Murder Aboard: A Cruise Mystery

By Kyla Harris

Julia Bennett, a warm-hearted nurse, boards a luxury cruise ship with her husband, Mark, and their spirited daughter, Lily, for a serene Caribbean adventure. But tranquility is short-lived when a prominent businessman is discovered dead. While the captain dismisses the death as a natural occurrence, Julia's sharp instincts sense a sinister plot.

• Language: English
• Publisher: C.H. Press
• Release date: Mar 1, 2024
• ISBN: 9798869221698

Book preview

Chapter 1

The morning sun cast a golden glow over the Miami harbor as we approached the Ocean Serenity, its towering white decks glistening like a modern-day Titanic. The ship's sleek design, with gentle curves and vast expanses of glass, reflects the turquoise waters of the ocean, creating an image of floating luxury.

My husband Mark, with his firefighter's build, easily juggled our four-year-old daughter Lily’s pink suitcase along with our own. Lily's excitement was palpable, her small hand clasped in mine as we made our way through the bustling crowd.

I can't wait to see the whole ship! Lily chirped, her eyes wide with anticipation.

Mark chuckled, ruffling her curly hair. I bet it's bigger than you can imagine, pumpkin.

Porters in crisp uniforms hustled about, handling an array of designer luggage, while families and couples took in the breathtaking sight of their floating haven.

The ship's multiple decks were a marvel of maritime architecture. The top deck featured an expansive pool surrounded by sun loungers and cabanas, with a panoramic view of the ocean. The gentle breeze carried the sound of a live jazz band.

The grand atrium, with its soaring ceiling, was adorned with crystal chandeliers and polished marble floors. Elegant boutiques lined the walkway, offering high-end shopping experiences. The air was filled with the aroma of gourmet cuisine emanating from the numerous specialty restaurants.

As we boarded, a steward greeted us with a warm smile. Welcome to the Ocean Serenity. May I assist you with your luggage?

Mark nodded, handing over the bags. Thank you. We're in suite 510.

The Bennett family, correct? We have you all set up. This way, please.

The interior of the Ocean Serenity was a spectacle of luxury, with polished floors, ornate chandeliers, and walls adorned with tasteful art. Lily's gasp mirrored my awe. It was more magnificent than anything we'd seen in Cookeville, Tennessee.

We hadn't gone far when a commotion drew our attention. A man in a sleek black suit, with a top hat and a wand, was performing magic tricks, surrounded by a group of children. Lily tugged at my hand, her eyes sparkling.

Mommy, look! A magician!

Before I could respond, the magician noticed Lily and beckoned her over with a friendly smile. And what's your name, young lady?

I'm Lily, she said shyly.

I'm Leo, the ship's magician. Would you like to see a trick?

Lily nodded eagerly. With a flourish of his wand and a few mumbled words, Leo pulled a brightly colored scarf from behind Lily's ear, causing her to giggle with delight.

That's amazing! she exclaimed, her initial shyness forgotten.

Leo winked at us. The magic is just beginning.

We thanked Leo and continued towards our suite. The hallway was lined with doors leading to luxurious accommodations.

As we approached our suite, Lily skipped ahead, her laughter echoing softly against the polished wood paneling.

Suddenly, the door of the neighboring suite swung open with a creak, revealing a middle-aged man who staggered slightly as he stepped out. His hair was disheveled, his eyes slightly glassy, and the scent of alcohol lingered around him like an uninvited aura.

Hello there, neighbors! he slurred cheerily, a lopsided smile on his face. Good morning. I'm Richard Kingston.

I exchanged a concerned glance with Mark. Hello, I'm Julia Bennett, and this is my husband, Mark, and our daughter, Lily, I replied cautiously.

He leaned against the door frame, seemingly struggling to maintain his balance. Call me Richard, please! he exclaimed, raising a half-empty glass in a toast to an invisible audience. Are you enjoying the cruise so far?

We just boarded, Mark answered politely, subtly positioning himself between Lily and Mr. Kingston.

Lily, curious and unbothered by the man's state, tugged at my dress. Why does he smell funny, Mommy?

I quickly hushed her, but Mr. Kingston just chuckled. Ah, the honesty of kids! Richard's been enjoying the ship's fine selection of spirits a bit too much, I'm afraid.

Well, we should get settled in, Mark said, offering a courteous smile. It is nice meeting you, Richard. I hope you enjoy the rest of your day.

If you need any recommendations on the ship's amenities, feel free to ask. I've traveled with them quite often, Mr. Kingston offered, before excusing himself with a polite farewell.

Closing the door, I turned to Mark, an intrigued expression on my face. He seems... interesting.

Mark nodded, a thoughtful look crossing his face. Yeah, there's an air of mystery about him.

The moment we stepped into our suite on the cruise ship, a sense of excitement and relief washed over me. The room was spacious, much to my surprise, with a sitting area with a comfortable sofa, a large bed, and a small, separate area for Lily. She was already bouncing on her bed.

Look, Mommy! My bed is like a boat! Lily squealed, her imagination turning her bed into an oceanic adventure.

I smiled at her enthusiasm and glanced at Mark, who was just as amused. Yes, sweetheart, it's just like a boat, I replied, setting our bags down.

Mark was already opening