By: Mark Greenwood
Genre: YNX - Mysteries, the supernatural, monsters & mythological beings
Published by: Fremantle Press
Published: 03 Jun 2025
ISBN: 9781760995058

Description

From the author of The Dragon's Treasure and The Vanishing, comes a new History Hunter mystery about the Hope Diamond.

Over the centuries, the jinxed jewel has crossed oceans and continents, passing from thieves to commoners, kings and queens. Though immensely valuable, the diamond's potency for bad luck is said to have its origins in an ancient curse. But are the dark meanings bestowed on ancient artifacts simply superstition? Or could a diamond truly leave behind a trail of misfortune ...


Join the History Hunter on a journey back in time as he sets out to untangle myth from fact, and trace the truly remarkable life of a legendary diamond.


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Review

This is a new title from Mark Greenwood in the wonderful History Hunters series.


The Deadly Diamond looks at the history of the world’s most famous diamond, the incredible Blue Hope diamond.


From its origins in India, where for hundreds of years India was the world’s only source of diamonds, and then on to its various owners, and eventual home since 1958 in the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. With owners including King Louis XV and King XVI of France and Queen Mary Antoinette, as well as being rumoured to be owned by England’s King George IV, the diamond is surrounded by history and mystery - with many believing that all who claim ownership of it will encounter serious misfortune.


Many of its owners have indeed suffered from untimely premature deaths, disease, and financial ruin, but this could be coincidence and is probably exaggerated! The likely theft from an Indian statue of worship is the reason why the curse is believed to exist, but as with all books in this series, you are left to draw your own conclusions.


Ideal for those who love delving into facts and history, with a side of mystery. The series is suited to all readers aged from 10 to 14 years but, I feel, best suits reluctant lower secondary students.


Reviewed Rob