Her Royal Spyness is a historical mystery novel written by Rhys Bowen, set in 1932 in London. The story follows Lady Victoria Georgiana Charlotte Eugenie, a young woman who is 34th in line for the English throne and is struggling financially. She decides to leave Scotland, her greedy brother, and her unappealing fiancé to seek independence and experience life in London.

Once in London, Lady Georgie finds a job as a housemaid, but soon she is thrown into the midst of a mystery when she discovers a dead Frenchman in her bathtub. With the help of her royal connections, she sets out to clear her family’s name and solve the murder.

One of the strengths of Her Royal Spyness is its vivid depiction of London in the 1930s. Bowen has done extensive research into the historical setting, and the novel is full of period details, from the fashion and music to the social and political climate of the time. Lady Georgie’s status as a royal adds an extra layer of intrigue to the story, as she moves in the upper echelons of society and has access to information and resources that others do not.

The character of Lady Georgie is also a highlight of the novel. She is a plucky and resourceful heroine, with a dry wit and a talent for getting herself into and out of tricky situations. Her struggles with poverty and societal expectations make her a relatable and sympathetic character, and her determination to solve the murder and clear her family’s name drives the plot forward.

The mystery itself is well-crafted, with plenty of suspects and red herrings to keep the reader guessing. Bowen’s writing is engaging and witty, with a light touch that balances the darker elements of the story.

Her Royal Spyness is a delightful historical mystery novel that offers a vivid and engaging portrayal of 1930s London. The character of Lady Georgie is a standout, and the mystery is cleverly crafted. Fans of the genre will find much to enjoy in this book, and it serves as an excellent introduction to Rhys Bowen’s writing. You can get a copy of this book from Amazon here.