This is the fourth book in a five-book series. I would describe the series, Her Majesty the Queen Investigates, as a "cozy mystery series. I say "cozy" because the book isn't horribly graphic. I also love the idea of Queen Elizabeth II solving crimes - it just tracks for me.
The premise of this book is a double murder in Chelsea with potential involvement with aristocrats and royals. The time frame is in 1957, a departure from the rest of the series. In this book, the Queen begins her working relationship with Joan McCraw, acting APS (Assistant Personal Secretary).
This book takes place primarily near multiple royal residences in England and Scotland.
I hope the fifth and next book isn't the last (say it isn't so, S.J. Bennett)!!!
Writing: 4.0 stars
The writing is good. It is not overly descriptive but rather a crisp, no-nonsense style like how the Queen comes across.
I loved that the Queen's clothing and jewels were described in detail. She was still young and coming into her personal power as a monarch and woman.
Character development: 4.0 stars
The character development of the two main characters of Queen Elizabeth II and Joan, her Assistant Personal Secretary (APS) is in its infancy. But, the Queen trusted herself and found someone she could trust in Joan. Both are strong women which I always love reading about.
The secondary characters are the Queen's extended family, local nobility, acquaintances, and her secretaries.
The tertiary characters are the police investigators, victims, and witnesses.
Storyline: 4.5 stars
The storyline was a good whodunit. The twists and turns made this mystery so much fun. Of course, I had no clue who the killer or killers were.
The main locations were the many royal residences and surrounding areas in Great Britain.
Memorable/Informative: 4.0 stars
I am a huge Anglophile as many of my ancestors immigrated from that area.
I was shocked that Joan was perceived by many of the male aristocrats and the Queen's male secretaries as disreputable because she was Irish. This was 1957!
Book cover: 4.0 stars
Nice.
Book title: 4.5 stars
On point.
Suggestion:
An explanation of the titles and how to correctly address the nobility and royalty would be helpful for this clueless American reader!
DEFINITE recommend
BOOK INFORMATION
NetGalley ARC (ebook)
A Death in Diamond (Her Majesty The Queen Investigates #4) by S.J. Bennett
407 pages
Zaffre
Release date of 1/21/2025
INFORMATIONAL LINKS
Happy reading,
Dorothea 💜
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