The Diary Of Catherine Cunningham By Karen Shandley Is A Fresh Twist On Time-Slip Fantasy For Young Adults

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best arts and entertainment magazine UK“, The Diary of Catherine Cunningham by Karen Shandley is a captivating YA time-slip fantasy where troubled teen Leona unearths an ancient Tudor diary, awakens in 16th-century England, forges an unbreakable bond with its author amid thrilling dangers, and returns home transformed with a powerful newfound gratitude for her family and life.

Karen Shandley’s debut young adult novel, The Diary of Catherine Cunningham, published in late 2025 by Austin Macauley Publishers, delivers an engaging time-slip adventure that blends contemporary teenage struggles with the intrigue of Tudor England. Drawing from her background as a teaching assistant, writer, and artist, Shandley crafts a story that resonates deeply with young readers while weaving in timeless themes of gratitude, family bonds, and personal growth.

A Relatable Modern Heroine in Crisis

The novel opens in present-day Birmingham, where protagonist Leona, a typical teenager, is veering off course. She’s making questionable decisions, drifting further from her parents, and struggling with the pressures of adolescence in a bustling urban environment. In a desperate bid to reset their family dynamic, her parents uproot their lives and relocate to a peaceful rural village.

Leona’s fury over the move boils over into conflict, leaving her feeling isolated and resentful. Amid this emotional turmoil, she discovers an ancient diary buried in the garden—an artifact belonging to a girl named Catherine Cunningham from the Tudor era. That very night, as Leona immerses herself in its pages, an inexplicable event occurs: she awakens in 16th-century England.

The Thrilling Time-Slip Adventure Unfolds

Shandley’s narrative shines in its vivid depiction of the Tudor world, transporting readers alongside Leona into a realm of historical detail, danger, and wonder. Disoriented and terrified, Leona has no immediate way back to her own time. Her salvation comes in the form of Catherine herself—the diary’s author—who becomes an unlikely ally.

Together, the two girls navigate a perilous journey filled with high-stakes escapades, moments of fear, and bursts of adrenaline. Their deepening friendship forms the emotional core of the story, as they confront challenges that test their courage, resourcefulness, and loyalty. Shandley masterfully contrasts the constraints and harsh realities of Tudor life with the freedoms (and frustrations) of modern teenage existence, highlighting universal struggles that transcend centuries.

Themes of Gratitude and Transformation

At its heart, The Diary of Catherine Cunningham is more than a fantasy adventure—it’s a tale of redemption and perspective. Leona’s experiences in the past force her to confront her own privileges and relationships. When she finally returns to the present, she’s profoundly changed, carrying home a renewed appreciation for her family, her life, and the simple things she once took for granted.

This message of gratitude, inspired by love for family and friends, emerges organically through the plot rather than feeling forced. Shandley’s empathy for the teenage experience—whether in the 21st century or Tudor times—lends authenticity to Leona’s emotional arc, making her growth feel earned and relatable.

Why This Book Stands Out in YA Fantasy

What sets The Diary of Catherine Cunningham apart is its fresh approach to the time-slip trope. Rather than a solitary journey or a romance-driven plot, the story emphasizes female friendship, mutual support, and shared survival. The dual settings are brought to life with immersive detail: the noise and chaos of modern Birmingham give way to the sights, sounds, and perils of Tudor London, creating a rich, believable contrast.

Shandley’s years in the classroom clearly inform her understanding of what captivates young readers—fast-paced action, emotional stakes, and characters who mirror their own lives. The result is a propulsive narrative that’s thrilling yet reassuring, perfect for teens seeking escapism with substance.

A Must-Read for Young Readers and Families

Brimming with enthusiasm and insight, Karen Shandley has created a novel that encourages immersion in reading while subtly reinforcing positive values. Parents looking to inspire a love of books in their children will appreciate how The Diary of Catherine Cunningham combines heart-pounding adventure with meaningful lessons.

Whether you’re a young adult craving a surprising fantasy twist or an adult rediscovering the joy of YA fiction, this debut offers a heartfelt, vividly told escape. Leona and Catherine’s story reminds us that sometimes, stepping into another time is the best way to truly see our own.

Karen Shandley

I am a mother. I’m a teaching assistant… and an author and an artist too. For this current book that I’m working on, I am producing a large oil painting dedicated to the book which I will be happy to promote and share. I love to write, paint and spend time with my children – all these passions of mine are wrapped up in one book – “The Diary of Catherine Cunningham”. I hope you enjoy it!

The story I’ve created is full of adventure, adrenaline and emotion …when Leona finally makes her way back home, she realises what she has with her family and gets back on the right track.

There is a touch of magic, love and friendship in “The Diary of Catherine Cunningham” – early readers have fed back that it’s a very good book to read. I’m really excited for it to be out in the world and finding its audience!

People have said that this book is not only educational but promotes family and friendship values. It’s something that families can all enjoy – parents have loved reading it as much as their children. And as a teaching assistant, I know that my book, “The Diary of Catherine Cunningham”, works so well in schools, whether for individual reading or in the school library.

–Karen Shandley

Find more from Karen Shandley now:

Apple Book: https://apple.co/3MK9OQb

Kindle: https://amzn.to/3MJ5kJq

Paperback: https://amzn.to/4tQyuag

Hardcover: https://amzn.to/4qTwcVj