Leona, a teenage girl from the busy city of Birmingham, is drifting down the wrong path, making poor choices and growing increasingly distant from her parents. In a bold attempt to turn things around, her parents make a life-changing decision: to leave the city behind and move to a quiet rural village.

Furious about the move, Leona falls out with her parents. Feeling isolated and alone, she uncovers an old Tudor diary buried in the garden. On the night that she reads the diary, something extraordinary happens—Leona wakes up in Tudor England.

Lost, confused, and frightened, she has no idea how to get home. That is, until she meets the girl who wrote the diary. Together, they embark on a thrilling adventure filled with danger, fear, and adrenaline.

As their bond deepens, so does their determination to survive and find a way back. Against all odds, Leona eventually returns to her own time—and to her family—forever changed by the journey.

Her time in Tudor London teaches her the most valuable lesson of all: how lucky she truly is.

I have been writing and drawing since childhood. I have accumulated numerous drawings and scripts and short stories that have mounted over the years. Now, as a mother of three, a stepmother of two and working in a school of children, I have decided to turn my hobby into something more functional, starting with children’s books. Children are such interesting, fun quirky characters; there’s always something to write about. I also now understand what they like, what captivates them and clever ways to make them learn and understand basic morals without them realising they’ve learned something. And at heart, I’m just a big kid myself.

Customer Reviews

5.0

11 reviews

Murugesan

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this fantasy novel that depicts the protagonist Leona involuntarily travelling back to the Tudor period. There she meets Catherine Cunningham, and together, they face various dangers while Leona desperately tries to get back to her family. This book portrays the values of family and togetherness.
Narendra Ramwani

This book beautifully blends time travel, history, and emotional growth into a story that feels both exciting and heartfelt. Leona, a troubled teenager from modern-day Birmingham, is struggling—with her choices, her parents, and herself. When her family moves to a quiet village in hopes of a fresh start, Leona’s anger and loneliness feel painfully real. Karen Shandley captures teenage frustration so authentically that it’s easy to connect with Leona right from the start. The discovery of an old Tudor diary in the garden adds an irresistible layer of mystery. What truly makes this story shine is its journey into Tudor England. Waking up in a completely different time, Leona’s fear and confusion are palpable, and the historical setting is richly imagined without feeling overwhelming. Meeting Catherine, the girl behind the diary, turns the story into a powerful tale of friendship, courage, and survival. Their bond grows naturally as they face danger together, and the contrast between modern life and Tudor hardships is both eye-opening and moving. The adventure keeps you turning pages while quietly teaching empathy and gratitude. At its heart, The Diary of Catherine Cunningham is a story about perspective and second chances. Leona’s return to her own time feels earned, emotional, and deeply satisfying. Her journey doesn’t just change where she’s been—it changes who she is. This is a wonderful read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a time-slip twist, strong female friendships, and meaningful life lessons. A thoughtful, engaging story that stays with you long after the final page.
JB

Absolutely loved this book. Such a talented author, who makes the story intense and totally believable with a heartwarming ending. Definitely would recommend!
Rebecca Rushton-Nesbitt

Amazing book by an amazing author! It’s really well written and the picture on the front is amazing with great detail! Karen Shandley has great talent!
starmixer2

A copy turned up today and I was looking for a new read. Halfway through already. A novel which is heartwarming and a moving tale. Written with imagination and flair, Karen Shandley, is an author (also an artist) to look out for regarding future publications. Treat yourself.
Matt Wakefield

I was lucky enough to buy a copy of Karen's latest book for my niece and I couldn't resist reading it for myself! Before long I was transported back to Tudor England in all it's glory, warts and all! I know my niece will enjoy it as much as I did! 10/10
Amazon Customer

“The Diary of Catherine Cunningham” is a pacey, time-slip adventure that mixes modern teen drama with the grit of Tudor England. Leona starts out angry and rebellious after being dragged from Birmingham to a quiet village, but finding an old diary and waking up in the past throws her into real danger and forces her to grow up fast. The differences between her own life and Tudor hardship makes her new appreciation for her family feel believable rather than cheesy. Would recommend this one!
J N CLARK

A well written and enjoyable tale of a child who doesn't appreciate what she has, but takes a tudor girl to bring her to her senses. Great for all the Family