Outpost

In this sequel to Enclave (Feiwel & Friends, 2011), Aguirre uses dreams and conversations to supply information for readers unfamiliar with that volume and to add background about the major characters. Having reached the fortress community of Salvation after a terrifying trek through a postapocalyptic world populated by voracious Freaks (mutants), Deuce, Fade, Stalker, and Tegan try to adapt. Trained as a Huntress, Deuce chafes at expectations about how to dress and act because she is female. She also cannot understand why Fade avoids her after she practices fighting skills with Stalker. Salvation’s citizens lead simple, prosperous lives, and Deuce’s unconventional behavior troubles some who fear violating rules will lead to everyone’s doom. In the forest, Freaks gather in colonies, and some have evolved enough to develop strategies beyond mindless feeding; summer patrols must be stationed outside Salvation’s walls. Deuce volunteers and is joined by Fade, Stalker, and 17 others. By season’s end, many have died. Salvation’s only chance for survival lies in summoning allies. Armed with trade maps and survival gear, Deuce, Fade, Stalker, and Tegan set out for an uncertain destination. Deuce’s growing awareness of her capacity to love, including her romance with Fade, has a prominent place in the story. However, there are plenty of bloody encounters with Freaks to satisfy readers more interested in combat. The Stalker-Deuce-Fade triangle remains unresolved while Tegan develops more complexity. Aguirre’s success lies in generating page-turning action more than in developing characters. It is enough to recommend the book, especially where Enclave is popular, and readers will demand the final volume.-Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato