A blurb from Wendy is always a treat. She discovered this little gem so its only fitting that she tells you about it.
When Rozie Oshodi begins her new job at Windsor Palace, little does she realize that the Queen will turn to her for more than the occasional fetch and carry duties. The Queen is a wonderful, subtle, and bright character, who is confined by history and custom to the daily duties of the palace. She recognizes the usefulness of this bright young British Nigerian officer formerly of the Royal Horse Artillery. The Queen is definitely the protagonist in the novel; however, this young aide is the means by which the Queen can find the culprits in the murder in the palace. The book hints at the start of a new series in which these two characters will intertwine. In this mystery a young Russian pianist is murdered during a “dine and sleep” held prior to the Queen’s 90th birthday, she takes a personal interest in his life and death. The Queen is a quiet thinker who leaves the applause to the professionals even when they underestimate her. She guides the professionals and uses Rozie as her link to the outside world. As a woman of a certain age, I appreciate the portrayal of this 90 year old woman who is shrewd, wise, caring. This is not a mystery that patronizes age but recognizes the importance of experience and knowledge.
No comments:
Post a Comment