The mystery-solving Queen Elizabeth II is a wonderful character created by S.J. Bennett. The first three books in this delightful series are set fairly recently and I wondered how the actual monarch's death would affect the series. Bennett seems to have solved the problem by moving the storylines to the past.

In this 4th installment, we go back to 1957, in the early days of the Queen's reign. We see two of the earliest mysteries set before the queen, and watch as she establishes the pattern for her involvement in later mysteries--with the help of her assistant secretary, Her Majesty solves the mysteries and provides "anonymous" help to Scotland Yard.

One of the mysteries the queen faces is a murder. A woman working as an escort is found dead along with the man who hired her. She's wearing a stolen tiara, which leads to British tabloid headlines about the tart in the tiara. As the Queen and Joan, her secretary/investigator, learn more about the murder, they begin to uncover secrets about the upper class that no one wants revealed. To the queen's dismay, one of those secrets involves Prince Philip. Could he be involved in the murder and the cover-up?

The second mystery also hits close to home. On a state visit to France, the queen finds herself the victim of a plot. She has to acknowledge that someone in her inner circle is trying to discredit her, and perhaps even harm her family. Since she's not sure who to trust, she and Joan must work together to find out who is behind this plot and what their ultimate goal is.

Both of these mysteries show a more vulnerable side to the Queen, and the late 1950s setting matches that. We see Queen Elizabeth as a younger woman and a newer monarch. At times she's nervous about her role and the weight of responsibility on her shoulders as she navigates a world still recovering from the tragedies of World War II. We also see her as a wife and mother of young children, trying to balance her family and her working responsibilities. I have no idea how accurate any of this is, although in an afterword the author explains the research. But I do know it makes for a likeable and believable character, and the mysteries are cleverly solved. Hopefully this switch n time means the series can continue for years!

Sadly abandoned at 26%. Not enough queen, too many potential suspects, the girl who is supposed to help the queen isn’t interesting. It’s just not holding my attention.

I was not at all sure how SJ Bennett was going to extend her charming cozy mystery series featuring Queen Elizabeth II as a sleuth after the Queen's death in 2022. With A Death in Diamonds, she answers that question fully, going back in time, and giving the reader solid historical background on a character that is often only perceived as an elderly woman.

This episode of the series takes place in 1957. The Queen is finding her way and working on establishing her own leadership style with her (all male) advisers. A rather salacious murder takes place in close proximity to friends of the royals, the Prince Consort may be implicated, and the police seem to be getting nowhere. Elizabeth, being the keen observer she is, quickly draws in a young former codebreaker, Joan (yes, the Joan we know from the previous books) to help be her eyes and ears. One thing that Bennett does spectacularly well is bring together historical fact and fiction. The queen really did meet Marilyn Monroe, and Bennett does a terrific job of bringing that moment into this story. The research of place and time is impeccable, and it makes a huge difference in how the story feels to the reader.

This was one of my few 5 star reads last year. Lots of twists and turns, lots of women working on figuring things out despite the barriers placed in their way by systemic bias, lots of genuine fun. This would be an excellent addition to any high school course looking at the mystery form, or a library display on women in the post-war world. Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the e-arc.

I love the Her Majesty the Queen Investigates series and this book didn't let me down. I loved the sinister layer of the intrigue. The plot is filled with murder and intrigue and the cherry on top is the stolen tiara.

This story offers us a more personal look into the Queen's life, focusing on her family dynamic and vulnerability in her younger days. This was my favorite book in the series because of this little touch from Bennett.

Also, i adored the Joan's introduction to the series and i'll be continuing this series.

I recommend it to all that enjoys a historical mystery with a touch of drama all in the British style.

Bennett takes readers back to the early days of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign in this delightful new addition to the series, and I loved it. The idea of QEII solving mysteries might sound far-fetched, but trust me—it totally works!

In A Death in Diamonds, Elizabeth is on a state visit to Paris when things start to go awry. First, her copy of a speech mysteriously vanishes. Then, at a formal dinner, she’s served oysters—a major no-no for the Queen, who avoids risky foods to prevent illness. Meanwhile, a murdered escort is discovered in London wearing a diamond tiara, adding a sinister layer to the intrigue.

Readers will also be introduced to Joan McGraw, a former Bletchley Park codebreaker turned Palace clerical worker, who becomes an invaluable ally in Elizabeth’s investigation. The Queen is portrayed as warm and relatable—balancing her duties as a mother, her love for her dogs and horses, and the constant pressure of putting the country’s needs above her own. The story also offers a glimpse into a time when even the Queen faced condescension from men.

If you haven’t read the earlier books, don’t worry—Book 4 is a fantastic place to jump in.

I’ll admit up front that I’m a fan of this series. I’ve really enjoyed previous books in the series. This entry is quite a bit different in that it’s set early in Elizabeth’s reign. This doesn’t seem to be her first mystery, but it’s definitely an early one as she’s only 30 years old in this story. I enjoyed the book, but found it a bit slow going at times. Definitely worth a read, but be warned it’s set in a different era to the others.

A DEATH IN DIAMONDS is the fourth installment in S.J. Bennett's brilliant series, and it continues to impress. Bennett masterfully sketches Her Majesty, the Queen, as we all perceive her—wise, elegant, and compassionate. Set in 1957, the historical background is particularly engaging this time around taking us back in time to a period that feels much closer to home. The Queen opens Parliament and delivers a radio address to Canadians, adding a layer of authenticity and relevance.

The plot is filled with murder, despair, and intrigue, topped with a stolen tiara. A couple is found murdered in an exclusive mews, and the woman is wearing the stolen tiara. The investigation is not just a race against time, but may be against some certain elements too, both known and unknown. Inspector Darbishire hits a dead end and is even warned off the case. The Queen must discreetly set her own investigation in motion, with the help of Joan McGraw, a stand-in Assistant Private Secretary. However, delving into certain aspects of the case could have serious consequences, and the Queen is hesitant to open that can of worms.

This story offers a more personal look into the Queen's life, focusing on her family dynamics, her vulnerability as a young wife and mother, and her eagerness to serve her country and the Commonwealth. Bennett's writing is as thoroughly enjoyable as ever, but this installment is especially moving and emotional as the Queen tries to balance her duty with her heart.

I particularly loved Joan's introduction and the snippet of her love story, adding a delightful touch to the narrative. Joan navigates a male-dominated world and also faces the rigid class systems within the Palace. Her adventures often keep me at the edge of my seat. I'm always afraid for her. Something, I guess, I have never experienced with tall and formidable Rozie Oshodi, whom I always cheer on like a champion.

A DEATH IN DIAMONDS is a captivating continuation of the series, offering a blend of historical fiction, mystery, and personal drama. Fans of the series will undoubtedly enjoy this latest installment.

I love this series and I’m big fan of cozy crime books (and always nice to have reality mix with fiction). And this 4th book didn’t disappoint at all. It was fresh to chance the decade here. Of course this was first book after Queen passing, maybe it gave little push to go that direction? What ever reason was it, it really worked with the plot very well.
One obstacle I found was its books length. For me this was super long book to read. Second obstacle was maybe little too many characters in the plot.
Other than that I enjoyed reading it!

Bennett hits another entry in the Her Majesty the Queen Investigates series out of the park with a flashback to an early case - maybe the first case - of Queen Elizabeth helping solve a murder. While I missed the interaction between the Queen and Rozie at the beginning, I loved Joan, her backstory, and her interactions with everyone at the palace. The mystery around the tiara and the two murders kept me guessing until the end and was a bit of a surprise in terms of who and why. I'm glad to see that Bennett has found a way to continue the series after the death of Queen Elizabeth and look forward to seeing where we go from here. I both read and listened to this title and both were equally good, though I might favor the audio since Samantha Bond does a great job at narration. Thank you to Crooked Books, Dreamscape Media, and NetGalley for the early read and listen in exchange for my honest opinion.

My thanks for the ARC goes to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books. I'm voluntarily leaving a review, and all opinions are my own.

Genre: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Whodunnit, British Fiction, Historical Fiction, Historical Mystery, Crime Fiction
Gore Level: Low
Spice Level: Low though affairs and other proclivities of that nature are mentioned
Profanity: Low
Readability: I haven't read the others yet, and this one was perfectly understandable. However, it's so much fun, you're going to want to read all of them.

*A DEATH IN DIAMONDS* is perfect for fans of *The Crown* because Queen Elizabeth is front and center, using her skills to direct others to find the clues she needs to solve a crime, a potential case that might get swept under the royal rug because it involves a woman of dubious background.

This entire story was so much fun. I loved how it felt true to what I know of Queen Elizabeth (which is by far more perception than actual), and its set in history at a great time, with real people, and real emotions. The way Q. Liz interacts with her staff, family, husband, and others is great as each relationship added texture and weight to the story. The portrayal of the media also feels spot on.

I highly recommend this book!

Happy reading!

So, this is the 4th in the series but while books 1 through 3 seem to be set more in the recent past this one takes place in 1957 so it doesn't feel quite like jumping into the middle of the series.

I really enjoyed this book. I adored Joan and her relationship with the Queen was lovely. I really enjoyed the Queen herself with her commonsense attitude and her way of dealing with the "mustaches" that are always around her telling her what to do. I really liked that we see her as both a leader and mother and wife though sometimes her different roles do conflict with each other. The investigation was interesting as while the Queen has quite a lot of resources and access she's can't exactly go running around freely asking questions.

The ending was a surprise, and I loved how it unraveled. What kept this book from being a solid 4 stars for me is that the beginning was a bit slow and felt disjointed as two different plots had to be woven together. After the first 10 or 15% I was fully hooked but it did take a bit of pushing through to get there. Overall, I really enjoyed this and am excited to read the earlier books in the series. After a slow start this was an engaging and entertaining mystery with an interesting take on a historical mystery.

In 1957 London, Queen Elizabeth II enlists ex-code breaker Joan McGraw to uncover sabotage within the court and to help solve a murder mystery that threatens the monarchy’s reputation.

I adore this series! I appreciate the author’s attentiveness to historical detail in incorporating actual events into the story. They give the book a feeling of verisimilitude that might otherwise be lacking, given the premise. The characters are fascinating and well constructed. The mystery is compelling and full of twists. The novel is entertaining and the audiobook narration perfectly suited to the subject.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.

Thanks to NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and Dreamscape Media for the digital copy of this book and audiobook; I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I was wondering how, and if, this series would continue after the death of Queen Elizabeth II. The previous three books were set in the 2000s, but now S.J. Bennet has pivoted and set this book back in the 1950s, during the early years of the queen’s reign. I’m actually glad about that, as it means that many more mysteries are possible!

This book involves the murder of a “lady of the night,” which I prefer rather than simply saying call girl. The way in which Queen Elizabeth finds out about this murder and becomes interested in finding the killer is just beautifully done, absolutely expert writing.

As usual, we get glimpses into royal life, both public and private, and the lives of those who work for the palace. I do have to say I enjoyed Princess Margaret quite a bit when she appears; the portrayal is definitely something we’ve all heard about the princess, providing some humor and bite to the story.

This is one of those series where you just sit back and enjoy the cozy mystery that ensues. The characterizations are well-drawn, from what we know of the royal family, as well as the staffers. The how and why and most importantly, the who murdered the young lady are entirely plausible, which made me enjoy this book even more.

Samantha Bond narrates, and as usual, she’s absolutely everything this book needs. She provides a respectful, endearing portrayal of the queen and those around her. She’s perfect for this series.

The fourth novel in the Her Royal Majesty Investigates, A Death in Diamonds takes us back to a young Queen Elizabeth II. In 1957, the Queen is still finding her way post-war and making the country safe again. She is still finding a way to connect with her subjects.
She finds that someone on the inside (of her cabinet) is plotting against her and this coincides with a double-murder that took place in Chelsea. This is the story of how our inquisitive Lady found her allies and solved this double-murder, with no one the wiser.
I LOVE this series. I'm so glad the author has continued with it since we lost Her Majesty. It's delightful.

*Special thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this digital e-arc.*

The Zellendorf tiara is found on the dead body of a lady of the night in Cresswell Place next to an unidentified man. Many powerful men of high society are involved in this matter including the Dean of Bath, a university professor a circuit judge,  a canon at Westminster Abbey and someone very important and close to the queen herself.

Queen Elizabeth II is very intrigued by these Chelsea Murders and with the help of her new Assistant Private Secretary Joan McGraw and Detective Inspector Fred Darbishire she must find out if someone who is near and dear to her is involved in the murders. While also trying to find out who has been sabottaging her  international appearances, her speeches and her face creams.

I really enjoyed the historical aspect of this book, the clothing, the references and the fabulous people that got a chance to meet Queen Elizabeth II.

A Death In Diamonds will have you wanting to help the queen find out who did it and why.

Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for this historically enthralling murder mystery.

I admit up front to being a huge fan of this clever and charming series. Queen Elizabeth might not have solved crimes (or maybe she did) in real life but Bennett has created a plausible scenario in this and the earlier books in which Elizabeth uses her nimble brain and wisely hires and then works with in this case Joan, a math whiz with a photographic memory. And it's Joan on whom the work rests (although there are all sort of nifty scenes with the Queen.) Wisely, I think Bennett has now given us the origin story for the novels that we've already read-and making this a good place to start for those who haven't read them. It's 1957 and a woman wearing a tiara has been found murdered, alongside a man with a knife through his eye, at a mews house used by men employing, well outside interests. And Phillip had been seen in the area. Who was the woman? Who was the man? Who is trying to sabotage the Queen? All questions Joan works to answer while dealing with the palace courtiers who are unhappy that she's been promoted. It's a hoot and it's very clever. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Here's hoping we see another outing with these two sleuths.

This is the fourth book in Bennett's series Her Magesty the Queen Investigates, and I've enjoyed them all. In this book, a double murder has the local investigator stymied, and the Queen asks her assistant private secretary, Joan, to make some inquiries. When Joan is then nearly killed by a hit and run van, the women know they’re getting close to the truth. But can they solve the case, and determine who in the Queen's inner circle is a mole, while still keeping Joan safe?
I look forward to the 5th book in the series.

Reading A Death in Diamonds feels like watching The Crown. It beautifully blends royal life with a fascinating mystery as Queen Elizabeth II discreetly investigates two shocking deaths. The historical details are vivid, and the portrayal of the Queen as an investigator is unique and engaging. This book gives lot of insight into the behind the scenes of royal life.

With its mix of intrigue and royal charm, it’s an enjoyable read for fans of mysteries and stories set in the world of the monarchy.

Thank you to Crooked Lane Books for my #gifed copy. My opinions are my own.

It's 1957 and young Queen Elizabeth is still finding her metaphorical feet as England's monarch when she starts to suspect that one of the men in her trusted inner circle is trying to sabotage her. And it seems to be somehow connected to two murdered people found in a compromising position in Chelsea, but how? Trying to juggle her personal and professional relationships while establishing herself as a relatable and powerful monarch is hard enough, but when she realizes she doesn't know who to trust, she turns to her temporary Assistant Private Secretary Joan McGraw to help. Between the two of them, they covertly support the official investigation to uncover secrets and traitors before it's too late.

As a fan of the Her Majesty the Queen Investigates series, I love that with this installment we're finally getting a closer look at how it all started! Her Majesty and Joan are two remarkable women in a world very much run by men and tradition and in which they have a lot to learn about leadership and earning respect and loyalty. The historical characters and events are accurate, so I loved learning about Queen Elizabeth's early reign as much as I did the fictional mystery itself. I appreciated that it doesn't paint law enforcement as idiots, but still as humans with real prejudices and blind spots. The cast of characters as a whole were both clever and foolish people who are just trying to figure out the new world order and where they stand in it. And perhaps my favorite--and also the most discouraging--was the portrayal that that having to suffer condescending fools who underestimated her was career-long for Queen Elizabeth II (not limited to her waning years). Bennett is obviously a fan, and I loved her take on the real-life and fictional personalities alike!

Trigger Warnings: violent murder, misogyny, sexual assault

This series featuring Queen Elizabeth working behind the scenes while her brave aide hunted down clues to various murder mysteries, has been so much fun, but I’d wondered how much more the author would do now that the Queen has died. It seems that she made the clever switch to a young Queen Elizabeth in 1957 closer to the beginning of her reign. She is still working behind the scenes to put together the information that her new aide, Joan McGraw, chases down. Using the viewpoints of the Queen, Joan, and the police detective investigating the dramatic murder of a young woman and the suspicious man who had booked her for the evening, the book traces through the mystery at a fast pace. The murder is interspersed with the Queen’s life and family only a few years after she’s taken the throne.

Joan is really the true heroine of the story as she has to deal with the upper-class prejudices of the “men with moustaches” who serve as the Queen’s top aides. She has the background of having served as a codebreaker during the war, but having lost her place through no fault of her own. She’s still working hard more than a decade later when the Queen recognizes her talents.

I think I enjoyed this book the most of the series. If you enjoyed The Crown and like mysteries, this is a must-read.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.