The Ghost Fleet Murders

Homefront Sleuths #11

by Anna Elliott, Charles Veley

Book 11 in the bestselling Homefront Sleuths series — the WWII cozy mysteries readers call "Miss Read meets Foyle's War."

A faded seaside resort. A secret fleet of phantom ships. And murder on the cliff path.

August 1942. Crofter's Green's favorite sleuths are headed for the Kent coast — where one of Britain's strangest wartime secrets lies hidden behind shuttered boarding houses and blacked-out promenades.

Off the cliffs of Folkestone, just twenty-one miles from enemy territory, a mysterious "ghost fleet" rides at a flotilla of ships built from wood and canvas, designed to convince Hitler that invasion may come at any moment.

But when a Coast Watcher is found murdered on a lonely cliff path, Inspector Nigel Brewster and Evie Harris — engaged at last, their wedding only weeks away — go undercover, Evie posing as Nigel's official driver, to hunt a double agent determined to expose the fleet as a fraud. If the truth reaches Germany, the consequences could be catastrophic.

Back in Crofter's Green, Alice, Dorothy, and Blake are meant to be celebrating the arrival of Katherine's new baby. Instead, a second death — and a trail of baffling clues — suggests the danger reaches far beyond the coast.

As blackouts darken the promenade and suspicion spreads through boarding houses, tea rooms, and cliff-top lookouts, the Homefront Sleuths must catch a killer before Britain's boldest wartime deception is exposed.

Warm, twisty, and clue-fair — a complete, standalone mystery with no cliffhanger and no graphic violence. Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Rhys Bowen, and Jacqueline Winspear.

Praise for the Homefront Sleuths

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Great surprises, a multifaceted mystery… and a sense of homecoming and camaraderie with the characters." — Amazon Reviewer

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "A heartwarming, suspenseful tale for fans of cozy mysteries and wartime intrigue." — Apple Books Editorial

Preorder now and be reading the moment it arrives!

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Audiobook, Fiction, Historical Mystery, World War II

442 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 15, 2026

About the author

Anna Elliott is an author of historical fiction and fantasy. She enjoys stories about strong women, and loves exploring the multitude of ways women can find their unique strengths. She was delighted to lend a hand with the Sherlock & Lucy series, and thrilled to continue a new spin-off series featuring Becky and Flynn. Her first series, the Twilight of Avalon trilogy, is a retelling of the Trystan & Isolde legend. She wrote her second series, The Pride & Prejudice Chronicles , chiefly to satisfy her own curiosity about what might have happened to Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. Darcy, and all the other wonderful cast of characters after the official end of Jane Austen’s classic work.

WEBSITE: http://sherlockandlucy.com
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/sherlockand...
FACEBOOK READER GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/77782...
AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Anna-El...

Anna lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and five children.

Reviews

[Juli · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this installment, we find our favorite sleuths on the case of another traitor, and still on the hunt for the elusive Beckett. In a nearby coastal harbor hides a "ghost fleet" -- a fleet of fake ships made from wood and canvas that are designed to make the British naval assets appear more plentiful than they actually are. But when a lookout is murdered and photographic evidence of the ghost fleet goes missing, the Crofter's Green crew must simultaneously solve the murder and stop the photographs from falling into the wrong hands.

Homefront Sleuths feels like coming home. This was a terrific edition featuring the characters I've come to know and love. I really enjoyed the teamwork and suspense, and this tale felt a little less convoluted than some of the recent stories. It seems that Harry is taking on more of a leadership role, and often seems more local-copper than Nigel. I'm pleased that Mr. Brown has recognized that Evie and Nigel work best as a team, and that he almost seems to be one of the crew with his more frequent presence. I also loved that Dorothy was featured more prominently and seems to be embracing her braver side. Blake and Katherine's new addition adds a ray of light to such a bleak time period and is such a great reminder of why they do what they do.

Maybe most importantly, I appreciated that the ghost fleet was modeled after real-life tricks employed during the war. This bit of history was really intriguing and made me want to dig deeper.

The Ghost Fleet Murders: ★★★★★

https://bookchicklit.blogspot.com/202...

[Amelia Lea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another exciting mystery solved by the Homefront Sleuths. I love these characters and their friendship, courage and love of country!

[Jill E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such great reading

Knowing the characters as we do by this point in the series, they are stable and dependable; and for me they are like old friends.

Each character has a special gift that he or she brings to the table in every investigation. The characters are likable and admirable. They are fighters. They're decent and moral, and they love their country and are committed to doing what they must to protect it.

The idea of the Ghost Fleet is very interesting, showing just how much was that steak during World War II… The research that is interwoven into the story allows those of us who were not around at that time to get a small glimpse of how much was at stake; but it also shows us how dedicated the people living ordinary lives in extraordinary and dangerous times so often rose to the occasion to keep the enemy at bay.

The conversations and interactions between the characters are presented in a precise yet natural way… the pacing, as always, is excellent.

Beckett's plan is masterfully constructed. He is a brilliant villain, and clearly a psychopath. Our homefront sleuths, with their varied strengths and unshakable commitment, leave nothing to chance, but work together with deep understanding and dedication to the task of protecting national security. And they collectively seem to be a pretty good match for this villain.

This is another great book in the series. I appreciate that there's no gore described with the murders; a story can be exciting without being nasty.

So, I recommend this book, with all its heroes and a variety of potential suspects. It's a great read!

[Shruti Anand · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5*

A sweet wrap-up to this series. This isn’t great or out of this world, but it’s a good mystery with the World War backdrop and a nice story of some well-spirited folks coming together to solve it. A cozy, enjoyable way to end the series.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eeeepppp! I love this series sooooooooo much and I am completely invested in these characters. Love the Homefront Sleuths team and the unique abilities each one of them brings to the investigation. More murder and mayhem on the Kentish coast with a definite espionage bend. I always learn something new about Britain during WWII when I read one of these books and appreciate the authors notes at the end. I thoroughly enjoyed Iona Campbells' narration (I've 'read' the whole series on audible.) Definitely one I will revisit again so I'm glad to have all the books in my audible library. And...double eeeeepppp!....there's another Homefront Sleuths Mystery releasing in October set around a certain wedding which doesn't quite go as planned (naturally!) :-)

[Ida Fahlstedt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series has become such a comfort. With every new installment, it feels like I'm having another hang out with my best friends

[Kaija · Rating 3 out of 5]

These get sillier each book but I will enjoy them. Suspend your disbelief and they're great.

Don't think too hard about the plot, or the times they repeat themselves.

[Madelon · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ghost Fleet Murders is my favorite story in the series, but I say that about each book—until I read the next one. In this outing of the Homefront Sleuths, the action starts much sooner than in previous adventures. Even the birth of Blake and Katherine's baby girl, Lily, is a bit of a nail-biter because Elliott and Veley know exactly how to make it so.

The Ghost Fleet Murders (like all of the books in the series) is structured to keep you guessing and engaged. These are books you want to read from cover to cover for their entertainment value—and maybe even for the history. The Historical Notes section at the end explains the factual events and details that inspired parts of the story. Anyone who tells you that reading fiction is a waste of time doesn't appreciate the way fiction can introduce information to people who might never seek it out otherwise. Along with history, fiction offers a glimpse into the culture, politics, and social norms of the time in which it is set or written.

The cast of characters seems to grow with each new mystery, so I do appreciate the character list provided by the authors—especially when I am writing my review. I am quite sure we haven't heard the last of Alfie and his trusty canine companion, Pilot. There are others, like Miss Frome, the deputy head at Oakwood Manor, who are integral to the lives of the sleuths.

There is a reason The Homefront Sleuths is a series of one favorite book after another: good storytelling. A writing style that brings together all the elements of a good story will keep readers coming back for more. Anyone familiar with the collaborative work of Anna Elliott and Charles Veley is surely familiar with their Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James series, which runs to more than thirty books. I've read them all. Good storytelling. Basically, if this father-and-daughter writing team writes something, I will read it.

The most important element of a good story is entertainment. Does it make you smile? Laugh out loud? Tear up? I feel that kind of emotional attachment to the characters and situations presented in these eleven books (so far). I am looking forward to the next installment, The Wedding Eve Murders, and wondering whether Evie and Nigel will actually make it down the aisle. I'm sure their wedding will be packed with action and just the right touch of romance to keep me turning pages to see what happens next

[Lonny Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full disclosure, I received an ARC of this Cozy. I really love this series. It may not be unique, but I have never run across a series with a team of detectives who take turns solving the mysteries. This time it's Dorothy, who thinks of herself as "just a wife and mother", who solves the murder of an elderly Coastwatcher. Beckett, a German spymaster; has obtained photos that prove the fleet of warships anchored in Dover Harbor is a sham. Built of wire, canvas and paint, they are theater props, a Ghost Fleet, but from miles out in The Channel they have fooled the German High Command into thinking they are quite real and a threat to any German advance in the area. The amateur counter intelligence crew at Crofters Green must intercept the photos and if possible capture the elusive Beckett. These little novels are beautifully researched and present a very believable account of Britain during wartime. The attitude of We all must make do and do our bit to support our boys is on full display. That's the real core of the series; ordinary people doing extraordinary things because they have to do them. Their survival may depend on it. Each of The Homefront Sleuths brings something to the table at the Cozy Cup, each is a vital component in their success. Well written and very entertaining.

[A.J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my all-time favorite series of historical mystery novels, set in WWII England. Each adventure builds on all the ones that came before, and this latest book does not disappoint. Evie, Nigel, Harry, Alice and Dorothy are all actively involved in the race to stop a German spy, with message decoding assistance from Blake, even though he and Katherine have just become parents. Tension mounts until the final pages. Spies, traitors, patriots, petty criminals and heroes abound - can you discern whom to trust? Don't miss it!

I received an ARC from the authors, and thoroughly enjoyed it. Can hardly believe that this is #11 in this charming series, and each book seems to be even better than the last. Can't wait for the next one!

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the Homesleuths authors and publisher for giving me an Advance Reader’s Copy. It was much appreciated! I offer my review without prejudice.

Beckett, the mysterious and elusive spy for Germany, is at it again, this time on the Dover coast where the Royal Navy has set up a wood and canvas “ghost fleet” in an attempt to fool the Germans. Unfortunately, as a master of disguise, no one knows who he is pretending to be or where Beckett is operating.

I enjoyed this Homesleuths episode very much. The plot was layered with many twists that had this reader guessing until the exciting end. Lots of believable red herrings kept the sleuths working at the top of their game.

I always appreciate the historical notes the authors include with each book. Well done!

[Teresa Delaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ghost Fleet Murders offers a compelling blend of WWII intrigue and classic cozy mystery elements. The Kent‑coast setting is vividly drawn, and the historical premise of the “ghost fleet” adds genuine stakes to the investigation. The authors balance two interconnected mysteries effectively, maintaining tension while deepening the relationships among the core cast.

Nigel and Evie’s partnership continues to evolve in meaningful ways, and the supporting characters contribute both charm and emotional depth. The plot is tightly constructed, with clues placed fairly and twists that feel earned.

This is a strong addition to the Homefront Sleuths series—engaging, atmospheric, and rich with period detail. Fans of historical mysteries will find much to enjoy.

[Anita · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

I really enjoy this series in audiobook. 11 th in series set 1942 wartime England. A combination of murder mystery and espionage. The homefront sleuths solve the mystery. I have grown quite fond of all these characters and I really appreciate the historical setting of 1940s World War II England. The narrator does a great job. It’s been the same narrator for all the books. I’m looking forward to the 12th book in the series that will be released in audiobook quite soon.

I love a good murder mystery and the context of it being during wartime where no murder is simple.
In this book, a coast watcher, someone who is looking out for German boats is murdered, and the sleuths need to find the murderer who is a double agent.

I like at the end of each book the author puts in historical notes and differentiate between the pure fiction in the book and also what is fact.

[Jo Lynn Bruno-Diehl · Rating 3.75 out of 5]

Another installment in this WWII series. A Coast Watcher is found murdered and the Sleuths jump in to find the killer and more importantly, to find out why she dies. This series always weaves in multiple story lines as the group works from different angles to solve the case. As always it isn't just murder it is espionage.
Lots of action that is well presented and makes this a page turner. Best of all for me, anyway, is the fact that while the story is fiction, it incorporates many true aspects of England during the war. I appreciate the authors' notes at the end that give insight into life in wartime england.

[Patricia Moran · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive this book as an ARC. But I’ve read every book in this series and other series’ by these authors.

I really love these cozy historical mysteries. They’re incredibly well researched, the characters are detailed, interesting and work well together. The plots are very interesting and aren’t the same old plots that I’ve read a hundred times before.

The war continues and so does the intrigue.
Read

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another cosy WW2 outing for our home front sleuths. Once again on the trail of a notorious war time spy, the gang and split across the coast unravelling the death of a retired school teacher. The authors expertly manage to weave together multiple plot lines which bring a thrill to story and you see it untangle.

I just hope and pray that we see Eve and Nigel happily married by the end of the next book!

[Connie P. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it.

This is such a fun and interesting series. I always feel like I'm right in the middle of the action, helping the Homefront Sleuths fight fascism and the Nazis from their little English village during WWII. Each member plays an important part, even a newborn baby who helps her dad break a code. Every character is interesting, realistic, and likeable . I will be waiting impatiently for the next adventure of the Homefront Sleuths.

[Cheryl Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is amazing!!!!!

This series just gets better and better! All the main characters are outstanding but the extras like Alfie, Pilot, Constable Dodget, Tom and Tommy Baker take the series to the next level. It was the unsung normal folks who went above and beyond on the home front of the UK during WW11. They made the difference to help win the war. I can’t wait for the next book 🥳

[Barbara A · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a riveting, great read!

I am loving this series! Wonderful characters and superb plotting make it an utter delight. This book was the most exciting so far. I dropped everything to be able to reach the conclusion as quickly as possible. No spoilers here; just let me say that I give it my highest recommendation and know that if you read it, you will be as pleased with it as I was! First rate!

[Bethany A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

oh, the suspense! The misty eyes!

I finished this one after lots of starts and stops amid a stressful and busy season… but in the end, the misty eyes and lump in my throat gave the sensation I can imagine was a real emotion for those who won ww2 by very small degrees at great personal cost. It helped put some pieces of cultural history together for me, filling countless textbook gaps. Nicely done.

[Adena Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The continuing adventures of the most ordinarily extraordinary SOE domestic counter-espionage team still thrills and amazes me with its dive into the darkness of rural England. And most astonishing is the revelation that "Mr. Brown" is indeed human!

I received an ARC from the author's and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Melvyn Homer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ghost Fleet Murders. Evocative of wartime Britain with all its hardships and tribulations. With Britain's war effort at maximum, security needs to be at the very highest level. When a murder is committed in an area sensitive to the war effort, Evie and the team need to be at their best to root out the culprits and prevent secrets being exposed. Another great novel in the series.

[MJAyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

and the story continues

I have to say I am addicted to this series of books. The characters are very well developed, the stories always unique and the WWII setting is something I love.
This episode involves all the skills of the Crofter’s Green sleuths. Keeping secret plans from the enemy is the main focus. Please enjoy! I did

[Karen Keyte · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another action packed entry in this WWII mystery series. If you are looking for historical accuracy, this is not the series for you but if you like strong characters, a radio-serial style of cliffhanging action and a thumping good yarn, you could do worse than the Home Front Sleuths. Bonus: more Alfie and Pilot!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book like all the rest of them! They are refreshing with nothing salacious or a cheap ploy . I enjoy the uniqueness of each character and the plots are entertaining. They keep me guessing. I have learned so much about ww2 from the English perspective. I’m looking forward to Evie and Nigel’s next chapter. I highly recommend this series!

[Betsy C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one is even better

Another installment in the WWII series, Homefront Sleuths. A new baby, a wartime entertainment show, and finally engaged Evie and Nigel are all part of the investigation of a local murder. I thoroughly enjoy the audiobook and ebook, so I can continue the story, whatever I'm doing.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this early copy from the author. I love this series and this book did not disappoint! Another harrowing adventure with Harry, Nigel, Evie and all the friends in Crofter’s Green. It’s a page turner and I am learning so much of the hero’s fighting the war at home.

[Karen L. Hicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great series and this newest book doesn't disappoint. The sleuths have their jobs cut out for them when a former teacher is murdered. Harry investigates the murder while Mr. Brown has Evie and Nigel work a case at the harbor. I was an ARC reader and this is my honest opinion.

[Mamareads · Rating 5 out of 5]

another fantastic book

I feel as if the Homefront Sleuths are friends of mine. They are brave and patriotic and very human. I enjoy all the stories about them and am sorry when the book ends.

[Lavada Haga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome book

An awesome addition to the Homefront Sleuths series! Great characters and an intriguing mystery! The sleuths are up against a ruthless German spy who is determined to prove the ghost fleet is a decoy.