Located on the south coast of England, Rottingdean, circa the late 1890's, is a picturesque town on the Channel with an interesting history. Years ago it was called Smuggler's Village because of all the contraband that was moved in the small town. Once the excise laws were dismantled, the business of smuggling ceased to be profitable and the town became a quiet resort.

Assured that nothing ever happens in Rottingdean, Lord and Lady Sheridan decide to take a much needed vacation. Charles and Kathryn are having trouble coming to terms with the loss of their unborn child and Kathryn's inability to have more children. They wish to spend some quiet, healing time together.

But their wish is not to be, for when Charles and Kathryn arrive in Rottingdean the body of a dead coast guard has just been found on the beach. Charles' friend, the famous writer, Rudyard Kipling, informs Charles that foul play is likely and that the quiet town of Rottingdean might be back in the smuggling business.

Ordered to investigate by no less than his Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales, Charles uses his skills in photography to produce evidence. Stonewalled by the local men, who refuse to talk to him, he finds that Kathryn's ability to chat with the local women gleans valuable information. And both Charles and Kathryn find that they can rely on the aid of a small boy, Patrick, and their friend, Rudyard Kipling, for assistance.

Admittedly, Charles and Kathryn are going through a difficult period in their marriage and maybe warmth and wit are a bit much to expect from the pair. Still, I wanted to see a little more genuine feeling from both these characters. Even for upper class Brits, they seemed a bit stiff and unfeeling to me.

For instance, toward the end of the book, Charles and Kathryn decide to give young Patrick a home. A very nice thing to do, but to be honest I never felt like they cared for the boy. Actually, when they spoke of taking Patrick in it sounded more like they were discussing the acquisition of a pet than becoming guardians/parents of a young boy.

Whatever the lack of warmth, this is a well-plotted tale. I also found the insertion of Mr. Kipling to be a very nice touch. And certainly there is no skimping on wonderful historical details and fascinating facts in the mystery that surrounds the Death at Rottingdean.

--Judith Flavell