I Spy With My Little Die

A Right Royal Cozy Investigation #7

by Helen Golden

Uncovering a web of conspiracy that intertwines past and present can Lady Beatrice and DCI Richard Fitzwilliam catch a killer and unveil the truth of her husband’s death at long last?

BREAKING NEWS Second Senior Police Officer Dies Within a WeekDetective Chief A senior officer from the Protection and Investigations (Royal) Services died unexpectedly yesterday. His death comes hot on the heels of Detective Inspector Ethan Preece (43) from City Police, who died of a suspected heart attack last week. Although he's not yet been named, the dead officer was a greatly respected public figure, who had served in policing for over thirty years. A PaIRS spokesperson has confirmed that ‘neither men’s death is being treated as suspicious at this time’.

With the senior PaIRS officer dead, so is any hope of reopening the inquiry into Lady Beatrice’s husband’s death fifteen years ago. Unless, of course, there is something that links the two men to the earl’s fatal car crash? Can she and Fitzwilliam, along with their friends, work together to unravel the mystery and catch a killer before the truth is buried forever?

Another page-turning, contemporary, clean, British cozy whodunnit with a hint of humour that you wouldn’t be able to put down from Helen Golden.

Praise for the A Right Royal Cozy Investigation series..
"I am really enjoying the Right Royal series by Helen Golden...I am hooked. I love the character of Lady Bea and the relationships she is forming with those from whom she previously held herself aloof. The mystery has some elements from the past and the solution was not one that I saw coming. A totally delightful mystery."4

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Crime, Fiction

314 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2023

About the author

Helen Golden spins crimes that are charmingly British, delightfully deadly, and served with a twist of humour.

With quirky characters, clever red herrings, and plots that keep the pages turning, she’s the author of the much-loved A Right Royal Cozy Investigation series, following Lady Beatrice and her friends—including one clever little dog—as they uncover secrets hidden in country houses and royal palaces. Her new historical mystery series, The Duchess of Stortford Mysteries, is set in Victorian England and introduces an equally curious sleuth from Lady Beatrice’s own family tree—where murders are solved over cups of tea, whispered gossip, and overheard conversations in drawing rooms and grand estates.

Helen lives in a quintessential English village in Lincolnshire with her husband, stepdaughter, and a menagerie of pets—including a dog, several cats, a tortoise, and far too many fish.

If you love clever puzzles, charming settings, and sleuths with spark, her books are waiting for you.

Reviews

[Lori Hendel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book and I have to say, it does not disappoint! The story revolves more around the investigations that PaIRS is conducting into the death of one of their own. But in the process Lady Bea and Perry are pulled into the mystery as some questions arise surrounding James's death from over 15 years ago. Our intrepid sleuths help Fitzwilliam unravel some of the secrets and we get some closure of the overarching mystery that has haunted Lady Bea for all these years! Most satisfying! But wait, this is not the end of the adventures for this delightful cast of characters! The last chapter of the story announces an upcoming Bake-off at Francis Court. The next book in this delightful series is in the works and expected in early 2024!

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a wonderful story…chock full of mysteries with the well-crafted resolution of a tragic event that has been foundational since book one of this fascinating series. Although I am not an avid follower of the Royals, this series captures what seems to be an insider’s view of the privileges and pains of living within the royal fishbowl. I particularly enjoy the relationships among the core group of friends as they support and protect one another. And even though the genesis mystery has concluded successfully, there already is another book of the series in the works…hooray!

Although it was my pleasure to receive this ARC from the author, it was completely my choice to share my honest review.

[M.J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Spy With My Little Die is the sixth book in the Right Royal Cozy Investigation Mystery Series. I have read ALL the previous novels, including the prequel, which has to be read at a certain point in the series, and the author's free short story about how some of the characters first met. You guessed it, I love this series, and this new instalment doesn't disappoint.

There has been a long-running mystery burbling away in the background of the previous books. In I Spy With My Little Die, we finally get our answers - I'm not moaning - I've adored how the author has woven this other element through the stories - but it does feel as though it's the right time to GET SOME ANSWERS. And the answers we get are well worth the wait.

As with any series, the characters grow on the reader. Lady Bea, Perry, Simon and Fitzwilliam have all had their moments throughout the earlier books, and in this one, it's really Fitzwilliam who gets his chance to shine - which, again, is good and about time. There is much less of the 'stately home as a background element' to this book. Much of the action takes place in London, and much of it in offices, and there is a bit more of a police-procedural feel to this one, but don't let that put you off. Fitzwilliam really does have an intriguing murder to solve, and while we, the reader, might be more clued in than Fitzwilliam, leading to a few 'don't do that moments,' it really does only add to the enjoyment.

The plotting is tight, and the story moves quickly towards our long-awaited conclusion.

If you've not yet read any of the Right Royal Cosy mystery books but you love contemporary cosy mysteries, then I urge you to give the first book in the series a chance. I assure you, you'll soon be hooked and surging towards this sixth book. And despite how pleased I am to finally have some answers, I'm also delighted that the series will continue. I think there's a lot more for Lady Bea, Fitzwilliam, Perry, Simon and one little white terrier to uncover.

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

As always a fun cozy mystery. I enjoyed the bit more of the police procedural element of this one and the more positive relationships between Lady Bea and Fitzwilliam. I don’t need there to be a relationship between the two, which is vaguely hinted, but I enjoy the working together with less antagonism. I enjoyed Adler having more of a role, as well. Overall a fun and interesting sequel in the series with twists I didn’t expect. I continue to look forward to books in this series.

I received a free copy for a voluntary review.

[Sharmani Jayaram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Detective Inspector Ethan Preece was hospitalised and dies suddenly . Meanwhile DCI Richard Fitzwilliam and Lady Beatrice are trying to get more Information on the death of her husband the Earl of Rossex James Wiltshire. DCI Emma McKeer-Adler confides in Fitzwilliam that someone higher up was trying to cover up what really happened. A lot of suspense, secrets and humour makes this mystery that has you on the edge of your seat. I enjoyed this read and leave a honest review. I recommend this book to other readers.

[Pam C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helen Golden once again delivers a suspenseful murder mystery in her latest book. All of my favorite characters are back, and it was like seeing old friends again. While this book could be read as a stand-alone, I would recommend reading the whole series.

This time, there is a murder with a few suspects, Lady Bea's late husband's death is once again in the mix, and a lead character is shot! I couldn't put it down! I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good mystery.

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Friend or Foe ? I don’t know , all reads lead to awesomeness with this brilliantly devised series . Very good writing, super plots , sub plots and structuring . The descriptions are immersive and the style is really light and a compelling experience. I read a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary in my own words

[Duke1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Beatrice and DCI Fitzwilliam, along with their friends, work together to solve the mystery of Lady Beatrice’s husband. The ongoing investigation suffers a set back when the senior officers from that time are no longer available for information.

I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to another book in this series.

[Kathryn Ginther Law Office · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice Mid-Way Wrap Up

Love this series as a cozy escape. Very nice that the author chose to wrap up the on going mystery of the last 5 books but kept the door open for more adventures with these enjoyable characters. Looks like the next book will have more food descriptions. I’ll need to go on a diet before tucking into it.

[Karen L. Hicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book in this series. Several questions are answered in this book, and Lady Beatrice and the crew have a new murder to solve. If you enjoy good cozy mysteries, you will love this book. I was given this book free for my honest opinion.

[Lavender Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

An intriguing mystery in a charming setting. The story has a clever plot, a lot of twists, and a dash of romance. I loved the end!

A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.

[M.L. Dunker · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always save my Helen Golden cozy mysteries for a quiet Sunday afternoon, where I can indulge in my guilty pleasures. I adore the description of great houses, fancy foods, the white fluff called Daisy.

This book however, for me personally, was less cozy and more organized crime, harsh crime scenes, and threatening suspects.

It's still a great book, just more Inspector Linley and less Downtown Abbey.

[Jerrilynne Evitts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an Arc from the author and I’m writing a review because I want to. I have really enjoyed the Right Royal series so much! Lady Beatrice and Fitzwilliam have been a great team! This caper ties up so many loose ends! Highly recommended!

[lynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet another great story in this series love reading Helen Golden

[Mads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Action packed as always. Was a great wait to resolve the build up of a story since book one!

[Mildred Pace · Rating 5 out of 5]

New Series: To Read.

I haven't read any of author Helen Golden books, but after the first one , haven't been able to put them down. Now I just need to keep up with her novels and I will be a happy person.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 4 out of 5]

I Spy . . .

Lady Beatrice and DCI Fitzwilliam, along with others, collaborate to solve the mystery. I found the story to be challenging, intriguing, and unpredictable, which definitely holds the reader’s interest. This is an engaging mystery with a nice variety of characters. I do think it would have been helpful to me if I had read all of the series, but that was on me and not the author’s fault. I did enjoy it regardless.

[Eden · Rating 5 out of 5]

2023 bk 286. Golden continues to feed us small clues that as individual pieces don't seem that important, but which when gradually put together provide us with a 'oh my goodness' conclusion to the story. I was not even close on who dunit in this book, but continue to love how past affects the present and Lady Beatrice continues to grow in her friendships and knowledge about her own self. I'm hoping for more.

[Barbara Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara’s rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Series: A Right Royal Cozy Investigation #5
Publication Date: 9/27/23
Period: Contemporary
Number of Pages: 310

This is definitely my favorite book of the series so far. Things are going off in every direction and you’ll need your head on a swivel to keep up. It is interesting, engaging, exciting, and a tad bittersweet for Lady Beatrice. With murders, spies, cartels, and things from the past to swat at you, you’ll be so engrossed you’ll lose all track of time.

One of my favorite things is that it was more of an ensemble cast this time around. It wasn’t Lady Beatrice and Perry Juke stumbling across a dead body and then running roughshod over the police investigation to solve the crime themselves. As a matter of fact, this book probably gave Detective Chief Inspector Richard Fitzwilliam as much page time as Lady Beatrice – and their relationship was actually cordial rather than adversarial. I am delighted to see the burgeoning relationship between the two and will be happy to see where it leads.

City Police Detective Inspector Ethan Preece was shot (wounded) during a protection detail for a member of the royal family – but then – he was murdered in his hospital bed. Not many days later, a senior officer with the PaIRS, Protection and Investigations (Royal) Services, was also murdered. DCI Richard Fitzwilliam doesn’t like coincidences, and two police inspectors being murdered within such a short time is just too much of a coincidence for them not to be related. But how? They didn’t work in the same departments. They weren’t friends, though they’d been in the same department many years ago. Fitzwilliam is pretty sure he isn’t going to like the answers when he finds them. He sure is right about that!

Lady Beatrice is interested in the investigation but sees no reason to be involved in it. Except, both of the men were involved in the investigation of her husband’s death more than fifteen years earlier. She’s never been at ease with that investigation and has sought more and more information as the years have passed – but now, with those two officers gone, her inquiries are also at a dead end.

Lady Beatrice, Perry Juke, and Simon Lattimore make a formidable investigating team in this series – and they continue in this book. They are also joined by Emma and Izzy McKeer-Adler whom we’ve also previously met. We also have a short visit with Brett Goodman of the CIA whom we met in the last book. DCI Fitzwilliam and Detective Sergeant Spicer round out the crew along with a new character, Detective Sergeant Hardwick. Can that illustrious lot of folks put the clues together, identify the bad guys, and then thwart them? You bet they can – and they do. Goodness, what an ending!

I can definitely recommend this exciting, well-written, nicely-paced book. If you love a good mystery, red herrings, and seeing the bad guys get their comeuppance, this book is for you.

Does Beatrice get her answers or is this the end of her chance to do so? After all these years, does it really matter? You’ll just need to read the book to see.

Happy Reading!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[loopyloulaura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two dead police officers with a connection to the royal family. Lady Bea, the king's granddaughter, and her nemesis DCI Fitzwilliam believe that there is a murderer on the loose but can they find out the truth?
I Spy With My Little Die is the fifth book in the Right Royal cosy murder mystery series. I have previously reviewed the earlier books in the series: Spruced Up For Murder, For Richer For Deader, Not Mushroom For Death, and A Dead Herring.
One police officer is shot in the line of duty but seems to be recovering before dying of an unexpected heat attack. Another officer dies alone in his office, again a sudden heart attack is suspected. But both men have links to the death of a royal so DCI Richard Fitwilliam is called upon to investigate. There is a strong link to events in the past so I think it would be beneficial to have read the previous books in order to better understand the back story about Bea's husband.
I really love this series so I was a little disappointed that Lady Bea, Perry and Simon do not feature too much in this book. The focus is upon the police dimension and characters which creates a great tension and mystery. However, I wanted more of the personal touch especially between Bea and Fitzwilliam.
The whodunnit element was full of twists and Fitzwilliam's investigation makes him reconsider and make discoveries about Bea's late husband and his death. I did guess who the killer was but this did not spoil my enjoyment of watching events play out and I had no idea of the motive.
I Spy With My Little Die is a solid addition to the series but I hope for more of Lady Bea next time.

[Misfits farm · Rating 5 out of 5]

The PAIRS team are back and this time one of their friends who was injured when shadowing thinks her colleague who was shot and later died was the real target rather than the person they were protecting. Lady Beatrice is still wondering about Fitz as lately he seems to have changed from the rather fierce, no nonsense person she once shuddered at. She is still trying to find out more about her husband's death fifteen years ago as new information has come to light that could put things in a totally different perspective. This is one of a series (number 5) and needs to be read in order for the backstories to make sense. All are 5* reads from me- books with far more than a plot- read on.


Helen has a talent for taking a clever plot and making it light-hearted with wonderful characters you might even want as friends. There’s never a dull moment and I'm smiling writing this as there’s lots of fun between the pages to engage the reader with a smile. There’s a host of characters and this time it’s not just Bea and Perry doing the sleuthing which worked really well. Perry is a wonderful sidekick and there’s a budding romance and lots of humorous comments along the way which keeps the pages turning. The plot is, as ever, well crafted with lots of red herrings and twists. A thoroughly entertaining read that left me with a smile.


For more reviews please follow me on Twitter or Threads @nickisbookblog

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[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have not read any of the previous books in this series. Having read this book I am anxious to read the others. It read’s well as a stand alone novel but you will be eager to read the previous books, because it is such an engaging read. The alternative royalty had me quizzing only momentarily. However I soon warmed to the characters and the plot. It’s a plot that will keep you guessing and surprised at the end that you never suspected that person! I love the refreshing writing style, it’s a really cosy good read with no unnecessary language. So good to read a book that is so well written and doesn’t jar your senses with the modern way of the use of frequent expletives. I am so looking forward to the next in the series and hopefully the two main characters will have a lovely surprise for us? But perhaps the author will keep us guessing. No plot spoilers!

[Deanna Bookstagrammer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Spy with my Little Die is the latest book in the Right Royal Cozy Investigation series.

I really enjoyed this book right from the start. It is well written with brilliant plots, sub plots and the story is well structured. The story centres on Lady Beatrice and DCI Richard Fitzwilliam as they try to work out who killed one of the most Senior Police Officers. The investigation is totally immersive and the characters are developed very well. I really liked the author’s style of storytelling as you wondered which characters you could trust and who were the good guys and who were the bad guys. The twists and turns added to the suspense.

I Spy with my Little Die is a lovely likeable story. It is an entertaining mix of mystery, friendship, romance and humour. A lovely twisty murder mystery. I recommend it.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another 'Right Royal Cozy Investigation Mystery'
This time with links back to personal history.
For once, Lady Beatrice and Fitzwilliam are on the same side
Perhaps discovering more about her husband who died.

The death of two police officers involved in the case
Raises alarms - what is taking place?
Can the friends at last more clues uncover
And so the truth finally discover?

With royalty, murder and mystery,
A clever killer and uncovering history,
A fascinating read, that made me smile, too,
Despite what everyone involved is going through!

The characters are so well developed and believable, too,
You can empathise with their dilemma and what they do.
I really enjoyed reading it from hope you will, too,
As I say thank you for my copy and share my honest review.

[Kitty McIntosh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Bea and DCI Richard Fitzwilliam make a great pair. As they work together to solve a present day mysterious death, they cannot help but link back to the death of Lady Bea’s husband fifteen years earlier. Can they find out the truth before someone ensures it lays hidden forever?

I liked the alternate Royal Family and the world created by the author. The two main characters gel well, and their different personalities complement each other. Along with their friends they strive to solve the mysteries before them. It is escapist and exactly the kind of book I love to wallow in for a few hours.

The writing is engaging, with humour and romance. It was well-plotted and kept me enthralled to the end. I enjoyed being with these characters and hope to spend time with them again.

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! This story is so different from previous ones, being deep, dark and dangerous. The plot is complex and highlighted a great deal of research about police methods - and martial arts! This author should never be underestimated with her ability to surprise! Fitzwilliam is at the forefront of the action, as he wades into international espionage, following the deaths of two of his colleagues. The plot has us holding our breath, wondering how it is all going to unfold. After being subjected to suspicious characters, motives and actions, it was a relief to witness a new start for Fitzwilliam and Lady Bea. Great stuff. Looking forward to reading the next instalment!

[MR S JONES · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have lost count in which book this in the series, but I have read them all now..

The quality of writing continues to develop in to a very professional and very readable style.

The story, twists and turns and to be honest the ending was very surprising, but very understandable.

There are the usual love twists and turns, pointing of fingers and plentiful amounts of doubts about who to trust. This book is interesting as the balance, as on occasion it feels like Lady B takes a back step. That said, she still gets her nose into everything..

There is still plenty of food and clothing conversations, hey you know this if you have read all the books, that this is a theme.

[Shelly Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Spy With My Little Die is the sister installment of A Right Royal Cozy Investigation Mystery series written by Helen Golden. This cozy mystery series takes over what seems to be an insider’s view of the privileges and pains of living within the royal family. I extensively enjoy the relationships among the main characters of friends as they support and protect one another. The last chapter of the story announces an upcoming Bake-off at Francis Court. And even though the mystery has closed on a positive note, there already is another book of the series being released soon.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Anne Kavcic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another exciting book in this series! I felt right at home with the first chapter, back with the police contacts (perhaps a little romance here?) and her good friends - they all help each other at every turn. The pages will turn quickly as you want to find out the answers! It would be possible to start with this one, but a previous book or two would give you more depth of the characters and situation. They are all exciting and well written, with a good murder mystery, wonderful characters and a royal setting. - I received a review copy and freely leave this honest review.

[Jane Hunt · Rating 4 out of 5]

The reader is rewarded with answers to the overriding mystery in this book in the series, but only after a twisty murder mystery is solved. This is a likeable series amid contemporary royalty with an entertaining mix of mystery, friendship and humour. The character development of the core players is good, as are the relationship dynamics. The murder mystery investigation is immersive, and the interspersed humour and romance add to the storytelling. I like the original setting, the characters and the twisty, cosy crime mysteries.
I received a copy of this book from the author.