I thoroughly enjoyed re-reading this book, which I had not read since 1995 - and then in the abridged Armada version. I'd entirely forgotten the story, and found it well written and quite tense in places.

The Morton family are in London, with Jon and Penny visiting. They find themselves - as ever - in the midst of an exciting adventure, and while there are some slightly dodgy coincidences over just happening to bump into various relevant people, it doesn't much matter: that's how these stories get going, after all. James Wilson, the journalist from 'The Elusive Grasshopper' reappears, now with a delightful fiancée, Judith.

There's also a glamorous film star who makes a cameo appearance, and I mustn't forget twelve-year-old Harriet Sparrow, who proves herself courageous and loyal. It sounds like a lot of people but the characterisation is excellent, though it helps to have read the earlier books beforehand.

Definitely recommended as part of this series.

Longer review here: https://suesbookreviews.blogspot.com/2021/07/lone-pine-london-by-malcolm-saville... ( )