“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

Caribbean Telecommunications Union
NEWS
Tolotra

Caribbean Telecommunications Union: French Guiana Builds Its Digital Bridge

Since joining the Caribbean Telecommunications Union, French Guiana has established its place as a French territory in the Americas that looks toward the Caribbean, the Amazon, and Europe all at once. This choice may seem technical. Yet it speaks to something deeper: for French Guiana, regional integration is not just about politics or airplanes. It’s also about networks, data, businesses, and everyday life. A membership that goes beyond telecommunications The Caribbean Telecommunications Union is a regional organization dedicated to the development of information and communication technologies in the Caribbean. By joining this network as an associate member, French Guiana is entering a forum where connectivity, cybersecurity, digital governance, and infrastructure are discussed. The formal membership agreement was signed in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, following ministerial approval during ICT Week 2025 in Kingston, Jamaica. This is a significant development: French Guiana is now one of the territories associated with an organization

Read More »
Man Mélé
VISUAL ARTS
Tolotra

“Man MĂ©lĂ©!”: CĂ©cile Vernant’s Exhibition at the Senate’s Orangerie

Exhibiting at the Jardin du Luxembourg is often a major milestone in an artist’s career. For artist CĂ©cile Vernant, it is above all an opportunity to connect with the public. From July 17 to 28, 2026, she will present *Man MĂ©lĂ©!* at the Senate’s Orangerie, as part of the Luxembourg Garden Summer Festival. For twelve days, she will personally welcome visitors to this iconic venue at the heart of Parisian cultural life. Selected following the 2026 call for projects, the artist will have 152 m² to showcase her artistic world, where painting, photography, drawing, and ceramics interact freely. After being selected by the Senate, CĂ©cile Vernant reached out to Didier on her own initiative, without having had any prior contact with the company. This choice came naturally: from the brand’s production site, the view takes in the Carbet peaks, a Martinican landscape that runs through her work just as much

Read More »
Saint-Barthélemy
TOURISM
Tolotra

Saint-Barthélemy: 21 km², nearly a century under Swedish sovereignty

When you arrive in Saint-Barthélemy, the first thing you see as you disembark is the name of the capital: Gustavia. Not Sainte-Anne, not Saint-Jean, not a French name. Gustavia. This name marks the beginning of one of the Caribbean’s most unique colonial chapters: that of a French island that became Swedish for nearly a century. A small island long considered unprofitable With an area of 21 square kilometers and a population of 10,660 according to INSEE’s reference population figures as of January 1, 2023, Saint-Barthélemy has a multi-layered history. Christopher Columbus was the first known European navigator to report sighting the island in 1493, during his second voyage. He named it after his brother Bartolomeo. The French established a permanent settlement there in 1648. Philippe de Longvilliers de Poincy, lieutenant general of the American Islands, sent Jacques Gante there with 52 men. Conditions were difficult. There was a shortage of

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