The Traitors' Gate

By Avi

Rating: 3 1/2 stars

Reviewed by Noelle

In November of 1849 in London, 14 year old John Huffman hears the news that his father is being sent to debtor's prison for owing 300 pounds to a Mr. O'Doul. As his family is carted off in disgrace and John is sent to beg from his great-aunt for a loan, he begins to notice strange things. A man wearing a false beard and calling himself Inspector Copperfield leaves a mysterious warning with John. A Mr. Farquatt offers marriage to John's sister, but it turns out that may not be what he's really after. A strange young girl keeps following John wherever he goes. And when John follows his father, he finds his father has many secrets he's been keeping. What is really going on with the Huffman family? As John begins to dig into the mystery, he will discover a plot to uncover spies and traitors...and he will be surprised to find that he is in the thick of it! There are many twists to unravel in this plot, but readers should be engaged enough to follow the turns to the satisfying ending. Those liking their mysteries steeped in history will enjoy this outing.