Book Summary and Reviews of The Windsor Knot by SJ Bennett

Book Summary

The bestselling first book in a highly original and delightfully clever crime series in which Queen Elizabeth II secretly solves crimes while carrying out her royal duties.

It is the early spring of 2016 and Queen Elizabeth is at Windsor Castle in advance of her 90th birthday celebrations. But the preparations are interrupted by the shocking and untimely death of a guest in one of the Castle bedrooms. The scene leads some to think the young Russian pianist strangled himself, yet a badly tied knot leads MI5 to suspect foul play. When they begin to question the Household's most loyal servants, Her Majesty knows they're looking in the wrong place.

For the Queen has been living an extraordinary double life ever since her teenage years as "Lilibet." Away from the public eye and unbeknownst to her closest friends and advisers, she has the most brilliant skill for solving crimes. With help from her Assistant Private Secretary, Rozie Oshodi, a British Nigerian officer recently appointed to the Royal Horse Artillery, the Queen discreetly begins making inquiries. As she carries out her royal duties with her usual aplomb, no one in the Royal Household, the government, or the public knows that the resolute Elizabeth won't hesitate to use her keen eye, quick mind, and steady nerve to bring a murderer to justice.

SJ Bennett captures Queen Elizabeth's voice with skill, nuance, wit, and genuine charm in this imaginative and engaging mystery that portrays Her Majesty as she's rarely seen: kind yet worldly, decisive, shrewd, and, most important, a superb judge of character.

Please be aware that this discussion guide will contain spoilers!

1. Before beginning any discussion of Queen Elizabeth II, the character in The Windsor Knot or the real woman, it's helpful to understand her legacy and where she comes from. Discuss how she has carried on her family name from her father, King George VI, and how that has influenced the woman she is in the novel.
2. Having an 89-year-old main character presents both advantages and disadvantages, even for a queen. Discuss both as they relate to a protagonist who is attempting to solve a crime.
3. What qualities does the Queen bring to the role that make her a good investigator? Would she be good at solving mysteries outside her royal palaces?
4. The "dine and sleep" event held at one of the Queen's favorite palaces, Windsor ...