Action, and, suspense, these are both elements present in Cue for Treason, a story

set in the era of Queen Elizabeth the 1st. This historical fiction story was
written by Geoffrey Trease. It takes place during political unrest, and follows a
young boy named Peter Brownrigg who is caught in a plot to assassinate the Queen.
In Cue for Treason, Trease effectively employs literary techniques such as suspense
and foreshadowing to create a thrilling and engaging plot that keeps readers on the
edge of their seats..
Trease effectively builds suspense in “Cue for Treason” in many ways. For example,
on page 62 when Peter wakes up to Kit threatening him with a knife, creating a
sense of danger, “If you make a sound, I’ll stick this knife in you!” (Pg. 62).
Furthermore, Trease uses descriptive words to create a suspenseful mood, as shown
on page 205 and 207 when the two men are chasing Peter up the mountain, where
Trease writes, “They came on patiently, with a quiet confidence that was more
terrifying than any bellowed threats.” (Pg. 205), and the quote, “My breath came in
sobs. My legs were leaden. The blood welled from a dozen smarting grazes. I
struggled on, but I knew the end was near.” (Pg. 207). Both quotes create a
suspenseful mood where the reader does not know if Peter will survive.
Additionally, the uncertainty and suspense build when Peter waits for Tom to exit
the Peel Tower, leaving both Peter and the reader unsure of Tom’s fate. This
uncertainty makes the reader anticipate and wonder whether Tom will make it,
causing suspense to build (Pg. 175-178). These moments of suspense keep readers on
the edge of their seats wanting to read more.
Like the effectiveness of building suspense, Trease’s “Cue for Treason” excels in
foreshadowing, adding depth and excitement to the book. The author uses these
techniques to subtly hint at future events. For instance, when Peter throws a rock
at Sir Phillip, missing both the man and his horse, one of Sir Phillip’s men fires
back at Peter with a pistol, causing his cap to fly off. Later, after Peter ditches
the hat, it is discovered by Sir Phillip and his men, which leads to Peter needing
to flee from his home (Pg. 23, 27). Another example is when a man is searching for
Kit Kirkstone and is asking for a “young lady.” Unbeknownst to the reader until
later, the “young lady” the man is referring to is Kit, disguised as a boy (Pg.
60). This is also hinted at in a line where Kit claims to be good at swimming, but
refuses to swim. Later, the reader discovers the reason she does not want to swim
is because she does not want Peter and the rest of the actors to find out she is a
girl. Lastly, when Peter, his father, and his brother leave the house to destroy
the wall, they do not tell Peter’s mother or his sisters because it would be seen
as too dangerous. This foreshadows that it is indeed dangerous, and Peter is
perused by Sir Phillips men.
The building of suspense, foreshadowing, and other literary devices all contribute
to the fact that this book has a thrilling plot that keeps readers on the edge of
their seats with its heart-pounding action. Trease creates a narrative filled with
daring actions and unexpected twists and turns that send the story forward. One
instance of the thrilling plot is when Peter and Kit break into the Yellow Man’s
house, using a clever strategy involving a boat, scaling a wall with knives and
distraction tactics to retrieve the stolen play script (Pg. 132-139). Another
riveting moment occurs as Peter escapes the islet and finds himself being chased by
Sir Phillip’s associates through a mountain, creating a thrilling race for survival
(Pg. 203-211). Lastly, the thrilling plot continues when Peter, Kit, and Mr.
Desmond trick Sir Phillip and capture him. The 3 use a clever ruse involving Mr.
Desmond’s acting crew posing as an army leading to Sir Phillip’s capture (Pg. 264-
270). These thrilling plot developments, filled with high stakes action and
unexpected moments transform the story from a good book to a great book.
In conclusion, Geoffery Trease’s “Cue for Treason” lives up to its promise of
amazing suspense, a thrilling plot and a showcase of the author’s wonderful use of
literary devices. This story captures the readers interest from the first page and
compels you to read it all in one sitting. The cleverly woven suspense will keep
readers eagerly turning pages. With its intriguing plot and skillful execution,
young readers who enjoy historical fiction and enthusiasts of theater will enjoy
this. This book is a captivating journey through Elizabethan-era England that will
leave readers eagerly awaiting Trease’s next masterpiece.