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Hardcastle & Chaytor Mysteries #2
The Body in the Ice
Christmas Day, Kent, 1796: on the frozen fields of Romney Marsh stands New Hall; silent, lifeless, deserted. In its grounds lies an unexpected Christmas offering: a corpse, frozen into the ice of a horse pond. It falls to the Reverend Hardcastle, justice of the peace in St. Mary in the Marsh, to investigate. But with the victim's identity unknown, no murder weapon, and no known motive, it seems like an impossible task. Working along with his trusted friend, Amelia Chaytor, and new arrival Captain Edward Austen, Hardcastle soon discovers there is more to the mystery than there first appeared. With the arrival of an American family torn apart by war and desperate to reclaim their ancestral home and a French spy returning to the scene of his crimes, ancient loyalties and new vengeance combine to make Hardcastle and Mrs. Chaytor's attempts to discover the secret of New Hall all the more dangerous.
400 pages, Paperback
First published April 20, 2017
45 people are currently reading
397 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
November 10, 2017
We are back at the tail end of the 18th century on the Kent coast in the latest installment of the Romney Marsh series. I enjoyed the first one and this is a great sequel with the return of the amateur detectives, the Reverend Hardcastle, now a Justice of the Peace at St Mary in the Marsh and the still grieving widow, Mrs Amelia Chaytor. It is 1796 amidst a desperately harsh winter, on Christmas Day, Amelia is with her friends, Miss Godfrey and Miss Roper, when she is alerted to a dead body in the ice at the empty New Hall in the Romney Marshes. Reverend Hardcastle is in charge of the investigation, but they have no clue who the dead black woman dressed as a man is, nor who murdered her, or where the murder weapon is. It is a turbulent period of history, Britain is in its 4th year of the war against revolutionary France, there is much political intrigue and rampant paranoia that the French are on the point of invading. This is particularly pertinent in the Romney Marshes where the largest economic enterprises all seem to involve smuggling and it is an ideal spot for French spies to enter the country and cause havoc.
Hardcastle is a pragmatic man when he appoints the fisherman and smuggler Joshua Stemp as a constable. He is aided by Amelia, Stemp and Captain Edward Austen in his search for a murderer. When the victim is identified as Emma Rossiter, her brother Samuel is arrested for her murder. They have a claim to New Hall but rights have been granted to William Rossiter from an earlier will. Rossiter is under the influence of his uncle, James Rossiter, and his lawyer, the brutal racist, Parker. It would suit many that Samuel should take the fall and hang for the murder, but not Hardcastle and Amelia who are convinced he is innocent. In the meantime, Hardcastle's sister, the writer Calpurnia arrives, with her Irish Wolfhound, the lovable but cowardly Rudolpho, with every intention of staying for some time. Hardcastle is horrified at the prospect, his sister determinedly noses into every corner of his life, vetting his friendship with Amelia, and thinks he should get married. As the Rossiter entourage descend on New Hall, the French spy and murderer, Camille de Fourcament returns. Are these two events connected? And what is the secret of the New Hall cellars?
The authors have penned a delightful historical mystery that takes in the political events of the time to weave a story of intrigue, smuggling, racism and spies. It is narrated with warmth, wit and humour and a gentle charm. The characters of the flawed Hardcastle and the strong Amelia have now established themselves as a force to be reckoned with, and complement each other well. They are joined by the busybody that is Calpurnia, who turns out to be instrumental to their investigation, and reveals herself to be a significantly more compassionate and resourceful character than I expected. I thoroughly recommend this historical crime novel that revolves around the issues of the day, family feuds, revolutionary fervour, betrayals and murders. Many thanks to Bonnier Zaffre for an ARC.
Hardcastle is a pragmatic man when he appoints the fisherman and smuggler Joshua Stemp as a constable. He is aided by Amelia, Stemp and Captain Edward Austen in his search for a murderer. When the victim is identified as Emma Rossiter, her brother Samuel is arrested for her murder. They have a claim to New Hall but rights have been granted to William Rossiter from an earlier will. Rossiter is under the influence of his uncle, James Rossiter, and his lawyer, the brutal racist, Parker. It would suit many that Samuel should take the fall and hang for the murder, but not Hardcastle and Amelia who are convinced he is innocent. In the meantime, Hardcastle's sister, the writer Calpurnia arrives, with her Irish Wolfhound, the lovable but cowardly Rudolpho, with every intention of staying for some time. Hardcastle is horrified at the prospect, his sister determinedly noses into every corner of his life, vetting his friendship with Amelia, and thinks he should get married. As the Rossiter entourage descend on New Hall, the French spy and murderer, Camille de Fourcament returns. Are these two events connected? And what is the secret of the New Hall cellars?
The authors have penned a delightful historical mystery that takes in the political events of the time to weave a story of intrigue, smuggling, racism and spies. It is narrated with warmth, wit and humour and a gentle charm. The characters of the flawed Hardcastle and the strong Amelia have now established themselves as a force to be reckoned with, and complement each other well. They are joined by the busybody that is Calpurnia, who turns out to be instrumental to their investigation, and reveals herself to be a significantly more compassionate and resourceful character than I expected. I thoroughly recommend this historical crime novel that revolves around the issues of the day, family feuds, revolutionary fervour, betrayals and murders. Many thanks to Bonnier Zaffre for an ARC.
February 22, 2019
Having not read the first in the Hardcastle and Chaytor murder mysteries by A. J. Mackenzie, I was a little worried that I would struggle with continuity of the characters being a historical crime thriller set in the late eighteenth century. "The Body in the Ice" works well as a standalone but like with any series, reading the first would help with understanding how some of the characters appear time wise in the story. Although not an era I have a lot of interest in politically, I did find myself transported to 1796, Romney Marsh, Kent and thought the author (or authors as A J Mackenzie is a writing duo partnership) captured the period just right.
I liked the main characters Reverend Marcus Hardcastle, who was also the local Justice of the Peace and recently widowed Amelia Chaytor. Their camaraderie and understanding of each other was fun to read and brought some humour into at times a very serious story. The reverend's sister Calpurnia was a breath of fresh air and her 'coward' of a dog, Irish Wolfhound 'Rodolpho', really does come into his own at the end.
There has obviously been a considerable amount of research carried out regarding the politics of the time and the people of African origin in Britain in the periods before the twentieth century. This has been excellently conveyed into a story, which combined with intrigue, smugglers and racism has produced an entertaining murder mystery with several twists and turns. The political events with America and France unfortunately didn't particularly interest me partly due to my ignorance of them but they were necessary to the plot and were written with great passion from all sides of the parties involved. The story of a body being found in the ice was in itself very basic but together with the political aspect it made for an intriguing read and ultimately a satisfying and exciting conclusion.
I don't think I'd visit the first in the series "The Body on the Doorstep" though I would read the next instalment "The Body in the Boat" and I'd happily recommend this series to readers of historical murder mysteries but maybe to those who know a bit more about the late 1700s than I do.
My thanks to the Goodreads Giveaways for my copy of the book.
3.5 stars
I liked the main characters Reverend Marcus Hardcastle, who was also the local Justice of the Peace and recently widowed Amelia Chaytor. Their camaraderie and understanding of each other was fun to read and brought some humour into at times a very serious story. The reverend's sister Calpurnia was a breath of fresh air and her 'coward' of a dog, Irish Wolfhound 'Rodolpho', really does come into his own at the end.
There has obviously been a considerable amount of research carried out regarding the politics of the time and the people of African origin in Britain in the periods before the twentieth century. This has been excellently conveyed into a story, which combined with intrigue, smugglers and racism has produced an entertaining murder mystery with several twists and turns. The political events with America and France unfortunately didn't particularly interest me partly due to my ignorance of them but they were necessary to the plot and were written with great passion from all sides of the parties involved. The story of a body being found in the ice was in itself very basic but together with the political aspect it made for an intriguing read and ultimately a satisfying and exciting conclusion.
I don't think I'd visit the first in the series "The Body on the Doorstep" though I would read the next instalment "The Body in the Boat" and I'd happily recommend this series to readers of historical murder mysteries but maybe to those who know a bit more about the late 1700s than I do.
My thanks to the Goodreads Giveaways for my copy of the book.
3.5 stars
April 26, 2017
Really enjoyed this – you know I love my modern detective stories but sometimes its nice to read a mystery set in a time when there were no mobile phones or DNA matches or anything really except legwork, good old fashioned common sense and the use of the little grey cells (Yes this is a little bit Christie)
This is my first novel in this series although I have the other one sat in the never ending pile somewhere so will definitely have to dig this out – I was particularly struck by the setting and the atmosphere in The Body in the Ice and I loved how A J Mackenzie (another spot on writing team) wove plenty of humour into the narrative. It made for a fun and compelling read, the mystery elements are spot on and the writing style is easy and immersive. Great for a Sunday afternoon (which was when I read this one pretty much in a single sitting)
The historical elements were great – letters and actual conversations and the team of Hardcastle and Chaytor worked really well, I’ll look forward to going back in time (again) and read their first adventure. This is old school storytelling at its best and whilst I’m not generally a huge fan of Historical fiction there are exceptions to the rule and this is one of them.
Villages and community (loved Amelia) family dynamic and the social strata of the day bring this novel to life – that with the occasionally Holmes like detection elements and a gorgeously drawn cast of eclectic characters make The Body in the Ice a wonderful read.
Recommended.
This is my first novel in this series although I have the other one sat in the never ending pile somewhere so will definitely have to dig this out – I was particularly struck by the setting and the atmosphere in The Body in the Ice and I loved how A J Mackenzie (another spot on writing team) wove plenty of humour into the narrative. It made for a fun and compelling read, the mystery elements are spot on and the writing style is easy and immersive. Great for a Sunday afternoon (which was when I read this one pretty much in a single sitting)
The historical elements were great – letters and actual conversations and the team of Hardcastle and Chaytor worked really well, I’ll look forward to going back in time (again) and read their first adventure. This is old school storytelling at its best and whilst I’m not generally a huge fan of Historical fiction there are exceptions to the rule and this is one of them.
Villages and community (loved Amelia) family dynamic and the social strata of the day bring this novel to life – that with the occasionally Holmes like detection elements and a gorgeously drawn cast of eclectic characters make The Body in the Ice a wonderful read.
Recommended.
January 3, 2018
A thoroughly entertaining historical murder mystery!
April 7, 2018
This historical fiction series is full of lively and interesting characters and events during era (late 1700's) of mistrust between nations with lingering fears and/or preparations for new battles. The two main characters of Rector Hardcastle and Widow Chaytor provide steady anchors to the swirling firestorm of complex characters converging on the less than peaceful Romney Marsh. Christmas brings a murder and the winter storms are supplemented with the stormy arrival of the Rector's novelist sister and her undisciplined Irish Wolf Hound. Add to the mix the addition of a new family moving in to the Great Hall with a questionable past and deadly intentions, French mercenaries attacking peaceful citizens, and yet...somehow Hardcastle & Chaytor weather the storms.
April 9, 2017
This book does a wonderful job of transporting you back to 18th Century Kent where Christmas has turned into a worrying time for the residents where a body is found dumped in the frozen horse pond. No clues to who the victim is, or who is the murderer, so it is all up to the Reverend Hardcastle, who also happens to be the Justice of the Peace, to get to the bottom of the mystery and find out what exactly happened - and to see if anybody else in danger.
I really loved the gentle pace of this story. With it being set in the 18th Century it is all down to basic detective work to put the pieces together and find the link between New Hall and the victim, and those seen acting suspiciously in the area. Add to that an American family whose Ancestral Home is New Hall, returning to stake their claim and re-open fresh family feuds, it really did keep me guessing from start to finish as to who the murderer was.
With the period that the book is set in there is plenty of intrigue and nods to treason, spying, slaves, racism and smuggling. Really gave you a good sense of the traditions of the time with the attention to detail of daily life for the residents.
It's a great mix of mystery, crime and history with some really fascinating characters - Reverend Hardcastle and his great friend Amelia Chaytor have a really great relationship and I will definitely be going back to read the first in the series - The Body on the Doorstep - and am very pleased to hear there will be more in the series, with The Body In The Boat being the next one to follow. Sooner rather than later I hope!!
Thankyou to ReadersFirst for my ARc copy in return for a fair and honest review
I really loved the gentle pace of this story. With it being set in the 18th Century it is all down to basic detective work to put the pieces together and find the link between New Hall and the victim, and those seen acting suspiciously in the area. Add to that an American family whose Ancestral Home is New Hall, returning to stake their claim and re-open fresh family feuds, it really did keep me guessing from start to finish as to who the murderer was.
With the period that the book is set in there is plenty of intrigue and nods to treason, spying, slaves, racism and smuggling. Really gave you a good sense of the traditions of the time with the attention to detail of daily life for the residents.
It's a great mix of mystery, crime and history with some really fascinating characters - Reverend Hardcastle and his great friend Amelia Chaytor have a really great relationship and I will definitely be going back to read the first in the series - The Body on the Doorstep - and am very pleased to hear there will be more in the series, with The Body In The Boat being the next one to follow. Sooner rather than later I hope!!
Thankyou to ReadersFirst for my ARc copy in return for a fair and honest review
August 23, 2025
The Body in the Ice is the second book in the series featuring Reverend Hardcastle and his friend, Mrs Amelia Chaytor. Although there are references to events in the first book, The Body on the Doorstep, I didn’t feel at a disadvantage by having not read it. Having said that it would have been nice to know a little more of Hardcastle’s back story, to fill out his own description of himself. ‘I have played at being a theologian, a scholar, a playwright, a duellist, a clergyman and a rake; often all at the same time. I have lived most of my life on a whim… I have been self-indulgent, vain and foolish; even, at times, quite wicked.’
The book includes a map of the area, a floor plan of New Hall and, helpfully, a family tree of the newly returned owners of New Hall, the Rossiters. But just why have they returned now? What is it about New Hall that means someone is prepared to kill to keep it a secret? That’s the conundrum Hardcastle is tasked with solving in his capacity as justice of the peace.
I think the authors really captured the remote beauty of Romney Marsh, especially in winter. The area has been the haunt of smugglers since the 13th century and their landing places, tunnels and hiding places feature in the story, as do the efforts of the ‘preventive’ men (Customs Officers and Excise Officers, separate entities at the time) to disrupt the smuggling operations.
I loved the element of humour, chiefly provided by the person of Calpurnia, the Reverend Hardcastle’s sister. A novelist, she has come to visit in order to gain inspiration for her next book. As she explains: ‘I need a harsh and forbidding landscape… I need to feel the salt wind on my cheek, I need to hear the wild storms rage. I need to know that the people around me are enduring lives of great hardship, battling against the unfeeling elements and the cruelty of wind and wave…’ (We get to hear a chapter from it which I’m guessing the authors had great fun writing.) And Calpurnia reveals she once gave writing advice to Captain Austen’s young sister during a visit to the Austen family’s home at Godmersham. I’ll let you join the dots…
Calpurnia’s presence is not entirely welcomed by Hardcastle who has become used to living on his own, indulging in a glass of port or brandy whenever he wants. As well as plenty of unwelcome advice, Calpurnia brings with her a huge Irish wolfhound named Rodolpho who seems the most cowardly dog on God’s earth. Actually Calpurnia makes some astute observations about the investigation and proves quite formidable during some of the dramatic scenes in the book.
The Body in the Ice is a really entertaining historical mystery with a plot that involves plenty of intrigue, a family feud, some false trails as well as nods to preoccupations of the time, such as the threat of invasion by France. Hardcastle and Amelia make a great team and there’s an interesting cast of other characters. I also enjoyed the detail of life in a small village where nothing stays a secret for long and it’s probably best not to ask where the brandy and tobacco came from.
My copy contained a ‘sneak preview’ of the next book in the series, The Body in the Boat, which was published in 2018. There have been no further books in the series but the authors have written a number of other series.
The book includes a map of the area, a floor plan of New Hall and, helpfully, a family tree of the newly returned owners of New Hall, the Rossiters. But just why have they returned now? What is it about New Hall that means someone is prepared to kill to keep it a secret? That’s the conundrum Hardcastle is tasked with solving in his capacity as justice of the peace.
I think the authors really captured the remote beauty of Romney Marsh, especially in winter. The area has been the haunt of smugglers since the 13th century and their landing places, tunnels and hiding places feature in the story, as do the efforts of the ‘preventive’ men (Customs Officers and Excise Officers, separate entities at the time) to disrupt the smuggling operations.
I loved the element of humour, chiefly provided by the person of Calpurnia, the Reverend Hardcastle’s sister. A novelist, she has come to visit in order to gain inspiration for her next book. As she explains: ‘I need a harsh and forbidding landscape… I need to feel the salt wind on my cheek, I need to hear the wild storms rage. I need to know that the people around me are enduring lives of great hardship, battling against the unfeeling elements and the cruelty of wind and wave…’ (We get to hear a chapter from it which I’m guessing the authors had great fun writing.) And Calpurnia reveals she once gave writing advice to Captain Austen’s young sister during a visit to the Austen family’s home at Godmersham. I’ll let you join the dots…
Calpurnia’s presence is not entirely welcomed by Hardcastle who has become used to living on his own, indulging in a glass of port or brandy whenever he wants. As well as plenty of unwelcome advice, Calpurnia brings with her a huge Irish wolfhound named Rodolpho who seems the most cowardly dog on God’s earth. Actually Calpurnia makes some astute observations about the investigation and proves quite formidable during some of the dramatic scenes in the book.
The Body in the Ice is a really entertaining historical mystery with a plot that involves plenty of intrigue, a family feud, some false trails as well as nods to preoccupations of the time, such as the threat of invasion by France. Hardcastle and Amelia make a great team and there’s an interesting cast of other characters. I also enjoyed the detail of life in a small village where nothing stays a secret for long and it’s probably best not to ask where the brandy and tobacco came from.
My copy contained a ‘sneak preview’ of the next book in the series, The Body in the Boat, which was published in 2018. There have been no further books in the series but the authors have written a number of other series.
May 11, 2017
Historical crime fiction is one of my favourite genres and The Body in the Ice by A J MacKenzie is a most enjoyable read. It’s the 2nd Hardcastle and Chaytor Mystery set in Romney Marsh and the surrounding countryside in 1796-7. I haven’t read the first one in the series, The Body on the Doorstep, but it didn’t seem to matter as I had no difficulty in reading this as a standalone, even though there are references back to the first book, but I do intend to read it as I enjoyed the second book so much.
Reading historical crime fiction is a different experience from reading modern crime fiction – no modern technology, just old-fashioned crime detection and deduction and a certain amount of intuition. The late eighteenth century is a newish period for me, but The Body in the Ice appears (as far as I can judge) to be well grounded historically and geographically.
Historically this is the period after the end of the American War of Independence, so Britain and America are at peace, but Britain and revolutionary France are at war with the constant threat of a French invasion. Geographically, the area is not one I know but there is a map showing the locations together with a plan of New Hall, at the beginning of the book an empty and bleak (fictional) house owned by the Rossiter family, and also the Rossiter Family Tree.
The winter of 1796-7 was exceptionally harsh and cold and on Christmas Day in the village of St Mary in the Marsh, on the Kent coast Amelia Chaytor is spending the day with her friends, spinsters Miss Godfrey and Miss Roper when their maidservant bursts in and announces that she has seen someone at New Hall stables, frozen into the ice face down. Previously two men had been seen arriving at the Hall and at first it looks as though one of them has killed the other as they have both disappeared.
The Reverend Hardcastle is informed and as a justice of the peace he sets out to investigate the murder, aided by Joshua Stemp, the parish constable. It’s soon obvious that this is a complicated matter as the body they pulled from the ice was that of a black woman, dressed as a man.
Add into the mix the American family who arrive after the murder to establish their claim to their ancestral home, the village community, smugglers and French spies, and slavery and racism. The characters of Revd Hardcastle and Amelia Chaytor in particular are well drawn and convincing. His sister, Cordelia provides a comic element – she is a gothic novelist, who incidentally gave a young Jane Austen writing tips, accompanied by her cowardly (but lovable) dog Rodolpho.
It’s fast paced, and like all good mysteries it’s full of twists and turns, tension and drama, mixed together with both national and local politics. I enjoyed it immensely and will read more books by A J Mackenzie. The next book in the series will be The Body in the Boat.
My thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for my copy of this book.
Reading historical crime fiction is a different experience from reading modern crime fiction – no modern technology, just old-fashioned crime detection and deduction and a certain amount of intuition. The late eighteenth century is a newish period for me, but The Body in the Ice appears (as far as I can judge) to be well grounded historically and geographically.
Historically this is the period after the end of the American War of Independence, so Britain and America are at peace, but Britain and revolutionary France are at war with the constant threat of a French invasion. Geographically, the area is not one I know but there is a map showing the locations together with a plan of New Hall, at the beginning of the book an empty and bleak (fictional) house owned by the Rossiter family, and also the Rossiter Family Tree.
The winter of 1796-7 was exceptionally harsh and cold and on Christmas Day in the village of St Mary in the Marsh, on the Kent coast Amelia Chaytor is spending the day with her friends, spinsters Miss Godfrey and Miss Roper when their maidservant bursts in and announces that she has seen someone at New Hall stables, frozen into the ice face down. Previously two men had been seen arriving at the Hall and at first it looks as though one of them has killed the other as they have both disappeared.
The Reverend Hardcastle is informed and as a justice of the peace he sets out to investigate the murder, aided by Joshua Stemp, the parish constable. It’s soon obvious that this is a complicated matter as the body they pulled from the ice was that of a black woman, dressed as a man.
Add into the mix the American family who arrive after the murder to establish their claim to their ancestral home, the village community, smugglers and French spies, and slavery and racism. The characters of Revd Hardcastle and Amelia Chaytor in particular are well drawn and convincing. His sister, Cordelia provides a comic element – she is a gothic novelist, who incidentally gave a young Jane Austen writing tips, accompanied by her cowardly (but lovable) dog Rodolpho.
It’s fast paced, and like all good mysteries it’s full of twists and turns, tension and drama, mixed together with both national and local politics. I enjoyed it immensely and will read more books by A J Mackenzie. The next book in the series will be The Body in the Boat.
My thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for my copy of this book.
April 5, 2017
How delightful to read about a pair of amateur sleuths in a time when there was not police force as we know it, no electricity, no computers or cell phones. What Amelia Chaytor and the Reverend Hardcastle do have in 1796 is mail. And mail was very fast in those days. You could write a ltter in the morning, send it off and have the answer before lunch. Not to mention the fact that they both have a sharp mind and a very good insight in what drives people.
The story is built around the impending war with France, and the great differences in those times between ‘colored’ and ‘white’ people, not to mention between rich and poor people. Both the Reverend and Amelia are different. She a widow, he a Justice of the Peace, they work together in solving the crime, regardless of the killer’s color or standing.
This story is easy to read, with interesting characters, and it gives also a good insight in how life in the 18th century was. I hope to read another book with this nice couple again.
The story is built around the impending war with France, and the great differences in those times between ‘colored’ and ‘white’ people, not to mention between rich and poor people. Both the Reverend and Amelia are different. She a widow, he a Justice of the Peace, they work together in solving the crime, regardless of the killer’s color or standing.
This story is easy to read, with interesting characters, and it gives also a good insight in how life in the 18th century was. I hope to read another book with this nice couple again.
May 5, 2017
(This review can also be found here: https://beautifulilies.wordpress.com/2017/05/05/the-body-in-the-ice-romney-marsh-mystery-2-by-a-j-mackenzie/.)
I think I’ve found my new favourite crime series. Aside from the fact that the setting of this novel is local to me, which has an appeal in itself, everything about The Body in the Ice is perfect.
Widow Amelia Chaytor and Reverend Hardcastle are my favourite detective duo. They’re fun, witty and solving a mystery alongside them was a thrilling experience. The Mackenzie team have a way with magic that makes even the minor characters lovable and endearing, from Rodolpho the Cowardly Dog, to her endearing if a little mad mistress, Capurnia.
There’s an art to writing a crime novel and these authors possess it. Everything from the carefully crafted characters to their pasts and the particular roles they play in the novel. The Mackenzie team are meticulous authors and this quality goes a long way in their writing.
I can’t wait to dive into the prequel, The Body on the Doorstep, and the sequel, The Body on the Boat when it’s released!
I think I’ve found my new favourite crime series. Aside from the fact that the setting of this novel is local to me, which has an appeal in itself, everything about The Body in the Ice is perfect.
Widow Amelia Chaytor and Reverend Hardcastle are my favourite detective duo. They’re fun, witty and solving a mystery alongside them was a thrilling experience. The Mackenzie team have a way with magic that makes even the minor characters lovable and endearing, from Rodolpho the Cowardly Dog, to her endearing if a little mad mistress, Capurnia.
There’s an art to writing a crime novel and these authors possess it. Everything from the carefully crafted characters to their pasts and the particular roles they play in the novel. The Mackenzie team are meticulous authors and this quality goes a long way in their writing.
I can’t wait to dive into the prequel, The Body on the Doorstep, and the sequel, The Body on the Boat when it’s released!
March 22, 2017
Kent, Christmas Day 1796.
While most others are content to sit and enjoy the food and festivities of the day, others are intent on murder and leaving their victims to freeze solid in the ice. With no apparent clues to the identity of the victim or having any idea who the killer might be, the odds are ever dwindling that this case will be solved. Why would a stranger be at the vacated New Hall estate? Why would someone attack them and leave them for dead? Reverend Marcus Hardcastle, the acting magistrate, is charged with the daunting task of uncovering the mysteries of this criminality. His neighbor, Amelia Chaytor has proven herself a useful asset and quite possible may aid him in finding much-needed answers. Can Hardcastle solve this case and see justice served?
I always like to identify with a character in the novel when I am reading. In this case, it would definitely have to be Amelia. She is a strong, outspoken, independent woman, who knows that she can be valuable to the investigation. No matter what anyone else has to say about the matter. She continues throughout the book to keep ahead of the investigation and the possible suspects that they are fortunate to uncover. I felt the characters were quite tangible and authentic in the roles that they were scripted into. I could certainly imagine the interaction between the individuals in scenes written in this novel. The story did keep me guessing on certain aspects of the crime and who had committed it. Even though it was easy to guess who may have done it, the why and how were a little more indiscernible. Although this book did not make me cry, I did feel emotional while thinking about how it would feel to be a member of this family, especially if I were Samuel or Emma, and to be experiencing these issues. I will admit that I did chuckle a few times at Amelia and Marcus’s rapport. Their admiration for each other was a pleasant break in the story and added a nice curiosity, it makes you wonder what will happen between them in the future. The story was intriguing and kept me reading as I was eager to solve this mystery for myself. Anyone who enjoys a historical fiction or a crime novel should enjoy this tale. I would give this book a 4 out of 5 star rating.
While most others are content to sit and enjoy the food and festivities of the day, others are intent on murder and leaving their victims to freeze solid in the ice. With no apparent clues to the identity of the victim or having any idea who the killer might be, the odds are ever dwindling that this case will be solved. Why would a stranger be at the vacated New Hall estate? Why would someone attack them and leave them for dead? Reverend Marcus Hardcastle, the acting magistrate, is charged with the daunting task of uncovering the mysteries of this criminality. His neighbor, Amelia Chaytor has proven herself a useful asset and quite possible may aid him in finding much-needed answers. Can Hardcastle solve this case and see justice served?
I always like to identify with a character in the novel when I am reading. In this case, it would definitely have to be Amelia. She is a strong, outspoken, independent woman, who knows that she can be valuable to the investigation. No matter what anyone else has to say about the matter. She continues throughout the book to keep ahead of the investigation and the possible suspects that they are fortunate to uncover. I felt the characters were quite tangible and authentic in the roles that they were scripted into. I could certainly imagine the interaction between the individuals in scenes written in this novel. The story did keep me guessing on certain aspects of the crime and who had committed it. Even though it was easy to guess who may have done it, the why and how were a little more indiscernible. Although this book did not make me cry, I did feel emotional while thinking about how it would feel to be a member of this family, especially if I were Samuel or Emma, and to be experiencing these issues. I will admit that I did chuckle a few times at Amelia and Marcus’s rapport. Their admiration for each other was a pleasant break in the story and added a nice curiosity, it makes you wonder what will happen between them in the future. The story was intriguing and kept me reading as I was eager to solve this mystery for myself. Anyone who enjoys a historical fiction or a crime novel should enjoy this tale. I would give this book a 4 out of 5 star rating.
March 13, 2017
4 stars
The little village of St. Mary in the Marsh is experiencing a very cold winter in 1796. It is Christmas Day and the body of a man is found frozen in a horse pond by the New Hall. Mrs. Amelia Chaytor and others respond to the call for help. Upon further inspection, it is discovered that the frozen body is that of a woman. It is a case of murder. Mrs. Chaytor and the Reverend Hardcastle begin to look into the case. But no one knows who the young black woman was.
Another person joins their “team,” a gentleman named Captain Edward Austen.
As they continue the investigation, they uncover interesting facts and nefarious doings. With people entering the picture from three continents, this becomes a truly international crime. Family feuds, spies and old loyalties all come into play.
This book is well written and plotted. It brings to life 18th Century England with all of its color and hardships. A.J. MacKenzie is a very good writer and the characters are both entertaining and interesting. This is my first A.J. MacKenzie book, but it won’t be my last. I truly enjoyed it.
I want to thank Netgalley and Bonnier Zaffre/Zaffre for forwarding to me a copy of this book to read.
The little village of St. Mary in the Marsh is experiencing a very cold winter in 1796. It is Christmas Day and the body of a man is found frozen in a horse pond by the New Hall. Mrs. Amelia Chaytor and others respond to the call for help. Upon further inspection, it is discovered that the frozen body is that of a woman. It is a case of murder. Mrs. Chaytor and the Reverend Hardcastle begin to look into the case. But no one knows who the young black woman was.
Another person joins their “team,” a gentleman named Captain Edward Austen.
As they continue the investigation, they uncover interesting facts and nefarious doings. With people entering the picture from three continents, this becomes a truly international crime. Family feuds, spies and old loyalties all come into play.
This book is well written and plotted. It brings to life 18th Century England with all of its color and hardships. A.J. MacKenzie is a very good writer and the characters are both entertaining and interesting. This is my first A.J. MacKenzie book, but it won’t be my last. I truly enjoyed it.
I want to thank Netgalley and Bonnier Zaffre/Zaffre for forwarding to me a copy of this book to read.
December 30, 2017
Thank you Goodreads for sending me this book. This is an historical novel set in the 1700sand the setting is Romney Marsh, Kent. Apparently, this is a sequel, but I enjoyed it as a first read. A body is dumped in a horse pond during the Christmas period. Two amateur sleuths – a widow and a reverend are set to solve the crime. A great read and I read it over the Christmas holidays, which was very enjoyable.
January 8, 2018
I read this book in 2 days and it is the first book in quite a while that I didn't want to put down!
We are in rural Kent on the marshes towards Dungeness - a very distinctive, lonely, eerie world. We have a young but astute widow in Amelia Chaytor and her friend the local reverend and justice of the peace Marcus Hardcastle. Unfortunately a body is found in the frozen horse pond of the local manor house which is currently empty.
Without giving anything away, the book has several twists and turns and keeps the reader guessing. What starts out as a local killing develops into a family feud and then much more. Quite a detailed story that has several strands to it.
While I very much enjoyed the story, the tension that the narrative builds and the final reveal, the strength of this book is the characters and the setting. Luckily for me there are several strong female characters who are neither wishy-washy nor abrasive - which often seems to be the only choices authors make. Amelia Chaytor is resilient, clever and witty and has no romantic slush about her! (which is not to say that she is impervious to men!) Meanwhile the reverend goes about his duty doggedly and we follow his thought-processes as he considers possible murderers etc His sister arrives on the scene and is quite the character, giggly and gossipy but with a backbone of steel when things get hot!
The family that arrive at the local manor house are clearly suspect and it was classic 'whodunnit' to work out who was the evil one. (I didn't guess.)
Meanwhile the authors clearly know their area. The marshes, the weather and the sea are all atmospheric, compelling and a metaphor for the shifting layers of truth in the mystery.
Altogether a great book!
We are in rural Kent on the marshes towards Dungeness - a very distinctive, lonely, eerie world. We have a young but astute widow in Amelia Chaytor and her friend the local reverend and justice of the peace Marcus Hardcastle. Unfortunately a body is found in the frozen horse pond of the local manor house which is currently empty.
Without giving anything away, the book has several twists and turns and keeps the reader guessing. What starts out as a local killing develops into a family feud and then much more. Quite a detailed story that has several strands to it.
While I very much enjoyed the story, the tension that the narrative builds and the final reveal, the strength of this book is the characters and the setting. Luckily for me there are several strong female characters who are neither wishy-washy nor abrasive - which often seems to be the only choices authors make. Amelia Chaytor is resilient, clever and witty and has no romantic slush about her! (which is not to say that she is impervious to men!) Meanwhile the reverend goes about his duty doggedly and we follow his thought-processes as he considers possible murderers etc His sister arrives on the scene and is quite the character, giggly and gossipy but with a backbone of steel when things get hot!
The family that arrive at the local manor house are clearly suspect and it was classic 'whodunnit' to work out who was the evil one. (I didn't guess.)
Meanwhile the authors clearly know their area. The marshes, the weather and the sea are all atmospheric, compelling and a metaphor for the shifting layers of truth in the mystery.
Altogether a great book!
June 24, 2018
This was an interesting book, but it was very slow for the first third of the story. This made the first part of this book not an exciting read. I understand that authors want to set the scene for their story, but this has to be woven into the plot to keep the reader interested. Apart from this the story has many merits. It is set in the late 1790's in the southeast of England in and around the village of St. Mary which is south of Folkstone and north of Dungeness and on a clear day you can see the French coast. There are three main characters, the reverend Hardcastle who is also the local justice of the peace, Amelia Chaytor a widower with an inquisitive mind and numerous old friends in high places and a large house know as New Hall, an ancestral home that has not been lived in for some time. The village is used by smugglers, many of whom live within and around the village and have regular contact with their French counterparts. On Christmas day a frozen body is found in the horse pond which is at the side of the stables of New Hall. Thus begins the hunt for the killer of this person and to identify who this person is. This involves the hunting of French spies, and when the family return to claim New Hall, the possibility of illegitimate children claiming ownership of the house. This is crime story set over two hundred years ago and in that respect it is authentic to the time and it does use a few old fashioned words and phases which were fun to research. This story is never going to set the world on fire but it is a good insight into customs and practices of this era and how human nature has changed very little.
September 3, 2017
There were many things here to like. There was the historical fiction angle, there was plenty of mystery and murder, it was also very much a family saga coming down the generations and then there was the setting between two countries and the time of 1796.
A remote village in Romney Marsh and a very old manor house is being opened up again for its owners. With the excitement of a new family coming in, there is apprehension when a body is discovered of a young man encased in ice in the horse pond. Subsequent examination shows that this is in fact a young woman and to find a black woman in this part of the world adds further to the mystery.
The history of the family who owns the house is complicated to say the least. There are branches of the family that are not even acknowledged, and the present head of the family would like it to stay that way. They did not count for the magistrate of the area - a vicar and someone who has a keen eye on seeing that justice is done, whatever the rank. Our vicar cum magistrate has to come up against the highest echelons in the land who do not want to upset the political and diplomatic waters in London, irrespective of what their sins may be. Along with his good friend the widow Amelia, Harcastle unravels a plot which will not just endanger their village but also the whole of Britain at a time when it is already in crisis.
The family saga which is historical was very good. Characterization and plot was excellent and the pace of the story was quick and fascinating.
A remote village in Romney Marsh and a very old manor house is being opened up again for its owners. With the excitement of a new family coming in, there is apprehension when a body is discovered of a young man encased in ice in the horse pond. Subsequent examination shows that this is in fact a young woman and to find a black woman in this part of the world adds further to the mystery.
The history of the family who owns the house is complicated to say the least. There are branches of the family that are not even acknowledged, and the present head of the family would like it to stay that way. They did not count for the magistrate of the area - a vicar and someone who has a keen eye on seeing that justice is done, whatever the rank. Our vicar cum magistrate has to come up against the highest echelons in the land who do not want to upset the political and diplomatic waters in London, irrespective of what their sins may be. Along with his good friend the widow Amelia, Harcastle unravels a plot which will not just endanger their village but also the whole of Britain at a time when it is already in crisis.
The family saga which is historical was very good. Characterization and plot was excellent and the pace of the story was quick and fascinating.
July 27, 2017
I was sent The Body in the Ice to review and the storyline enticed me into reading this straight away!
I hadn’t read the first book in the series (but I have since bought it!) but this didn’t seem to matter too much but it might be wise to start with this as characters from that book are mentioned and it will probably make it easier.
The story begins when a body is found frozen in water and the main challenge for the characters is trying to identify who this is. What were they doing? Why were they targeted? This was obviously a lot more challenging to find out in the 1700’s than today with the vast array of equipment readily available! It was really interesting reading about how crimes were solved in this day. Actual letters were sent! On horseback! It make you realise how completely spoilt we are in this modern age of cars, mobile phones, CSI and fingerprint analysis.
I loved the easy relationship and friendship that Reverend Hardcastle and Mrs Chaytor had (she’s a sort of Miss Marple character set in the 1700’s without the dotty appearance) and I adored reading about them. This is what made the story easy to read for me and I look forward to reading about their other adventures!
A nice, easy and enjoyable whodunit with characters that come to life on the pages.
Thank you for the review copy Readers First and Bonnier Zaffre in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
I hadn’t read the first book in the series (but I have since bought it!) but this didn’t seem to matter too much but it might be wise to start with this as characters from that book are mentioned and it will probably make it easier.
The story begins when a body is found frozen in water and the main challenge for the characters is trying to identify who this is. What were they doing? Why were they targeted? This was obviously a lot more challenging to find out in the 1700’s than today with the vast array of equipment readily available! It was really interesting reading about how crimes were solved in this day. Actual letters were sent! On horseback! It make you realise how completely spoilt we are in this modern age of cars, mobile phones, CSI and fingerprint analysis.
I loved the easy relationship and friendship that Reverend Hardcastle and Mrs Chaytor had (she’s a sort of Miss Marple character set in the 1700’s without the dotty appearance) and I adored reading about them. This is what made the story easy to read for me and I look forward to reading about their other adventures!
A nice, easy and enjoyable whodunit with characters that come to life on the pages.
Thank you for the review copy Readers First and Bonnier Zaffre in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
April 15, 2017
From the blurb:1796,Kent, a killer at large, a family feud and a house with a secret. Doesn't it sound good?
The year is 1796,the United States have gained their independence some 20 years previously, the British took part of Canada from the French and the French fleet is ready (or so it seems) to invade Britain. The relationship between the British, the Americans ( republicans) and the French( revolutionary) is slightly troubled,to say the least. Against this background a small coastal community, and more specifically Reverend Hardcastle (who is also a Justice of Peace) is confronted with murder ( and smugglers, French spies and an adorable Irish wolfhound who is not particularly brave (a rabbit frightened the hell out of him)).The historical setting is marvellous, it is very atmospheric and the main characters are endearing.
But strangely enough, the last chapters are perhaps a bit long-winded with too much gunpowder, spies and cloak and dagger and somehow it kills all that atmospheric tension.
Still, all in all, a very good read.
The year is 1796,the United States have gained their independence some 20 years previously, the British took part of Canada from the French and the French fleet is ready (or so it seems) to invade Britain. The relationship between the British, the Americans ( republicans) and the French( revolutionary) is slightly troubled,to say the least. Against this background a small coastal community, and more specifically Reverend Hardcastle (who is also a Justice of Peace) is confronted with murder ( and smugglers, French spies and an adorable Irish wolfhound who is not particularly brave (a rabbit frightened the hell out of him)).The historical setting is marvellous, it is very atmospheric and the main characters are endearing.
But strangely enough, the last chapters are perhaps a bit long-winded with too much gunpowder, spies and cloak and dagger and somehow it kills all that atmospheric tension.
Still, all in all, a very good read.
June 21, 2017
This book has received a Discovering Diamonds Review:
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
"Justice of the peace for St Mary in the Marsh, the Reverend Hardcastle, has to investigate what is obviously a callous murder, but it seems he has an impossible task ahead of him.... a riveting and most exciting read"
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
"Justice of the peace for St Mary in the Marsh, the Reverend Hardcastle, has to investigate what is obviously a callous murder, but it seems he has an impossible task ahead of him.... a riveting and most exciting read"
August 24, 2022
Frankly, I am surprised that I let myself read this to very last page. All that tied me to it was a thread of perseverance and mild amusement.
December 28, 2022
4.5⭐️
A solid historical murder mystery novel with a bit more depth than some that I have read recently.
The book came with maps and a family tree, which is always a bonus!
The ending was very exciting too.
A solid historical murder mystery novel with a bit more depth than some that I have read recently.
The book came with maps and a family tree, which is always a bonus!
The ending was very exciting too.
March 31, 2021
Hardcastle and Chaytor detective mystery, first book I have read by A J Mackenzie, action packed and fast flowing, nice easy read, I have already ordered the other two books in the series. Recommended read.
May 11, 2017
Source: Complimentary copy from Bonnier Zaffre.
Christmas Day, Kent, England, 1796.
On the frozen fields of Romney Marsh stands New Hall; silent, lifeless, deserted. In its grounds lies an unexpected Christmas offering: a corpse, frozen into the ice of a horse pond.
It falls to the Reverend Hardcastle, justice of the peace at St Mary in the Marsh, to investigate. But with the victim's identity unknown, no murder weapon and no known motive, it seems like an impossible task. Working along with his trusted friend, Amelia Chaytor, and new arrival Captain Edward Austen, Hardcastle soon discovers there is more to the mystery than there first appeared.
With the arrival of an American family torn apart by war and desperate to reclaim their ancestral home, a French spy returning to the scene of his crimes, ancient loyalties and new vengeance combine to make Hardcastle and Mrs Chaytor's attempts to discover the secret of New Hall all the more dangerous.
My Thoughts:
My favorite points in this story:
The use of a dog breed I am unfamiliar with: The Irish Wolfhound. I loved having a secondary character be a devoted animal lover and using the dog as apart of the story.
Biracial and race issues in America and England. I've read books where racial prejudice is examined in America, but not a book set in England. Two of the characters are examined in how they feel about being bi-racial. They express tensions from both sides of races. They express how they deal with animosity. They express struggles in their extended family.
An English mystery. I've read English mysteries with the time period of early 20th century, but not in the 18th century.
A clean story. The story is clean in regards to life situations and the murder itself.
Until I read a bit about the temperament of an Irish wolfhound, I thought it odd in the story its behavior when intruders broke in the home. I was ready to put a mark against the book. I have since read about the dog breed and I stand corrected. The Irish Wolfhound is an independent and reserved type dog.
I felt surprised at the solving of the mystery. I had no idea this kind of plot was "cooking."
Over-all, The Body In The Ice is an enjoyable cozy story.
June 7, 2017
The Body in the Ice is the second in the Hardcastle and Chaytor mystery series.
I loved the first book and I eagerly looked forward to reading this and wondered whether it would be as good ..... and I'm so pleased to say that it is every bit as good as the first book.
It was wonderful to be back in the company of the irascible Reverend Hardcastle and the ingenious Mrs Amelia Chaytor as they attempt to discover the identity of the frozen body in the icy pond of New Hall on Christmas Day 1796 and why they were murdered.
Hardcastle is now the Justice of the Peace which has curtailed his drinking and his argumentative nature somewhat but then when his sister turns up unexpectedly to stay at the Rectory he becomes his usual grumpy self. One of my favourite scenes is when she invites Mrs Chaytor for tea and they act like two adversaries checking each other out. Brilliant writing!
The desolate and empty New Hall is at the centre of this story, the murder was committed there, a family return to live there after many years away, some of them involved in the Americas War which caused a family feud. Why have they returned now, is it connected to the dead body, and what secrets does the New Hall contain?
Rev Hardcastle and Mrs Chaytor try to find all the answers by coming up against old foes, old acquaintances, lies and secrets.
They make an unusual and unlikely team but it really works. You don't need to have read the first book as this is a standalone story.
This was an enjoyable and clever storyline, slow suspense with twists and shocks and surprises with great characters, lots of historical detail and even a dog called Rodolpho that was one of the stars of the story.
I can't wait for the next mystery with the Hardcastle and Chaytor duo.
Also, I must just mention how I love maps of areas in books and this had not only a map but a floor plan of New Hall and a family tree. So useful to refer to and which added to my enjoyment.
I loved the first book and I eagerly looked forward to reading this and wondered whether it would be as good ..... and I'm so pleased to say that it is every bit as good as the first book.
It was wonderful to be back in the company of the irascible Reverend Hardcastle and the ingenious Mrs Amelia Chaytor as they attempt to discover the identity of the frozen body in the icy pond of New Hall on Christmas Day 1796 and why they were murdered.
Hardcastle is now the Justice of the Peace which has curtailed his drinking and his argumentative nature somewhat but then when his sister turns up unexpectedly to stay at the Rectory he becomes his usual grumpy self. One of my favourite scenes is when she invites Mrs Chaytor for tea and they act like two adversaries checking each other out. Brilliant writing!
The desolate and empty New Hall is at the centre of this story, the murder was committed there, a family return to live there after many years away, some of them involved in the Americas War which caused a family feud. Why have they returned now, is it connected to the dead body, and what secrets does the New Hall contain?
Rev Hardcastle and Mrs Chaytor try to find all the answers by coming up against old foes, old acquaintances, lies and secrets.
They make an unusual and unlikely team but it really works. You don't need to have read the first book as this is a standalone story.
This was an enjoyable and clever storyline, slow suspense with twists and shocks and surprises with great characters, lots of historical detail and even a dog called Rodolpho that was one of the stars of the story.
I can't wait for the next mystery with the Hardcastle and Chaytor duo.
Also, I must just mention how I love maps of areas in books and this had not only a map but a floor plan of New Hall and a family tree. So useful to refer to and which added to my enjoyment.
April 8, 2018
I love this series of murder mysteries set in the late 18th century. I've read all three now and I think this one is my favourite. It starts with Amelia Chaytor being invited to Christmas dinner with her friends, the elderly Miss Roper and Miss Godfrey. It's not going well but things perk up considerably when one of the servants rushes in to say he's found a dead body frozen into the pond. How is the recently deceased connected to the American family who are about to arrive in the village? And just what is the forgotten secret of their old manor house?
In the first book, the Rev Marcus Hardcastle had been sent to St Mary in the Marsh as a form of punishment. Now he's been 'promoted' to Justice of the Peace, although he hopes it is only temporary. His investigation is helped by local widow Amelia Chaytor, whose late husband seems to have been some kind of diplomat/spy, and many of the eccentric characters from the first book also return - Mrs Kemp, Marcus's grumpy housekeeper; the smuggler, Yorkshire Tom; the spinster old ladies, Miss Roper and Miss Godfrey, who are far more savvy than anyone ever gives them credit for and never miss a thing.
The Body in the Ice is a clever, twisty, murder mystery embellished with lots of authentic period detail. The American War of Independence is touched upon, along with slavery. The story raced along to a nail-biting conclusion. I loved the characters and the humour, I particularly loved the addition of Marcus's sister Calpurnia, who writes gothic romantic fiction, and her cowardly dog, Rodolpho.
Brilliant stuff! I loved it. And I can't wait for the next one!
In the first book, the Rev Marcus Hardcastle had been sent to St Mary in the Marsh as a form of punishment. Now he's been 'promoted' to Justice of the Peace, although he hopes it is only temporary. His investigation is helped by local widow Amelia Chaytor, whose late husband seems to have been some kind of diplomat/spy, and many of the eccentric characters from the first book also return - Mrs Kemp, Marcus's grumpy housekeeper; the smuggler, Yorkshire Tom; the spinster old ladies, Miss Roper and Miss Godfrey, who are far more savvy than anyone ever gives them credit for and never miss a thing.
The Body in the Ice is a clever, twisty, murder mystery embellished with lots of authentic period detail. The American War of Independence is touched upon, along with slavery. The story raced along to a nail-biting conclusion. I loved the characters and the humour, I particularly loved the addition of Marcus's sister Calpurnia, who writes gothic romantic fiction, and her cowardly dog, Rodolpho.
Brilliant stuff! I loved it. And I can't wait for the next one!
July 4, 2017
A big thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review. WOW oh WOW I really liked this book! I love mysteries and thrillers and what a wonderful historical perspective this book added to the repertoire! I was transported back in time, yet at the same time I wanted desperately to know what happened. That's definitely not easy to accomplish and the author does a fantastic job of drawing the reader in.
This book has twists and turns and wonderful characters that pull you in to the story. At times I literally felt as though I was there seeing/hearing each character. I was drawn to Ms Chaytor, a strong woman who brooked no nonsense and was forthright with her thoughts (unlike most women of that era). I enjoyed the beautiful scenery and the authors prose was spectacular!
It's quite rare to find a historically accurate book that depicts a murder that eventually gets solved. This book is much better than any Sherlock Holmes novel! By the way, I wasn't sure till the end who had killed the person in the ice. It is a fascinating book and I will definitely be looking for more from this wonderful author. Wow... you really need to read this book if you like mysteries. Even if you don't like historical fiction, I think you will be pleasantly surprised by this book!
This book has twists and turns and wonderful characters that pull you in to the story. At times I literally felt as though I was there seeing/hearing each character. I was drawn to Ms Chaytor, a strong woman who brooked no nonsense and was forthright with her thoughts (unlike most women of that era). I enjoyed the beautiful scenery and the authors prose was spectacular!
It's quite rare to find a historically accurate book that depicts a murder that eventually gets solved. This book is much better than any Sherlock Holmes novel! By the way, I wasn't sure till the end who had killed the person in the ice. It is a fascinating book and I will definitely be looking for more from this wonderful author. Wow... you really need to read this book if you like mysteries. Even if you don't like historical fiction, I think you will be pleasantly surprised by this book!
October 12, 2017
I’ve had to make a discerned effort to get through my Netgalley shelf of ‘books older than 3 months’, and this was my first choice.
I downloaded this in April and am only reading it in October. Well more fool me. This book is an absolute gem of a murder mystery. And just to make me feel better its set-in December with dark nights, cold draughts and frosty weather. Which made it the prefect read for an autumnal afternoon by the wood burner and a cuppa tea.
This is the second book in what is a new series of the Romney Marsh Mysteries Christmas 1796. A body is found in a frozen pond in the deserted mansion New Hall. What follows is a mystery that includes smugglers and Revolutionaries. Locals Reverend Hardcastle, and his friend Mrs. Amelia Chaytor try to solve the mystery of how the body is and how it body got there, with what appears to very few clues.
Its old-school detective work, prior to DNA testing and forensics. The banter between the Reverend and Mrs Chaytor is believable, and some of the interactions with other characters add just amount of banter to raise the seriousness of the crime.
I really enjoyed this, so much so that I am going to download the first novel the Body on the Doorstep.
Do you yourself a favour, put the kettle, light the fire, switch your phone off and enjoy the wee treat. I read it in one sitting which for me says it all.
I downloaded this in April and am only reading it in October. Well more fool me. This book is an absolute gem of a murder mystery. And just to make me feel better its set-in December with dark nights, cold draughts and frosty weather. Which made it the prefect read for an autumnal afternoon by the wood burner and a cuppa tea.
This is the second book in what is a new series of the Romney Marsh Mysteries Christmas 1796. A body is found in a frozen pond in the deserted mansion New Hall. What follows is a mystery that includes smugglers and Revolutionaries. Locals Reverend Hardcastle, and his friend Mrs. Amelia Chaytor try to solve the mystery of how the body is and how it body got there, with what appears to very few clues.
Its old-school detective work, prior to DNA testing and forensics. The banter between the Reverend and Mrs Chaytor is believable, and some of the interactions with other characters add just amount of banter to raise the seriousness of the crime.
I really enjoyed this, so much so that I am going to download the first novel the Body on the Doorstep.
Do you yourself a favour, put the kettle, light the fire, switch your phone off and enjoy the wee treat. I read it in one sitting which for me says it all.
May 4, 2017
The Body in Ice is set in 1796 in the Romney Marsh area of England. The first chapter had me wondering if I'd finish the book, but each successive chapter got more interesting, and I liked the characters.
The late 18th c. setting is quite interesting. Twenty years have passed since America gained independence, but relationships between the two countries are still tense; the French Revolutionary Wars that followed the revolution keep England on edge with the threat of spies and invasion; the Bluestockings, led by Elizabeth Montague and Elizabeth Vesey, were encouraging intellectual activities for women; the abolitionist movement was growing; and smuggling was part of Romney Marsh's culture.
In addition to the mystery, all of the above events played a part. When Amelia Chaytor mentioned that someone was a bluestocking, I was surprised--I had no idea that the term dated back to the 18th c. A little research made me think that a series of historic mysteries featuring bluestockings would an excellent idea.
The book is uneven, but I enjoyed it.
NetGalley/Bonnier Zaffre
Historic Mystery. April 20, 2017. Print length: 368 pages.
The late 18th c. setting is quite interesting. Twenty years have passed since America gained independence, but relationships between the two countries are still tense; the French Revolutionary Wars that followed the revolution keep England on edge with the threat of spies and invasion; the Bluestockings, led by Elizabeth Montague and Elizabeth Vesey, were encouraging intellectual activities for women; the abolitionist movement was growing; and smuggling was part of Romney Marsh's culture.
In addition to the mystery, all of the above events played a part. When Amelia Chaytor mentioned that someone was a bluestocking, I was surprised--I had no idea that the term dated back to the 18th c. A little research made me think that a series of historic mysteries featuring bluestockings would an excellent idea.
The book is uneven, but I enjoyed it.
NetGalley/Bonnier Zaffre
Historic Mystery. April 20, 2017. Print length: 368 pages.
November 27, 2017
Oh, I really didn’t want this book to end. I’ve become very fond of the Rev Hardcastle and Mrs Chaytor.
At Christmastime in St Marys on the Marsh a body is found, hit on the head and almost frozen into a pond. The body is found near the stables of the local ‘big house’ New House. Those who have read the first book will know there has been a lot of trouble there before and it is a central character in this book.
We have returning characters like Stemp (now the local sergeant but still a smuggler) Lord Clavertye (who alternatively helps and hinders Hardcastle) and we meet some new ones who may or may not become a fixtures, like Calpurnia, the Rev Hardcastle’s novelist sister who, with her dog Rudolpho comes to disrupt Hardcastle’s ordered existence.
I love the friendship between Hardcastle and Mrs Chaytor and look forward to seeing it grow.
As the story goes along more and more is revealed but you never seem to be getting to the proof Hardcastle needs to make his case. But it does come and it threatens those he holds dear.
At Christmastime in St Marys on the Marsh a body is found, hit on the head and almost frozen into a pond. The body is found near the stables of the local ‘big house’ New House. Those who have read the first book will know there has been a lot of trouble there before and it is a central character in this book.
We have returning characters like Stemp (now the local sergeant but still a smuggler) Lord Clavertye (who alternatively helps and hinders Hardcastle) and we meet some new ones who may or may not become a fixtures, like Calpurnia, the Rev Hardcastle’s novelist sister who, with her dog Rudolpho comes to disrupt Hardcastle’s ordered existence.
I love the friendship between Hardcastle and Mrs Chaytor and look forward to seeing it grow.
As the story goes along more and more is revealed but you never seem to be getting to the proof Hardcastle needs to make his case. But it does come and it threatens those he holds dear.
October 9, 2017
I received a copy of this book through Netgalley. I was intrigued by the title and cover (yes, I was judging a book by its cover) and the brief write up. I haven't had much luck recently picking up books that are part of a series when I haven't read the others but this one surprised me. Although it is book #2, just enough of the backstory was included to let me understand the main characters and enjoy the book without feeling like I was missing important past interactions.
I found the story line easy to follow but still with enough twists and surprises to keep me engaged. I also enjoyed that several characters were written in as a type of "comic relief" without being too cartoony or stereotypical - they just added a bit of levity and humour to the book.
I will be looking for book 1 and will look forward to reading future books in this series as well.
I found the story line easy to follow but still with enough twists and surprises to keep me engaged. I also enjoyed that several characters were written in as a type of "comic relief" without being too cartoony or stereotypical - they just added a bit of levity and humour to the book.
I will be looking for book 1 and will look forward to reading future books in this series as well.
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