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Moonfleet by J. Maude Falkner: Written in the 1800s, this story appealed to YA and adult readers alike. The tale is told by an orphan boy named John,who becomes entranced by the a story that has long been told in his community - Moonfleet. It is said that a huge diamond was hidden by a deceased roguen callrd Blackbeard who made life miserable for everyone else when he was alive. He lives with a kind innkeeper, Elzevir, whose son was murdered. Unfortunately, Elzevir and several others are involved in smuggling contraband for distribution throughout England. A man is accidently killed when the smugglers are pursued by the sheriff's men. Elzevir is believed to be responsible and is branded a murderer while the truth is that a stray bullet from the sheriff's men killed him. Thus begins the flight of John and Elzevir to avoid the gallows. John unravels the mystery around the diamond and it is retrieved but this is only the beginning of their miseries. Following John and Elzevir throughout their adventures is exciting to say the least. Well done.
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