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Eleanor Roosevelt #13
A Royal Murder
In this latest thriller in the popular Eleanor Roosevelt mystery series, Eleanor--determined First Lady turned sleuth--uncovers a dangerous Nazi scheme brewing in the Bahamas. Booklist said of this series, Roosevelt mixes fiction and historical events and personalities to produce absorbing murder mysteries.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published August 1, 1994
2 people are currently reading
181 people want to read
About the author
Elliott Roosevelt
61 books47 followersElliott Roosevelt (September 23, 1910 – October 27, 1990) was an United States Army Air Forces officer and an author. Roosevelt was a son of U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
September 3, 2018
A cute, charming mystery that features First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt going on a mission of diplomacy and a little investigation in the Bahamas in 1942. Britain has received the much needed battleships in exchange for allowing the Americans to build airbases on their territory — which is currently being governed by the semi-disgraced Duke and Duchess of Winsor, who are naively, perhaps, sympathetic to the Nazis.
Patient, always warm and charming, Mrs. Roosevelt is, but she's also a very smart cookie … even right from the get go as the extensive radio system on a Swedish yacht is destroyed and the owner turns up dead. A young woman is witnessed wandering the ship and the description sounds very much like Eleanor's young maid; and then there are the other mysterious clues that keep cropping up. Nothing that leads to any clear cut solution, however, as the dead bodies slowly grow.
This is not as serious as it sounds and much of it seems very unrealistic, but it remains a light, easy enjoyable read for a quiet afternoon.
Patient, always warm and charming, Mrs. Roosevelt is, but she's also a very smart cookie … even right from the get go as the extensive radio system on a Swedish yacht is destroyed and the owner turns up dead. A young woman is witnessed wandering the ship and the description sounds very much like Eleanor's young maid; and then there are the other mysterious clues that keep cropping up. Nothing that leads to any clear cut solution, however, as the dead bodies slowly grow.
This is not as serious as it sounds and much of it seems very unrealistic, but it remains a light, easy enjoyable read for a quiet afternoon.
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September 3, 2010I didn't know that Prince Edward was govenor of the Bahamas with his American wife, Wallis. They are a book unto themselves.
This book has first lady, Eleanor Roosvelt, flying down to the Bahamas for a diplomatic meeting. However, there is more afoot with the second world war looming.
A very quick read. Not fantastically written and at times had to go back and figure out which character was which. Interesting to learn more about Eleanor Roosevelt's personality; it was written by her son.
This book has first lady, Eleanor Roosvelt, flying down to the Bahamas for a diplomatic meeting. However, there is more afoot with the second world war looming.
A very quick read. Not fantastically written and at times had to go back and figure out which character was which. Interesting to learn more about Eleanor Roosevelt's personality; it was written by her son.
April 14, 2020
The Duke and Duchess of Windsor have been posted to the Bahamas. Lend Lease has been signed in Washington, D.C. with war ships being sent to Britain in exchange for a naval base in the Bahamas. Eleanor has been sent to check out the possible wites accompanied by others from the Navy.
German U-boats are in the Atlantic. Support is being given to them from the Carribean and Central and South America. Many business leaders are supporting Hitler for financial reasons. They have the support of the Duke and Duchess.
And one of the business leaders ends up dead. Eleanor has only days to find the murderer and keep suspicion from falling on members of her own staff.
History and personalities are the highlight of this book. Many of the people mentioned in this book are well known today, yet are not written very favorably of. Why would Lindberg, Henry Ford and others like them support Hitler? The answers are intriguing.
The book is a fast, easy, enjoyable read.
German U-boats are in the Atlantic. Support is being given to them from the Carribean and Central and South America. Many business leaders are supporting Hitler for financial reasons. They have the support of the Duke and Duchess.
And one of the business leaders ends up dead. Eleanor has only days to find the murderer and keep suspicion from falling on members of her own staff.
History and personalities are the highlight of this book. Many of the people mentioned in this book are well known today, yet are not written very favorably of. Why would Lindberg, Henry Ford and others like them support Hitler? The answers are intriguing.
The book is a fast, easy, enjoyable read.
June 26, 2022
Fascinating look at the the Bahama's in September 1940, with Eleanor visiting the Duke and Duchess of Windsor who were exiled there during WWII, due to having Nazi sympathies. The USA is concerned with German submarines patrolling the Atlantic disrupting ship traffic and wants to create a military base on the islands.
The mystery is convoluted with several people not who they claim to be, several people killed on large yachts that Eleanor boards at invitation of the Windsor's, and even one of Eleanor's staff in disguise. While the multiple deaths form the mystery for the book, what I found most interesting is the portrayal of both of the Windsor's lack of intellectual acuity and their arrogant attitude toward most of the islanders, who are Negro.
Worth reading for early WWII history few of us know about and how Eleanor bridges nationalities, race and status to help people---in this case the islanders.
The mystery is convoluted with several people not who they claim to be, several people killed on large yachts that Eleanor boards at invitation of the Windsor's, and even one of Eleanor's staff in disguise. While the multiple deaths form the mystery for the book, what I found most interesting is the portrayal of both of the Windsor's lack of intellectual acuity and their arrogant attitude toward most of the islanders, who are Negro.
Worth reading for early WWII history few of us know about and how Eleanor bridges nationalities, race and status to help people---in this case the islanders.
October 4, 2022
In 1940, Eleanor pays a visit to the Bahamas, where the new Duke of Windsor, formerly King Edward VIII, and his wife Wallis have been banished. It was considered a backwater by the British government in those days, and the accommodations for the new governor and his wife were abysmal. It is an interesting perspective on the couple and the situation in the Bahamas where over 80% of the population is dark-skinned and only one high-ranking position is filled by a dark-skinned person. That office is Chief of Police, since the white population figured that most crime was perpetrated by blacks. Mrs. Roosevelt is almost immediately immersed in murder and intrigue, spies and counterspies, and international problems. I found the book fascinating, not least because of the way the former king and his new wife were depicted. I think I have seen or read four accounts now of this couple, and they all differ wildly.
October 14, 2019
A real page turner! Set in the Bahamas in 1940, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt visits Nassau on a state visit to meet the Duke and Duchess of Windsor (the abdicated King Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson). The author quite accurately depicts the Windsors as self-absorbed, naïve, pro-Hitler, and desirous to resume the throne of England, by any means necessary. They have recently been posted to the Bahamas by the English government as the Governor General. The Governor's House is quite dilapidated, so they depend on many of their wealthy friends to entertain Mrs. Roosevelt--in hotel ballrooms, beach clubs, and yachts. During one of these parties, a wealthy Swedish businessman is murdered. Needless to say, Mrs. Roosevelt is on the case! Fun mystery with real characters, such as the Windsors and Errol Flynn. I recommend it.
February 12, 2019
Before long I will have read all the Eleanor Roosevelt mysteries. It is always of interest to read about historical figures of the time. Learning more of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor’s aspirations to collaborate with the Nazis and regain the English throne was educational. At the end of the books there is always an epilogue explaining what has happened to the historical characters later in life.
March 6, 2025
One of the more engaging books in this series - Eleanor features quite a bit more in this mystery than in some. But this one is somewhat eerie to read right now. Don't be surprised if you feel like finding a good biography of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor after this - who knew they were Nazi sympathizers? Can you imagine how much different WWII history would have run if Edward hadn't abdicated the crown for an American divorcee? And what does that imply for the current U.S. situation . . .
December 10, 2018
I love the historical nature of these mysteries as they always leave me with a million questions about history and WWII. Compared to the other ones in the series, this one is a bit convoluted though I am very glad I read it!
December 15, 2020
My enthusiasm is fading for this series, but it was interesting to remember Edward VIII's pro-Nazi tendencies and how that contributed to his virtual ostracism from England. One more thing to learn more about from a more reputable source in the future.
July 13, 2017
These book are always entertaining. The presence of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Nazi spies, and Erroll Flynn made this one particularly pleasant to read.
December 11, 2018
Enjoyed it, but it's not as good as "The Lincoln Bedroom" book. A little hard to follow in places. Learned more about World War II history.
October 26, 2019
The mystery itself was just average. However, the background regarding the Bahamas during World War II and the US neutrality issues during the first part of the war was very interesting.
May 31, 2021
2.5 start
An espionage mystery that takes place in the Bahamas prior to the entry of the US into WWII. The concept of the story is interesting but it is not well written.
An espionage mystery that takes place in the Bahamas prior to the entry of the US into WWII. The concept of the story is interesting but it is not well written.
September 30, 2022
it was good i would pass word
August 28, 2018
#15-Franklin sends Eleanor to Nassau, Bahamas to be guest of royal governor Duke Edward Windsor and his wife, Wallis Simpson, and to get intelligence people there to scope out possible/probable Nazi connections looking to make Latin America a Nazi stronghold, while US plans to build naval bases there in 1940. It seems Americans are violating neutrality laws as murder after murder and tampering with and destroying Lucretia yachts catering/supplying Nazi subs.
April 25, 2020
0-312-10970-9
February 16, 2016
It's September, 1940, and Eleanor Roosevelt is on a diplomatic mission to the Bahamas. The new governor is the Duke of Windsor, the former King of England. Through the Lend-Lease Act, the U.S. is considering putting a naval base in the Bahamas, and Mrs. Roosevelt's staff is checking out the location. The Bahamas Islands are suspected of harboring many people with pro-Nazi leanings who would like to see a Nazi foothold in the Americas. Soon Mrs. Roosevelt is caught up solving the murder of a Swedish businessman, and a whole German spy ring is uncovered.
Elliott Roosevelt weaves another interesting story of his mother's fictional sleuthing. The setting of the Bahamas is unique, and, as always, his depictions of historical personages are engaging. The descriptions of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor reveal a side of them that I was not familiar with - that of the embittered exiles. The perspective of America's situation in the pre-war years is also one that is not given much notice these days, and is enlightening to a modern reader.
Elliott Roosevelt weaves another interesting story of his mother's fictional sleuthing. The setting of the Bahamas is unique, and, as always, his depictions of historical personages are engaging. The descriptions of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor reveal a side of them that I was not familiar with - that of the embittered exiles. The perspective of America's situation in the pre-war years is also one that is not given much notice these days, and is enlightening to a modern reader.
June 8, 2013
Again, I was amazed at how much history I don't know. This is a story about Eleanor Roosevelt going to the Bahamas becasue the U.S. was planning on establishing bases (air and navy)in the area.
She is a guest of the Duke and Dutchess of Windsor, who are in exile there. Supposedly they are sympthaziers of Germany and Hitler. I thought, "well, this is a good piece of fiction." however, I decided to look this up and found it was true.
How clever of Elliott Roosevelt (son of Eleanor) to base a fictional mystery story on this truth.
There were so many characters that it was a little hard sometimes to remember who was who.
Overall it was an okay, short mystery.
She is a guest of the Duke and Dutchess of Windsor, who are in exile there. Supposedly they are sympthaziers of Germany and Hitler. I thought, "well, this is a good piece of fiction." however, I decided to look this up and found it was true.
How clever of Elliott Roosevelt (son of Eleanor) to base a fictional mystery story on this truth.
There were so many characters that it was a little hard sometimes to remember who was who.
Overall it was an okay, short mystery.
August 3, 2021
Elliot Roosevelt never fails to make the Eleanor Roosevelt mystery books a joy to read.
He leads you on an adventure with twists and turns that keep you guessing .
I love the fact that he uses the names of real people and real locations, it makes the story much more interesting for me.
A Royal Murder is a page turner, you don't want to put it down, and sometimes I wouldn't and then I'd wake up sitting in my favorite chair with the book on my lap, lol.
If you can get a copy to read, please do it. you won't be disappointed.
I'm now looking for more of his stories in Hard Cover Books to add to my collection.
Can't wait to be taken on another adventure with Eleanor.
He leads you on an adventure with twists and turns that keep you guessing .
I love the fact that he uses the names of real people and real locations, it makes the story much more interesting for me.
A Royal Murder is a page turner, you don't want to put it down, and sometimes I wouldn't and then I'd wake up sitting in my favorite chair with the book on my lap, lol.
If you can get a copy to read, please do it. you won't be disappointed.
I'm now looking for more of his stories in Hard Cover Books to add to my collection.
Can't wait to be taken on another adventure with Eleanor.
October 1, 2016
This book differed from others I have read in this series because it is set in the Bahamas where Eleanor is visiting the exiled Duke and Duchess of Windsor rather than in DC. Instead of assisting the police with murder investigations, she is on her own figuring out who is responsible for some deaths. The Duke and Duchess are rumored to harbor pro-Nazi sympathies. The book did not promote a very positive image of the couple.
June 23, 2009
One of the best of the outstanding mystery series featuring First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt as chief sleuth, written by the son of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt. Elliott Roosevelt served in the Army Air Corps in WWII and accompanied FDR to many of the key peace conferences. These mysteries are quick reads, with a keen eye on real history and lots of fun with our greatest First Lady!
November 30, 2013
Before "Abraham Lincoln, Vampire Slater" there was "Eleanor Roosevelt, Private Eye." I always enjoy these little times with the First Lady of the World. They are an easy read, and really capture her spirit and the atmosphere of the times.
March 21, 2011
BAHAMAS
May 6, 2011
In general, I'm a fan of this series. This one wasn't one of the best, but I enjoyed my little visit with Eleanor Roosevelt.
February 4, 2014
I enjoyed this particular book of the series. This was an interesting plot due to the world events of the time as well as being based in the Bahamas during the 1940's.
December 26, 2014
Very light and much better than I thought it would be.
August 21, 2015
fun quick read...wonder how accurate the background on the Duke and Duchess of Windsor really is.
December 18, 2016
I love this series! I can picture Elenanor dealing with the selfish Duke and his weasel faced wife. Can you tell I love the Queen?
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews