Queen Camilla Requests Role in Bestselling Crime Novel
Author Peter James received an unexpected royal inquiry when Queen Camilla personally requested to become a character in his upcoming crime novel. The bestselling writer, known for his Detective Superintendent Roy Grace series, shared the surprising news during a literary festival appearance.
"It began with a handwritten note," James explained. "Her Majesty's office reached out asking if I might consider featuring her in the next installment. At first, I thought it was an elaborate prank by fellow crime writers!" The 77-year-old author soon discovered Camilla had quietly been devouring his suspense novels for years.
Palace sources suggest the Queen Consort envisioned herself as either a crime-solving royal amateur sleuth or potentially even a suspect in one of James' gritty Brighton-based mysteries. James confirmed they've been discussing suitable character traits that would fit within his realistic police procedural style while maintaining royal dignity.
This unusual collaboration continues James' tradition of including real public figures in his fiction. Previous novels have featured cameos by politicians and celebrities, though never a sitting royal family member. The literary request comes as Camilla increasingly supports literacy initiatives through her Royal Reading Room project.
While plot details remain confidential, industry insiders speculate the Queen's character might assist Grace with high-society investigations. The novel is expected to publish in late 2026, with royal historians already anticipating how the portrayal might reflect contemporary monarchy.
James concluded: "Whether she ends up catching killers or sipping tea at crime scenes, I've promised Her Majesty one thing - she won't be the victim!"