Elizabeth Boatwright Coker; Writer of Historical Novels

Elizabeth Boatwright Coker, 85, who began writing in her 40s and published nine historical novels. Mrs. Coker published her first novel at age 42. Her last book was “The Grasshopper King” (1981). She also wrote “Blood Red Roses,” “Daughter of Strangers,” “The Big Drum” and “Day of the Peacock.” In Hartsville, S.C., on Wednesday.