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Roy Grace #21
The Hawk Is Dead: Roy Grace Returns In This Royally Pulse-Pounding Crime Thriller From The Multimillion-Copy Bestselling Author
Read by Daniel Weyman (The Lord of the The Rings of Power) and featuring an author's note read by Peter James
'What a fool I've been not to have read Peter James until The Hawk Is Dead! A great story' – James Patterson, bestselling author of the Alex Cross series
Roy Grace never dreamed a murder investigation would take him deep into Buckingham Palace . . .
Her Majesty, Queen Camilla, is aboard the Royal Train heading to a charity event in Sussex when disaster strikes – the train is derailed.
A tragic accident or a planned attack?
When, minutes later, a trusted aide is shot dead by a sniper, the police have their answer.
Despite all the evidence, Roy Grace is not convinced The Queen was the intended target. But he finds himself alone in his suspicions.
Fighting against the scepticism of his colleagues and the Palace itself, Grace pursues his own investigation. But when there is a second murder, the stakes rise even higher, and Grace is at risk of being embroiled in a very public catastrophe – and in mortal danger.
Failure at this level is not an option. But time is running out before a killer in the Palace will strike again . . .
Roy Grace is back with his most difficult case yet in the gripping new instalment from number one bestselling author Peter James.
You can listen to Peter James discussing the Roy Grace series with Her Majesty Queen Camilla on The Queen's Reading Room podcast.
*****
23 million books sold.
Now a major ITV/BritBox show starring John Simm as Roy Grace.
Creator of Her Majesty Queen Camilla’s favourite fictional detective.
‘A great story’ – James Patterson, bestselling author of the Alex Cross series
'Fast-paced and gripping, I couldn’t put it down!' – Alexandra Potter, bestselling author of the Confessions of a Forty-Something series
'Classic Peter James' – Rachel Abbott, bestselling author of the DCI Tom Douglas series
'A right royal page-turner' – Angela Rippon, award-winning broadcaster
'Peter James is one of the best British crime writers and therefore one of the best in the world' – Lee Child, bestselling author of the Jack Reacher series
'Peter James is one of the best crime writers in the business' – Karin Slaughter, bestselling author of the Will Trent series
'One of the world’s most popular detective series' – The Guardian
'What a fool I've been not to have read Peter James until The Hawk Is Dead! A great story' – James Patterson, bestselling author of the Alex Cross series
Roy Grace never dreamed a murder investigation would take him deep into Buckingham Palace . . .
Her Majesty, Queen Camilla, is aboard the Royal Train heading to a charity event in Sussex when disaster strikes – the train is derailed.
A tragic accident or a planned attack?
When, minutes later, a trusted aide is shot dead by a sniper, the police have their answer.
Despite all the evidence, Roy Grace is not convinced The Queen was the intended target. But he finds himself alone in his suspicions.
Fighting against the scepticism of his colleagues and the Palace itself, Grace pursues his own investigation. But when there is a second murder, the stakes rise even higher, and Grace is at risk of being embroiled in a very public catastrophe – and in mortal danger.
Failure at this level is not an option. But time is running out before a killer in the Palace will strike again . . .
Roy Grace is back with his most difficult case yet in the gripping new instalment from number one bestselling author Peter James.
You can listen to Peter James discussing the Roy Grace series with Her Majesty Queen Camilla on The Queen's Reading Room podcast.
*****
23 million books sold.
Now a major ITV/BritBox show starring John Simm as Roy Grace.
Creator of Her Majesty Queen Camilla’s favourite fictional detective.
‘A great story’ – James Patterson, bestselling author of the Alex Cross series
'Fast-paced and gripping, I couldn’t put it down!' – Alexandra Potter, bestselling author of the Confessions of a Forty-Something series
'Classic Peter James' – Rachel Abbott, bestselling author of the DCI Tom Douglas series
'A right royal page-turner' – Angela Rippon, award-winning broadcaster
'Peter James is one of the best British crime writers and therefore one of the best in the world' – Lee Child, bestselling author of the Jack Reacher series
'Peter James is one of the best crime writers in the business' – Karin Slaughter, bestselling author of the Will Trent series
'One of the world’s most popular detective series' – The Guardian
Audible Audio
Published October 21, 2025
567 people are currently reading
3068 people want to read
About the author
Peter James
247 books3,673 followersPeter James is a global bestselling author, best known for writing crime and thriller novels, and the creator of the much-loved Detective Superintendent Roy Grace. With a total of 21 Sunday Times No. 1s under his belt, he has achieved global book sales of over 23 million copies to date and has been translated into 38 languages.
Synonymous with plot-twisting page-turners, Peter has garnered an army of loyal fans throughout his storytelling career – which also included stints writing for TV and producing films. He has won over 40 awards for his work, including the WHSmith Best Crime Author of All Time Award, Crime Writers’ Association Diamond Dagger and a BAFTA nomination for The Merchant of Venice starring Al Pacino and Jeremy Irons for which he was an Executive Producer. Many of Peter’s novels have been adapted for film, TV and stage.
Synonymous with plot-twisting page-turners, Peter has garnered an army of loyal fans throughout his storytelling career – which also included stints writing for TV and producing films. He has won over 40 awards for his work, including the WHSmith Best Crime Author of All Time Award, Crime Writers’ Association Diamond Dagger and a BAFTA nomination for The Merchant of Venice starring Al Pacino and Jeremy Irons for which he was an Executive Producer. Many of Peter’s novels have been adapted for film, TV and stage.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
October 4, 2025
I am a big Roy Grace fan, so receiving an early copy of book 22, The Hawk is Dead was so exciting! i have to say I am a bit of a fan of the Royals as well so what a combination. Queen Camilla is a big crime fiction reader, and fan of Grace so Peter James writing a book about her is just brilliant. I learnt a lot about the ins and outs of Buckingham Palace, their art collection, the way the staff work and so much more. It was a different kind of read than the usual Grace books, but still highly enjoyable and entertaining.
Queen Camilla is travelling on the royal train to Sussex when it derails. Shaken but unharmed, she gets her entourage off the train and they walk to safety, only to be shot at! A senior member of staff is stood next to the Queen when he is fatally struck. Of course the immediate reaction is that the Queen was the target.
Roy Grace is called to the scene of his biggest case ever. So much is riding on this, with the world’s focus on him and his team, the pressure is on. Seeing Roy and Branson travel to Buckingham House to meet the King and Queen and how they react was so nice. I can’t imagine what it would be like to enter that world, so different from everything we know.
The case is complicated and mysterious. The longer it goes on, the more the bigwigs in the force want answers and the more the press speculates. He has to trust his gut instincts and his team to get the results.
This is a big book as all the series are, but it was such a fast and fun read. I stayed up late into the night reading it, not realising how late it had gotten. A must read and great edition to the series…with that cliffhanger of an ending 😮
Thanks so much to Pan Macmillan for my advanced copy of this book to read. This Grace fan was stoked!!
Published on October 21st.
Queen Camilla is travelling on the royal train to Sussex when it derails. Shaken but unharmed, she gets her entourage off the train and they walk to safety, only to be shot at! A senior member of staff is stood next to the Queen when he is fatally struck. Of course the immediate reaction is that the Queen was the target.
Roy Grace is called to the scene of his biggest case ever. So much is riding on this, with the world’s focus on him and his team, the pressure is on. Seeing Roy and Branson travel to Buckingham House to meet the King and Queen and how they react was so nice. I can’t imagine what it would be like to enter that world, so different from everything we know.
The case is complicated and mysterious. The longer it goes on, the more the bigwigs in the force want answers and the more the press speculates. He has to trust his gut instincts and his team to get the results.
This is a big book as all the series are, but it was such a fast and fun read. I stayed up late into the night reading it, not realising how late it had gotten. A must read and great edition to the series…with that cliffhanger of an ending 😮
Thanks so much to Pan Macmillan for my advanced copy of this book to read. This Grace fan was stoked!!
Published on October 21st.
October 22, 2025
Although the setting is completely different from other books in this series, Roy Grace stays the same interesting character. I didn’t know Queen Camilla likes Peter James’ books but why not? The Hawk is Dead is a clever wordplay on the names of several characters that play a significant role in this book.
It all starts with supposedly an attack on Queen Camilla, but Grace wouldn’t be Grace if he wasn’t immediately suspicious. What follows is a meticulous investigation from the side of Roy Grace and his team, frequently hindered by police politics. We learn a lot about the inner workings of the royal household and also lots about the very, very large art collection the royals have gathered over hundreds of years.
We also learn what was really the purpose of the shooting the story begins with, and how several people work together to reach their goal. Unnecessary to say that they do not reach their goal because Roy and his team get to them just in time.
It’s all nicely done and entertaining although a bit different from the other books in the series. Nevertheless, I enjoyed reading it.
Thanks to Pan Macmillan and Netgalley for this review copy.
It all starts with supposedly an attack on Queen Camilla, but Grace wouldn’t be Grace if he wasn’t immediately suspicious. What follows is a meticulous investigation from the side of Roy Grace and his team, frequently hindered by police politics. We learn a lot about the inner workings of the royal household and also lots about the very, very large art collection the royals have gathered over hundreds of years.
We also learn what was really the purpose of the shooting the story begins with, and how several people work together to reach their goal. Unnecessary to say that they do not reach their goal because Roy and his team get to them just in time.
It’s all nicely done and entertaining although a bit different from the other books in the series. Nevertheless, I enjoyed reading it.
Thanks to Pan Macmillan and Netgalley for this review copy.
November 14, 2025
This might be Peter James best book yet!!
It took me a little while to get round to reading to this thriller, as I wanted to read/listen to the previous book in this series first, but what a brilliant book!!
Queen Camilla is aboard the Royal train to Brighton to visit a local charity, when the train gets detailed en route.
Roy Grace gets called in to investigate as one of the group gets shot. This book has it all, murders, Buckingham Palace, history,, Charles and Camilla, the Royal household and royal treasurers going missing and Roy Grace is on scene to try and piece things together.
This is clearly a book that has taken a lot of research and pride for Peter James, knowing that Camilla is a fan of his, and and something that Peter James has always wanted to write and it really shines through in his writing. Very action packed.
As usual Daniel Weyman does a brilliant job of the narration and particularly when it comes to King Charles voice.
I thoroughly recommend The Hawk is Dead by Peter James , whether you've read the rest of the series or not. It will definitely leave you wanting to read more.
A brilliant read and a big thanks to Netgalley/Pan Macmillan | Macmillan for a early review edition. If you've not tried this British author's books before, now is the time to start!!
It took me a little while to get round to reading to this thriller, as I wanted to read/listen to the previous book in this series first, but what a brilliant book!!
Queen Camilla is aboard the Royal train to Brighton to visit a local charity, when the train gets detailed en route.
Roy Grace gets called in to investigate as one of the group gets shot. This book has it all, murders, Buckingham Palace, history,, Charles and Camilla, the Royal household and royal treasurers going missing and Roy Grace is on scene to try and piece things together.
This is clearly a book that has taken a lot of research and pride for Peter James, knowing that Camilla is a fan of his, and and something that Peter James has always wanted to write and it really shines through in his writing. Very action packed.
As usual Daniel Weyman does a brilliant job of the narration and particularly when it comes to King Charles voice.
I thoroughly recommend The Hawk is Dead by Peter James , whether you've read the rest of the series or not. It will definitely leave you wanting to read more.
A brilliant read and a big thanks to Netgalley/Pan Macmillan | Macmillan for a early review edition. If you've not tried this British author's books before, now is the time to start!!
July 3, 2025
This ARC had "Pan Macmillan Confidential 2025" popping up throughout the text, which was really disconcerting. Maybe this was to keep someone from copying, but I’ve never seen it before in review copies. It was quite distracting. Apparently Detective Superintendent Roy Grace, is “Queen Camilla’s favourite detective” so why not make her a character in his latest case? The queen is riding the royal train to visit some hospice patients when the train derails. The queen and her entourage are urged to vacate the train immediately, but when they do, one of the group is shot and killed. Was the target Camilla, or did the sniper really aim for the man he shot, as Grace believes? As they search for the shooter, another murder happens on the palace grounds. Could the deaths be connected? And which of the palace staff is involved in selling priceless works of art on the dark web? The action builds to an exciting and dangerous conclusion as information is revealed. Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the ARC.
November 7, 2025
Her Majesty, Queen Camilla, is aboard the Royal Train when the train derails and a trusted aide is shot dead by a sniper.
Was The Queen the intended target?
IT'S HAPPENED!
Detective Superintendent Roy Grace meets the King and Queen in Buckingham Palace.
👑💂🫅🤴👑
This is Book #21 of author Peter James' "Roy Grace" series.
I have listened to them all and I am a huge fan.
Although "The Hawk is Dead" is a standalone read, reading the earlier books in the series is highly recommended.
My favorite: "Love You Dead" (#12)
All of Peter James' books are absorbing, pacey, meticulously plotted, twisty, unputdownable, and character-driven.
Villains are unscrupulous, only to be outsmarted by protagonist Roy Grace and his devoted team's expert investigative skills.
I was particularly impressed with this book's “behind the curtain” look at the workings of the Royal Household, life inside Buckingham Palace, and little-known details of the royal family's art holdings.
Also very impressive was the heartfelt "Author's Note" at the end of the book, which revealed the author's research process as well as details about the author's "royal experience" and the talented and devoted team that brings this extraordinary series to life.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Daniel Weyman, one of my favorite narrators.
Daniel Weyman gave a 10-star performance.
July 31, 2025
Different than previous books and that doesn’t mean it’s always a bad thing but it lacked the flow in story and was basically a homage to Charles and Camilla, seems like Peter James wants a knighthood to me
November 19, 2025
4.0 / 5.0
I won’t go into the politics of the Royal household and initially I was hesitant reading this book with the royals as part of the plot (as I had an inkling whether they were involved or not).
Aside from that, this book is a great read. It’s very suspenseful, every page had a purpose feeding into the plot as it’s a very dense book consisting of 459 pages - ish. I found the plot to be unpredictable and hard to guess from the start, had me on my toes throughout. This is added with the classic Roy Grace police procedural and funny jokes every now and then. I enjoyed my experience reading this book, however this does pull from events from the last couple books - characters introduced therefore I don’t think this book is readable as a standalone book. Given it’s a Roy Grace, a well established character and his team, with the team dynamics on show - the characters it’s always a great time reading the book. We also see Grace tested professionally and personally which adds to his character even more.
HM Queen Camilla is abroad the royal train heading over to a charity event when the train is derailed. As they begin to evacuate to a safe space a trusted aide is shot dead by a sniper where the police seem to think they already have their answer. But Roy’s gut instinct is different he thinks the queen wasn’t the intended target and actually someone else. The stakes are high, with max pressure and Grace has a risk of becoming embroiled in a very public catastrophe!
One big note, and massive props to Grace for doing his research, as an engineer who works in Tunnels/Civil projects Grace was spot on with his descriptions, it’s always wonderful when the authors take the time to get the basic information correct - so probs to Grace!!
Overall it’s a great read from the start, definitely worth the time investment if you can get your hands on it! Intrigued to see what’s next in store for the series!
I won’t go into the politics of the Royal household and initially I was hesitant reading this book with the royals as part of the plot (as I had an inkling whether they were involved or not).
Aside from that, this book is a great read. It’s very suspenseful, every page had a purpose feeding into the plot as it’s a very dense book consisting of 459 pages - ish. I found the plot to be unpredictable and hard to guess from the start, had me on my toes throughout. This is added with the classic Roy Grace police procedural and funny jokes every now and then. I enjoyed my experience reading this book, however this does pull from events from the last couple books - characters introduced therefore I don’t think this book is readable as a standalone book. Given it’s a Roy Grace, a well established character and his team, with the team dynamics on show - the characters it’s always a great time reading the book. We also see Grace tested professionally and personally which adds to his character even more.
HM Queen Camilla is abroad the royal train heading over to a charity event when the train is derailed. As they begin to evacuate to a safe space a trusted aide is shot dead by a sniper where the police seem to think they already have their answer. But Roy’s gut instinct is different he thinks the queen wasn’t the intended target and actually someone else. The stakes are high, with max pressure and Grace has a risk of becoming embroiled in a very public catastrophe!
One big note, and massive props to Grace for doing his research, as an engineer who works in Tunnels/Civil projects Grace was spot on with his descriptions, it’s always wonderful when the authors take the time to get the basic information correct - so probs to Grace!!
Overall it’s a great read from the start, definitely worth the time investment if you can get your hands on it! Intrigued to see what’s next in store for the series!
December 25, 2025
not completely sure what im reading here...
there's a murder mystery to solve of course but its also a love fest towards King Charles and Queen Camila..well the Royal Instituion really.
it doesn't work well together.
there's a murder mystery to solve of course but its also a love fest towards King Charles and Queen Camila..well the Royal Instituion really.
it doesn't work well together.
August 26, 2025
Pretty much perfection I could write such a long list of justifications for this. The setting is original and brave, delving right into the heart of the Royal family and their Palaces, staffing, traditions and unique idiosyncratic ways. The research undertaken is so thorough it is actually sublime and you can really sit back and enjoy all the facts and background that Peter has obviously painstakingly undertaken to give everything a 100% authenticity. I feel I have learned a great deal, by proxy, plus have had my interest piqued in areas I had no idea would interest me.
The actual Police practice is spot on and the way they react with and the effect on their larger family life is also gratifyingly accurate. I particularly liked that Cleo added a couple of Roy’s favourite chocolates to his lunchbox without his knowing. It’s the little touches to get them through the day and so relatable.
The gore level is absolutely perfect, the worst bits being left to our imagination somewhat so we can self control that area, he doesn’t rely on shock factor as the storyline is intense and ingenious so doesn’t need any help.
The heart racing, edge of the seat moments are an intense adrenaline rush and expertly thrill an excite so the whole read is exhilarating.
The last line completely rocked my world after settling in to a cosy feel good ending. Great storytelling indeed. I actually can’t wait for the next book.
The actual Police practice is spot on and the way they react with and the effect on their larger family life is also gratifyingly accurate. I particularly liked that Cleo added a couple of Roy’s favourite chocolates to his lunchbox without his knowing. It’s the little touches to get them through the day and so relatable.
The gore level is absolutely perfect, the worst bits being left to our imagination somewhat so we can self control that area, he doesn’t rely on shock factor as the storyline is intense and ingenious so doesn’t need any help.
The heart racing, edge of the seat moments are an intense adrenaline rush and expertly thrill an excite so the whole read is exhilarating.
The last line completely rocked my world after settling in to a cosy feel good ending. Great storytelling indeed. I actually can’t wait for the next book.
October 15, 2025
Having read and enjoyed the first 20 books, I was delighted to see another instalment due and especially so to be allowed an ARC of the 21st book in this amazing series. Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity.
I have loved this series from book one along with many of the authors other books. He never fails to produce an interested plot and solutions. Always fresh and interesting.
This was a slightly different read to usual, as you get to find out about the Palace Art Collections and many other facts.
As usual this was a big read, but well worth staying up into the night ... just one more chapter or two Ish
Can’t wait to see where book 22 takes us.
I have loved this series from book one along with many of the authors other books. He never fails to produce an interested plot and solutions. Always fresh and interesting.
This was a slightly different read to usual, as you get to find out about the Palace Art Collections and many other facts.
As usual this was a big read, but well worth staying up into the night ... just one more chapter or two Ish
Can’t wait to see where book 22 takes us.
August 6, 2025
Two books in one, each fighting for cover rights.
This is a tricky book to review as it felt like it was two types of books rammed not very eloquently together. If I separate them then it becomes easier to see why:
AS A HISTORICAL BOOK
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lots of detail, insight and knowledge. James has really allowed his love of the monarchy to flow and his depth of knowledge and passion really shines. If you ever wanted to learn more about the UK’s monarchy, Buckingham palace and the inner workings of those who maintain it. This is the book for you.
AS A CRIME FICTION NOVEL
⭐️⭐️
Lacking depth, pace and much airtime. The story took a major step back in order to please James’ fascination with Charles and Camilla. Take away the historic element of this novel and the plot is weak, the investigation slow and the crime itself not so much of a mystery.
Shame, as I really enjoy the Grace series. But this particular book felt like a step away from his usual style (and story) to fulfil a passion/hobby.
Thanks to NetGalley for my advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
This is a tricky book to review as it felt like it was two types of books rammed not very eloquently together. If I separate them then it becomes easier to see why:
AS A HISTORICAL BOOK
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lots of detail, insight and knowledge. James has really allowed his love of the monarchy to flow and his depth of knowledge and passion really shines. If you ever wanted to learn more about the UK’s monarchy, Buckingham palace and the inner workings of those who maintain it. This is the book for you.
AS A CRIME FICTION NOVEL
⭐️⭐️
Lacking depth, pace and much airtime. The story took a major step back in order to please James’ fascination with Charles and Camilla. Take away the historic element of this novel and the plot is weak, the investigation slow and the crime itself not so much of a mystery.
Shame, as I really enjoy the Grace series. But this particular book felt like a step away from his usual style (and story) to fulfil a passion/hobby.
Thanks to NetGalley for my advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 9, 2026
Not one of his best and should not have been part of the Grace series and totally off track from the continuing story line.
Would have been better as a stand alone book and with another character and the who done it plot could have been a bit less obvious.
Would have been better as a stand alone book and with another character and the who done it plot could have been a bit less obvious.
October 27, 2025
Brisk, intriguing, and perfectly paced!
𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐇𝐀𝐖𝐊 𝐈𝐒 𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐃 is a suspenseful thriller that transports readers back to England, where Detective Superintendent Roy Grace and his team now find themselves investigating a shocking murder within the walls of Buckingham Palace when a senior member of the Royal Household winds up dead during a failed assassination attempt on the Queen.
The writing is twisty and intense. The characters are stubborn, multilayered, and resolute. And the plot is a darkly compelling blend of secrets, surprises, deduction, political intrigue, manipulation, palace drama, and murder.
Overall, 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐇𝐀𝐖𝐊 𝐈𝐒 𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐃 is a propulsive, satisfying, highly entertaining addition to the Roy Grace series by James, which is undoubtedly another utterly gripping page-turner in this must-read series.
𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐇𝐀𝐖𝐊 𝐈𝐒 𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐃 is a suspenseful thriller that transports readers back to England, where Detective Superintendent Roy Grace and his team now find themselves investigating a shocking murder within the walls of Buckingham Palace when a senior member of the Royal Household winds up dead during a failed assassination attempt on the Queen.
The writing is twisty and intense. The characters are stubborn, multilayered, and resolute. And the plot is a darkly compelling blend of secrets, surprises, deduction, political intrigue, manipulation, palace drama, and murder.
Overall, 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐇𝐀𝐖𝐊 𝐈𝐒 𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐃 is a propulsive, satisfying, highly entertaining addition to the Roy Grace series by James, which is undoubtedly another utterly gripping page-turner in this must-read series.
December 1, 2025
I am and always will be a big fan of Peter James and I make it my mission to grab his latest books and devour them. When this appeared on my BorrowBox App I got in the queue to borrow it.
I have to say that this one fell a little bit short for me.
I understand that Queen Camilla is a great fan of his work, she suggested he write a book centred around London.
I can see what Peter James was trying to do but it felt more like a history lesson than a meaty, gritty,crime thriller for which we know and love him for. There wasn’t as much action as I would have liked.
However I am sure that his next book will hit the spot for me and I’ll be back up to rating him 4 or even 5 stars 🌟.
I have to say that this one fell a little bit short for me.
I understand that Queen Camilla is a great fan of his work, she suggested he write a book centred around London.
I can see what Peter James was trying to do but it felt more like a history lesson than a meaty, gritty,crime thriller for which we know and love him for. There wasn’t as much action as I would have liked.
However I am sure that his next book will hit the spot for me and I’ll be back up to rating him 4 or even 5 stars 🌟.
October 29, 2025
James loses the plot and his most loyal following
I’ve abandoned Peter James’s latest Roy Grace novel, and I’m not alone. When a book by a writer of this calibre earns one-star reviews, there’s usually a reason.
What starts as a crime story quickly turns into royal propaganda. Pages of palace security, climate virtue and ceremonial detail swamp what little mystery there is. The human tension that once drove the series has been replaced by logistics, surveillance, and polite admiration for the Crown.
Then you reach the afterword and it all makes sense. James admits the book was inspired by Queen Camilla herself, who suggested he set his next novel in London. He even says the idea “came from Her Majesty the Queen.” From that moment on, the book’s purpose is clear: it was written to flatter, not to entertain.
Too many crime writers are chasing relevance rather than readers. Val McDermid, Don Winslow, and Michael Connelly manage to tackle social themes without losing their storytelling soul. James doesn’t pull it off. This one reads like a royal thank-you note in hardback.
I’ve abandoned Peter James’s latest Roy Grace novel, and I’m not alone. When a book by a writer of this calibre earns one-star reviews, there’s usually a reason.
What starts as a crime story quickly turns into royal propaganda. Pages of palace security, climate virtue and ceremonial detail swamp what little mystery there is. The human tension that once drove the series has been replaced by logistics, surveillance, and polite admiration for the Crown.
Then you reach the afterword and it all makes sense. James admits the book was inspired by Queen Camilla herself, who suggested he set his next novel in London. He even says the idea “came from Her Majesty the Queen.” From that moment on, the book’s purpose is clear: it was written to flatter, not to entertain.
Too many crime writers are chasing relevance rather than readers. Val McDermid, Don Winslow, and Michael Connelly manage to tackle social themes without losing their storytelling soul. James doesn’t pull it off. This one reads like a royal thank-you note in hardback.
November 14, 2025
After hearing Peter James speak at the Shoreham Book Festival last year, and finding him so entertaining, my husband and I decided to try the Roy Grace TV series. We loved it! Ever since, I’ve been meaning to pick up one of his books, so when Bookbreak sent me his latest novel, I couldn’t wait to dive in. I also chose to listen to part of it on audio, which was brilliantly narrated.
This instalment takes us into and around Buckingham Palace, opening with an attempted assassination of Queen Camilla, followed soon after by a murder within the Palace itself. I absolutely loved the behind-the-scenes glimpse into royal life as Grace’s investigation leads him deep into the Royal Household. The insight into daily routines, the staff, and Palace dynamics made for truly compelling reading. It’s clear Peter James has done extensive research into the Royal Family and those who work closely with them.
Grace’s interactions with King Charles were a particular highlight!
The unfolding mystery behind the murders was gripping, and I couldn’t put the book down. Who could be trusted inside the Palace walls? Were the two murders connected? Was someone really trying to assassinate the Queen and why?
The fast pace kept me hooked throughout, and I especially enjoyed the chapters written from the perpetrators’ perspectives. They added so much tension and depth to the story.
I enjoyed this book so much that I’ve already ordered One of Us Is Dead (book 21 in the Grace series). I can't wait to read more!
This instalment takes us into and around Buckingham Palace, opening with an attempted assassination of Queen Camilla, followed soon after by a murder within the Palace itself. I absolutely loved the behind-the-scenes glimpse into royal life as Grace’s investigation leads him deep into the Royal Household. The insight into daily routines, the staff, and Palace dynamics made for truly compelling reading. It’s clear Peter James has done extensive research into the Royal Family and those who work closely with them.
Grace’s interactions with King Charles were a particular highlight!
The unfolding mystery behind the murders was gripping, and I couldn’t put the book down. Who could be trusted inside the Palace walls? Were the two murders connected? Was someone really trying to assassinate the Queen and why?
The fast pace kept me hooked throughout, and I especially enjoyed the chapters written from the perpetrators’ perspectives. They added so much tension and depth to the story.
I enjoyed this book so much that I’ve already ordered One of Us Is Dead (book 21 in the Grace series). I can't wait to read more!
October 10, 2025
Roy Grace #21
Peter James in this latest mystery takes us deep into Buckingham Palace where Roy Grace never thought his latest murder investigation would take him.
The story in a few words:
Queen Camilla aboard the Royal Train is headed to a charity event when disaster strikes and the train derails. Minutes later an aide is shot dead by a sniper… everyone jumped to the assumption her Majesty was the intended target but debonair Inspector Grace was not on the wave link and finds himself alone with his suspicions…….is he right?.....
My thoughts:
The book can be read on its own but you will appreciate the characters more if you have read the others. Although I have read many books in this series, not all were read in sequence and I never felt lost.
In his investigation Grace takes us on a tour of the Palace and describes its opulence décor and history behind some paintings and “objet d’art” While meeting the monarchy and the various roles of the staff James gives us all the fluff that goes which such an encounter. Really it was a bit much. IMO, this took over the crime and who was behind. Having said this, it still a fun read once the investigation took wings and getting to the arrests and finding out the whodunit is and the why. Definitely a lot more procedural in this one.
I do question: would an attempt on the Queen’s life be handle by the local police or handed over to a squad expert in terrorism?
In a few words:
The plot is well paced and engaging, the characters are well drawn and the setting is vividly described. A good story I enjoyed passing time with.
My thanks to Pan Macmillian and Netgalley for this ARC.
Peter James in this latest mystery takes us deep into Buckingham Palace where Roy Grace never thought his latest murder investigation would take him.
The story in a few words:
Queen Camilla aboard the Royal Train is headed to a charity event when disaster strikes and the train derails. Minutes later an aide is shot dead by a sniper… everyone jumped to the assumption her Majesty was the intended target but debonair Inspector Grace was not on the wave link and finds himself alone with his suspicions…….is he right?.....
My thoughts:
The book can be read on its own but you will appreciate the characters more if you have read the others. Although I have read many books in this series, not all were read in sequence and I never felt lost.
In his investigation Grace takes us on a tour of the Palace and describes its opulence décor and history behind some paintings and “objet d’art” While meeting the monarchy and the various roles of the staff James gives us all the fluff that goes which such an encounter. Really it was a bit much. IMO, this took over the crime and who was behind. Having said this, it still a fun read once the investigation took wings and getting to the arrests and finding out the whodunit is and the why. Definitely a lot more procedural in this one.
I do question: would an attempt on the Queen’s life be handle by the local police or handed over to a squad expert in terrorism?
In a few words:
The plot is well paced and engaging, the characters are well drawn and the setting is vividly described. A good story I enjoyed passing time with.
My thanks to Pan Macmillian and Netgalley for this ARC.
October 4, 2025
I love the Roy Grace series of books and this one did not disappoint. This time we find Grace investigating a possible assassination attempt on the Queen so we see Grace back and forth to the palace meeting the royal family and learning the ins and outs of palace life. I love the royal family so for me this made a book I would already love even more exciting and interesting. This is a great read and if you have never eewas a Toy Grace novel before (why haven’t you) give this one a go as it would be a great introduction to a much loved character. When’s the next book please?
October 3, 2025
I enjoyed the story of the book someone trying to assassin the queen and a accident occurs it was a great read and the drama of it like the story good pace and information there
thanks net gallery
thanks net gallery
January 2, 2026
This is rather like the train that begins the book. It leaves the station fairly slowly but gathers pace on the way.
Although the ending is somewhat predictable, the insight into life in Buckingham Palace and other royal residences is interesting and the book shows great depth of knowledge about weapons, as well as life in the British armed forces.
I noticed on his Wikipedia page that Queen Camilla is an avid reader of the DCS Grace novels - and if they're good enough for Her Majesty, they're good enough for me!
Four stars.
Although the ending is somewhat predictable, the insight into life in Buckingham Palace and other royal residences is interesting and the book shows great depth of knowledge about weapons, as well as life in the British armed forces.
I noticed on his Wikipedia page that Queen Camilla is an avid reader of the DCS Grace novels - and if they're good enough for Her Majesty, they're good enough for me!
Four stars.
September 28, 2025
This was a different type of thriller from Peter which involved the Queen which made it a very tense and exciting read. I always enjoy his books and although I was taken by surprise at the subject matter, it was still up there with the others. My thanks to netgalley and the family for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
November 24, 2025
This was different but loved it all the same also very historical with mentions of Bundy and Shipman a very clever book
December 14, 2025
I did enjoy it but bit farfetched. More like Jeffrey Archer's style to writing.
January 3, 2026
Very disappointing as I love Peter James. Not his finest. Sorry.
January 4, 2026
I personally felt this was a slow burner, but once I got into it, I thoroughly enjoyed it. From dunking biscuits at the palace to Granny's missing chips a good read.
January 14, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ very procedural, I enjoyed it but I did guess the mastermind and found some of the dialogue a bit corny
September 29, 2025
I am not the intended audience.
January 7, 2026
Really enjoyed this, may even be my favourite book in the Roy grace series so far! I love stuff that’s royal related so I really enjoyed that aspect of the story!
Ended on a cliff hanger, so definitely excited for the next story to come out 😊
Ended on a cliff hanger, so definitely excited for the next story to come out 😊
November 16, 2025
I love a mystery set around Buckingham Palace. This wasn't the greatest plot ever but the setting was great!
December 11, 2025
Royal train derailment on the way to Brighton …. Hit man kills HM The Queen’s Private Secretary …. Bodies piling up at Buckingham Palace and DI Grace navigating his way through who, why, where ….
All goes to remind me of my days working at Buckingham Palace when a high up official came into my office to get a couple of brace of pheasants plucked, only to nearly go apoplectic about a pile of files languishing on a side table. He said it was one of a pair that they had been looking for and the pair were worth a staggering £50,000 ….. see things really do go missing ……
All goes to remind me of my days working at Buckingham Palace when a high up official came into my office to get a couple of brace of pheasants plucked, only to nearly go apoplectic about a pile of files languishing on a side table. He said it was one of a pair that they had been looking for and the pair were worth a staggering £50,000 ….. see things really do go missing ……
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