“The Queen Who Came in from the Cold” is the latest in SJ Bennet’s series of mysteries that show the late Queen Elizabeth in a new light: as a dedicated solver of mysteries. This volume, as we might expect from the title, involves the Cold War, spies, refugees, codes, and the space race — all set against the backdrop of the “normal” workload of the Queen of England. 

I thoroughly enjoy this series: the Queen is in every way a modern, working woman, but with unusual advantages and constraints. She has an army of people to do her every bidding, yet cannot ever really speak her mind. Her days are scheduled in 5- or 10-minute increments. Bennet’s (imagined?) life of the Queen is fascinating in itself. The story shines, however, once the Queen gets involved in solving mysteries, she gently hints and nudges others towards conclusions only she can see because of her experience and connections.

Highly recommend!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

I have absolutely loved this series -- every single book has been wonderful. That said, this installation was, hands down, my absolute favorite. A murder on a train! With the wonderful, resourceful Joan as detective! I loved the time period; I loved the train (!!), and I loved the mystery. This was such a great book; even if you haven't read the others in the series, it would read well as a stand alone. I can't recommend it enough!

I was not sure about the Queen as a character solving murders, but I’m so glad I read this book! Taking place in the early 60s, the book builds on the Cold War tensions. I appreciated the historical context, the details of the Britannia, and the imagined interactions of the characters. I was really happy the author did not have the Queen actively solving the murder, but more making observations and passing along information to her assistant. I’m looking forward to reading the previous books in the series.

I've loved this series featuring Queen Elizabeth II as an amateur sleuth, this time back to solve a thorny case in 1960s England. Great fun for histfic mystery fans who adore all things royal, especially the beloved Queen and her adorable corgis. Cheers!

Another solid entry in the series.

*Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an e-galley in exchange for an honest review!