Final novel an old-fashioned adventure

Pirate Latitudes, by Michael Crichton (HarperCollins, RRP $36.99):

Michael Crichton was a bit of a rock star in the literary world: an author, producer, director, screenwriter and even a medical school graduate who was equally at home in the worlds of science fiction and thrillers.

Some of his best-known works were adapted for both the big and small screens and according to Wikipedia, Crichton became the only creative artist ever to have works simultaneously charting at #1 in television, film, and book sales (with ER, Jurassic Park, and Disclosure, respectively).

He died unexpectedly in November 2008, and Pirate Latitudes was his final unpublished work. It was discovered on one of his computers by his assistant, along with another unfinished novel that is expected to be published later this year.

Set in Jamaica in 1665, this is nothing short of a good, old-fashioned adventure.

Don’t expect the hi-tech medical drama or genetic technology of ER or Jurassic Park. Sure, there’s a healthy dose of drama and excitement but instead of it being delivered via scientists and doctors, this time it’s a pirate adventure. Or, as Hunter, the main pirate character prefers to be known, privateers.

Along with the governor of Jamaica, Hunter plans to raid a Spanish galleon for its treasure.

That’s about where the adventure begins. Pirate Latitude might not be what you were expecting in a final novel from this author but don’t let that put you off: it’s full-on adventure.

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