*Shortlisted

Review by William, Year 8, Ashcroft Technology Academy
I found the time period the book was set in very interesting because it was a time of big changes in England when the religion changed during the Reformation and the story reveals some of the hostility by people at the time towards Catholics. I also found it interesting that people believed in witches and witchcraft alongside their religious beliefs. My favourite character was Mary Queen of Scots who is portrayed as someone with good qualities, and I was more sympathetic towards her. I liked her because she seemed fun and playful despite being a Queen. The character of the cloak would be even better if the reader learnt more about him as he was quite an interesting character especially after what the reader learns about him later in the book! I think the plot was gripping and what stood out about the book to me was it was able to teach the reader quite a bit about what the 16th century was like. I would definitely recommend the book to others as I think most readers would love the setting.

Review by Eno, Year 5, St. Cecilia’s Primary School
If you like books full of mystery and tension, you are really going to love this. This is a book about a boy called Alexander who must go to Edinburgh to spy on the queen of Scots. I loved Alexander because he was really brave and courageous to go and spy on the Queen. I would recommend this book to other mystery and suspense lovers. I loved this book. 

Review by Loie (Age 8), St Andrew’s CE Primary, Headington
This book made me feel tense in a way that I didn't want to breathe! I really loved it because Alexander is so relatable! My favourite character is Mr Kerr because he has such a unique part. I thought Alexander was the most interesting character because he was only a 12-year-old boy, and he was sent on a very dangerous quest. I would describe this book as tense, gripping and unputdownable!  I would recommend this book to children between the age of 8 and 11 who like adventure stories because this book has just that. I give this book 4 1/2 stars.