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Sebastian Wolff
Invitation from a Dictator
ON THE EVE OF WAR, A ROYAL GUEST IS LURED INTO HITLER'S DEADLY WEB . . .
Munich, 1937. The Duke and Duchess of Windsor have arrived in Germany for a historic meeting at Hitler's mountain retreat.
But recent attacks by ruthless Communist band, Red Freedom, has brought fear and bloodshed to the area. As brutal as the Nazis, their next targets are Edward, Wallis and the Fuhrer himself.
Detective Sebastian Wolff is charged with their protection, but the conflict between his job and his politics becomes even more complicated when Wolff realises who is behind Red Ulrike, his first love and the mother of his son.
The personal and political collide in this electrifying new novel from the million-copy-bestselling 'master of the wartime thriller', Rory Clements.
Munich, 1937. The Duke and Duchess of Windsor have arrived in Germany for a historic meeting at Hitler's mountain retreat.
But recent attacks by ruthless Communist band, Red Freedom, has brought fear and bloodshed to the area. As brutal as the Nazis, their next targets are Edward, Wallis and the Fuhrer himself.
Detective Sebastian Wolff is charged with their protection, but the conflict between his job and his politics becomes even more complicated when Wolff realises who is behind Red Ulrike, his first love and the mother of his son.
The personal and political collide in this electrifying new novel from the million-copy-bestselling 'master of the wartime thriller', Rory Clements.
Hardcover
First published August 13, 2026
About the author
Rory Clements
39 books603 followersRory Clements has had a long and successful newspaper career, including being features editor and associate editor of Today, editor of the Daily Mail's Good Health Pages, and editor of the health section at the Evening Standard. He now writes full-time in an idyllic corner of Norfolk, England.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
August 20, 2026
I really enjoyed this third book in the Detective Sebastian Wolff, series set in Nazi Germany, just before the start of the Second World War. In fact I think it could be the best in the series so far.
In this book Seb Wolff is investigating a dangerous communist terrorist group, called Red Freedom, who are have committed some horrific murders. Then he gets transferred to the protecting The Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Edward and Wallis Simpson on their German tour. He really wants to keep investigating a particularly difficult murder, but has no choice but to defer to his boss and go and protect the Windsors.
Whilst that’s going on his fiancée Hexie, gets an invitation to visit her former colleague and friend Eva Braun, at Hitler’s Berghorf mountain home. Although she wants to see her friend, she really doesn’t want to spend any time with Hitler, but reluctantly agrees to go, especially as Seb tells her it could help them with a deeply personal situation.
This was a really good thriller, with lots going on with Seb and Hexie, deepening their relationship and their characters. I really enjoyed getting to know them better especially, when Seb ends up crossing a few lines whilst interrogating a suspect, something that horrifies him and Hexie! I hope there’s more to come in the series, as I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Highly recommended if you enjoy historical crime fiction set in 1930s Germany.
Thanks to Penguin UK and NetGalley for my digital copy.
In this book Seb Wolff is investigating a dangerous communist terrorist group, called Red Freedom, who are have committed some horrific murders. Then he gets transferred to the protecting The Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Edward and Wallis Simpson on their German tour. He really wants to keep investigating a particularly difficult murder, but has no choice but to defer to his boss and go and protect the Windsors.
Whilst that’s going on his fiancée Hexie, gets an invitation to visit her former colleague and friend Eva Braun, at Hitler’s Berghorf mountain home. Although she wants to see her friend, she really doesn’t want to spend any time with Hitler, but reluctantly agrees to go, especially as Seb tells her it could help them with a deeply personal situation.
This was a really good thriller, with lots going on with Seb and Hexie, deepening their relationship and their characters. I really enjoyed getting to know them better especially, when Seb ends up crossing a few lines whilst interrogating a suspect, something that horrifies him and Hexie! I hope there’s more to come in the series, as I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Highly recommended if you enjoy historical crime fiction set in 1930s Germany.
Thanks to Penguin UK and NetGalley for my digital copy.
August 19, 2026
As with pretty much all of Rory Clement’s WW2 novels, it’s a winning combination of a pacy thriller, a bit of romance and fascinating historical details and events. Thoroughly enjoyable.
August 23, 2026
Invitation from a Dictator is the latest book in the Detective Sebastian Wolff series and this time we see Wolff trying to solve the murder of an unknown man, identify and stop a communist terrorist group known as Red Freedom and also become seconded to the security detail of The Duke and Duchess of Windsor as they tour Germany that included a visit with Adolf Hitler. Whilst he would rather be dealing with the first two on that list as problematical as they may be, he knows he has no choice regarding the last one and no matter what his feelings are over the whole thing he will remain professional and ensure the safety of everyone to the best of his ability.
Sebastian Wolff is not your typical German official. He is more interested in getting the truth than playing any kind of political game and it is safe to say he has no time for either the SS or the Gestapo and their heavy-handed tactics. This is something that more often than not will find him at odds with his superiors and threatens his career, his family and his own life at times. He is already keeping the secret of his colleagues true heritage proving he will do what ever it takes to protect those he cares about.
The cases he is involved in are complex as his victim was mutilated to ensure that identification was impossible and the mother of his son may be involved in the communist group Whilst he will not do anything to draw attention to that fact as it would risk the life of his son and himself he does know that if push came to shove he would have to surrender her to his colleagues and hope that the fall out would not be too severe.
This book also explores his relationship with Hexie as they contemplate marriage and children, until a secret from Hexie’s past and new German laws threaten this too. As they explore other avenues, they become aware of the mother and baby facilities where babies are being bred of pure German descent to be fostered out and brought up as true patriots. They may not agree with what is happening, but it may provide them with a solution to their problem. He is truly tested in this book and even the connection with his son is becoming tenuous as they have very different views of both Germany and the world. How long they will remain on speaking terms is anyone’s guess.
What I love about this series is the fact that Rory Clements manages to weave fiction seamlessly with historical fact. He does not shy away from the truth and even in this book shows Hitler in a different light, as a person who can show some form of compassion at least on the surface away from the people that surround him and then in the blink of an eye can become the tyrant that history has shown him to be if something does not meet with his ideology and beliefs. The mix of both the professional and the personal highlights how lives are affected in the time before WW2 and just how much was already happening before it became known to the world.
Although this is a series you can easily pick up this book and follow it without any issues and I am looking forward to what comes next for Wolff as time marches on and just how he will navigate the changes that are coming.
Sebastian Wolff is not your typical German official. He is more interested in getting the truth than playing any kind of political game and it is safe to say he has no time for either the SS or the Gestapo and their heavy-handed tactics. This is something that more often than not will find him at odds with his superiors and threatens his career, his family and his own life at times. He is already keeping the secret of his colleagues true heritage proving he will do what ever it takes to protect those he cares about.
The cases he is involved in are complex as his victim was mutilated to ensure that identification was impossible and the mother of his son may be involved in the communist group Whilst he will not do anything to draw attention to that fact as it would risk the life of his son and himself he does know that if push came to shove he would have to surrender her to his colleagues and hope that the fall out would not be too severe.
This book also explores his relationship with Hexie as they contemplate marriage and children, until a secret from Hexie’s past and new German laws threaten this too. As they explore other avenues, they become aware of the mother and baby facilities where babies are being bred of pure German descent to be fostered out and brought up as true patriots. They may not agree with what is happening, but it may provide them with a solution to their problem. He is truly tested in this book and even the connection with his son is becoming tenuous as they have very different views of both Germany and the world. How long they will remain on speaking terms is anyone’s guess.
What I love about this series is the fact that Rory Clements manages to weave fiction seamlessly with historical fact. He does not shy away from the truth and even in this book shows Hitler in a different light, as a person who can show some form of compassion at least on the surface away from the people that surround him and then in the blink of an eye can become the tyrant that history has shown him to be if something does not meet with his ideology and beliefs. The mix of both the professional and the personal highlights how lives are affected in the time before WW2 and just how much was already happening before it became known to the world.
Although this is a series you can easily pick up this book and follow it without any issues and I am looking forward to what comes next for Wolff as time marches on and just how he will navigate the changes that are coming.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A rather gruesome discovery sets Sebastian Wolff and Sergeant Hans Winter, initially seconded from the Gestapo to keep track of Wolff’s movements but now an ally, on the trail of Red Freedom, a Communist group opposed to the Nazis but just as capable of ruthless acts of violence. As always Wolff’s determination to bring culprits to book brings him up against some old adversaries in the Gestapo, two men who are more interested in arresting someone for the crime even if it’s not the perpetrator. After all, once in their hands for a few hours a person is likely to confess to anything.
Wolff is frustrated to find his investigation brought to a halt and assigned to the security team for the visit to Germany by the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, a visit which will culminate in a meeting at Berghof, Hitler’s alpine retreat near Berchtesgaden. Wolff’s suspicions are aroused by two individuals, one of whom is dismissed as nothing more than a fanatical Royalist. The other? Well, let’s just say Wolff’s detective instincts tell him something’s not right. The proof of that comes when he has a very narrow escape.
The author is particularly good at creating seemingly disparate storylines and then bringing them together in a satisfying way. He does exactly that in this book. There’s also a great melding together of the professional and the personal, the fictional and the factual. For example, Wolff and his partner Hexie are keen to start a family but have met with no success as yet, although not for the want of trying. When they learn of an abandoned child that may be suitable for adoption they get a terrifying insight into a sinister Nazi programme and Hexie also realises her family history may make her a target for something even worse. She also has a chilling up close and personal encounter courtesy of her friendship with former colleague, Eva Braun. Yes, that Eva Braun.
Being set in 1937, we know what’s coming but of course Wolff doesn’t. However he has a growing sense of foreboding. ‘All pretence of open justice, fair play and democratic rule had long since been swept away. In his own life, he was trying to bring killers to court to protect the people of his beloved Germany from the forces of evil. But he knew he was fighting a losing battle.’ He’s even disgusted at himself for some of the things he’s had to do in the course of the investigation.‘ Was he totally lost? Was he becoming one of them?’
His failure to join the Nazi party has already earned him the hostility of his superiors. Only the fact Wolff’s uncle is a man of influence is keeping him in his position, even out of prison or a much worse fate. How much more can Wolff take? Let’s hope there’s another book that will answer that question.
Invitation from a Dictator is a terrific historical thriller with a gripping plot, great period detail and a constant sense of jeopardy. It would be perfect for fans of the late Philip Kerr’s Bernie Gunther novels.
Wolff is frustrated to find his investigation brought to a halt and assigned to the security team for the visit to Germany by the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, a visit which will culminate in a meeting at Berghof, Hitler’s alpine retreat near Berchtesgaden. Wolff’s suspicions are aroused by two individuals, one of whom is dismissed as nothing more than a fanatical Royalist. The other? Well, let’s just say Wolff’s detective instincts tell him something’s not right. The proof of that comes when he has a very narrow escape.
The author is particularly good at creating seemingly disparate storylines and then bringing them together in a satisfying way. He does exactly that in this book. There’s also a great melding together of the professional and the personal, the fictional and the factual. For example, Wolff and his partner Hexie are keen to start a family but have met with no success as yet, although not for the want of trying. When they learn of an abandoned child that may be suitable for adoption they get a terrifying insight into a sinister Nazi programme and Hexie also realises her family history may make her a target for something even worse. She also has a chilling up close and personal encounter courtesy of her friendship with former colleague, Eva Braun. Yes, that Eva Braun.
Being set in 1937, we know what’s coming but of course Wolff doesn’t. However he has a growing sense of foreboding. ‘All pretence of open justice, fair play and democratic rule had long since been swept away. In his own life, he was trying to bring killers to court to protect the people of his beloved Germany from the forces of evil. But he knew he was fighting a losing battle.’ He’s even disgusted at himself for some of the things he’s had to do in the course of the investigation.‘ Was he totally lost? Was he becoming one of them?’
His failure to join the Nazi party has already earned him the hostility of his superiors. Only the fact Wolff’s uncle is a man of influence is keeping him in his position, even out of prison or a much worse fate. How much more can Wolff take? Let’s hope there’s another book that will answer that question.
Invitation from a Dictator is a terrific historical thriller with a gripping plot, great period detail and a constant sense of jeopardy. It would be perfect for fans of the late Philip Kerr’s Bernie Gunther novels.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another gripping and harrowing story from a master storyteller.
"Invitation from a Dictator" opens in Munich, 1937. Detective Seb Wolff continues to work away as a police officer, under the Nazi regime he hates and fears. Although considered the best detective in Munich, his attitude to authority puts him under scrutiny he doesn't need. When a body is discovered, hands and face removed, he has his work cut out solving the mystery. But bigger things are afoot - The former King of England, The Duke of Windsor and his new wife, have arrived in Germany for a much-lauded visit which will culminate in a meeting with Hitler at his mountain retreat. Wolff is assigned to the entourage, in charge of the couple's security, just as a series of attacks are carried out by the Communist group, Red Freedom. It seems certain the Royal couple will be next on their hit list.
And so, Wolff is drawn into the circus that was the state-visit-that-wasn't-a-state-visit to Germany by the recently abdicated King of England. The couple are surrounded by hangers-on, and security staff, any one of which could be a threat. As the story develops we learn that Wolff has a personal stake in the threat to their safety, and bigger worries when he learns that his fiancée, Hexie has received an invitation from Eva Braun to spend time at Hitler's retreat.
The author expertly weaves three or four seemingly separate plot threads in and out of the story, while at the same time inserting pieces of history and historical characters into the plot. Of particular interest is his portrayal of both Hitler and Eva Braun, as we see a side of them not often explored. We also learn more of the Nazi Levensborn Programme, and the lengths it went to to ensure purity of the race. This is painted against the background of a Germany, poised on the brink of war, and uncertain of where it will all end. Several interludes with minor characters, bring into focus the ways in which Germans struggled with Hitler's rise to power. We also are reminded of the pressure people such as the police and authorities were under as the Nazi regime grew. The Red Front group is based on a similar group which caused Hitler problems in the 1930's and we see how far its members would go to achieve change.
Fans of the previous Wolff books will be glad to know that Hexie, Ulrike and Jurgen are all back, as is Sergeant Winter, who really shines in this story. This is possibly the finest book yet in the Seb Wolff series, and it certainly moves along at a brisk pace, with a particularly promising ending. Heartily recommended.
"Invitation from a Dictator" opens in Munich, 1937. Detective Seb Wolff continues to work away as a police officer, under the Nazi regime he hates and fears. Although considered the best detective in Munich, his attitude to authority puts him under scrutiny he doesn't need. When a body is discovered, hands and face removed, he has his work cut out solving the mystery. But bigger things are afoot - The former King of England, The Duke of Windsor and his new wife, have arrived in Germany for a much-lauded visit which will culminate in a meeting with Hitler at his mountain retreat. Wolff is assigned to the entourage, in charge of the couple's security, just as a series of attacks are carried out by the Communist group, Red Freedom. It seems certain the Royal couple will be next on their hit list.
And so, Wolff is drawn into the circus that was the state-visit-that-wasn't-a-state-visit to Germany by the recently abdicated King of England. The couple are surrounded by hangers-on, and security staff, any one of which could be a threat. As the story develops we learn that Wolff has a personal stake in the threat to their safety, and bigger worries when he learns that his fiancée, Hexie has received an invitation from Eva Braun to spend time at Hitler's retreat.
The author expertly weaves three or four seemingly separate plot threads in and out of the story, while at the same time inserting pieces of history and historical characters into the plot. Of particular interest is his portrayal of both Hitler and Eva Braun, as we see a side of them not often explored. We also learn more of the Nazi Levensborn Programme, and the lengths it went to to ensure purity of the race. This is painted against the background of a Germany, poised on the brink of war, and uncertain of where it will all end. Several interludes with minor characters, bring into focus the ways in which Germans struggled with Hitler's rise to power. We also are reminded of the pressure people such as the police and authorities were under as the Nazi regime grew. The Red Front group is based on a similar group which caused Hitler problems in the 1930's and we see how far its members would go to achieve change.
Fans of the previous Wolff books will be glad to know that Hexie, Ulrike and Jurgen are all back, as is Sergeant Winter, who really shines in this story. This is possibly the finest book yet in the Seb Wolff series, and it certainly moves along at a brisk pace, with a particularly promising ending. Heartily recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Invitation from a Dictator by Rory Clements is an intriguing historical thriller set in Munich in 1937, at a particularly fascinating and unsettling moment in history. Europe is moving steadily towards a much darker period, and Clements does a good job of capturing that sense of a world in transition, where the political landscape is changing rapidly and the consequences of those changes are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
One of the aspects I enjoyed most was the historical backdrop. The Windsor tour, Hitler's mountain retreat at the Berghof and the presence of figures such as Eva Braun all provide an interesting framework for the fictional story. Clements clearly puts a lot of effort into grounding the novel in its historical setting, and I particularly enjoyed the way real events and people are woven into the fictional narrative.
I also found Wolff himself an interesting protagonist. There is a strong moral conflict running through the story as he begins to recognise the direction Germany is heading. He can see the political changes taking place around him, yet he has a duty to perform his job regardless of his own political views. That tension between personal beliefs, professional responsibility and the increasingly disturbing reality around him gives the character some depth.
Another positive for me is that the book works well as a standalone story. Although this is part of a series featuring Wolff, I never felt completely lost coming into the story without having read the earlier books. At the same time, Clements leaves enough room for Wolff's story to continue, and by the end I could certainly see myself returning to the series and going back to read the first book.
Where the book didn't quite work for me was with some of the coincidences within the plot. Without getting into spoilers, there were a few moments where certain connections or developments felt a little too convenient for my liking. I appreciate that these elements are important to the overall story, but there were occasions when I found myself thinking that the plot was stretching credibility slightly. It didn't ruin the experience for me, but it did stop the book from reaching the five-star territory for me.
Overall, Invitation from a Dictator is an enjoyable historical thriller with an interesting premise and a compelling setting. I particularly enjoyed the historical elements and the moral questions surrounding Wolff as he tries to do his job while watching the country around him change.
Many thanks to Rory Clements and Penguin and Random House. I received an advance review copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
One of the aspects I enjoyed most was the historical backdrop. The Windsor tour, Hitler's mountain retreat at the Berghof and the presence of figures such as Eva Braun all provide an interesting framework for the fictional story. Clements clearly puts a lot of effort into grounding the novel in its historical setting, and I particularly enjoyed the way real events and people are woven into the fictional narrative.
I also found Wolff himself an interesting protagonist. There is a strong moral conflict running through the story as he begins to recognise the direction Germany is heading. He can see the political changes taking place around him, yet he has a duty to perform his job regardless of his own political views. That tension between personal beliefs, professional responsibility and the increasingly disturbing reality around him gives the character some depth.
Another positive for me is that the book works well as a standalone story. Although this is part of a series featuring Wolff, I never felt completely lost coming into the story without having read the earlier books. At the same time, Clements leaves enough room for Wolff's story to continue, and by the end I could certainly see myself returning to the series and going back to read the first book.
Where the book didn't quite work for me was with some of the coincidences within the plot. Without getting into spoilers, there were a few moments where certain connections or developments felt a little too convenient for my liking. I appreciate that these elements are important to the overall story, but there were occasions when I found myself thinking that the plot was stretching credibility slightly. It didn't ruin the experience for me, but it did stop the book from reaching the five-star territory for me.
Overall, Invitation from a Dictator is an enjoyable historical thriller with an interesting premise and a compelling setting. I particularly enjoyed the historical elements and the moral questions surrounding Wolff as he tries to do his job while watching the country around him change.
Many thanks to Rory Clements and Penguin and Random House. I received an advance review copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Munich, 1937. The Duke and Duchess of Windsor have arrived in Germany for a historic meeting at Hitler's mountain retreat.
But recent attacks by ruthless Communist band, Red Freedom, has brought fear and bloodshed to the area. As brutal as the Nazis, their next targets are Edward, Wallis and the Fuhrer himself.
Detective Sebastian Wolff is charged with their protection, but the conflict between his job and his politics becomes even more complicated when Wolff realises who is behind Red Freedom: Ulrike, his first love and the mother of his son....
Thank you to Viking for sending me a GIFTED copy of Invitation From a Dictator, which is the third title in Rory Clements' Detective Sebastian Wolff series. (Munich Wolf is book 1, and Evil in High Places is book 2)
It can be read as a standalone, as I did, but I do think I'd have benefitted hugely from having read the previous titles first, to fully appreciate the nuances, the character development, and the unfolding historical timeline. Nevertheless, it still made for an enjoyable read.
Speaking to this last point about the historical setting, the novel is obviously really well researched, and the fictional story is strongly rooted in true historical events. It vividly evokes the relentless and increasing strangle hold of Hitler's authoritarianism, the terrifying policies implemented by the Third Reich with regard to 'Arian purity' , and the growing power of the SS, which is ruthless and unfettered.
Rory Clements perfectly captures the fear and the intensity of the atmosphere in which the German people lived at that time.
It is a cleverly written novel with several interwoven plot lines that keep you invested and turning the pages, but what raises the stakes even more is the way Clements gives his main character multiple moral dilemmas. When Wolff's present and past, his private life, his political beliefs, his job and the government machine all collide it is inevitable that he's going to feel conflicted at every turn.
Whilst it did occasionally feel that there was a tad too much coincidence, and some of Wolff's conclusions were slightly tenuous, this did not detract from my enjoyment over all, and I found it to be a really well written, pacy, absorbing, intelligent and nuanced historical thriller which grips you to the last page.
But recent attacks by ruthless Communist band, Red Freedom, has brought fear and bloodshed to the area. As brutal as the Nazis, their next targets are Edward, Wallis and the Fuhrer himself.
Detective Sebastian Wolff is charged with their protection, but the conflict between his job and his politics becomes even more complicated when Wolff realises who is behind Red Freedom: Ulrike, his first love and the mother of his son....
Thank you to Viking for sending me a GIFTED copy of Invitation From a Dictator, which is the third title in Rory Clements' Detective Sebastian Wolff series. (Munich Wolf is book 1, and Evil in High Places is book 2)
It can be read as a standalone, as I did, but I do think I'd have benefitted hugely from having read the previous titles first, to fully appreciate the nuances, the character development, and the unfolding historical timeline. Nevertheless, it still made for an enjoyable read.
Speaking to this last point about the historical setting, the novel is obviously really well researched, and the fictional story is strongly rooted in true historical events. It vividly evokes the relentless and increasing strangle hold of Hitler's authoritarianism, the terrifying policies implemented by the Third Reich with regard to 'Arian purity' , and the growing power of the SS, which is ruthless and unfettered.
Rory Clements perfectly captures the fear and the intensity of the atmosphere in which the German people lived at that time.
It is a cleverly written novel with several interwoven plot lines that keep you invested and turning the pages, but what raises the stakes even more is the way Clements gives his main character multiple moral dilemmas. When Wolff's present and past, his private life, his political beliefs, his job and the government machine all collide it is inevitable that he's going to feel conflicted at every turn.
Whilst it did occasionally feel that there was a tad too much coincidence, and some of Wolff's conclusions were slightly tenuous, this did not detract from my enjoyment over all, and I found it to be a really well written, pacy, absorbing, intelligent and nuanced historical thriller which grips you to the last page.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Invitation From A Dictator by Rory Clements is an historical thriller set in Munich in 1937, as Europe stood on the brink of the Second World War.
This was my second time meeting Detective Sebastian Wolf, having first encountered him in Evil in High Places, so it felt good to return to a character I had already come to know. Although this was part of a series, I felt it worked well as a standalone novel, giving enough background for new readers while rewarding those already familiar with Wolf.
I always enjoy historical fiction, although I sometimes found books set in this period quite demanding because of the political complexity and historical detail. This novel was no exception. However, Rory Clements' meticulous research, sharp eye for detail and vivid descriptions brought Munich in 1937 to life. I could really sense the growing tension and uncertainty as Europe edged ever closer to war, and the atmosphere throughout the novel felt both authentic and unsettling.
One aspect I particularly appreciated was the glimpse into Sebastian Wolf's personal life. These moments added depth to his character, making him feel more human and relatable rather than simply being a detective solving another case. They provided a welcome balance plus showed how difficult living in this time period was and allowed me to become more invested in his journey.
There were several different strands running throughout the novel, from political intrigue to personal relationships and the central mystery. At times, there was a lot to take in, but Clements skilfully wove everything together, ensuring each thread played an important part in the bigger picture. As the story unfolded, the tension steadily increased, keeping me engaged as I tried to work out how everything would connect.
Overall, Invitation From A Dictator was a well-researched and atmospheric historical thriller that captured both the uncertainty and danger of pre-war Germany. While it occasionally demanded my full attention because of its historical and political depth, it rewarded that concentration with a compelling mystery, believable characters and an immersive setting. Fans of intelligent historical thrillers and Detective Sebastian Wolf's investigations would find plenty to enjoy in this gripping instalment.
This was my second time meeting Detective Sebastian Wolf, having first encountered him in Evil in High Places, so it felt good to return to a character I had already come to know. Although this was part of a series, I felt it worked well as a standalone novel, giving enough background for new readers while rewarding those already familiar with Wolf.
I always enjoy historical fiction, although I sometimes found books set in this period quite demanding because of the political complexity and historical detail. This novel was no exception. However, Rory Clements' meticulous research, sharp eye for detail and vivid descriptions brought Munich in 1937 to life. I could really sense the growing tension and uncertainty as Europe edged ever closer to war, and the atmosphere throughout the novel felt both authentic and unsettling.
One aspect I particularly appreciated was the glimpse into Sebastian Wolf's personal life. These moments added depth to his character, making him feel more human and relatable rather than simply being a detective solving another case. They provided a welcome balance plus showed how difficult living in this time period was and allowed me to become more invested in his journey.
There were several different strands running throughout the novel, from political intrigue to personal relationships and the central mystery. At times, there was a lot to take in, but Clements skilfully wove everything together, ensuring each thread played an important part in the bigger picture. As the story unfolded, the tension steadily increased, keeping me engaged as I tried to work out how everything would connect.
Overall, Invitation From A Dictator was a well-researched and atmospheric historical thriller that captured both the uncertainty and danger of pre-war Germany. While it occasionally demanded my full attention because of its historical and political depth, it rewarded that concentration with a compelling mystery, believable characters and an immersive setting. Fans of intelligent historical thrillers and Detective Sebastian Wolf's investigations would find plenty to enjoy in this gripping instalment.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Seb is a detective in 1930s Munich, a good man in a bad time, doing his best to catch criminals in a country run by criminals- all very difficult and somewhat ironic- he says at one point” All pretence of open justice, fair play and democratic rule had long since been swept away”
He does not believe in the leadership but he does believe in justice and when a terror group assassinate a couple in front of their young child he investigates to his best ability but this unfortunately leads him very close to home.
He is also tasked with protecting the former Edward VIII and Mrs Simpson when they visit Bavaria there is information that the ‘Rote Freiheit” terrorists are going to try and assassinate them along with Hitler. Despite the realisation that the death of the leader might be a good thing, Seb does his best to ensure no one is killed.
Whilst all this is going on he is being watched by the Gestapo who suspect his motives and his fiancée, Hexie, is “invited” to Hitler’s mountain hideout by her friend Evie Braun! This is quite a chilling part of the novel . The description of her visit sent a shiver down my spine as she has several encounters with the most hated man in history!
As ever, Rory Clements has written an exciting and well researched historical thriller which held my attention from page one. Obviously the ex royal’s tour of the country is a matter of historical fact but it was a subject I knew little about.- it was frightening to read about his close ties to the regime.
I really like the character of Seb and his fiancee, the feisty Hexie who shares his views. Seb wants to do the right thing but this is very hard in the society he is living in. His son Jurgen, has been brainwashed by his time in the youth movement and he does not see eye to eye with his father- he did have a few redeeming features in this book but I felt like telling him to grow up and look to his father as a role model, not a bunch of thugs!
I definitely recommend this book and the whole series and look forward to to reading the next one when it is published.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my advance copy.
He does not believe in the leadership but he does believe in justice and when a terror group assassinate a couple in front of their young child he investigates to his best ability but this unfortunately leads him very close to home.
He is also tasked with protecting the former Edward VIII and Mrs Simpson when they visit Bavaria there is information that the ‘Rote Freiheit” terrorists are going to try and assassinate them along with Hitler. Despite the realisation that the death of the leader might be a good thing, Seb does his best to ensure no one is killed.
Whilst all this is going on he is being watched by the Gestapo who suspect his motives and his fiancée, Hexie, is “invited” to Hitler’s mountain hideout by her friend Evie Braun! This is quite a chilling part of the novel . The description of her visit sent a shiver down my spine as she has several encounters with the most hated man in history!
As ever, Rory Clements has written an exciting and well researched historical thriller which held my attention from page one. Obviously the ex royal’s tour of the country is a matter of historical fact but it was a subject I knew little about.- it was frightening to read about his close ties to the regime.
I really like the character of Seb and his fiancee, the feisty Hexie who shares his views. Seb wants to do the right thing but this is very hard in the society he is living in. His son Jurgen, has been brainwashed by his time in the youth movement and he does not see eye to eye with his father- he did have a few redeeming features in this book but I felt like telling him to grow up and look to his father as a role model, not a bunch of thugs!
I definitely recommend this book and the whole series and look forward to to reading the next one when it is published.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you to Penguin Viking for sending me a proof copy of this book.
This is the third book in the Sebastian Wolff series so this review may contain spoilers.
We rejoin Sebastian and Hans Winter at a gruesome crime scene; a murder where the perpetrator has made great effort to hide the victim's identity. Things are tense enough in Munich - an organisation called Red Freedom has been carrying out vicious crimes and acts of terror under the banner of Communism. Before the detectives can start to investigate if the murder is connected, Seb is called away for security detail to The Duke and Duchess of Windsor who are visiting Germany and meeting Hitler. A very high profile visit, and one that could be a Red Freedom target.
Seb's fiancee Hexie meanwhile has been invited by her old workmate Eva to visit her at Hitler's Berghof in Berchtesgaden. Yes... that would be Eva Braun. Hexie is anxious about the visit - about meeting Herr Hitler, but her friendship with Evie proves useful when she is called to a very intrusive fertility meeting.
Seb is also under pressure, not from Hexie and their trying for a baby, but from Ulrike's reappearance into their son Jurgen and his lives. With her communist views, surely Ulrike being back in Munich and the spate of attacks from Red Freedom couldn't be connected?
I love this series. I find the period of history (1930's Germany) fascinating. Sebastian Wolff and Hans Winter are great characters, I've become fond of them, and Hexie and Seb's relationship is endearing but also illuminating of the time and the expectations being put upon Germans. There was plenty of action, I was reluctant to put the book down as the many cases and suspects increased and wove together into a seemingly tensile web however the plot and outcomes are very satisfying.
I look forward to the next Detective Wolff novel, and this copy will go on my bookshelf next to the others. If you are new to this series, I do recommend you begin at book 1 Munich Wolff.
This is the third book in the Sebastian Wolff series so this review may contain spoilers.
We rejoin Sebastian and Hans Winter at a gruesome crime scene; a murder where the perpetrator has made great effort to hide the victim's identity. Things are tense enough in Munich - an organisation called Red Freedom has been carrying out vicious crimes and acts of terror under the banner of Communism. Before the detectives can start to investigate if the murder is connected, Seb is called away for security detail to The Duke and Duchess of Windsor who are visiting Germany and meeting Hitler. A very high profile visit, and one that could be a Red Freedom target.
Seb's fiancee Hexie meanwhile has been invited by her old workmate Eva to visit her at Hitler's Berghof in Berchtesgaden. Yes... that would be Eva Braun. Hexie is anxious about the visit - about meeting Herr Hitler, but her friendship with Evie proves useful when she is called to a very intrusive fertility meeting.
Seb is also under pressure, not from Hexie and their trying for a baby, but from Ulrike's reappearance into their son Jurgen and his lives. With her communist views, surely Ulrike being back in Munich and the spate of attacks from Red Freedom couldn't be connected?
I love this series. I find the period of history (1930's Germany) fascinating. Sebastian Wolff and Hans Winter are great characters, I've become fond of them, and Hexie and Seb's relationship is endearing but also illuminating of the time and the expectations being put upon Germans. There was plenty of action, I was reluctant to put the book down as the many cases and suspects increased and wove together into a seemingly tensile web however the plot and outcomes are very satisfying.
I look forward to the next Detective Wolff novel, and this copy will go on my bookshelf next to the others. If you are new to this series, I do recommend you begin at book 1 Munich Wolff.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Invitation from a Dictator by Rory Clements is the third instalment in the Wolf/Winters historical mystery thriller series.
I absolutely love this series of books set in the late 1930s in Germany. The books centre on Detective Sebastian Wolff, a veteran of the First World War, who is a detective in Munich’s criminal police (Kripo) and anti-Nazi. He has been partnered with Sergeant Hans Winter from the political police. Wolff and Winter have a good working relationship and mutual respect, which was earned as they learnt more about one another and their secrets in the previous two books.
In this instalment, set in 1937, Wolff has been seconded to the team to provide security for the highly controversial private visit to Nazi Germany by the Duke of Windsor (formerly King Edward VIII) and his wife, Wallis Simpson. I really like the way in which Clements uses real events that took place in Bavaria in the late 1930s and blends in Wolff and Winter into the mix. Also, in the background there are other storylines including Wolff’s relationship with his long-term girlfriend, Hexie, and their quest to have a child which also touches on the Lebensborn and Nazi eugenics.
It’s an absolute page-turner of a book. Wolff is such a great character and a sympathetic character as he tries to navigate a path whilst being critical of the Nazi movement and whilst trying to keep his job and his family and all those he loves safe. The historical aspect is absolutely fascinating.
Huge thanks to Net Galley and the publishers, Penguin General UK, for making this book available to me in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I absolutely love this series of books set in the late 1930s in Germany. The books centre on Detective Sebastian Wolff, a veteran of the First World War, who is a detective in Munich’s criminal police (Kripo) and anti-Nazi. He has been partnered with Sergeant Hans Winter from the political police. Wolff and Winter have a good working relationship and mutual respect, which was earned as they learnt more about one another and their secrets in the previous two books.
In this instalment, set in 1937, Wolff has been seconded to the team to provide security for the highly controversial private visit to Nazi Germany by the Duke of Windsor (formerly King Edward VIII) and his wife, Wallis Simpson. I really like the way in which Clements uses real events that took place in Bavaria in the late 1930s and blends in Wolff and Winter into the mix. Also, in the background there are other storylines including Wolff’s relationship with his long-term girlfriend, Hexie, and their quest to have a child which also touches on the Lebensborn and Nazi eugenics.
It’s an absolute page-turner of a book. Wolff is such a great character and a sympathetic character as he tries to navigate a path whilst being critical of the Nazi movement and whilst trying to keep his job and his family and all those he loves safe. The historical aspect is absolutely fascinating.
Huge thanks to Net Galley and the publishers, Penguin General UK, for making this book available to me in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What can i say?
This is book three of the Seb Wolff series and honestly the first two were such a good read and i was highly excited to get my mitts on this!
I was not disappointed at all was so happy to be in this world that Clements builds for us.
' ON THE EVE OF WAR, A ROYAL GUEST IS LURED INTO HITLER'S DEADLY WEB . . .' This is some wording from the book and refers to 1937 and The Duke and Duchess of Windsor arrive at Hitlers mountain retreat. Seb Wolff continues to work within the limitations of the Nazi regime, but this time not only is he charged with the investigation of a handless and faceless body, he is again joined by his political partner Hanz Winter, of which throughout all of the books has became closer.
The plot is engaging, but there is more than one plot going on throughout the book, which Clements always manages to blend seamlessly, we have the murder, the former King of England and his wife Wallis Simpson threatened by a group called the 'The Red Freedom' we have the personal tribulations of his relationship with his girlfriend, his mother and his son which is nice to see that side of this main character.
This book bounds on at a relentless pace, building into a gripping page turner, it is so much more than i have explained today, with these books Clements is quickly becoming a favourite author of mine.
READ THIS!!
(However start at the beginning of the series, as then you will appreciate the character building so much more )
This is book three of the Seb Wolff series and honestly the first two were such a good read and i was highly excited to get my mitts on this!
I was not disappointed at all was so happy to be in this world that Clements builds for us.
' ON THE EVE OF WAR, A ROYAL GUEST IS LURED INTO HITLER'S DEADLY WEB . . .' This is some wording from the book and refers to 1937 and The Duke and Duchess of Windsor arrive at Hitlers mountain retreat. Seb Wolff continues to work within the limitations of the Nazi regime, but this time not only is he charged with the investigation of a handless and faceless body, he is again joined by his political partner Hanz Winter, of which throughout all of the books has became closer.
The plot is engaging, but there is more than one plot going on throughout the book, which Clements always manages to blend seamlessly, we have the murder, the former King of England and his wife Wallis Simpson threatened by a group called the 'The Red Freedom' we have the personal tribulations of his relationship with his girlfriend, his mother and his son which is nice to see that side of this main character.
This book bounds on at a relentless pace, building into a gripping page turner, it is so much more than i have explained today, with these books Clements is quickly becoming a favourite author of mine.
READ THIS!!
(However start at the beginning of the series, as then you will appreciate the character building so much more )
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It is now 1937 in Munich and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor are due to visit Hitler in his mountain retreat. The day before their visit, a Communist group launches a series of attacks throughout the city and Detective Sebatian Wolff is put in charge of an operation to keep the important visitors safe. Everything becomes more complicated, though, when he realises that one of the terrorists is Ulrike, the mother of his son.
With Sebastian Wolff, Rory Clements has managed to establish a new series of books that rivals his own Tom Wilde series (set in Britain during World War II) in excellence, not an easy feat. The atmosphere is superb, with a sense of ever-growing danger for anyone who does not whole heartedly follow the regime (and many who do), and no way of knowing who can be trusted, even within your family. Each instalment is cranking up the tension and it’s a beautifully researched glimpse of life for those in Germany at the time.
The action is well paced but the plot is always based on much more than non-stop action. There is an excellent balance of each book’s individual plot and the continuing background story – each one can be read alone, this one included, but it is very much worth your time to go back and read from the beginning (for both series). These are superb historical thrillers.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
With Sebastian Wolff, Rory Clements has managed to establish a new series of books that rivals his own Tom Wilde series (set in Britain during World War II) in excellence, not an easy feat. The atmosphere is superb, with a sense of ever-growing danger for anyone who does not whole heartedly follow the regime (and many who do), and no way of knowing who can be trusted, even within your family. Each instalment is cranking up the tension and it’s a beautifully researched glimpse of life for those in Germany at the time.
The action is well paced but the plot is always based on much more than non-stop action. There is an excellent balance of each book’s individual plot and the continuing background story – each one can be read alone, this one included, but it is very much worth your time to go back and read from the beginning (for both series). These are superb historical thrillers.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Invitation From a Dictator by Rory Clements
This is the third novel to feature Sebastian Wolff and it is set in Germany in1937. Wolff works for the police and has an uncle who is well placed in the Nazi party but he has not joined the party himself. His son has now become a confirmed party member and Sebastian finds this difficult to cope with.
Wolff is given orders to protect the Fuhrer and his important guests the Duke and Duchess of Windsor and so he leaves Winter his sidekick to investigate who the victim of a particularly violent murder is. Sebastian’s girlfriend is involved in the story when a friend of hers from the Photographic studio where she worked invites her to the Fuhrer’s retreat. The friend is Eva Braun.
The author makes the plot believable and the characters of Wolff and Winter have developed well over the three novels. If you have not read Munich Wolf and Evil in High Places I would recommend doing so as it is interesting to join Wolff at the beginning of his journey, but this could be read as a standalone. I like the glimpses which we get into Wolff’s personal life and in this novel they are crucial to the main body of the story. I will be recommending this novel at my various book groups and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys well written historical crime. Many thanks to Rory Clements, the publishers and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
This is the third novel to feature Sebastian Wolff and it is set in Germany in1937. Wolff works for the police and has an uncle who is well placed in the Nazi party but he has not joined the party himself. His son has now become a confirmed party member and Sebastian finds this difficult to cope with.
Wolff is given orders to protect the Fuhrer and his important guests the Duke and Duchess of Windsor and so he leaves Winter his sidekick to investigate who the victim of a particularly violent murder is. Sebastian’s girlfriend is involved in the story when a friend of hers from the Photographic studio where she worked invites her to the Fuhrer’s retreat. The friend is Eva Braun.
The author makes the plot believable and the characters of Wolff and Winter have developed well over the three novels. If you have not read Munich Wolf and Evil in High Places I would recommend doing so as it is interesting to join Wolff at the beginning of his journey, but this could be read as a standalone. I like the glimpses which we get into Wolff’s personal life and in this novel they are crucial to the main body of the story. I will be recommending this novel at my various book groups and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys well written historical crime. Many thanks to Rory Clements, the publishers and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
August 14, 2026
The Wolff series just got even better! But it can also be read as a standalone, so don't worry if you've not met Wolff and Winter before! You'll have a blast catching up with them! Full of tension throughout, it's a book that keeps you turning those pages wondering just where the story will take you next!
A brutal crime scene starts the book, and a new investigation for them to undertake with very little to go on so their crime solving skills are really being put to the test. And this is all set amidst 1937 in Germany, when the darkness of Hitler was yet to reveal itself, and a Royal visit is being planned. The Duke and Duchess of Windsor are due for a tour of Germany, and Seb Wolff is being lined up to provide security for them as he speaks English! He is aware of the threats but he plays by the book and his focus is on protecting those under threat.
His other half, Hexie, is also featured in this story and her friendship with Eva Braun is explored, so that adds another element to the story and gives you some kind of idea of what was going on at the Furhrers retreat.
Seb Wolff is under threat from many around him, not least by members of the Gestapo so he's really in the thick of all the action as he tries to be involved on so many fronts, and the mix of real history alongside that of imagined characters and happenings really play out well in the setting and tone of the story. Highly recommended!!
A brutal crime scene starts the book, and a new investigation for them to undertake with very little to go on so their crime solving skills are really being put to the test. And this is all set amidst 1937 in Germany, when the darkness of Hitler was yet to reveal itself, and a Royal visit is being planned. The Duke and Duchess of Windsor are due for a tour of Germany, and Seb Wolff is being lined up to provide security for them as he speaks English! He is aware of the threats but he plays by the book and his focus is on protecting those under threat.
His other half, Hexie, is also featured in this story and her friendship with Eva Braun is explored, so that adds another element to the story and gives you some kind of idea of what was going on at the Furhrers retreat.
Seb Wolff is under threat from many around him, not least by members of the Gestapo so he's really in the thick of all the action as he tries to be involved on so many fronts, and the mix of real history alongside that of imagined characters and happenings really play out well in the setting and tone of the story. Highly recommended!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
5* In 'Invitation from a Dictator' by Rory Clements, the aforementioned invitation is not for Munich police detective Seb Wolff, but for his girlfriend Hexie. Hexie's friend Eva Braun has invited her to the Berghof mountain retreat to meet her boyfriend. Meanwhile Seb must ensure the safety of the the former King Edward VIII who is touring Germany with his new wife. So, there's lots that can go wrong.
Munich 1937. Third in the pre-World War Two series featuring Seb Wolff, 'Invitation from a Dictator' is now hitting its pace as characters, setting and context are well-established. Seb is concentrating on being a policeman divorced from politics, which is difficult when he's working for Nazis. There's still no wedding for the couple, despite hints from Seb's mother, but Seb and Hexie are more concerned that there is no baby on the way. Seb's son Jurgen, just home from Reich Labour Service camp, is showing signs of Nazi indoctrination while his ex Ulrike, Jurgen's mother, is working in a local bierkeller. And a murder victim has been so disfigured he can't be identified. Regular characters return, including Seb's sergeant Hans Winter, who must hold the fort in Munich while Seb follows the royal party around.
Well-documented history is expertly interwoven with fictional characters and situations. Sub-plots are intertwined. The Duke of Windsor has a stalker, a sinister doctor reappears from Hexie's past while communist group Red Freedom is planning to assassinate the Duke, Duchess and Hitler.
An addictive pageturner with likeable central characters who make you root for them.
Read more of my book reviews at http://www.sandradanby.com/book-revie...
Munich 1937. Third in the pre-World War Two series featuring Seb Wolff, 'Invitation from a Dictator' is now hitting its pace as characters, setting and context are well-established. Seb is concentrating on being a policeman divorced from politics, which is difficult when he's working for Nazis. There's still no wedding for the couple, despite hints from Seb's mother, but Seb and Hexie are more concerned that there is no baby on the way. Seb's son Jurgen, just home from Reich Labour Service camp, is showing signs of Nazi indoctrination while his ex Ulrike, Jurgen's mother, is working in a local bierkeller. And a murder victim has been so disfigured he can't be identified. Regular characters return, including Seb's sergeant Hans Winter, who must hold the fort in Munich while Seb follows the royal party around.
Well-documented history is expertly interwoven with fictional characters and situations. Sub-plots are intertwined. The Duke of Windsor has a stalker, a sinister doctor reappears from Hexie's past while communist group Red Freedom is planning to assassinate the Duke, Duchess and Hitler.
An addictive pageturner with likeable central characters who make you root for them.
Read more of my book reviews at http://www.sandradanby.com/book-revie...
August 12, 2026
ARC review: I absolutely adore a historical read, especially one set during the 30’s and 40’s. This one bought an extra layer of thought to it being set in Munich before the outbreak of the war.
it’s always interesting reading something from ‘the other sides’ perspective. And this one was no different, it was challenging because who were displayed as ‘the bad guys’ we would consider ‘good’ - people trying to kill hitler. but then it also had you thinking about every day right and wrongs, and do you fight fire with fire? where does the line of murder become drawn with those who may ‘get in the way’. I absolutely adore books like this that get you thinking.
the plot of this was cleaver and suspenseful at times, knowing you are dealing with the SS and Gestapo automatically brings a level of wariness, because they are so rouge and brutal things can go any way. Mixing in the English royals added another complex and intriguing layer.
Where I would say I struggled would be with the characters dialogue, it seemed overly simplistic, a little stupid and almost lacking depth at times it just didn’t feel like it quite fit in some parts.
I did really enjoy this and thank you to Netgalley and Penguin General UK for the opportunity to read this proof!
it’s always interesting reading something from ‘the other sides’ perspective. And this one was no different, it was challenging because who were displayed as ‘the bad guys’ we would consider ‘good’ - people trying to kill hitler. but then it also had you thinking about every day right and wrongs, and do you fight fire with fire? where does the line of murder become drawn with those who may ‘get in the way’. I absolutely adore books like this that get you thinking.
the plot of this was cleaver and suspenseful at times, knowing you are dealing with the SS and Gestapo automatically brings a level of wariness, because they are so rouge and brutal things can go any way. Mixing in the English royals added another complex and intriguing layer.
Where I would say I struggled would be with the characters dialogue, it seemed overly simplistic, a little stupid and almost lacking depth at times it just didn’t feel like it quite fit in some parts.
I did really enjoy this and thank you to Netgalley and Penguin General UK for the opportunity to read this proof!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review of an advanced copy.
What can I say, Rory Clements you have done it again!!!
It's 1937 in Munich, The Duke and Duchess of Windsor are in Germany for a historic meeting with Hitler at his home in the mountains. There have been attacks by a communist gang called Red Freedom who have brutally killed a couple in front of their young child. They are as brutal as the Nazis and their next targets are The Duke and Duchess and Hitler. Seb is unhappily put in charge of their protection but things become even more complicated with Seb's politics and when he finds out who is involved with Red Freedom brings it all closer to home.
I think this book has been my favourite in the series so far but they have all been so good. Seb is a brilliant character, he's a good man and I am excited to see what he gets caught up in next. Hexie and Winters are great characters as well. Hopefully Jürgen gets some sense. I will be recommending this series to everyone, it's just so damn good!
Thank you to NetGalley and many thanks to the publisher Penguin General for the opportunity to read this brilliant book.
What can I say, Rory Clements you have done it again!!!
It's 1937 in Munich, The Duke and Duchess of Windsor are in Germany for a historic meeting with Hitler at his home in the mountains. There have been attacks by a communist gang called Red Freedom who have brutally killed a couple in front of their young child. They are as brutal as the Nazis and their next targets are The Duke and Duchess and Hitler. Seb is unhappily put in charge of their protection but things become even more complicated with Seb's politics and when he finds out who is involved with Red Freedom brings it all closer to home.
I think this book has been my favourite in the series so far but they have all been so good. Seb is a brilliant character, he's a good man and I am excited to see what he gets caught up in next. Hexie and Winters are great characters as well. Hopefully Jürgen gets some sense. I will be recommending this series to everyone, it's just so damn good!
Thank you to NetGalley and many thanks to the publisher Penguin General for the opportunity to read this brilliant book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Invitation from a Dictator is a very good and enjoyable read, and a great addition to this series. It is 1937 and Wolff and Winter (who I am liking more and more) investigate a murder where they have difficulty identifying the victim. Wolff also has orders to protect the Fuhrer and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor when they visit the Fuhrers retreat. The story grabbed my attention and interest right from the start and held it all the way through. The authors writing is very good and engaging and the plot believeable. I think the author portrays the times so well under Hitlers regime and the characters jump out of the pages and I can picture them in my mind when reading. There are lots of threads woven into the story which kept me guessing. I really like Wolff, he frequently gets himself into trouble and disobeys orders, often to his own detriment. I always root for him though and love the glimpses into his personal and family life too.
If you enjoy crime historical thrillers then this book and series is for you, and I would recommend it. Looking forward to the next book.
4 stars
If you enjoy crime historical thrillers then this book and series is for you, and I would recommend it. Looking forward to the next book.
4 stars
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A brilliant novel build around historical facts.
I read the previous book in this series, and couldn't wait to read this one.
In 1937 Captain Seb Wolfe of the Munich Police is great at his single minded pursuit of justice. Hovered, he is hampered by the political situation of the time in Germany, which has resulted in the powerful state police, the SS getting involved more and more in normal police matters, often in a brutal way. He is seconded to provide additional security for part of the visit to Germany of ex- King Edward VIII of England and his wife. There is a communist group who are threatening the visit, and they are as barbaric in some of their actions as the SS. Wolffe also has to cope with conflicting family matters that could well affect his and their lives.
This is an extreemly well written book, that cleverly blends in proven events of the time. The pace is absolutely relentless.The characters and situations come to life, so much so that was wondering at times if these events really did transpired.
Highly recmmended
I read the previous book in this series, and couldn't wait to read this one.
In 1937 Captain Seb Wolfe of the Munich Police is great at his single minded pursuit of justice. Hovered, he is hampered by the political situation of the time in Germany, which has resulted in the powerful state police, the SS getting involved more and more in normal police matters, often in a brutal way. He is seconded to provide additional security for part of the visit to Germany of ex- King Edward VIII of England and his wife. There is a communist group who are threatening the visit, and they are as barbaric in some of their actions as the SS. Wolffe also has to cope with conflicting family matters that could well affect his and their lives.
This is an extreemly well written book, that cleverly blends in proven events of the time. The pace is absolutely relentless.The characters and situations come to life, so much so that was wondering at times if these events really did transpired.
Highly recmmended
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
With seemingly unconnected crimes, an unidentified body and an impending visit from the Duke of Windsor and his entourage, Detective Sebastian Wolff has it all to contend with. The plot weaves in and out creating an ever tightening web, peppered with historical details you feel like you're sat drinking in the bierkellers soaking up the atmosphere of pre war Germany. It results in a powder keg of tension, a race against time and a communist plot to thwart with more at stake than Wolff was expecting.
This is my first Rory Clements book and I loved the attention to detail, the story and characters were compelling and gripping. It can be easily read as a standalone but I found Wolff such an interesting character that I want to go and read the previous two books now.
It has action, tension, plot and well formed characters, definitely one to read if you love thrillers or historical thrillers.
This is my first Rory Clements book and I loved the attention to detail, the story and characters were compelling and gripping. It can be easily read as a standalone but I found Wolff such an interesting character that I want to go and read the previous two books now.
It has action, tension, plot and well formed characters, definitely one to read if you love thrillers or historical thrillers.
August 13, 2026
I’m really enjoying this series which not only has cracking good stories, the character development also plays an important part. Seb Wolffe is a strong central character and his backstory moves on a bit with every take. He’s a decent man, sometimes conflicted and it’s interesting to see parallels to the series featuring Tome Wilde, but these are set in Germany and help to challenge the view that Germans were the baddies. I know that’s simplistic, but as a post war child, I was aware of a view that Germans were perceived negatively and it was never that black and white, this story is particularly interesting because of the involvement of the odious Duke and Duchess of Windsor. Britain would have been a very different country if he had not abdicated and his links to Hitler and his fawning are well portrayed. Clemente’s pays attention to historical detail and there are a few threads running through this carefully plotted tale. Really enjoyed it and one of the best in the series.
August 15, 2026
Rory Clemens has done it again. A story that grabs your eyeballs and your imagination, and doesn't let go until you've finished the book.
It does help if you've read the other books in the series, as he reintroduces characters from Sebastien's past, but it's fast paced, and based on historical events - namely the Duke & Duchess of Windsor's visit to pre-war Natzi Germany.
If you have read the Tim Wilde series (starting with Tom Wilde Series Collection 8 Books Set By Rory Clements) then you will have a good idea of Mr Clement's writing style.
It does help if you've read the other books in the series, as he reintroduces characters from Sebastien's past, but it's fast paced, and based on historical events - namely the Duke & Duchess of Windsor's visit to pre-war Natzi Germany.
If you have read the Tim Wilde series (starting with Tom Wilde Series Collection 8 Books Set By Rory Clements) then you will have a good idea of Mr Clement's writing style.
August 23, 2026
The year is 1937, and Adolf Hitler has invited the Duke and Duchess of Windsor to his mountain retreat.
Security is high, and Detective Sebastian Wolff is part of the team guarding them.
He will have to be even more vigilant than usual, as there a terrorist group called Red Freedom. and they are on a rampage.
Things become even more tense when Wolff finds that out that one of the leaders is the mother of his son, and his first love.
This is the most difficult period of the detective’s life, can he do his job and protect the people he loves at the same time?
This new book by Rory Clements is one of his best.
The setting and characters are excellent, and the atmosphere is charged with tension throughout the story.
I’m a massive fan of Rory Clements, and I personally think no one writes this period of history better. Historical fiction at its best.
Security is high, and Detective Sebastian Wolff is part of the team guarding them.
He will have to be even more vigilant than usual, as there a terrorist group called Red Freedom. and they are on a rampage.
Things become even more tense when Wolff finds that out that one of the leaders is the mother of his son, and his first love.
This is the most difficult period of the detective’s life, can he do his job and protect the people he loves at the same time?
This new book by Rory Clements is one of his best.
The setting and characters are excellent, and the atmosphere is charged with tension throughout the story.
I’m a massive fan of Rory Clements, and I personally think no one writes this period of history better. Historical fiction at its best.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the third book in the excellent Detective Sebastian Wolff series and in my mind the best.
The plot is exciting and complex with his investigation of the murder of a mutilated corpse linked to his efforts to deal with the communist group Red Freedom who are creating havoc in Berlin and Munich.
If that is not quite enough he is part of the protection team for the Duke of Windsor and Mrs Simpspn who are guests of the Nazi regime.
Oh - and his girlfriend is having trouble trying to conceive too.
Somehow all these disparate parts come together brilliantly and this is a rollicking good tale excellently told.
Bernie Gunther he ain't but I really like Detective Sebastian Wolff too.
The plot is exciting and complex with his investigation of the murder of a mutilated corpse linked to his efforts to deal with the communist group Red Freedom who are creating havoc in Berlin and Munich.
If that is not quite enough he is part of the protection team for the Duke of Windsor and Mrs Simpspn who are guests of the Nazi regime.
Oh - and his girlfriend is having trouble trying to conceive too.
Somehow all these disparate parts come together brilliantly and this is a rollicking good tale excellently told.
Bernie Gunther he ain't but I really like Detective Sebastian Wolff too.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
May 2, 2026Thank you to the author and Penguin Books / Viking Books for the ARC.
Set in 1930s Berlin, this novel follows detective Sebastian Wolff as he navigates the tense and dangerous atmosphere of Nazi Germany. As political pressures mount, Wolff is pulled into a case that quickly becomes entangled with the regime’s growing power, forcing him to confront questions of loyalty, truth, and survival.
I thoroughly enjoyed this. It’s gripping, fast-paced, and incredibly immersive, with a strong sense of place and tension throughout. The historical detail adds depth, and the moral complexities make it more than just a thriller, it’s also a compelling look at life under an authoritarian regime. A really engaging and thought-provoking read.
Set in 1930s Berlin, this novel follows detective Sebastian Wolff as he navigates the tense and dangerous atmosphere of Nazi Germany. As political pressures mount, Wolff is pulled into a case that quickly becomes entangled with the regime’s growing power, forcing him to confront questions of loyalty, truth, and survival.
I thoroughly enjoyed this. It’s gripping, fast-paced, and incredibly immersive, with a strong sense of place and tension throughout. The historical detail adds depth, and the moral complexities make it more than just a thriller, it’s also a compelling look at life under an authoritarian regime. A really engaging and thought-provoking read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Police Detective Seb Wolff is back!! This time our favourite anti-facist detective has to juggle a gruesome murder that leaves no clue of who the victim actually is, the Nazi hierarchy breathing down his neck to find the left wing terrorist group, Red Freedom, his son who has turned into a fully paid up Nazi believer and his mother who is definitely not, all while babysitting the Duke and Duchess of Windsor and trying to prevent them from being assassinated! All the wonderful characters of Hexie, who turns out to be an old mate of Eva Braun, Sergeant Winter, who really is one of the good guys now, his least favourite, but most helpful uncle, the Pig have their parts to play in this page turning, engrossing and thoroughly entertaining thriller. I really can't wait to see what he does next!
August 22, 2026
Enthralling as usual
I waited patiently all summer for this book to come out and was not disappointed. The background research on this period of history is phenomenal in Rory Clements novels set in Nazi Germany. I enjoy the thought provoking look in to the lives of people living at this time. It seems that totalitarianism was a creeping entity and many citizen were overtaken by it in just going about their daily existence. I always wondered about the circumstances surrounding former King Edward VIII's visit to Hitler's Reich and now I have some insight in to how it could have come about as explained by the author at the end of the story.
Really enjoyed the read & couldn't put it down.
I waited patiently all summer for this book to come out and was not disappointed. The background research on this period of history is phenomenal in Rory Clements novels set in Nazi Germany. I enjoy the thought provoking look in to the lives of people living at this time. It seems that totalitarianism was a creeping entity and many citizen were overtaken by it in just going about their daily existence. I always wondered about the circumstances surrounding former King Edward VIII's visit to Hitler's Reich and now I have some insight in to how it could have come about as explained by the author at the end of the story.
Really enjoyed the read & couldn't put it down.
February 10, 2026
The Munich detective Seb Wolff investigates the murder of a mutilated body which may be the work of a left-wing group but is then tasked with protecting the British former king and his wife as they visit Germany. I enjoyed this book as I have others of the author’s books. It’s a thrilling story set in the dangerous world of pre-war Nazi Germany and Wolff is a sympathetic protagonist as he hates the Nazis especially the Gestapo while trying to be an honest cop.
I did, however, find that towards the end there were too many coincidences that stretched believability as the plot wound to a conclusion.
Thanks to Netgalley and Viking for a free ARC in return for an honest and fair review
I did, however, find that towards the end there were too many coincidences that stretched believability as the plot wound to a conclusion.
Thanks to Netgalley and Viking for a free ARC in return for an honest and fair review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A great read! Thoroughly enjoyed and recommend yet another of this author’s espionage novels featuring Sebastian Wolff. As chief of detectives of the Munich police, Seb doubles up as a member of the protection team for a Duke and Duchess of Windsor’s visit to Bavaria prior to the outbreak of WW2. Serb’s remit is initially to find a murderer, but this overlaps into hunting down members of a communist group called Red Freedom, intent on killing senior officials and the Royal couple. Fast paced, clever storyline and an excellent page turner.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers Penguin for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers Penguin for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
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