I really enjoyed this. It might not be a masterpiece but it was good fun, with lots of action, and times when Cat and her friends have to use their ingenuity to get out of a bad situation. The characters were pretty well-drawn and likeable (the ones we're supposed to like) and overall I thought it was a very good story. I look forward to reading later instalments in the series. ( )

For some reason, I find it condescending when an author puts "dear reader" at least once in every chapter. Aside from that HUGE annoyance, it was okay. ( )

Good middle-reader book, set in the theatre district of 18th century London.
~Stephanie ( )

Set in 1790 London, this is narrated by young Catherine (Cat) Royal, a foundling taken in by Sheridan and reared as the errand-girl of the Drury Lane Theatre. Her already eventful life becomes more exciting still with the addition to the company of Johnny, the mysterious new Prompt; Pedro, the young African violinist; and rumours of a diamond hidden somewhere in the theatre. Outside the theatre she is mixed up in (or mixes herself up in) boxing matches, street brawls, an ill-fated love, and risky political satire. Hair's-breadth escapes, sneering villains both high and low, balloon ascents, and more.

The word that best describes this little romp in eighteenth century England is cute. It was very cute. It isn’t historically accurate, and I don’t think the author was attempting for the characters to act as such. The story was preposterous, but definitely a bit of fun. This is the first book in a series that I would have adored as a child, and I honestly don’t see anything wrong with them, as they are a riot. Cat Royal gets into a bit of trouble, always with the best of intentions, she fights for the injustice she sees, stands up for what she believes in, and has some true friends. Even if it isn’t historically accurate, I like this version much better. She has spunk. ( )