Rebel Spy

A headstrong, wreck-diving narrator becomes an informant for the American Revolution in this high-stakes historical adventure inspired by an actual spy. In the Bahamas in 1776, Frannie Tasker’s menacing stepfather insists she marry him now that her mother, a Spanish immigrant, has died. Stormy seas offer an opportunity for escape when a ship sinks and the corpse of a well-born passenger, Emmeline Coates, washes ashore. Rossi (the Under the Never Sky trilogy) keeps tensions high as 15-year-old Frannie assumes Emmeline’s identity and sets sail toward the girl’s guardians—and a life of wealth and refinement—in New York City. Her introduction to Thomas Paine’s Common Sense en route, and her new life of society and deception in New York, prime Frannie to pass military secrets for George Washington. Rossi excels at portraying the danger of Frannie’s society life and intelligence work—which escalate as she becomes romantically involved with a British officer—while crafting a daring heroine and her compelling exploits. Ages 12–up. [em]Agent: Tina Dubois, ICM Partners. (June) [/em]