The Last Voyage of Poe Blythe

Gr 7 Up– A story of revenge, adventure, and journeys. Poe has designed ships with lethal armor to protect the Outpost's gold mining ships from the raiders, against whom she holds a personal vendetta. For years the raiders have been attacking Outpost ships to steal gold, often killing those onboard, including the man Poe loves. When the Admiral, ruler of the Outpost, sends Poe out as captain upon her own ship, she starts to question everything she has ever known about the raiders and her life in the Outpost. Unsure whom to trust, Poe must learn how to lead and what to believe. The novel has multiple twists and turns, and Poe's fate is left hanging by a thread multiple times. Smart and strong, she fights to protect her ship above everything else. Condie has created a well-rounded character who defies typical gender roles. Joining Poe in her journey is an equally well-rounded cast of characters: the seasoned sailor Naomi, the young and cheerful Tam, and the serious Brig, among others. These characters join Poe on her voyage while each of them struggles with personal burdens and choices. The story is well-woven and compelling, and leaves readers in anticipation of more.