Acclaimed author Peter James has recently blended fiction with royal intrigue in his latest novel, The Hawk Is Dead, featuring prominent characters based on King Charles and Queen Camilla. This marks an exciting turn for the Roy Grace series, which has captivated readers for two decades, now celebrating its 20th anniversary.
During a unique research venture at the historic Grand Hotel in Brighton, James, who has sold over 23 million books, engaged in his role as a concierge. This experience was not driven by financial necessity but rather by his commitment to authenticity in storytelling. He humorously recounted receiving a £5 tip for assisting an elderly couple, illustrating his dedication to immersive research.
James is renowned for his meticulous approach to writing, often seeking out real-life experiences to enhance the realism of his narratives. The Roy Grace series features a Brighton-based detective, and the latest installment takes readers into the heart of Buckingham Palace, revealing an audacious plot involving art thieves, an assassination attempt, and a dramatic chase.
The idea of incorporating royal figures into his narrative stemmed from Camilla’s admiration for the Roy Grace series. During the COVID-19 lockdown, she was photographed with James’s books on her shelf, prompting a correspondence that led to her suggestion for a story set in London.
“After becoming Queen, she expressed a strong interest in seeing Roy Grace in London, perhaps with a murder or two occurring in the Palace,” James explained. Following this encouragement, a senior member of the royal household confirmed Camilla’s enthusiasm and urged James to develop the concept further.
In his quest to intertwine Sussex-based detective work with the grandeur of royal life, James conceived a plot involving a murder on the Royal Train. The narrative unfolds as Queen Camilla embarks on a tour of hospices along the south coast, only to face a deadly incident when the train derails, leading to a dramatic shooting.
James described the scene as vividly graphic, portraying a shocking moment when a senior royal aide, Sir Peregrine Greaves, is killed by a sniper. “Everyone assumes it’s a failed assassination attempt on the Queen, except for DS Roy Grace, who insists otherwise,” he stated. The ensuing investigation thrusts Grace into the complexities of royal intrigue, raising tensions with King Charles, who demands clarity on the situation.
To ensure the authenticity of his portrayal, James was granted an exclusive three-and-a-half-hour tour of Buckingham Palace, where he gained insights from various members of the royal staff. “Writing The Hawk Is Dead was an incredible journey,” he shared. “I was walking through the corridors and rooftops of Buckingham Palace, a truly surreal experience.”
After completing the manuscript, James hand-delivered a proof to Queen Camilla, anxious about her reaction. To his relief, she expressed her enjoyment of the book, stating, “I absolutely love it!” Moreover, James mentioned that King Charles, who typically does not read fiction, has shown interest in the story, having heard parts from Camilla.
James’s novels often explore themes that resonate with both his interests and the public. He noted that Camilla’s initiative to promote reading through her charity, The Queen’s Reading Room, aligns with his mission to engage audiences through compelling storytelling. Her efforts, including the launch of a reading festival at Hampton Court Palace, underscore her commitment to literacy and the arts.
With the seventh season of the Roy Grace television adaptation set to begin production next year, the prospect of the royal couple making a cameo appearance has sparked excitement. “King Charles used to enjoy acting, so who knows?” James mused, suggesting a playful collaboration might be on the horizon.
As readers eagerly anticipate the release of The Hawk Is Dead, Peter James continues to demonstrate his knack for weaving real-world elements into thrilling narratives, solidifying his position as a leading figure in contemporary crime fiction.
