Rebel Spy

Gr 9 Up–The brand new U.S. has just declared independence from England, but is not done fighting for its freedom. Francisca Tasker has escaped from a lecherous, alcoholic stepfather and yet is still not safe. As she leaves a life of struggle and uncertainty behind, Frannie arrives in New York City under the assumed identity of Miss Emmeline Coates, a wealthy orphan with a loving adoptive family and comforts beyond her wildest dreams. She is introduced to a world of espionage and balls, secrecy and romance. Part swashbuckling adventure, part love story, this book misses the mark on all counts. There are moments with real potential when the adventure starts to pick up, but they are lost to dewy-eyed romantic notions. An attempt to cross several genres leaves readers wanting more amid vague details and dropped plotlines.