The Diamond of Drury Lane

London, 1790: Covent Garden’s glittering, dangerous Theatreland. Feisty orphan Cat Royal has always been a star turn at the famous Drury Lane theatre, adopted as a baby by the owner Mr Sheridan after she was found mysteriously abandoned on the theatre’s steps. She has grown up backstage among the costumes, performers, musicians and stagehands, and is treasured like a daughter by them all. But when Cat hears a rumour about a priceless diamond hidden somewhere in the theatre, she determines to solve the mystery. Little does Cat know that her curiosity will lead her into Covent Garden’s hidden world of rival gangs, boxing matches, riots, crime and intrigue – and teach her some important lessons about who she really is.

Winner of the Nestlé Children’s Book Prize and Ottakers Children’s Book Prize 2006.

“This is rollicking historical fiction at its best, a great read.” Sunday Express

“Rip-roaring saga… thoroughly entertaining… lively and absorbing.” The Times Educational Supplement

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Recent reviews

xloveheart123

loved it

I am 9 years old and really enjoyed this book, however I would only recommend it for 11+ because there are some harsh and disturbing scenes that might be unsettling for people under that age. The plot line follows orphan Cat Royal, a headstrong, wily young girl, and her time and trials in historical London. Also there are strong references and scenes of romance. The book is written like a play due to her living in a theatre for some of the books, with a cast list, acts and scenes. But, overall, this is an extremely hooking book, with plot twists at every pageturn. A must read!

3 May 2014
AngelofDeath

Amazing book, a great read, i’d recommend it for 12+

8 March 2014
Athena14

I love this book, set back in time when every day could be a fight for your life. Brilliant characters and storyline.

5 March 2014
emz1415

loved it

This book is really good the others in the series are brilliant to!

14 December 2013
BookCrazyGirlLol

This book was amazing. I have read all of the books in the series and really want to read the next one. Can’t wait!!

15 December 2012