The Diamond of Drury Lane

Capturing superbly the hustle and bustle, flair and extravagance of late Eighteenth Century times in England's renowned capital, The Diamond of Drury Lane introduces its feisty heroine with an undeniably exciting first adventure. This is historical fiction for young readers at its best--authentic, exciting and fast-moving.

Cat Royal is a veritable institution at Mr Sheridan's famous Drury Lane theatre of ye olde London Town, circa 1790. Adopted by the owner after being mysteriously abandoned as a baby on the steps of his infamous establishment, Cat has grown up backstage amidst the glamour of the bright lights, the exotic artistes, hammy actors, melodious musicians and riotous viewing public. The performers are her family, the stagehands her closest friends.

However, Cat is growing up and she is beginning to think about what she wants to do with her life. Those thoughts take an unexpected turn when she overhears a conversation about a diamond hidden somewhere in the theatre. Her adventures begin when she tries to find the treasure. Pedro, a gifted musician who is new to the company orchestra, ably assists her. Ever present too are the political ramifications of a mischievous satirical cartoonist called Captain Sparkler, who some suspect is a very important person nearby in disguise.

The narrative traverses London and takes in the rival street gangs of Covent Garden, boxing matches, theatre riots, spectacular stage productions and several moments of drama and intrigue. Cat is so likeable as a central character, that readers will soon be caught up in her journey. That journey may only be short geographically, but she learns lots about who she is and who her real friends are. It's great stuff. Look out for the sequel, Cat Among the Pigeons.

(Age 9 and over)--John McLay

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Drury lane rules - Rated
It is absolutely gripping I can't put it down I love the way she makes you feel like you are there
I LOVE THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Amazing Story. - Rated
I picked this off the shelves in the library as i had nothing else to do at the time and was intrigued by the cover and title, i started reading and was instantly captivated.
The main character and heroin is Cat(Catherine)Royal, a 13 year old girl who lives in the theater at Drury lane, she knows all that goes on and is a mascot to everyone there.
When a little African boy named Pedro turns up as the musicians apprentice, they instantly become friends. Pedro is an amazing violin player and is invited to entertain Lords and Ladies and then introduces Cat to them.
When Cat hears her guardian Mr.Sheridan talking of a Diamond hidden in the theater she is asked to look after it, she promises to, even though she doesn't know where it is.
But when a street gang lead by Cats enemy Billy "Boil" Shepherd, hears about the diamond things start going wrong.
Full of adventure, laughter, and moments that will have you turning the pages unable to put it down. Set in the past you will learn something about old London whilst reading, but in a fun way.
The characters are all love able and easy to associate with. Very well written and i now can't wait to read the next part.
Strongly recommend to everyone, not just children, I'm 19 and loved it!!!

The Diamond of Drury Lane is Brilliant! - Rated
I love this book, the characters are all different, and the plot is well thought out. It's exciting and different. I love the whole series, it's defitnitley worth reading. For boys and girls, beetween the ages of 9 and 109.It's good how all the loose ends tie up neatly at the end. Read This!

Diamond of Drury Lane - Rated
A brilliant read. I was quickly drawn into the story and had to force myself to put it down!Cat finds herself always in sticky situations, but manages to get out of them, one way or another. There is a great plot and I would highly recommend this book for boys and girls (11+).

A theatrical masterpiece! - Rated
I was intrigued by the cover and the unusual blurb and so bought this book knowing nothing about the author, but was so pleasantly surprised. I am well above the target age range for this book, but was thoroughly gripped by the plot, the characters and the engaging atmosphere of eighteenth century theatreland. As an English teacher I read lots of children's books and I am usually disappointed by either plot, characters or the quality of the writing. I was not disappointed by any aspects of this book. I think this is a well researched, beautifully written, witty, clever, atmospheric book. Most importantly though; this book's a real page-turner.