Rogues Gold

John Pilkington

This is a mystery adventure story full of drama, death, intrigue and scandal, with colourful characters and an authentic historical setting.

When boy actor Ben Button's fellow players are accused of stealing the priceless Lodovico plate, he sets out to save them from the shadow of the hangman's noose. Who really stole the plate, what secret does it hide and how can Ben reveal the truth?

This thrilling romp across the Elizabethan English countryside, populated by bejewelled nobility, ragged beggars, thundering horsemen and secret spies, has a charm that's impossible to resist.

Review by Jessica (240607) Rating (7/10)

Review by Jessica
Rogues Gold is an historical mystery novel by children’s author John Pilkington. John wrote radio plays back in the 1980s before stepping things up a notch and scribbling down television scripts for the BCC. He then went onto write a non-fiction book and lastly wrote this thrilling children’s adventure tale.

Boy actor Ben Button and his fellow players arrive at Bowford Manor to perform for the citizens of the house, completely unaware of the scheming trap they are soon to find themselves in. Only later do they regret their decision to stop off at the Manor when their fellow actor, Solomon Tree, is wrongly accused of stealing the priceless Lodovico plate and is locked away.

Ben joins forces with Lady Sarah, daughter of Sir James Howard, as they begin their quest to find the plate and set Solomon free. Lies and mystery soon await the duo as they are drawn deeper into the heart of the scandal. The plot thickens and is studded with realistic characters.

This is an atmospheric drama set in the Elizabethan era. Most children should really enjoy this enthralling adventure.
Jessica (24th June 2007)