3. EMERALD OF THE HIGH SEAS - THE RED RUBY SERIES Off the coast of Barbados, a lone ship, the Red Ruby, charts a course home, its captain, Simon Verbeeck, eager for respite from pirate encounters. But a mysterious white flag fluttering from a tiny, uncharted island disrupts their journey. Driven by curiosity and a seaman’s instinct, Simon investigates, unearthing a grim secret. The bleached skeleton of a man clutching a magnificent, blood-red ruby, and a journal speaking of a hidden “Paradise of Malu” and its cursed treasure. The diary hints at a lost love, a woman named Juanita, and a perilous journey that ended in tragedy. Simon, captivated by the mystery, alters course to Barbados, determined to uncover the truth. His quest brings him face-to-face with the ruthless pirate, Jeremiah Hicks, and the alluring but enigmatic Juanita. A clash of swords and desperate escapes ensue, leading Simon down a rabbit hole of secrets and ancient curses. The pursuit of the “Paradise of Malu” becomes a high-stakes race, with the legendary treasure and the deadly curse drawing both Simon and his enemies closer. Betrayal, perilous seas, and a haunting, singing rock all stand in his way. Can Simon navigate the treachery, outwit his foes, and claim the treasure, or will he succumb to the curse that haunts the legend of Malu? This is a story of adventure, greed, and a fight for survival in a world where the line between truth and myth blurs. #TheRedRubySeries