Overview

Evan Help Us is the second installment in the “Constable Evan Evans” series by Rhys Bowen. Set in the idyllic village of Llanfair in Wales, this cozy mystery revolves around Constable Evan Evans, a kind-hearted and somewhat naïve local policeman. Llanfair,

with its quirky inhabitants and picturesque landscape, seems like a place where nothing bad could ever happen. However, as with many small towns in cozy mysteries, appearances can be deceiving. Bowen’s novel is a charming yet suspenseful exploration of small-town life, filled with delightful characters, intricate plotting, and a strong sense of place.

Plot Summary

The story begins with the discovery of two deaths in the small village of Llanfair. The first is a visiting historian, Ted Morgan, who falls to his death while exploring the ruins of a medieval castle. The second, and more shocking, is the murder of Harry Parry, a retired and respected resident of Llanfair who is found dead in his home. Although the historian’s death is initially ruled as accidental, Constable Evans is suspicious, especially when Harry Parry is found murdered soon after.

As Evans begins his investigation, he uncovers several potential motives among the villagers. Parry was involved in local politics, had a strained relationship with his wife, and was known for his sharp tongue, which earned him more than a few enemies. The historian, Morgan, was an outsider, but his presence in the village and his interest in the castle might have stirred old secrets that some would prefer remain buried.

Evan’s investigation is complicated by the interference of his superiors, the gossip of the village, and his own inexperience as a detective. Despite these challenges, Evan’s dogged determination and his deepening understanding of the people he serves lead him to uncover the truth. The resolution is both satisfying and surprising, typical of the cozy mystery genre.

Characters

Rhys Bowen excels in creating a vibrant cast of characters that add depth and humor to the narrative. Constable Evan Evans is a relatable and likable protagonist. He is competent, empathetic, and deeply committed to his community, but he is also still learning his way around the complexities of policing, especially in a tight-knit village where everyone knows everyone else’s business.

The villagers of Llanfair are vividly drawn, with each character contributing to the story’s charm and intrigue. There’s Mrs. Williams, the village gossip, who knows everyone’s secrets but is not as malicious as she might appear. Then there’s Major Markess, a retired military man whose blustery demeanor hides a more sensitive side. The village’s vicar, Reverend Jones, and his wife, Bronwen, add a touch of the spiritual and moral dilemmas that underpin much of the story.

Harry Parry, the murder victim, is portrayed posthumously through the recollections of others, revealing him as a man with many facets—some admirable, others less so. His complicated relationships with the villagers add layers of complexity to the mystery, as nearly everyone seems to have had a reason to dislike him.

Themes

Several themes run through Evan Help Us, elevating it above a simple murder mystery. One of the most prominent is the theme of community and the double-edged sword it represents. The close-knit nature of Llanfair means that the villagers support each other, but it also means that secrets are hard to keep and grudges can fester.

Another theme is the conflict between tradition and change. Llanfair is depicted as a place that is resistant to change, where the past lingers and influences the present. The historian’s death at a medieval site and Parry’s involvement in local politics highlight this tension. Evan Evans, as a young and somewhat modern figure, represents a bridge between the old and the new, struggling to maintain balance in a community that is both endearing and exasperating.

Finally, the novel touches on the theme of justice and the moral ambiguity that sometimes surrounds it. Evan’s investigation reveals that justice in a small town is not always clear-cut; personal biases, past grievances, and social ties all play a role in how justice is perceived and dispensed.

Style and Tone

Rhys Bowen’s writing style is both witty and warm, capturing the essence of cozy mysteries while offering sharp observations about human nature. Her descriptions of Llanfair and its surroundings are evocative, immersing the reader in the Welsh countryside. The dialogue is crisp and often humorous, reflecting the eccentricities of the characters.

The tone of the novel is light, but not frivolous. Bowen strikes a balance between humor and suspense, making the darker elements of the story—such as murder and betrayal—palatable without undermining their seriousness. The pacing is leisurely, appropriate for the genre, but Bowen ensures that there are enough twists and turns to keep the reader engaged.

Conclusion

Evan Help Us is a delightful addition to the “Constable Evan Evans” series, showcasing Rhys Bowen’s talent for crafting engaging mysteries set in richly detailed environments. The novel’s charm lies in its well-drawn characters, intricate plot, and the quaint yet complex world of Llanfair. Fans of cozy mysteries will find much to enjoy in this book, from the humor to the suspense to the satisfying resolution.

For readers looking for a mystery that is light on gore but rich in character and setting, Evan Help Us is an excellent choice. Rhys Bowen’s ability to capture the nuances of small-town life, combined with her knack for plotting, makes this book a thoroughly enjoyable read. Whether you are new to the series or a returning fan, this novel is sure to leave you eager for more adventures with Constable Evan Evans.