Some book series lose their spark after a few instalments, but I’m happy to say that hasn’t been the case with the Constable Evan Evans mysteries. Every time I return to Llanfair, I find myself settling in almost immediately, eager to see what mystery awaits next.

Evan and Elle was another enjoyable addition to the series. What I liked most was that it didn’t try to be over-the-top or rely on endless twists to keep my attention. Instead, it allowed the mystery to unfold at its own pace, giving me plenty of opportunities to piece the clues together before everything was revealed.

One of my favourite parts of this series is how familiar the characters have become. As the books go on, they feel less like fictional characters and more like people you’ve come to know. That made it even more enjoyable to see Evan tackling another case while balancing life in a close-knit Welsh community.

I also found myself paying closer attention to the little details in this story. There were several moments where I thought I’d worked everything out, only for another piece of information to make me rethink my theory. That’s exactly what I want from a mystery—I like feeling involved rather than simply waiting for the final chapter to explain everything.

Although the investigation is at the centre of the story, I also appreciate that Rhys Bowen doesn’t forget about the setting. Llanfair has such a welcoming atmosphere that it almost feels like another character in the series. The beautiful Welsh countryside and village life give these books their own identity, making them stand out from other crime novels I’ve read.

The audiobook was another enjoyable listen. The narration suited the tone of the story and made it easy to become immersed in the investigation. At no point did I feel distracted by the performance, which is something I always appreciate as someone who mainly experiences books through audiobooks.

If you’re looking for an action-packed thriller with shocking twists around every corner, this series may not be the right fit. However, if you enjoy mysteries that focus on strong storytelling, memorable characters and a setting you’ll want to revisit, I think you’ll find plenty to love here.

My Final Thoughts

Evan and Elle reminded me why I keep reaching for the next Constable Evan Evans book. It offered another engaging mystery, gave me more time with characters I’ve grown fond of, and once again transported me to the heart of rural Wales.

Not every book needs to reinvent the wheel to be enjoyable. Sometimes, spending a few hours in a familiar place with a good mystery is exactly what you need, and that’s exactly what Evan and Elle delivered.