Queen Camilla Stars in Thriller Novel with Assassination Twist

Queen Camilla is stepping into new territory as a character in a gripping crime thriller.

The 78-year-old appears in the latest book by one of her favorite authors, Peter James. James, known for his popular Detective Superintendent Roy Grace series, has given Camilla a cameo in The Hawk Is Dead.

In the novel, Camilla’s character becomes the target of a suspicious assassination attempt while aboard a royal train, according to People. After the train derails in a tunnel, an explosion kills her private secretary, Sir Peregrine Greaves. The story follows Camilla as she questions whether she was the intended target.

The plot also draws on real-life events, including the renovation of Buckingham Palace. Publishers said James received insider knowledge from palace staff, including rare artworks and objects from the Royal Collection, according to the outlet.

Camilla has long admired James’ work, even interviewing the bestselling author for her Queen’s Reading Room podcast last June. The podcast, which began as an Instagram book club, reflects her dedication to promoting reading in schools and libraries.

Most recently, Camilla continued her literacy efforts at a school in Wales on November 14, in honor of Poetry Together Day.

The book news is likely a surprising new chapter for Camilla, who has recently made headlines for clashing with her husband and daughter-in-law Princess Kate over her feelings about Prince Harry.