The Body in the Boat

A gripping tale of murder and mystery in 18th-century England. Across the still, dark English Channel come the smugglers. But tonight they carry an unusual cargo: a coffin. Several miles inland, a respected banker holds a birthday party for his wife. Within days, one of the guests is found shot dead. What links this apparently senseless killing to the smugglers lurking in the mists? Why has the local bank been buying and hoarding gold? And who was in the mysterious coffin? With its unique cast of characters and captivating amateur sleuths, this twisting tale vividly brings to 18th-century Kent to life, and draws readers into its pages.

"A high-stakes, atmospheric adventure set on the colorful Kent coast and headed by two well-developed protagonists. The rich historical details will appeal to fans of Lauren Willig's 'Pink Carnation' series, and baby boomer readers who fondly remember the Disney TV series Dr. Syn." —Library Journal starred review of The Body on the Doorstep

"A gripping, atmospheric page turner." —Bookbag

"An enjoyable murder mystery with engaging characters, nicely observed historical detail and gentle humour." —Historical Novel Review

“Fans of Imogen Robertson’s historicals will be pleased.” --Publishers Weekly

“The characters, both major and minor, are well drawn, interesting, complex, and true to the era. The plot intrigues, and the writing skillfully draws the reader into this world of smugglers on the mist-shrouded Kentish coast.” --Historical Novel Reviews

A. J. MacKenzie is the pseudonym of Marilyn Livingstone and Morgen Witzel, a collaborative husband-and-wife duo. Between them they have written more than 20 nonfiction and academic titles, including titles on management, medieval economic history, and medieval warfare.