Rebel Spy

by Veronica Rossi

A reimagining of the story behind Agent 355--a New York society girl and spy for George Washington during the Revolutionary War--perfect for fans of Tatiana de Rosnay's Sarah's Key and the novels of Julie Berry.

Rebellious Frannie Tasker knows little about the war between England and its thirteen colonies in 1776, until a shipwreck off her home in Grand Bahama Island presents an unthinkable opportunity. The body of a young woman body floating in the sea gives Frannie the chance to escape her brutal stepfather--and she takes it.

Assuming the identity of the drowned Emmeline Coates, Frannie is rescued by a British merchant ship and sails with the crew to New York. For the next three years, Frannie lives a lie as Miss Coates, swept up in a courtship by a dashing British lieutenant. But after witnessing the darker side of the war, she realizes that her position gives her power. Soon she finds herself eavesdropping on British officers, risking everything to pass information on to George Washington's Culper spy ring as agent 355. Frannie believes in the fight for American liberty--but what will it cost her? Inspired by the true "355" and rich in historical detail and intrigue, this is the story of an unlikely New York society girl turned an even unlikelier spy.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Young Adult, Historical, Romance, Fiction, American Revolution, Audiobook

362 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 23, 2020

About the author

Veronica Rossi writes fiction for young adults and older ones, too. To date, she has written the post-apocalyptic UNDER THE NEVER SKY series, the RIDERS fantasy duology, and the historical fiction standalone, REBEL SPY. Her latest book, ROAR OF THE TIDES, picks up where the UTNS trilogy left off.
Thanks for reading!

Reviews

[☘Misericordia☘ ⚡ϟ⚡⛈⚡☁ ❇️❤❣ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Q:
“I find the sea to be devastatingly powerful, enthrallingly beautiful, and fathomless in scope.” (c)
I can't help feeling that the setting is very off.

Historically: what, the only known known is that at some point there was some lady spy? That's the whole basis for this fiction? Huh.
A girl diver wearing trousers in public in 1776? Really?

Culturally: An Island girl impostor? What Island?
What about that ladies made sure to have light unsunburned skin? How did the girl get herself one of those?
The girl's of Spanish descent and she passes off as an English lady? What English lady would be sunburnt? Or had rough hands? Or knew nothing of French? No dancing? No piano? Or didn't have other refined manners? You get it. Even learning to fasten the corset on her own would've been a feat.

Emotionally, the setting is appealing enough: swimming with sharks, lots of angst, lucky chance, adventure but the above points are taking way too much out of the novel.

Q:
I was trapped—but freed from decisions. From calculations and lies. All I could do now was continue. (c)
Q:
I’d reached it—the seventh fathom. My dreaming depth. ...
I stood at the bow of a grand ship, a spyglass tucked under my arm, as I guided it over every inch of the globe’s waters.
For as long as I could hold my breath, I went on adventures and I felt free. (c)
Q:
“Sewel’s never had a bright idea in all his life,” ...
“He’s never even had a dull idea.” (c)
Q:
Now all my memories of her twinkled in my mind like stars. (c)
Q:
A man does not value a tree if its fruits are left untasted.”...
I couldn’t resist. “Am I the tree or am I the fruit, Char?”
“Never mind. Come. This is no time to shilly-shally.” (c)
Q:
We wanted a companion. Someone reliable and respectable, who could provide. Someone we wouldn’t grow to loathe. (c)
Q:
“Play me something, will you? And make it loud.”
“With pleasure, Little Salt.” He bowed. “It has been my honor.” (c)
Q:
I was an instrument of darkness.
My heart hammered as my gaze fell once more to Duncan’s hand on my knee. Was he? (c)
Q:
Sometimes, even when I told the truth, I felt like I was lying. (c)
Q:
“It might help to think of warm things, like a crackling fire.”
I smiled. “Or steam rising from a cup of tea.”
“A hot pie, fresh from the oven.”
“The summer sun, shining through a window.”
We kept going all the way home, talking as we used to before things had become awkward and distant between us. I never stopped smiling.
Sometimes little things could turn an entire day around. (c)

[anna ୨୧ · Rating 3 out of 5]

➳ 𝒓𝒕𝒄! -༉‧₊˚✧ 3 🌟 the actual spying didn’t take place until halfway through the book 😭


ೃ⁀➷ 𝓹𝓻𝓮-𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓭: back in my historical fiction era 🤭 (arguably one of my fav eras) this is apparently for fans of “lovely war” and i want to read that book so badly 😫 anyways this takes place during the revolutionary war and the mc is a spy based off of an actual person 👀 that intrigued me. i picked this up one day while i was at the bookstore and knew absolutely nothing about it LMAO. sometimes those are the books that surprise you the most 🫶🏼 ahhh so excited to read it tho and hopefully I’ll get to “lovely war” soon 🤭

[Scarlett Readz and Runz....Through Novel Time & Distance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this ♡♡♡ 4.5 stars

7 Fathoms Deep!

Rebel Spy is such a cozy and unputdownable YA read. From the beautiful cover to the unique story it is filled with friendship, dares and a bit of romance during the Revolutionary War. Mainly a character-driven novel more so than historical, the events of the war provide ample padding for this unique plot to unfold. One, in which a simple girl from the Bahamas, ends up a Rebel Spy among the high society in New York City.

Frannie Tasker is a water baby and island girl from the Grand Bahamas. After the death of her parents, she is left with her alcoholic stepdad Sewel who makes a living by having her dive old shipwrecks looking for exploits to capitalize on.

One day, in his inebriated state, Sewel attempts to touch Frannie differently and tell her to be his obedient wife, but she has had enough of it. In a moment of opportunity, she takes a dive and hides out to get away from him. In a stroke of luck, she ends up posing as the lady Miss Coates and becomes rescued by a merchant ship heading North to New York.

Though she is able to put up the rouse in front of those that don't know her, it does not go unnoticed that she has unladylike mannerisms. When she meets Asa Lane, he is willing to teach her the ways of a lady, though he clearly loves her ways as they come.

Right as romance is blossoming, Asa is ripped from her side but has left big, lingering impressions on her. Insecure about her future in New York City, she is filled with Asa's convictions politically and in secret holds on to them in her heart.

As her life as Miss Coates takes shape in New York City among the high society, it is those same convictions that turn her a Rebel Spy among all the Loyalists around her. Besides the fear of her stepdad Sewel to ever follow her, she has managed well but never forgot about Asa. Will she ever see him again? Perhaps in her work as Agent 355 when she fights for the American Liberty in secret?

Oh, you will just have to read this sweet story!

I enjoyed this novel. It is one of a good-natured kind of YA, unlike the norm of graphic, violent and fantastical ones out there, though it does offer adventure and anticipation.

This is one of those books I walked around the house with my nose in it while making tea or doing things one-handedly....I did not want to stop reading. The writing flowed beautifully and read effortlessly. Simply exquisite.

Frannie's character was all feist and strength inside. I loved her relationship with Asa that was enduring, yet not unsecretive. Perhaps this is why it was such a page-turner for me. I don't usually read any romance at all...but it had me giddy and hoping for a good outcome.

This novel is beautiful inside and out, a perfect read for a breezy, lazy summer day!

Enjoy!

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Thank you so much.

More of my reviews here:
Through Novel Time & Distance

[lydia ‧ ia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t even know what to say. The ending destroyed me but also revived my soul. Frannie's story took me to my seventh fathom and I don't want to come out of it.

This book is set during the American Revolution, but it never once explores the front lines of the war or the fighting itself. It takes readers to a small, dingy bar in New York that holds a young woman, who's soul itself is torn in two, who feels as if she has everything and nothing at all, as she tucks a folded piece of paper into her locket.

On the paper is her new identity.

355.

Her codename.

She is now a spy.

The idea of 355, one of George Washington's spies who was never identified, is so fascinating, and Veronica Rossi gives this spy a story for the ages. Frannie's internal torture as she is split between her two selves is extremely well done. Rossi did an excellent job of showing Frannie's fear and belief that she had lost her true self. This novel explores without sounding preachy at all how blurred the lines between good and evil really are. Frannie lied constantly and stole someone's very identity, but it may have given the Americans their victory, and it gave her a chance for a better life. Was it worth it?

This book just really leaves you thinking... and also reeling from the talent from which it was written. Highly recommended!

**trigger and content warnings** Frannie's stepfather is abusive; he injures her and gropes her. This leaves her traumatized over being in a relationship where a man has power over her, and she internally addresses this often. Minor violence and language.

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

“During the American Revolution, General George Washington employed a ring of spies in and around New York City, the headquarters for the British war effort in North America. These spies identified themselves in their letters by code numbers. One was known as “355,” which stood for “lady.” To date, her true identity remains unknown.” This story imagines such incredible young woman of courageous spirit.

Grand Bahama Island, 1776. Fifteen year old Francisca Tasker suffers the loss of her mother. Now, she is left with her abusive stepfather from whom she learned wrecking – helping “ships that had run up on sandbars or reefs as they cruised through the Bahama Channel.” Or if it was too late to assist, they’d dove for sunken spoils.

One of those shipwrecks gives her opportunity to escape her brutal stepfather. She assumes the identity of the drowned Emmeline Coates. But she doesn’t know how to do the upper class talk, thus under a pretense of trauma shock she remains mute. She tries to cover her coarse manners by imitating others’ polished ways.

On this ship of Loyalists, she meets Asa Lane – an American rebel, who stands for liberty. “With American independence. Not with a tyrant an ocean away who oppresses innocents by fire and sword.”

In NYC, she lives her privileged life. With time, she starts suffocating pretending to be a highborn lady, when she notices the British mistreatment of American prisoners. It strikes her how she could connect both worlds. Her exposure to British officers, who underestimate her by discussing the war around her like she was invisible, gives her a chance to collect information, which she further passes to the network of spies for George Washington. Thus she becomes a spy.

Enjoyed very much both characters of Franie and Asa. Franie is of adventurous spirit – adventure gives her a sense of freedom. She learns the etiquette, but at heart she is the same spirit, holding on to wrecker instinct of finding things such as buttons and flowers and tucking them into her pockets. She is an independent young woman, who doesn’t want to live in a shadow of a man. “Duncan talked. I listened. We were like a river – flowing one way.” Her experience of both worlds, poverty and privilege, gives her a chance to learn a lot about herself. She realizes that there is more to life than her ‘safe life.’ She wants to have a purpose in life. And she finds it in fighting for America’s freedom.

Asa is a rebel himself, not afraid to voice his opinion with his Loyalist father. He wants America to be free from abuses of a tyrant king from across the ocean.

I see this read as an incredible motivation for YA to search their souls to find the meaning in their lives and to pursue it with passion. It is an easy pick as it is written with great humor, engrossing characters, interesting historical background, and moving the story swiftly until you are left with words – what a remarkable story!

Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Lindsay (pawsomereads) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rebel Spy follows Frannie as she assumes the identity of a loyalist young woman during the Revolutionary War in an attempt to escape her abusive step-father.
I really enjoyed the descriptive writing that Veronica Rossi utilized in the novel. Frannie has a very imaginative mind that pairs with the writing style so well. Frannie used this imagination throughout the book to help her temporarily transport herself away from the hardships she went through.
Frannie is a very strong and independent character who was ahead of her time as a woman in society. I thoroughly enjoyed her development in this character-driven story.
This book was less about the spying and focused a lot more on the romance which just felt lacking to me. I didn’t connect with Frankie’s romantic interests at all. I found most of the romantic plot lines to be unnecessary and I wish that the Frannie’s spy adventures would have been explored more as I had expected them to be based on the description.
I haven’t read many books from this time period so I appreciated learning more about this part of history. I liked the revolutionary aspect and that I got to read about characters realizing that their previous views can change based on new information that they learned and new events taking place in the world. I think I just had different expectations for what the main plot lines of this book would be.

[Jen (jenslostinthepages) ♥Star-Crossed Book Blog♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rebel Spy was addictive and completely enchanted me. With blackmail, friendship lies, trust and honor floating across the pages, I fell in love with this story. This was the first historical fiction I've read and I'm hooked and will be looking for more in this genre! I loved how the story slowly unfolded. It was thick, rich and mesmerizing. So if you're a fan of historical fiction with a dash of romance, then you'll definitely want to add this one to your tbr!

I had only myself to count on now.
I brushed the wetness from my cheeks. I was going to have to be enough.

In 1776 Francisca was trapped. She had an abusive and cruel stepfather who wanted more from her and her means of bringing them money was dangerous, wrecking for treasure in the ocean. I instantly connected with Frannie and felt her pain. Her only solace was from one good friend and when she was fathoms deep in the ocean. When the body of Emmeline Coates washed upon the shore, and she heard people searching for her in the distance, Frannie took a chance. And fate led her towards a new life in Philadelphia.

I wanted to do things that mattered. I wanted to sink my teeth deep into the world. I’d stood by as Asa had been beaten. I never again wanted to feel that way again— like less.

I was so nervous and unsure over Frannie's future, just like she was. But she was smart, brave, sympathetic, fierce and clever so I was also excited for her! During those times, America was in the process of asserting their independence from the British. But Frannie had been far away from war, now she was heading right into the middle of it. And her first taste of it was with Asa Lane. Asa was an American rebel who was on her ship, which was filled with loyalists. He captured my attention right away. Not only because he helped Frannie and made me smile. But there was a chemistry and heat between them that couldn't be ignored. I loved how they were open, honest and philosophical with each other. But again, fate intervened and threw Frannie on a path that guided her heart to being a spy.

Everything coarse and uncivilized about me had to stay in the past. From now on, everything was going to be perfect.
I sank into a deep curtsy.
Then I rose, a lady.

Her new life in Philadelphia lead to a courtship with Lieutenant James Duncan. And when she realized how her relationship with him could help the Americans, she became Agent 355 for George Washington. And as someone who was awful at history, I more than appreciated how we slowly learned the world and history Frannie was immersed in. It was all so easy to grasp and understand. But one thing that was hard for me to watch was how she collected intel from those around her. Those who saw her as a friend or something more, like Duncan who seemed so open, honest and sweet. But all's fair and love in war, or so I kept reminding myself.

Spying was stealing from the enemy— but what if that enemy was someone decent? Someone with a charming personality, perfect lips, and eyes like pools of honey when they caught the sunlight?

The atrocities of war were beyond horrific and there was nothing I could do but sit there and watch it unfold on the pages. So of course I found myself cheering for Frannie and the rebels. It was impossible not to, right along with having sweaty palms and tears in my eyes quite a few times. I hurt for these people who had become my friends. But at times I didn't want them to make rational decisions. I wanted them to be selfish. Especially since Frannie and one of the men had an impossible future. Even though they fit so perfectly together.

He kissed me then. Deeply. Passionately. We grasped and tugged at each other like we’d only breathe again if we became one, but that was what I’d always felt with him. Together, we made something whole.

Rebel Spy was vivid, enticing and slowly enraptured me in its story. I was so wrapped up in this book that I forgot about that first chapter, which was a peak into the future in 1780. So when the present collided with the future, I was not ready. It stole my breath and I had to know what happened next. I loved how the story flowed and the few jumps in time were done seamlessly. And that ending, oh how I desperately wish there was an epilogue or a few more pages. I kept clicking on my Kindle for more. It ended with a HFN, happily for now, but I need more of Frannie's life please or a peak into their future. I'm not ready to say goodbye to her or him♥.

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

For more of my reviews, please visit:

[Jane · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars

You can read all of my reviews at https://www.NerdGirlLovesBooks.com.

This is an ok historical fiction about the mysterious Agent 355 - the famous "lady" spy who passes information to George Washington's Culper spy ring.

Frannie Tasker is a young girl in the Grand Bahama Islands. Her mother died and she is left in the custody of her drunken, lecherous step-father. When Frannie discovers the body of a young women, Emmaline Coates, floating off the coast, she assumes the girl's identify and takes the opportunity to escape her brutal step-father. Frannie discovers that the young woman is rich and part of society, so Frannie must learn to act and speak like her in order to keep up the charade.

Once in New York Frannie blends into Ms. Coates' life. She is courted by a British lieutenant and soon learns about the darker side of the war. Using her position in society, she begins to eavesdrop on British officers and passes on the information to Robert Townsend, a member of the Culper spy ring.

I am fascinated by the Revolutionary War, and in particular, the spy ring developed by George Washington. So, I was very excited to get the opportunity to read this book. Unfortunately, it wasn't what I expected. The writing was ok, but the story fell flat. Disappointingly, the spy ring was a very small part of the book. Frannie's exploits and "spying" was described very simplistically and the author didn't provide much detail about what she did and how she did it. Considering the book is 368 pages long, I was expecting a much more robust depiction of Frannie's participation in the spy ring, but didn't get it.

I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[E.C.]

To state it plainly, this book didn't meet my expectations.

I went into this book wanting a spy story. A story about a courageous protagonist who defied the odds to stand for her country and freedom.

Maybe it was my high expectations because of that gorgeous cover (XD), but this book definitely didn't meet all of them.

To me, it seemed 70% romance and 30% a spy/historical. To be honest, I got a little frustrated with the main character—how at fifteen, she fell in love and got proposed to and drank wine. At fifteen. Though I do understand that back then, things were different, it felt slightly … uncomfortable (?) to me.

The ending felt a tiny bit rushed. It didn’t wrap up anything, and it was right then when I started hating the real villain, but I never knew what happened. It makes me wonder if there’s a possibility of a sequel. ;)

Rather than going on and on about what I didn’t like, I’m going to stop and say right here that I think this author shows great potential. Her writing style is smooth and easy to understand, and the simplistic but emotional depth of her characters is well done. I could definitely see historical romance readers enjoying this book a lot more than I did, which is why it’s evident my rating is purely subjective to my tastes. Historical romance (or romance of any kind) just really isn’t my thing.

I also loved the themes of identity and the main character's arc. That's honestly the best part about this book, in my opinion.

CONTENT WARNINGS: Implied sexual abuse, physical abuse, multiple kisses, rough language (including multiple insults), language (b***h, bl***y, h**l, d**n), violence, usage of God’s name in vain, alcohol & a repeatedly drunk character

AGE RECOMMENDATION: I’d personally recommend this book for mature readers 13+. While the writing style certainly is easy to understand, because of the content, I’d hesitate on handing this book to anyone younger. Though of course, I’d advise you to use your discretion. :)

FAVORITE QUOTES:

“We’d squeezed sunlight from our sad stories and laughed in the darkness.” ~Page 123

“Papers? That’s what you’re trusting in?” I had no paper in my life. All I knew about paper was it tore easily, burned easily, and turned into pulp when wet.”

“I sank into a deep curtsy. Then I rose, a lady.” ~Page 167

“She looked like a woman who’d been holding the world together with her bare hands.” ~Page 200

“Spying let me breathe again. It let the sunlight shine through the cracks, to reach the heart of me. The suffocating, hidden girl.” ~Page 355

“Gathering every bit of my strength, I threw myself into the sky—and fell for miles and leagues and fathoms. An instant, a lifetime.” ~Page 501

“I’ve lived for something more, and it’s you, and it’s love, and liberty, and friendship, and hope—and all the other mores that can ever be.
And it’s me, Mama.” ~Page 502

Overall, this was an interesting read. It didn't exactly meet my expectations (probably because I set them too high!), and I probably won't be reading it again, maybe historical romance readers would enjoy it. ;)

[ੈ✩‧₊˚ faithreads *ೃ༄ (inactive) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really liked it but it was a little cheesy at times…and I was honestly confused on the storyline lol. I think that if it was clearer on characters and events, maybe that would make it better?? I definitely liked learning about the 355 spy, I’ve never really heard or learned about her, so that was cool! Overall, I’d recommend if you like historical fictions!!

[Ewa Cat Mędrzecka · Rating 2 out of 5]

When I found out that the setting for the story is American Revolutionary War, I was very intriqued - I've never read a historical fiction set in that period of time. Sadly, my excitement fell flat - just like the story did. The potential was there, but Rebel Spy 355 lacked in building tension and plot twists - at first I was interested in what will Frannie do or how she will act in certain situations (I liked her sassiness in the beginning a lot!), but the more I read, the less I cared about her story.
Oh, and the spying thing - it's not the main thing, at all. I'd say that it's a side story, if even that. The book is 400 pages long - and the actual spying could fit into 30 of them.
But there was something I liked a lot about this book (spoiler alert: not romance!) - characters talking about their definitions of freedom, liberty and obedience. That was important and should've been developed further.

[christea ☁️]

historical fiction is not a genre i ever find myself willingly reaching for, so this book had never even been on my radar. the only reason i picked it up was because it was the monthly pick for a bookclub i'm in. i wasn't sure how i would feel going in it because it didn't capture my attention right away, so i'm really surprised by how much i ended up loving this.

this book is about a girl who becomes a spy during the american revolution, but honestly, not much of the book actually revolved around the spying. what really captured me was the romance, which i understand was not what a lot of people were expecting when choosing to read this, but it's what i ended up loving about it. it was the perfect amount of angsty for me, and even though it was kind of instalove-y (which is a trope i normally detest), i actually really liked that aspect about it. don't ask me why, i can't explain. i also really enjoyed the writing, and the ending made me sob.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Historical Fiction set during the Revolutionary War. I liked this one. It kept me fully engaged from the beginning. And it was the perfect read for my day. It's always a plus when my mood matches my book choice.

There was a great balance in characters. The good, the bad and the kind that were a little bit of both. There were also so many secrets...plenty to go around.

Frannie, the MC, gets an opportunity to escape her pitiful life and upgrade it to live a better one. In this new life, she becomes a spy. And so the intrigue began. 4 stars for this one.

[Cammy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was so good. Frannie is such an awesome female main character. I love historical fiction so this book was very enjoyable to read. The romance was EVERYTHING TO ME. It was sooooo good. It’s so cool that she was a Spy for George Washington in the book.

Overall 3.75 stars maybe even five stars

[Jaime Arkin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a self-admitted, unapologetic history nerd and love reading about the Revolutionary War. Before reading the summary to this book, I hadn’t heard about Agent 355 but I was immediately intrigued as soon as I did and so excited that Rossi decided to explore it!

After falling down the rabbit hole that is a good google search and adding a ton of books that Rossi mentions in the acknowledgments to my TBR pile, I dove into this story and thoroughly enjoyed it.

Admittedly for me, the beginning of this story was a bit slow going, but it was necessary to really understand who Frannie is and why she makes the choices she does to become who she becomes and when the story has a bit of a time jump, I found that’s where I couldn’t put the book down and became more invested in the characters and the story. That’s where we really get to see Frannie/Emmeline come into her own and put herself out there and solidify her beliefs of what she’s seeing and experiencing.

I had known that Washington had a spy ring (thank you Spy Museum in DC) so I knew just a tiny bit about the Culper spy ring, but I really loved how Rossi delved into that world and the danger that these patriots were experiencing every time they shared information or tried to find out things that were being planned. You know from the get-go that Frannie is adventurous and daring and so when her life as Emmeline provides her the opportunity to help she can’t seem to resist.

There are only a few people who know the real Frannie, and one is Asa Lane. She first meets Asa aboard the ship that helps her escape Grand Bahama Island. They have an immediate connection, and Asa himself is a rebel who is on the side of the patriots. Things happen of course that pull them apart, but they eventually find each other again and Frannie isn’t sure what to make of him.

If you’re looking for lots of intrigue and suspense, I don’t think you’re going to find what you want here. I kind of felt this less about the spy ring and more about Frannie coming into her own and really learning who she is underneath this costume she has worn for years and really deciding who she wants to be and what she wants to be remembered for.

Overall, an intriguing concept and character to build a book around and I really enjoyed the characters Rossi created… and I really enjoyed how this book wrap up. (no spoilers!) Grab this one if you are a fan of coming-of-age stories and historical fiction!

[Graff Fuller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This may be one of the best books that I've read this year. I love historical fiction, but even more so...the way the book was structured. It was structured in such a way...to always pull you back to one defining moment. I didn't know when that moment would then make its appearance, but I knew it would. AND, it did and it did NOT disappoint. I mean...perfectly executed. Wow.

I am a lover of history. I read non-fiction books about history almost every month. I have been reading about the presidents. I am currently up to James Monroe.

I also love watching TV shows that deal with our history, Turn is one that comes to mind, so does the HBO mini-series on John Adams. Two great examples of amazing history portrayed.

When I started this book, I knew just enough to know it was historical fiction...that was it.

The protagonist was amazingly envisioned and executed within this story. I actually cannot believe what I just read. It has blown my mind...and that may be a little hyperbole, but not much.

This is a great tale. Go into it knowing just enough, but don't seek more knowledge, till after you read the book. Then, Google away.

As you can tell...it is a FIVE Star book for me...which doesn't happen often, but this one deserved it. 

[Kori Sulewski (korireads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gah! How to put my feelings into words on this one.

I LOVED this story. Rebel Spy follows ”355”, a young woman who uses her position in high society in NYC to spy for the “rebels” during the American Revolution. It’s based on a true story though the identity of 355 remains unknown. The American Revolution is a fascinating time in history and I haven’t read enough historical fiction during that period.

I think what’s holding me up is personal preference but I REALLY wish this book had been an adult novel. I loved the story so much but I wanted more depth, more of everything (slight spoilers)... Frannie’s life growing up, her dealing with her stepfather’s abuse, her transition into Emmaline’s life, her spying escapades, her imprisonment, the aftermath of her disappearance, her escape, ALL OF IT. It just felt like 350 pages was not nearly enough to tell this whole story, and I’m really sad about it.

[Joy Jenkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

OH.❤️MY.💥GOSH.🥰 THIS BOOK IS AMAZING!! And I’m saying that as someone you generally doesn’t like historical fiction! But seriously the story was simple but so vivid! The characters were amazing! Frannie is such a strong character! The way everything tied up in the end was brilliant!!

READ THIS BOOK! You will not regret it!! It’s a ride worth taking!! Gosh I can’t get over how good it was, especially since it was based on one kick butt woman!

[Suzanne (The Bookish Libra) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Full review to come.

[QNPoohBear · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fifteen-year-old Francisca Tasker is a wrecker. At the command of her stepfather, Sewel, she dives the shipwrecks off her Grand Bahama home looking for treasures to sell. Ever since Mama died, Sewel has become more cruel and now he wants to marry Francisca! She knows he will kill her if she refuses and after she makes a failed attempt on his life in self-defense, Francisca can not go home again. It seems like a heaven sent blessing when she discovers the body of a young woman washed ashore during a hurricane. The resemblance between the young lady and Frannie is close enough that Mercy encourages Frannie to take the dead lady's clothes and run. Frannie is taking aboard a ship bound for Philadelphia where she becomes wealthy heiress Miss Emmeline Coates. On board the ship, enemies learn Frannie's secret and she has no choice but to rely on Asa Lane, an American political prisoner, to teach her how to be a lady. For one glorious week they share their thoughts, hopes and dreams as they sail closer to Philadelphia. It's 1776 and the 13 colonies are in open rebellion with Great Britain, causing problems for Frannie's shipmates. Once she arrives in Philadelphia, Frannie becomes Emmeline, the much loved family member of a Loyalist doctor and his family. Frannie feels unfulfilled and not herself living Emmeline's life. When she accidentally discovers a secret spy ring, Frannie comes alive. She wants to be involved. As Emmeline, she is in a position to carry on a courtship with a British Lieutenant. He's handsome, charming and everything Emmeline would want in a husband. Can Frannie betray him by sharing his secrets? She knows her Mama would want her to choose security but what if security means having your actions dictated to by your husband? What is that husband is a cruel tyrant? When someone from her past returns, it complicates matters but Frannie is determined to be a part of the rebel cause for freedom from tyranny. Isn't that why she's masquerading as a wealthy Loyalist woman in the first place- to be free from tyranny? Frannie won't rest until she and her adopted country are free, even if it means giving up safety, comfort and even her own life.

This story opens with a shocking, thrilling event. The reader has to slog through a section on Frannie's early life, then the rest of the story before it catches up and the story continues. It's an unconventional way to tell a story but hooks the reader in. I found the next section really slow. I was reading this book for the SPY narrative and felt there was too much backstory. The backstory is necessary for what comes later though. I could have done without the romance and the love triangle but it's also necessary for Frannie to discover whether she will stay as Emmeline or return to her true identity. I had some questions about the authenticity of Frannie's life on Grand Bahama at first but as she explained her history, it made more sense. Frannie is a different sort of character than what I'm used to reading about. Once I adjusted my expectations accordingly, I went along for the ride. The descriptions are incredible and will make you feel like you're right there with Frannie seeing, feeling and smelling everything she is. The author did NOT hold back on descriptive details.
The historical details are very, very good. I was surprised to learn this was the author's first historical novel. She states in her author's note she spent four years researching the background of her novel and it shows. I didn't pick up any major errors, except for Asa's background. Lane is not a Rhode Island name and we know the wealthy merchants! It's true they didn't want to pay taxes. Their names are on the list of suspected Gaspee raiders. I thought it would be better to make Asa a Massachusetts merchant's son. The story about his French mother doesn't quite ring true either, not for New England. Fine upstanding New England merchants didn't do those sorts of things... not that they tell us about in their diaries anyway.

I was mainly interested in George Washington's Culper Ring, having read a little bit about them before in Anna Strong and the Revolutionary War Culper Spy Ring: A Spy on History Book and was disappointed there wasn't a lot more of the coded messages and spying techniques used by the Culper Ring. I did not guess the identity of "Monk" right away, although I should have! When I figured it out, I mentally smacked myself for not realizing it sooner. The concluding chapters are especially descriptive and not in a pleasant way. I was horrified and surprised. I surely thought a)They wouldn't imprison a woman on the ship and b)Her friends would find her and rescue her. The ending of the novel is a little ambiguous and I didn't quite like it. I was hoping Frannie would marry Asa and they would sail the seas spying together. I hope that's what happens next and Frannie did not/does not die.

I don't know if I can say I LIKE Frannie. I certainly felt really bad for her given her early life. I don't know if I approve of what she did but it was take Emmeline's life or be killed by Sewel. I think in that instance, because it was survival, she did the right thing. However, once she was in Philadelphia, she deceived a lot of people- good kind people who loved her. They certainly wouldn't love her if they knew the truth. Lucy's eyes would go wide with horror, she'd cry and ask "why" and "how could you?" (OMG OMG OMG!) and her guardian would be disappointed. I think her new family being so kind made it HARDER for her to stay as Emmeline than it would have if they were horrible people. As the war continues, Frannie starts to question everything she's been taught about loyalty. She begins to question the rules of society, the patriarchy and the unfair laws that favor men. She wouldn't be the only one but from that point forward, I think she made the wrong choices. Yes, she felt more alive, more herself, more free but at what cost? She CHOSE to be Emmeline. She CHOSE that life based on what her mother told her about security. A secure life isn't necessary a happy one. She sort of knew that when she thought about her mother's life with Sewel. Her questions are part of the coming-of-age plot. I think Emmeline should have been married already at 19 to begin with. Frannie was lucky Emmeline was NOT betrothed to someone in Philadelphia. Coming into her inheritance at 22 seems a little old for the time when over 21 was inching closer to being "on the shelf." I would have made Emmeline younger and Francisca older.

When Frannie became involved in spying, I think she made a lot of rookie errors. She was really, really bad at it. Mr. Townsend shouldn't have let her get involved without some training. She stumbled into it and stumbled into trouble recklessly. She never really did anything except participate in Society and pump her love interest for information. There was only one time when she actively spied. Yes she's a Lady and her movements are limited and therefore, her spying activity was limited. I was just disappointed because the jacket blurb made this seem more like a spy novel. I guess she was supposed to be counterspy to Peggy Shippen Arnold? (Not that they knew Peggy was a spy at the time but it seems likely she was). I was rooting for Frannie to succeed and survive though even if I didn't always like her.

In the West End of the Grand Bahama, Frannie's society is limited. Her Mama, a woman of Spanish descent, sounds like she was lovely. She was kind and gentle and a very talented artist/artisan. Unfortunately that earned her jealousy from a less talented man and her reputation was ruined. That's when she turned to Sewel. Mama's advice to Frannie is based on her own experiences. Her first marriage was for love and when he died, she was left impoverished. Her second marriage was for protection. I think her advice is not wrong but there needs to be a balance- love AND money are important. Her caution about not marrying in haste is right on though. Sewel is a cruel, hard man, made worse by an addiction to rum. He's crazy and sadistic. When he should be looking out for and protecting Francisca, he wants to marry her! He wants to crush her rebellious spirit and even kill her because of it. Clearly this man is evil and sadistic. He's very two-dimensional. I think he's going to be trouble and work for anyone who pays him the most-probably the British but would switch sides if he thought it was to his advantage. Frannie's best friend Mercy is a self-liberated, formerly enslaved girl, who, along with her father, dives the wrecks with Frannie. Mercy is lively with a sense of humor and imagination. She helps Frannie through the tough times even though her life must be extremely difficult. Mercy's father Moses is an upright an honorable man.

The second section of the book takes place on board the Ambrosia. Captain Jansen is very kind to his friend's daughter, Miss Coates. He's perhaps TOO kind to be a realistic ship's captain of the 18th-century. He allows Emmeline the space she needs to recover from her trauma and seems to understand her needs. Mr. Withers, the ship's surgeon is also very kind and sympathetic. I think both of them are a little unrealistic but this is a merchant ship and not Navy so perhaps it's a different culture. Izra, a young black boy, is a servant on board the ship. He seems to want to befriend Emmeline but also is wary. He knows his duties and how to avoid being whipped. I would like to know more about him. He sounds like he could be an interesting character. Mr. Hackett, the boatswain, is a rogue. He's a troublemaker and Frannie should NOT give him what he wants. It will make things much worse for her.

I'm too old for tropey teen romances and this novel was not quite an exception but the love story at least moved the plot forward and shaped Frannie's character. When Frannie first meets Asa Lane, a political prisoner on board the Ambrosia, she doesn't trust him. (***) He's a rebel and she believes she's a Loyalist. He's a troublemaker and a hothead and learns her secret, but she needs him. His birth gives him a different perspective on liberty than his father and even his uncle. Asa sees the injustice in the British system and wants to be free. He's very passionate and enthusiastic about the cause of liberty. Over the course of a week, he gets Frannie to trust him and share her secrets. He shares his hopes and dreams with her. That's a nice START to a romance and certainly more than a girl like Emmeline would ever experience, but as Frannie's mother knows, a woman can't live on love alone. I feel like Asa misunderstands Frannie's hesitation and becomes angry at her for no good reason. Typical man. Later, when he reenters her life, he's so different. I suspect he's doing the same thing Frannie is for largely the same reasons. Self-preservation sometimes makes people do things they don't feel are morally right. Perhaps he did switch sides, perhaps he's lying. His relationship with his uncle is very sweet and shows a different side of Asa's personality- more like the young man on the ship.

Three years later Frannie has inhabited the life of Miss Coates completely taking in everyone who meets her. Dr. Holbridge "Uncle Henry" and his family are incredibly kind and loving. Uncle Henry wants what's best for his "niece" but not in a strict, patriarchal way. He doesn't KNOW any different and assumes Emmeline will want the life she's been accustomed to. Henry is a kind man who doesn't condone violence as a way of solving problems. He thinks of the Revolution as a little spat between a father and children. This character shows the reader that not all Loyalists were terrible people on the "wrong" side of history. His daughter, Lucy, is a Jane Bennet sort. She's very, very good and sweet. Not too intelligent but that's the way she was brought up. Lucy doesn't have an independent spirit and is quite timid. I don't understand why she's not married yet! I do not like their friend Charlotte. She doesn't read, not even novels, and often professes strange statements and opinions she made up out of nothing in her head. She only cares for fashion, fads and beaus. UGH. She accepts British rule without question. After all, the wealthiest, most prominent gentlemen in the area are Loyalists and that's who she's been socializing with her whole life and will be expected to marry one day. While Leisje's husband seems very much enchanted with her, her life will be limited to balls, parties, drawing rooms and eventually, the nursery. She'll have no freedom, no life of her own. Francisca/Emmeline begins to realize this as she observes her friends and their courtships. Her rebellious streak begins to come out again. Also in Philadelphia we meet Judge Latimer, a very kind and loving uncle to Emmeline. He isn't related by blood but he's her uncle just the same. Judge Latimer is a good, kind, just man who believes in what's right. He helps manage Emmeline's estate. Frannie's past gives her empathy for the servants. She's caught between her past and present. I believe she truly likes Malcolm and his mother. She has inspired his loyalty at any rate.

Lieutenant Duncan, Major John André's ADC, is much like his boss. He's very charming and seems kind. I can see why Emmeline would be smitten with him. Duncan is every Loyalist girl's dream come true. Yet, Frannie's sharp eyes see something no one else does. I suspect she's seeing the qualities that make him a good officer. Does that mean he'll NOT be a good husband? I believe so. He's part of the system of patriarchy. He can't help command and order but is it more than that?

The story is populated by some real life figures as well. Major John André is a major flirt! He's charming with the ladies. He enjoys flirting, drawing sketches of ladies and writing poetry. This man would make any maiden swoon-unless she's a time traveler from the future who knows exactly who he is and what happens next. I was surprised by how much Francisca liked him but of course she didn't know what he was actually up to. It's hard to read about him without being colored by the historical knowledge. I read about him before in Finishing Becca: A Story about Peggy Shippen and Benedict Arnold and Sophia's War: A Tale of the Revolution. Anna Strong is a real woman too. She spied for the rebels while her husband was a political prisoner. I figured out who she was right away and wanted more of her! Mr. Robert Townsend, a shopkeeper, is also a real life man. Here he's portrayed as a nervous sort, not bold or brave. I'm guessing he was really like that? Elizabeth Burgin is cranky but tough. She was crafty and clever and right to be suspicious of Emmeline/Frannie.

[Shelley · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Source* Library
*Genre* Historical / Fiction
*Rating* 4.0

*Thoughts*

Veronica Rossi's Rebel Spy is a historical reimagining of the story behind Agent 355—a New York society girl and spy for George Washington during the Revolutionary War. This story takes place between August 1776 and July 1980. Story locations include the Grand Bahamas and 18th century New York City. Frannie Tasker is a water baby and island girl from the Grand Bahamas. After the death of her parents, she is left with her alcoholic stepdad Sewel who makes a living by having her dive old shipwrecks looking for exploits to capitalize on.

*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*

https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although this got very dark and heavy in places (as well it ought, being set during a war), the story is fascinating and Rossi does a beautiful job blending truth and fiction and, even better, creating a heroine who really lives both on and off the page.

[Michaela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to weep and laugh and shout all at the same time.

I will write an actual review at a later date after I have processed. Please, read this book so I have someone to talk about it with.

[diana · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review originally posted on My Bookish Escapades.

"I sank into a deep curtsy.
Then I rose, a lady."

I have to be honest, YA historical fiction is not the kind of genre I often find myself reading. I'm pretty sure I could count on one hand the number of books I've read that fall into this category.

But when I had the chance to read Rebel Spy I just knew I had to give this book a shot. The cover looks AMAZING (I cannot stop staring!) and the premise really intrigued me. I know next to nothing about Agent 355. So I figured why not rectify that and dive into this one?

Rebel Spy started a bit too slow for me. It started to pick up pace around the 20-30 percent mark. It was a good call on my part not DNF-ing this. And although it's a bit disappointing that there wasn't much spying that went on (as the title had me believe), I really enjoyed seeing Frannie's character evolve. Veronica Rossi wrote a very character driven story. Frannie grew into the person she is through questioning her beliefs and discovering for herself what it truly means to fight for what you believe is just and true. I wasn't such a huge fan of Frannie in the beginning but over time she became someone I admired for her strength and resilience. I also really love her knowledge on wreck diving and the sea and her love for it. But the romance, honestly, I feel like I could have gone without.

Overall, this is a very interesting and enjoyable read. Would definitely endeavor to read more historical fiction from now on!

I received an e-arc to read and review.

“Loyalty isn’t fealty. Nor is it duty. It can’t be demanded or coerced into being. It must be given freely, like love, and one feels it here.” He brought a hand to his heart.

“In the seventh fathom the sea’s no longer wanting to spit you out. It wraps you up like a blanket, and you can relax and float now ’ cause it’s got you. It’s holding you and you can just stay there, nothing pulling at you. Nothing pushing. Your heart beats real slow and you feel so calm, like you’re drifting in a wakeful sleep. Now you can do your best daydreaming ’cause it feels a little like you already are."

'I’ve lived for something more, and it’s you, and it’s love, and liberty, and friendship, and hope, all the other mores that can ever be.'

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rebel Spy was such an interesting story that made me want to do research on a topic that never came to my mind until I read this book and the author's note. Rebel Spy is set in 1776 and follows a young girl Frannie as she takes the life of a Miss Emmeline Coates and pretends to be her when Emmeline died in a naval accident. She does it to run away from her abusive step-father who intends to take her as his new-wife after her mother's death. Obviously, Frannie is willing to do about anything to get out of this situation and save her life even if it means taking a risk as people might know that she isn't the real Miss Coates. Along the way she meets Asa, the love of her life who will be one of the sparks that will make Frannie decide to become a spy... Ahhhh Asa. I loved him so much!! All I wanted was for them both to be together and happy even though obstacles were present.

Overall, I'm glad I finally read this book even though it was a bit slow at times and that it took me a little while to finish it. However I fell in love with the characters. This book made me cry and broke my heart multiple times. The ending is one that marked me and for these reasons, I kind of want to give it five stars instead of four.

(Thank you for letting me read and review an ARC via Netgalley)

[Fatima · Rating 4 out of 5]

Slooow day at work but this was so engaging I got through the whole thing and I still have an hour left on this shift 😭

Unputdownable, the hours FLEW by. I love Frannie; I love her tenacity and her voice. It’s so much easier to get invested in a story who’s main character is so imperfect and lovable that it is inspiring. I wish I had known that this story was more character driven (my favourite kind!!). I would’ve jumped in so much sooner. But there was just enough suspense and action to really keep the ball rolling until the very end, if that’s your cup of tea.

This is one of those reads that you’re still stuck in even after your turn the last page. I can’t reconcile my mind, which is in colonial America, with my body, which is in a rock hard fold out chair at a covid immunization clinic. 4.5 stars, as usual, without the commitment to rounding up.

[Katie K. | purelykatiek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh this was a fabulous historical Fiction. Slower start but what an interesting read with a lot of history weaved into an elaborate story fabricated after the true historical female spy 355.
Adored this book with the complexity of war and what it was like for higher social classes during this time.
I would dock some points just because the meat of the story doesnt kick off until around 100 pages but im not going to because I loved the open ended finale and all the questions it lead me to have regarding history in the 1780's.
In my opinion a historical Fiction book should excite the reader to research more about the topic and thats exactly what this story did.

[Lisa Mandina · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first thought on how to describe this book is just, wow. It was so good. The history in it reminds me of the Seeds of America series by Laurie Halse Anderson. It brings to mind a time that we don’t always learn about as much as we think we did in school. At least I know there are things about the Revolutionary War that I never thought about, even though I’m sure it was pretty obvious. But like the Anderson series, this reminded me about how slavery was still something going on in this time, it didn’t just revolve around the Civil War like we get so much about in school. Not to mention how much we talk about the United States starting in 1776, but that wasn’t the end of the Revolutionary War, it really was right around the beginning!

This book is about a female spy that actually we don’t know for sure who she was, but Veronica Rossi has woven an imaginative tale that invites the reader in to where you can just see the type of woman who might have volunteered for this type of duty. But not just that, we got a peek into so many different lifestyles of people at that time. From those living on islands like the Grand Bahamas, to those privateering or pirating, and clear up to the well-to-do members of society. In this story we really get only the society of those who were Loyalists, siding with the British. Our glimpses into the lives and fight of those who were fighting for American’s freedom are mainly through shopkeepers, prisoners on horrible ships and other prisons, and those smuggling to safety those that they can from the area of New York and the other British holdings.

We got to hear the names of several historical figures as players mostly in the background of the story, George Washington and Benedict Arnold to name a few.

A wonderful story, fitting for the times we are in, bringing up how the slaves were treated at that time. Yes, the British may have “freed them”, but it was only the slaves of Loyalists, not those of the Patriots. And it wasn’t just that this was such a good story, the writing really kept me reading, barely able to put down this over 350 page book. It’s one I’ll be highly recommending, as well as purchasing for the students at the high school library where I work.

[Rose | Adventurous Bookworm · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had high hopes for this one but was left disappointed. For simplicity's sake, I will just write a pro and con list.

Pro:
This is a very clean book, barely any cussing and appropriate for younger teens.

Con:
Despite what the title says, this book is NOT about spying. Any and all mentions of spying were glossed over and did not mention many facts.
MC cheated on the man she was seeing with a friend from childhood. I don't care what anyone says, but this is not ok.
Still on that last point -- The love triangle was not my favorite in the least.
This book may have been a miss for me, but if you're a fan of historical fiction, it may be worth a try.
Rating: 2/5
Language: s*** one time, d*** one or two times
Romance: a kiss
Spiritual: characters believe in God
Violence: set during the American Revolution but not detailed, MC's stepfather attempts to harm her
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Rossi's Under the Never Sky series, so I was excited and curious to see how REBEL SPY, her first foray into the world of historical fiction, would go. Spoiler alert—it went well! Rossi did a lot of research about the Revolutionary War, especially how it affected New York City, and it shows. The historical details were intriguing and really made the setting come alive. The main characters are a likable lot. Frannie/Emmeline is a sympathetic heroine, who is easy to like and cheer on. Although REBEL SPY focuses more on Frannie/Emmeline's romances than on her actual spying, there was enough excitement in the plot to keep me reading. I definitely would have preferred more espionage scenes, with more danger and more risk! All in all, though, I enjoyed REBEL SPY. It was interesting, engrossing, and enjoyable. Now, I'm super interested to see what Rossi does next ...