A Death in Diamonds

LIBRARY JOURNAL - EDITORS’ PICKS OF THE YEAR | BEST BOOKS 2025

Two murders in Chelsea plague amateur detective Queen Elizabeth II in the fourth book in the charming series, perfect for fans of Rhys Bowen and Jacqueline Winspear.

1957, England. Young Queen Elizabeth II is finding her way in postwar Europe, trying to repair friendships with foreign governments. Advised by her father's old courtiers, the Queen suspects that they may not have her best interests at heart. One of them is trying to sabotage her public appearances: that much she is sure of.

When two bodies turn up in Chelsea, the Queen finds herself unwillingly used as the alibi for somebody very close to her. With the reputation of the monarchy at stake, Elizabeth knows she can't face these challenges alone. She needs support from someone she can trust. Therefore, she enlists the help of an ex-code breaker, Joan McGraw, to uncover the truth. 

But as Elizabeth and Joan are uncovering secrets from the past, the clock is ticking, and they are in more danger than they know.Praise for A Death in Diamonds:

LIBRARY JOURNAL - EDITORS’ PICKS OF THE YEAR | BEST BOOKS 2025

“Cleverly combines the queen’s investigations with a police procedural . . . Anglophiles and fans of historical mysteries will enjoy.”
—Library Journal, starred review

“Bennett’s fourth whodunit featuring Queen Elizabeth II is the best yet.”
—Publishers Weekly

“Bennett blends detection with domestic detail and transnational pageantry to create a royal treat.”
—Kirkus Reviews

“Gripping intrigue from the very first page . . . With well-researched events and an emphasis on the female perspective, this immersive historical mystery will entice Queen Elizabeth II fans and royal watchers.”
—Booklist

“A royal treat, these books are simply delicious.”
—Deadly Pleasures

“Well plotted and insightful, Bennett's narrative is a treat for Anglophiles and mystery lovers.”
—Shelf Awareness

“An impressively original and deftly crafted 'whodunnit'.”
—Midwest Book Review

“A wonderful blend of historical fiction and cozy mystery.”
—Kings River Life

“It’s hard to imagine, but one of the very best series has gotten even better . . . This is deep, rich writing that should attract the millions who enjoyed The Crown, and want yet more.”
—First Clue

“Fans of this series or new fans . . . will enjoy this one.”
—Red Carpet Crash

Praise for Her Majesty The Queen Investigates series:
“Sheer entertainment.”
—The New York Times

“Some crimes need the royal touch.”
—Vogue

“A pitch-perfect murder mystery.”
—Ruth Ware, bestselling authorS. J. Bennett was born in Yorkshire, England, and lives in London. An army child, she grew up traveling around the world. Her first novel was published when she was forty-two, after a varied career and lots of procrastination. She is the award-winning author of several books for children and teaches and podcasts about writing.