The Queen's Man's most obvious theme, like that of most mystery fiction, is that murder requires an accounting. Violent death disrupts the social order. To set things right, such events must be investigated, and murderers made to pay for their crime. This almost universal moral law is shown by the involvement of the lawmen Luke and Jonas in the case. Even without the Queen's interest in the matter, it would be their duty to investigate. But because grave matters of state may be involved, London's sheriff gives the investigation extra manpower.

Behind this theme is another thread also common to mysteries: Things are not always what they seem. The importance of this theme is shown in the novel's very first scene, before the murder even occurs. Justin, who has been brought up to believe himself a foundling rescued by Aubrey de Quincy, Bishop of...