Overview

Evan Can Wait is the fifth book in Rhys Bowen’s Constable Evan Evans mystery series, which is set in the quaint and picturesque village of Llanfair in North Wales. This series follows the life of Constable Evan Evans, a local policeman who finds himself regularly entangled in solving crimes, much to the chagrin of his superiors who would rather he stick to more routine police work. Bowen’s cozy mysteries are characterized by their charming settings, engaging plots, and well-drawn characters, making them a delightful read for fans of the genre.

Plot Summary

The story begins with the arrival of a film crew in Llanfair, who are there to document the history of a local slate quarry. The quarry had a dark past, including a tragic cave-in that took the lives of several miners. As the filming progresses, the crew makes a shocking discovery—a skeleton is unearthed in a hidden cave, along with a priceless piece of Welsh art. The body is soon identified as that of an archaeologist who disappeared in the 1950s under mysterious circumstances.

Constable Evan Evans is brought into the investigation, and his inquiries quickly reveal that the skeleton’s discovery is just the tip of the iceberg. The case becomes more complicated as ties to World War II, art smuggling, and local secrets emerge. Alongside the mystery, Evan also grapples with his growing feelings for Bronwen Price, the local schoolteacher, and the potential threat posed by the glamorous filmmaker Alison Meredith, who seems interested in Evan.

Character Analysis

One of the strengths of Evan Can Wait is its well-developed and relatable characters. Evan Evans, the protagonist, is depicted as a kind-hearted, intelligent, and somewhat shy policeman. His dedication to his community and his determination to seek justice make him an endearing character. Evan’s personal life, particularly his romantic entanglements, adds depth to his character and creates a subplot that is as engaging as the central mystery.

Bronwen Price, Evan’s love interest, is portrayed as a strong, independent woman with a sharp mind. Their relationship progresses slowly, adding a layer of tension and anticipation for the reader. The arrival of Alison Meredith adds a love triangle element, but Bowen handles it with a light touch, ensuring that it does not overshadow the main mystery.

The supporting cast, including village regulars like Mrs. Williams and Sergeant Watkins, adds charm and humor to the story. Bowen excels in creating a vivid sense of community, and the recurring characters feel like old friends to readers of the series.

Themes

History and Secrets: The novel delves into the theme of how history—both personal and communal—shapes the present. The discovery of the skeleton and the subsequent unraveling of a decades-old mystery underscore how buried secrets can resurface and impact the current generation.

Art and Heritage: The subplot involving the Welsh art piece touches on the importance of cultural heritage and the lengths people will go to protect or exploit it. Bowen uses this to explore issues of national identity and the preservation of history.

Romance: The romantic subplot in the novel is woven seamlessly into the narrative, highlighting the theme of personal growth. Evan’s evolving relationship with Bronwen and his interactions with Alison reflect the complexities of human relationships and the choices that define them.

Writing Style

Rhys Bowen’s writing in Evan Can Wait is marked by its warmth, wit, and attention to detail. Her descriptions of the Welsh landscape are particularly evocative, painting a vivid picture of the village and its surroundings. The dialogue is natural and often laced with humor, which adds to the cozy feel of the book.

Bowen’s pacing is deliberate, allowing the mystery to unfold at a measured pace. While some readers might find the pace slow compared to more action-packed mysteries, it suits the cozy genre well, allowing for deeper character development and a stronger sense of place.

Critique

While Evan Can Wait is an enjoyable read, it is not without its flaws. The mystery itself, while intriguing, might be considered somewhat predictable by seasoned mystery readers. The clues are well-placed, but the resolution may not come as a complete surprise to those familiar with the genre’s conventions.

Additionally, some readers might find the romantic subplot a bit distracting, particularly if they are more focused on the mystery elements. However, for those who appreciate a blend of romance and mystery, this aspect of the book will likely be a welcome addition.

Conclusion

Evan Can Wait is a delightful addition to the Constable Evan Evans series, offering a well-crafted mystery, engaging characters, and a strong sense of place. Rhys Bowen’s ability to blend mystery, romance, and humor ensures that this book will appeal to fans of cozy mysteries and those who enjoy stories set in small, tight-knit communities. While the mystery may not be the most complex, the charm of Llanfair and its inhabitants more than makes up for it, making this a satisfying read for those looking for a gentle yet compelling mystery.