Airways would cut this journey from nearly 24 hours to about 1 hour and 15 minutes, according to the airline. Direct Flight Between Guyana and French Guiana: What the September 30, 2026 Agreement Unlocks On September 30, 2026,

Read More »
Illustration : manifestants en rouge derrière la banderole « Gwadloup sé tan nou ! » sous des drapeaux LKP
HISTORY & HERITAGE
Tolotra

“Gwadloup sé tan nou”: How a 2009 strike found its chorus.

Union activist Jacky Richard says he wrote the chorus spontaneously, in the midst of the 2009 strike. He didn’t yet know that those few words would come to symbolize an entire movement. “Gwadloup sé tan nou” became the anthem of the LKP, the collective that brought Guadeloupe to a standstill for several weeks. This article explains what “Gwadloup sé tan nou” means, how the song emerged from the strike, and why a single pronoun was enough to get an entire island singing. “Gwadloup sé tan nou,” a title that consists of just one pronoun In Guadeloupean Creole, “Gwadloup sé tan nou” means “Guadeloupe belongs to us.” Everything hinges on “nou,” the first-person plural pronoun, this “us” that brings people together. The chorus asserts that the island belongs to its inhabitants, not to a privileged minority. The phrase is short, rhythmic, and easy to chant in a procession. Illustration : le

Read More »
Colorful houses along the Handelskade quay in Willemstad, Curaçao, host city of the Krioyo Film Festival 2026
FILM & VIDEO
Tolotra

Krioyo Film Festival 2026, 23 Papiamentu Films in Curaçao

The Krioyo Film Festival 2026 will take place from October 26 to November 2, 2026, at Caribbean Cinemas in the Sambil Shopping Center in Willemstad, Curaçao. This third edition will feature 23 films from Curaçao, Aruba, Bonaire, and the Netherlands. The festival is based on a single idea: watching films in Papiamentu on the big screen. Krioyo Film Festival 2026, a Concert Before the Screenings On Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 5:30 p.m., the Dutch Caribbean Orchestra will give a free concert in Curaçao. This free concert precedes the screenings of the Krioyo Film Festival 2026, which will be open to the public starting Monday, October 26, 2026. The concert program features film music. Giovanni Atalita, president of the Krioyo Film Foundation, summed up the issue in October 2025 by saying, “It’s not just entertainment, it’s an identity.” During Siman di Kultura, from September 28 to October 3, 2026, the

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