What do you think?
Rate this book
Coronation: A House of Windsor Mystery
A historical mystery inspired by true events.
England 1952: King George VI’s sudden death has created a crisis.
As the royal jewelers prepare for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, they discover that the historic jewels in the Imperial State Crown have been replaced with fake stones.
The real jewels had been removed from the crown at the beginning of World War II, to preserve them in case of invasion, but they are no longer in their hiding place.
Where are they now? Only one man knows but he has disappeared.
Powerful forces are plotting to block Elizabeth’s coronation and replace her with another member of the royal family. They will stop at nothing to retrieve the jewels for their own purposes.
With time running out, a small group loyal to Elizabeth, must follow a trail of treachery and death.
They must unravel the mystery on the night a squad of conscientious objectors were sent to dig a hole in the grounds of Windsor Castle and hide Britain’s greatest treasures...in an old biscuit tin.
England 1952: King George VI’s sudden death has created a crisis.
As the royal jewelers prepare for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, they discover that the historic jewels in the Imperial State Crown have been replaced with fake stones.
The real jewels had been removed from the crown at the beginning of World War II, to preserve them in case of invasion, but they are no longer in their hiding place.
Where are they now? Only one man knows but he has disappeared.
Powerful forces are plotting to block Elizabeth’s coronation and replace her with another member of the royal family. They will stop at nothing to retrieve the jewels for their own purposes.
With time running out, a small group loyal to Elizabeth, must follow a trail of treachery and death.
They must unravel the mystery on the night a squad of conscientious objectors were sent to dig a hole in the grounds of Windsor Castle and hide Britain’s greatest treasures...in an old biscuit tin.
259 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 3, 2023
77 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
About the author
Eileen Enwright Hodgetts
37 books119 followersEileen Enwright Hodgetts is a much traveled writer. Brought up in England and Wales, she has also lived and worked in South Africa and Uganda. Eileen and her husband, Graham, now make their home in Baden, PA. Eileen’s life experiences allow her to use exotic backgrounds for her novels and to understand how an adventure can begin with just one small incident. For ten years she directed a humanitarian mission in East Africa as an employee of Christ Church at Grove Farm in Sewickley, PA. and her whole family continues to be involved in Uganda through the Ugandan Gold Coffee project bringing coffee to the United States and returning the profits to Uganda to be used for drilling water wells. She writes historical fiction from Arthurian sagas to World War Two murder mysteries. The major movie "Unsinkable", currently in production, is based on her national award-winning stage play "Titanic to all Ships". Her latest work "The Girl on the Carpathia - A novel of the Titanic" reflects over twenty years of research into both the US senate hearings and the British inquiry into the sinking.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
September 18, 2023
Coronation: A House of Windsor Mystery by Eileen Enwright Hodgetts is based on true events. It is 1952 and the King of England, King George VI has passed away. His daughter Elizabeth is to be crowned Queen but there is a probably the crown jewels have been stolen.
At the beginning of World War II, the crown jewels were given to one man to hide them in order to keep Hitler from taking them. The jewels are not in their hiding place. The man who was put in charge of the crown jewels is missing as well.
The police believe the missing man’s girlfriend knows where he is but does she? The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat as each lead turned into one lead after another.
I was hooked from the very first page or maybe it was from the summary. The many twists and turns kept the pages turning as I waited and wondered where the crown jewels were. And where was the man who took them? What did he do with them?
I loved reading Eileen Enwright Hodgetts' books about the Titanic and others so when I got my first glimpse of Coronation I really wanted to read it and couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy once I did I dived right in and devoured it in just a few hours as I couldn’t lay it down for one minute.
And now I highly recommend you to grab a copy of Coronation as well and dive right in.
At the beginning of World War II, the crown jewels were given to one man to hide them in order to keep Hitler from taking them. The jewels are not in their hiding place. The man who was put in charge of the crown jewels is missing as well.
The police believe the missing man’s girlfriend knows where he is but does she? The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat as each lead turned into one lead after another.
I was hooked from the very first page or maybe it was from the summary. The many twists and turns kept the pages turning as I waited and wondered where the crown jewels were. And where was the man who took them? What did he do with them?
I loved reading Eileen Enwright Hodgetts' books about the Titanic and others so when I got my first glimpse of Coronation I really wanted to read it and couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy once I did I dived right in and devoured it in just a few hours as I couldn’t lay it down for one minute.
And now I highly recommend you to grab a copy of Coronation as well and dive right in.
March 23, 2023
A story that had me trying to uncover secrets and solve the mysteries until the end. Well written and had me turning the pages to see what happens next! A historical fiction and I just loved how the ending turned out. I recieved a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and I am so glad that I got the chance to do so!
Great story!
Great story!
May 8, 2023
For this and other book reviews, visit www.bargain-sleuth.com
You know if there’s a book that is even the remotest in terms of royal adjacent plots, I’m interested in reading it. Coronation: A House of Windsor Mystery, is based on factual information. During World War II, the crown jewels were removed from the Imperial State Crown with a screwdriver, put in a biscuit tin lined with cotton, and buried in a hidden trench at Windsor. That much is true. The rest of the story is made up.
That story, having the jewels stolen by one of the workers at Windsor Castle during the war, and the subsequent search for him and the jewels, takes up the bulk of the mystery. The man, Jeremy, was a conscientious objector who deserted and disappeared. The authorities, and a few rogue elements, believe his girlfriend, Valerie, knows where he is and where the precious jewels are located. The race is on to secure Valerie, who is full of secrets, and find the jewels for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation.
Taking place right after King George VI’s death and funeral, the Metropolitan Police are tasked with securing the Crown Jewels. There’s also a former serviceman, a crusty old sort, who doesn’t believe Elizabeth should be queen and has been in talks with the Duke and Duchess of Windsor in an effort to have Edward VIII reclaim the throne. What an interesting twist to the story!
There was a point about 3/4 of the way through the book where some of the scenes involving a vicar seem unnecessary and slowed the book down for me a bit. However, on the whole, this was an entertaining mystery and I’m glad I picked it up at a Bargain Sleuth approved price! Highly recommend.
You know if there’s a book that is even the remotest in terms of royal adjacent plots, I’m interested in reading it. Coronation: A House of Windsor Mystery, is based on factual information. During World War II, the crown jewels were removed from the Imperial State Crown with a screwdriver, put in a biscuit tin lined with cotton, and buried in a hidden trench at Windsor. That much is true. The rest of the story is made up.
That story, having the jewels stolen by one of the workers at Windsor Castle during the war, and the subsequent search for him and the jewels, takes up the bulk of the mystery. The man, Jeremy, was a conscientious objector who deserted and disappeared. The authorities, and a few rogue elements, believe his girlfriend, Valerie, knows where he is and where the precious jewels are located. The race is on to secure Valerie, who is full of secrets, and find the jewels for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation.
Taking place right after King George VI’s death and funeral, the Metropolitan Police are tasked with securing the Crown Jewels. There’s also a former serviceman, a crusty old sort, who doesn’t believe Elizabeth should be queen and has been in talks with the Duke and Duchess of Windsor in an effort to have Edward VIII reclaim the throne. What an interesting twist to the story!
There was a point about 3/4 of the way through the book where some of the scenes involving a vicar seem unnecessary and slowed the book down for me a bit. However, on the whole, this was an entertaining mystery and I’m glad I picked it up at a Bargain Sleuth approved price! Highly recommend.
June 1, 2023
The world celebrated King Charles' coronation this year, all the while remembering and reviewing his personal history, for better or for worse.
The Coronation we read about in this fascinating historical fiction mystery is that of his mother, Queen Elizabeth, whose 70 years on the throne set a stellar example for Charles to follow and attain his own level of leadership.
It is 1952, the king has died suddenly and Elizabeth is heir to the throne. But not all those in power support her. Secretly, the subversives argue that she is too young, is married to a foreigner, and would rather recall her uncle to the throne, un-do his abdication, and even allow twice-divorced Wallis Simpson to be his Queen. All very subversive of course, especially since Elizabeth is now the actual queen and all that remains is for the Coronation ceremony to seal the deal.
The Coronation follows an ancient protocol with symbolism and rituals that ensure an authentic right to rule. That includes the very ornate Coronation crown, bejeweled with stones that each have a history of their own. The subversive faction would like to get hold of these particular stones, believing that they would empower them and make it possible to put the Duke Of Windsor back on the throne.
Unfortunately, certain critical stones are missing, having been removed from the crown and hidden buried during the war to keep them out of nazi hands.
And so this tale begins with powerful factions competing against one another, using deadly force if necessary to trace and recover the missing gems.
I became a fan of the historical fiction of Eileen Enwright Hodgetts when I read her Titanic books and now this one. My book group would find a lot to talk about with any of these books. Next on my TBR by this author is The Serbian Solution.
The Coronation we read about in this fascinating historical fiction mystery is that of his mother, Queen Elizabeth, whose 70 years on the throne set a stellar example for Charles to follow and attain his own level of leadership.
It is 1952, the king has died suddenly and Elizabeth is heir to the throne. But not all those in power support her. Secretly, the subversives argue that she is too young, is married to a foreigner, and would rather recall her uncle to the throne, un-do his abdication, and even allow twice-divorced Wallis Simpson to be his Queen. All very subversive of course, especially since Elizabeth is now the actual queen and all that remains is for the Coronation ceremony to seal the deal.
The Coronation follows an ancient protocol with symbolism and rituals that ensure an authentic right to rule. That includes the very ornate Coronation crown, bejeweled with stones that each have a history of their own. The subversive faction would like to get hold of these particular stones, believing that they would empower them and make it possible to put the Duke Of Windsor back on the throne.
Unfortunately, certain critical stones are missing, having been removed from the crown and hidden buried during the war to keep them out of nazi hands.
And so this tale begins with powerful factions competing against one another, using deadly force if necessary to trace and recover the missing gems.
I became a fan of the historical fiction of Eileen Enwright Hodgetts when I read her Titanic books and now this one. My book group would find a lot to talk about with any of these books. Next on my TBR by this author is The Serbian Solution.
February 22, 2023
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review, so here it is.
I really enjoyed this story. Make no mistake it is a story of fiction with a few facts in the mix. This is what Eileen Enwright Hodgetts excels in. Her stories are well researched and then turned around to provide an entertaining read that is not dry or purely historical.
The main character, Valerie, is in danger but she doesn’t understand why. No-one will tell her what is going on other than that her co-operation is essential. The war may have been over for seven years but the repercussions are still being felt.
She has a secret that she has kept for over 10 years. These days no-one would bat an eyelid but set back in 1952 it was a different story for a young single woman.
As I write this, preparations are being made for the coronation of King Charles 111, perhaps this has made this story all the more enjoyable for me.
Eileen Enwright Hodgetts always writes a compelling story which I hope you will read and enjoy as much as I did.
I really enjoyed this story. Make no mistake it is a story of fiction with a few facts in the mix. This is what Eileen Enwright Hodgetts excels in. Her stories are well researched and then turned around to provide an entertaining read that is not dry or purely historical.
The main character, Valerie, is in danger but she doesn’t understand why. No-one will tell her what is going on other than that her co-operation is essential. The war may have been over for seven years but the repercussions are still being felt.
She has a secret that she has kept for over 10 years. These days no-one would bat an eyelid but set back in 1952 it was a different story for a young single woman.
As I write this, preparations are being made for the coronation of King Charles 111, perhaps this has made this story all the more enjoyable for me.
Eileen Enwright Hodgetts always writes a compelling story which I hope you will read and enjoy as much as I did.
April 30, 2023
I read a lot of books by a lot of different authors spanning several genres. Every so often, I am lucky enough to discover a writer who really understands their craft, does their research and is also capable of putting this all together to form a completely plausible, polished and truly readable story. Just such a writer is Eileen Enwright Hodges, and with Coronation, she has written a book which completely lives up to all these expectations.
It is a real page turner and beautifully captures the mood of 1952. It is historically correct in that there really was an influential faction who thought that the new queen was far too young and inexperienced to take the throne, and would go to any lengths to prevent it happening. It is so believable that I even think that the author might be privy to information which is normally kept very secret!
If you love historical fiction or just love a well crafted book, this is one not to be missed.
This is an unbiased review of an advance reader copy which I received from the author.
It is a real page turner and beautifully captures the mood of 1952. It is historically correct in that there really was an influential faction who thought that the new queen was far too young and inexperienced to take the throne, and would go to any lengths to prevent it happening. It is so believable that I even think that the author might be privy to information which is normally kept very secret!
If you love historical fiction or just love a well crafted book, this is one not to be missed.
This is an unbiased review of an advance reader copy which I received from the author.
May 20, 2023
“In my experience, there are times when we don’t realize what we know."
Valerie had a nice, peaceful life, working at the library, and living with her elderly aunts... then suddenly it seems everyone is looking for the boy she hasn't heard from in ten years. The one she thought she loved -- the one she'd really rather not talk about.
This done in one book spins an interesting tale in England as Princess Elizabeth is just becoming Queen Elizabeth II. An investigation is underway... there are those who would undermine her reign, those who would support a male heir, who question the abilities of young women... those who have been doing questionable things since the War it seems no one but Mr. Hitler wanted to fight.
I got sucked into this story. There was a community of characters, many of whom were, all too believably, living with the consequences of past actions and choices, feeling the effects of the War in the current lives, each trying to move forward in their own way.
Valerie had a nice, peaceful life, working at the library, and living with her elderly aunts... then suddenly it seems everyone is looking for the boy she hasn't heard from in ten years. The one she thought she loved -- the one she'd really rather not talk about.
This done in one book spins an interesting tale in England as Princess Elizabeth is just becoming Queen Elizabeth II. An investigation is underway... there are those who would undermine her reign, those who would support a male heir, who question the abilities of young women... those who have been doing questionable things since the War it seems no one but Mr. Hitler wanted to fight.
I got sucked into this story. There was a community of characters, many of whom were, all too believably, living with the consequences of past actions and choices, feeling the effects of the War in the current lives, each trying to move forward in their own way.
April 4, 2023
Set in the days leading up to Queen Elizabeth’s coronation in 1952, the story unfolds along multiple plot lines and weaves its way through different settings to a satisfying conclusion. I loved the author’s descriptions of the dark forests of Ministead, where the various plot threads lead and the creator of England’s super sleuth, Arthur Conan Doyle, is buried. The characters are (mostly) believable and definitely lovable. Everything seems meticulously researched, which I always appreciate, and I especially enjoyed the Author’s Note detailing the history of the Imperial State Crown’s jewels that are at the heart of this delightful mystery. I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review, and I definitely recommend this fast, fun read, especially if you’re drawn to British history and Royal Intrigue.
March 25, 2023
I found this book very entertaining. The story takes place as the United Kingdom has lost its king and is preparing for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. Some Crown Jewels are missing and Valerie is drawn into the search for them because of a previous relationship with Jeremy Paxton. The Local Vicar comes to her rescue and Inspector Lestock and Mrs Gordon try to protect her and want to get information from her. Valerie has great insight but can’t figure out why they want Jeremy. Even the mob is looking for him. Valerie is a wonderful character as are her twin aunts. I even found myself googling the history of Queen Elizabeth II coronation. I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review. Great book!
May 6, 2023
To be honest, I hadn’t expected to enjoy this book as much as I did; my usual read is fantasy of any kind, time travel, sci-fi or horror. So this was something completely different. Although British, I’ve never really followed the doings of the royal family, though I did know the basics of George VI coming to the throne following the abdication of his older brother, Edward VIII, his unexpected death and Elizabeth II coming to the throne. This book is a superbly crafted mix of fact and fiction, the story is set from several different viewpoints, all of which come together at the end. I thoroughly enjoyed the read, the characters were believable, the plot interesting and I found the book difficult to put down. I will definitely be looking for more books from this author.
February 24, 2023
Intruder as she was closing up the library, then a shoot was fired by two who had come to her rescue. Wanting to call the police, they replied no.
To speak nothing of what just happened, for it pertained to the Queen’s coronation. How can that be, no date had been given, a name was unknown.
Her past of a secret held, made her a target now.
A story of one’s who may receive awards but not to display, in service
of what has been saved thru history and to continue.
Interesting story of history and the mystery around it, the author has woven.
Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion ,
To speak nothing of what just happened, for it pertained to the Queen’s coronation. How can that be, no date had been given, a name was unknown.
Her past of a secret held, made her a target now.
A story of one’s who may receive awards but not to display, in service
of what has been saved thru history and to continue.
Interesting story of history and the mystery around it, the author has woven.
Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion ,
December 21, 2023
This mystery was released in the spring of 2023 just a month before the coronation of King Charles. I don’t remember ever hearing that several key, and historically important, stones had been removed from the Coronation crown during WWII to protect them in case the UK was invaded. That small part of the plot is true and made a great what-if premise for this novel where the rest of the story is pure fiction. It is a fun mystery, which occasionally dragged on more than necessary, and made the novel feel longer than its’ approximate 259 pages, thus dropping this from what could have been 4** for me to 3**. Despite that it’s a good escape into British history read.
February 21, 2023
A spellbinding mystery with historical facts intertwined into a fictional read. The characters come alive and you can feel their frustrations, anger, hurt and joys. A lone woman, who has secrets of her own, is believed to have the knowledge to solve the mystery. Where is Jeremy Paxton? Her long time ago lover, who she hasn't heard from in over 10 years, is being hunted by different factions and she has no clue why. Her life is endangered multiple times until answers are found. A good read and recommend. Received an ARC and this is my voluntary honest review.
March 23, 2023
I am at a complete loss for words at the end of this book. Valerie charmed me and stole my heart in only a few encounters. She’s a reserved young woman, who in spite of having every reason to the contrary, proved to be a formidable adversary, a fierce ally, and a steadfast confidante depending on the motives for or against her. I was quickly carried away in the story and the author deserves major credit for creating this alternate world where she seamlessly blended historical fact with fiction. Or is it?
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.
September 25, 2023
I know I really enjoyed a book when I am anxious to keep reading and when I am a bit sad when it ends because the characters' "lives" are over. Eileen Hodgetts has written a very entertaining novel based on true events of 1952 and the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The novel pivots around recovering the Crown Jewels for the Coronation State Crown hidden during the Blitz in London in 1942 during Worl War II. A high level of mystery and suspense make for s good page turner. Highly recommended.
April 2, 2023
A factual based historical fiction investigation story that has page turning intrigue all the way through. With the police having an eye on the end goal, and the people delaying their attempts along the way, there's plenty of emotional involvement and characters behaving in totally believable ways.
I loved the way the story unfolded each step of the way, and look forward to more of Eileen's work.
I loved the way the story unfolded each step of the way, and look forward to more of Eileen's work.
May 10, 2023
This is a well researched, well written story based on true history. I enjoy learning a little history while being entertained. This book brings history to life for me. The character, the language and the descriptions of the times kept me engrossed throughout. I would recommend it to readers who enjoy a little history lesson with their suspense. I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
September 15, 2023
mystery that unfolds
I selected this book because of the topic and a fascination I have with Queen Elizabeth II May she rest in peace. The book starts in threads and I will warn you dear reader you might be put off. Sticking with it is well worth the effort. The story lines resolve themselves to a great conclusion and it ended well. The beginning was the only disappointment and the reason for a 4 star
I selected this book because of the topic and a fascination I have with Queen Elizabeth II May she rest in peace. The book starts in threads and I will warn you dear reader you might be put off. Sticking with it is well worth the effort. The story lines resolve themselves to a great conclusion and it ended well. The beginning was the only disappointment and the reason for a 4 star
June 7, 2024
mystery that unfolds
I selected this book because of the topic and a fascination I have with Queen Elizabeth II May she rest in peace. The book starts in threads and I will warn you dear reader you might be put off. Sticking with it is well worth the effort. The story lines resolve themselves to a great conclusion and it ended well. The beginning was the only disappointment and the reason for a 4 star
I selected this book because of the topic and a fascination I have with Queen Elizabeth II May she rest in peace. The book starts in threads and I will warn you dear reader you might be put off. Sticking with it is well worth the effort. The story lines resolve themselves to a great conclusion and it ended well. The beginning was the only disappointment and the reason for a 4 star
March 6, 2023
ARC - epub from author: ISBN 9781737607045, 217 pages; also on Kobo
Timed to perfection - this concerns the previous coronation in 1953. With the nation in mourning for the early death f the King the new young Queen Elizabeth returns to Britain. While planning for the King's funeral it is discovered that four of the Crown Jewels have been replaced with paste versions - the originals having being removed for safe-keeping during the war. The four have an almost mystical significance and this is seized upon by various interested parties, not least a group who thinks the Queen is too young to accept the responsibilities of the monarch (and she's married to a foreigner, to boot - and one with close relatives married to Germans; his serving with the Royal navy during the war seems unimportant...
There are three distinct groups searching for the jewels - a special police group responsible for the safety of the Queen and all aspects to do with the coronation; the 'restoration' group (with off-stage briefings by, we are led to presume, the Duchess of Windsor - the Duke himself makes two brief appearances) and a 'family' of East End criminals who are involved in the search and who desire the jewels for financial gain. In addition a simple librarian, who has a secret, and her family become swept up in the confusion.
It's difficult to review the complex story adequately without spoiling the plot - I'd urge readers to go ahead and return to 1952, a post-war Britain very different to the one we know today. Obviously with hindsight we know how things will turn out - but it's the detail of the 'everyday' people, the librarian and her secret and her family and acquaintances that form the heart of the book that provide the interest.
Recommended!
Timed to perfection - this concerns the previous coronation in 1953. With the nation in mourning for the early death f the King the new young Queen Elizabeth returns to Britain. While planning for the King's funeral it is discovered that four of the Crown Jewels have been replaced with paste versions - the originals having being removed for safe-keeping during the war. The four have an almost mystical significance and this is seized upon by various interested parties, not least a group who thinks the Queen is too young to accept the responsibilities of the monarch (and she's married to a foreigner, to boot - and one with close relatives married to Germans; his serving with the Royal navy during the war seems unimportant...
There are three distinct groups searching for the jewels - a special police group responsible for the safety of the Queen and all aspects to do with the coronation; the 'restoration' group (with off-stage briefings by, we are led to presume, the Duchess of Windsor - the Duke himself makes two brief appearances) and a 'family' of East End criminals who are involved in the search and who desire the jewels for financial gain. In addition a simple librarian, who has a secret, and her family become swept up in the confusion.
It's difficult to review the complex story adequately without spoiling the plot - I'd urge readers to go ahead and return to 1952, a post-war Britain very different to the one we know today. Obviously with hindsight we know how things will turn out - but it's the detail of the 'everyday' people, the librarian and her secret and her family and acquaintances that form the heart of the book that provide the interest.
Recommended!
February 20, 2023
Just finished this absolutely phenomenal book.
The intriguing characters quickly pull you into the story to the point that it is very hard to put down.
This was a free complimentary copy and my comments are my own personal opinion.
I love Enwright-Hodgetts books and her attention to historical detail and human nature. Hopefully another book is in the works!
The intriguing characters quickly pull you into the story to the point that it is very hard to put down.
This was a free complimentary copy and my comments are my own personal opinion.
I love Enwright-Hodgetts books and her attention to historical detail and human nature. Hopefully another book is in the works!
March 29, 2023
I enjoyed the book. The twists kept me guessing and the story moved along at a good pace. I think the characters were well-written and the story history seemed on point. It caught the feel of post-war Britain. I liked how the author merged the mystery with the supposed theft of royal property.
I received this book for free and wished to leave a review.
I received this book for free and wished to leave a review.
April 3, 2023
An excellent read. Straight into action with Valerie, a librarian, wanted for information that she doesn't know she . As details unfold there is more confusion and secrets to tell. This story combines death, mystery, historical facts and more. An excellent read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 11, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It’s full of mystery and intrigue. I started it during coronation weekend. I could’ve read it in one sitting, but had other things come up. It’s full of very interesting characters. It’s a fiction, but is so well written that you believe it could happen. This is a first time writer for me, but will be reading more from her.
May 25, 2023
I was excited to read this before King Charles III's coronation. It was a short mystery about the hidden crown jewels during WWII and their subsequent disappearance before Queen Elizabeth's Coronation. I wanted to love it, but it dragged, I didn't really like the characters and it took me forever to finish this short book.
December 27, 2023
I found this book to be quite difficult to follow. There were a lot of characters and the narrative jumped from one group to another sporadically. In the end it seemed as though the author suddenly realized she needed to finish in 10 pages. Somehow 5 sets of characters all managed to find each other at one location at the same time. Not particularly possible or satisfying.
July 5, 2024
1952. George VI has died and it is time for the coronation of Elizabeth but during the previous war some of the Crown jewels were buried for safe keeping. Now they have gone missing. Can they be found before the opponents of the new queen's coronation.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its interesting characters.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its interesting characters.
March 31, 2023
The thing I like the most is how visual and tangible the writing is. You can see the world so clearly that you forget you’re reading, forget you’re supposed to be reviewing and simply get lost in the lives of the characters and the world they live in.
April 4, 2023
I enjoyed this fast paced story as everyone searches for the crown jewels in time for a coronation. It was funny and entertaining and had me trying to guess what happened and where they were hiding. A fun mystery with some surprises along the way to solve. Loved the story and the characters.
May 12, 2023
Love reading these snapshots in history! Especially when all the loose ends get tied up in a pleasing way. The romantic in me wishes we got to see the couples actually get together and the boy enjoy his new life, but loved the book and cannot wait to read more by this author!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews