Reviewed by
Kristin
Genre
Posted by
Countylib
Category
Posted
May 6, 2023

With King Charles III’s coronation taking place in May at Westminster Abbey, why not get into the royal spirit and read a highly entertaining novel based on a fictional Queen Elizabeth II who secretly solves crimes while carrying out her royal duties!
The Windsor Knot by S.J. Bennett is one of the most original and imaginative mysteries you will find on the library shelves these days. The story begins in 2016 while Queen Elizabeth II is at Windsor Castle, her favourite place in the world, in advance of her 90th birthday celebrations. However, bad luck strikes just as preparations for the party are underway when one of the guests, a famous Russian pianist named Brodsky, is found dead in one of the castle bedrooms. The crime scene suggests the young man committed suicide, but when the Queen calls for finest MI5 agents to investigate further, they find evidence of a clumsily-made knot on the noose that allegedly had hung him. The clues suggest Brodsky was strangled to death by someone else, but why him and who would commit such a terrible act on royal property?
This situation is increasingly alarming to the Queen and eventually she will decide to take matters into her own hands to bring the murderer to justice, while still managing to carry out her royal duties. The best part of this mystery novel is how the author captures Queen Elizabeth’s voice so skillfully. Reading through this book will make you feel like you have stepped back in time to spend a few weeks with the late Queen at her favourite royal residence. It is also nice to discover Queen Elizabeth II being portrayed in this book as a kind, worldly, shrewd and intelligent monarch with a great judge of character.
Finally, this highly creative and charming mystery is a fantastic way to honour the late Queen Elizabeth II as this witty and impressive character is sure to be on your mind long after the last page is turned!