"The Red Necklace" is a young adult historical fiction novel by British author Sally Gardner, first published in 2007. The story is set in 18th century France and follows the adventures of a young street performer named Yann Margoza, who possesses a mysterious and powerful gift.
Yann is a Gypsy, and he and his friends use their skills as performers to earn a living on the streets of Paris. However, Yann's life takes a dramatic turn when he meets a wealthy and powerful nobleman named Count Kalliovski, who is intrigued by his talents and offers to take him under his wing.
Yann soon discovers that Kalliovski is not who he appears to be, and is in fact part of a sinister plot to overthrow the French monarchy. With the help of a young aristocrat named Sido, Yann sets out to foil the plot and save the lives of those he loves.
"The Red Necklace" is a thrilling and atmospheric novel that captures the spirit of 18th century France, with its opulent aristocracy, its brutal poverty, and its revolutionary fervor. Gardner's writing is evocative and vivid, bringing the sights and sounds of Paris to life and immersing the reader in the world of the story.
At its heart, "The Red Necklace" is a story of love, friendship, and the power of courage and determination in the face of overwhelming odds. Yann and Sido are engaging and memorable characters, and their journey together is both exciting and moving. Overall, "The Red Necklace" is a captivating and well-crafted novel that is sure to delight readers of all ages.