Everlasting by Angie Frazier

Seventeen-year-old Camille Rowen has always loved adventure. That’s why she enjoys sailing on her father’s ships so much—and dreads her upcoming marriage. To Camille, marrying a wealthy man for the sake of society means losing her freedom, even if it could save her father and herself from economic ruin. So Camille makes her choice, but on her final voyage, confronted by family secrets and betrayals, she starts to reconsider that choice. It helps that her father’s handsome first mate Oscar is always around, an unconscious comfort to her. When Camille’s father dies in a terrible storm at sea and she and Oscar are left among the few survivors, Camille is presented when another set of choices: return home to San Francisco and save her father’s business or run off to Australia to pursue her father’s secrets and an ancient magic that could bring her father back from his watery grave. Camille’s choice is the beginning of a perilous journey in which she’ll learn about life, love, and what truly matters most.

Everlasting has all the makings of a great pirate or perhaps Wild West tale with threats around every turn—minus the pirates and outlaws. But that’s probably what makes this novel so memorable. This story is one of adventure, both on the high seas and across rugged terrain, all set in 1855. The historical angle of this novel adds so much to the story, especially in the way of societal standards and gender roles. All this combined with some rather vivid sailors’ myths defines this wonderful story. The effect is quite incredible. Female readers in particular will be able to appreciate heroine Camille’s struggle between duty and a desire for adventure, but everyone will be swept up in this imaginative and enthralling tale of myth, magic, and romance. I have to admit that I’m quite smitten with Everlasting and definitely hope there will be more to Camille’s story.

This lovely debut should not be missed by fans of The Dust of 100 Dogs by A.S. King, To Catch a Pirate by Jade Parker, and Raiders’ Ransom by Emily Diamand. I greatly look forward to more from Frazier.

Rating: 4.5

Review copy from publisher Scholastic