Birds of Prey (Smith novel)

Birds of Prey is a historical adventure novel by Wilbur Smith, published in 1997. It is the first book in the Ballantyne Series, chronologically.

The novel is set in the late 17th century and follows the lives of the Courtney family, specifically twins Tom and Guy Courtney, as they embark on a perilous voyage along the coast of Africa in their ship, the Birds of Prey. They face dangers from pirates, the Portuguese navy, and the perils of the African wilderness. The story involves themes of family, betrayal, courage, and the struggle for survival in a brutal and unforgiving era.