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Constable Evans #7
Evan Only Knows
Constable Evan Evans leaves behind the big city for the sleepy Welsh village of Llanfair. But murder follows him . . .
Constable Evan Evans is finally taking the next step in his relationship. He’s on his way to Swansea to introduce his fiancée Bronwen to his mother . . . but all does not go smoothly.
A young woman, Alison Turnbull, is found dead on her parents’ doorstep nearby. She’s been murdered. And despite being on leave, Evans can’t help investigating — much to Bronwen’s displeasure.
Then Mrs Hartley, a potential witness, falls to her death from her upstairs window. There are too many coincidences for Evans to believe it was a tragic accident.
It’s clear that someone will go to any lengths to keep their secrets hidden. Evans must get to the bottom of things before there’s another murder.
Constable Evan Evans has his work cut out in this charming cozy Welsh village mystery.
Constable Evan Evans is finally taking the next step in his relationship. He’s on his way to Swansea to introduce his fiancée Bronwen to his mother . . . but all does not go smoothly.
A young woman, Alison Turnbull, is found dead on her parents’ doorstep nearby. She’s been murdered. And despite being on leave, Evans can’t help investigating — much to Bronwen’s displeasure.
Then Mrs Hartley, a potential witness, falls to her death from her upstairs window. There are too many coincidences for Evans to believe it was a tragic accident.
It’s clear that someone will go to any lengths to keep their secrets hidden. Evans must get to the bottom of things before there’s another murder.
Constable Evan Evans has his work cut out in this charming cozy Welsh village mystery.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 11, 2003
261 people are currently reading
751 people want to read
About the author
Rhys Bowen
118 books9,500 followersI'm a New York Times bestselling mystery author, winner of both Agatha and Anthony awards for my Molly Murphy mysteries, set in 1902 New York City.
I have recently published four internationally bestselling WWII novels, one of them a #1 Kindle bestseller, and the Tuscan Child selling almost a million copies to date. In Farleigh Field won three major awards and was nominated for an Edgar. My other stand-alone novels are The Victory Garden, about land girls in WWI and Above the Bay of Angels, featuring a young woman who becomes chef for Queen Victoria.
April 2021 will mark the publication of THE VENICE SKETCHBOOK--another sweeping historical novel of love, loss and intrigue.
My books are currently translated into 29 languages and I have fans worldwide.
I also write the Agatha-winning Royal Spyness series, about the British royal family in the 1930s. It's lighter, sexier, funnier, wicked satire. It was voted by readers as best mystery series one year.
I am also known for my Constable Evans books, set in North Wales, and for my award-winning short stories.
I was born and raised in England but currently divide my time between California and Arizona where I go to escape from the harsh California winters
When I am not writing I love to travel, sing, hike, play my Celtic harp.
Series:
* Constable Evan Mystery
* Molly Murphy Mysteries
* Her Royal Spyness Mysteries
Awards:
Agatha Award
◊ Best Novel (2001): Murphy's Law
Reviewer's Choice Award
◊ Historical Mystery (2001): Murphy's Law
I have recently published four internationally bestselling WWII novels, one of them a #1 Kindle bestseller, and the Tuscan Child selling almost a million copies to date. In Farleigh Field won three major awards and was nominated for an Edgar. My other stand-alone novels are The Victory Garden, about land girls in WWI and Above the Bay of Angels, featuring a young woman who becomes chef for Queen Victoria.
April 2021 will mark the publication of THE VENICE SKETCHBOOK--another sweeping historical novel of love, loss and intrigue.
My books are currently translated into 29 languages and I have fans worldwide.
I also write the Agatha-winning Royal Spyness series, about the British royal family in the 1930s. It's lighter, sexier, funnier, wicked satire. It was voted by readers as best mystery series one year.
I am also known for my Constable Evans books, set in North Wales, and for my award-winning short stories.
I was born and raised in England but currently divide my time between California and Arizona where I go to escape from the harsh California winters
When I am not writing I love to travel, sing, hike, play my Celtic harp.
Series:
* Constable Evan Mystery
* Molly Murphy Mysteries
* Her Royal Spyness Mysteries
Awards:
Agatha Award
◊ Best Novel (2001): Murphy's Law
Reviewer's Choice Award
◊ Historical Mystery (2001): Murphy's Law
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
September 13, 2023
The seventh book in the Constable Evans series and it is not as light hearted as the earlier books. It opens with the threat of Foot and Mouth Disease and the cruel way healthy sheep were slaughtered and burned in an effort to stop the advance of the disease. Evan and Bronwyn feel unable to cope with this and go off on a holiday to visit their families.
The visits do not go very well and then Evan finds himself involved in a murder case where he feels the police are trying to implicate the wrong person. His efforts to help this person could even loose him his job, but Bronwyn stands by her man and all is sorted out by the end.
I missed the characters from Llanfair in this book but at the same time it was a nice change to go visiting elsewhere. I am still giving it five stars.
The visits do not go very well and then Evan finds himself involved in a murder case where he feels the police are trying to implicate the wrong person. His efforts to help this person could even loose him his job, but Bronwyn stands by her man and all is sorted out by the end.
I missed the characters from Llanfair in this book but at the same time it was a nice change to go visiting elsewhere. I am still giving it five stars.
September 9, 2024
As Evan Evans and his fiancée, Bronwen, travelled from Llanfair in North Wales to Swansea in South Wales, for a two week holiday and for Bronwen to meet Evan's mother, and he to meet her family, he wasn't to know he'd get tangled up in a murder investigation. Without jurisdiction, he wasn't able to do anything officially - but that didn't stop him. The young woman who had died, and the man who'd been arrested for her murder, had many in Swansea unhappy but elated that the killer had been caught. It was the same person who'd killed Evan's father five years previously, but did he kill Alison? It seemed everyone else thought he had - but Evan wasn't so sure. He had to do the right thing, even though everyone was against him investigating.
Evan Only Knows is #7 in the Constable Evans series by Rhys Bowen and I enjoyed very much. Light and entertaining, although we were far from Llanfair this time, this one shows Evan's sleuthing at his very best. And I picked the murderer quite early in the story. It was good to see more of Bronwen too in this episode. I'm looking forward to #8 soon. Recommended.
Evan Only Knows is #7 in the Constable Evans series by Rhys Bowen and I enjoyed very much. Light and entertaining, although we were far from Llanfair this time, this one shows Evan's sleuthing at his very best. And I picked the murderer quite early in the story. It was good to see more of Bronwen too in this episode. I'm looking forward to #8 soon. Recommended.
March 15, 2025
This is the most disappointing one in the series. Evan behaved like an idiot in this one and his fiancee was almost as bad. Their risky behavior was shocking and strange. He left her at her parents house but at least the lamb (Prince William) got to stay there too where he was safe from hoof and mouth disease. She had to get herself back to Swansea. If a guy did that to me I doubt I would go out with him again! His behavior was unreal. Evan behaved like he was totally bonkers.
However, this was the very first one in which I guessed who the murderer was right off so at least that was good.
However, this was the very first one in which I guessed who the murderer was right off so at least that was good.
July 15, 2018
Evan Only Knows by Rhys Bowen is the seventh book of the Constable Evan Evans mystery series set in Wales during the foot-and-mouth disease epidemic. Evan learns that his friends and neighbors face losing their livelihoods: the government requires slaughtering all their livestock, even though the disease has not yet reached North Wales. He and Bronwen "Bron" cannot face the terrible experience, so they flee to South Wales, to visit Evan's mother in Swansea, and then Bron's family. Since they plan to wed, it's time to meet family.
Evan's mother is difficult, impossible to please completely. She is happy they came to visit, and cooks them wonderful meals, but keeps finding trivial reasons to complain. Evan and Bron feel relief when they leave Swansea to visit Bron's family, however the relief is short-lived. Bron's family is cool to Evan; they would prefer her to marry in their class.
Evan leaves Bron at her family estate, and returns to Swansea. He's bothered by a murder case involving Tony Mancini, the man who shot his father. Tony got off easy - out in only four years after the shooting. The evidence against Tony for the murder is only circumstantial. All the officers are eager to see Tony put away this time for life. They don't want Evan to cross-check witnesses, facts, motives. Evan is very troubled and conflicted too...Tony deserves to be in prison for life for the earlier shooting, but what if he didn't murder the latest victim? Should her killer go free?
An unexpected novelty in this episode is Bron's assertive participation in the murder case. Bored when left behind with her family, she goes to a Swansea nightclub in disguise to quiz the murdered girl's friends. Later in the case, she goes back to the club for more information, and barely escapes.
Needless to say, after a great deal of difficulty and personal danger to Evan and Bron, the truth is known. The facts are not entirely satisfying to most, and they're angry with Evan, but Evan feels he did the right thing - even what his father would have done in his place. Bron is proud of him. They return home to face their devastated village, where all the sheep had been slaughtered and burnt.
Evan's mother is difficult, impossible to please completely. She is happy they came to visit, and cooks them wonderful meals, but keeps finding trivial reasons to complain. Evan and Bron feel relief when they leave Swansea to visit Bron's family, however the relief is short-lived. Bron's family is cool to Evan; they would prefer her to marry in their class.
Evan leaves Bron at her family estate, and returns to Swansea. He's bothered by a murder case involving Tony Mancini, the man who shot his father. Tony got off easy - out in only four years after the shooting. The evidence against Tony for the murder is only circumstantial. All the officers are eager to see Tony put away this time for life. They don't want Evan to cross-check witnesses, facts, motives. Evan is very troubled and conflicted too...Tony deserves to be in prison for life for the earlier shooting, but what if he didn't murder the latest victim? Should her killer go free?
An unexpected novelty in this episode is Bron's assertive participation in the murder case. Bored when left behind with her family, she goes to a Swansea nightclub in disguise to quiz the murdered girl's friends. Later in the case, she goes back to the club for more information, and barely escapes.
Needless to say, after a great deal of difficulty and personal danger to Evan and Bron, the truth is known. The facts are not entirely satisfying to most, and they're angry with Evan, but Evan feels he did the right thing - even what his father would have done in his place. Bron is proud of him. They return home to face their devastated village, where all the sheep had been slaughtered and burnt.
December 3, 2011
I may have to give up on this series before I finish it. I enjoyed the early titles, but the last few have gone down hill sharply. Flat and superficial. Near the end of this one is the line "There was no understanding women, Evan decided. He would never learn what pleased them." Well, no, he wouldn't, if they were as poorly, sloppily, inconsistently, and unrealistically written as the woman he's referring to. And she's a recurring character, which says a lot.
Definitely not at all sure that I'll go on with the series.
Definitely not at all sure that I'll go on with the series.
July 31, 2018
I think the last time I visited Constable Evans in North Wales would have been 2015 perhaps. Feeling like a trip back there was long overdue, I read the seventh installment in the series today and enjoyed every page.
Evan Evans comes by his work as a policeman honestly. His dad was a cop, and his dad had been killed in the line of duty by a young gang thug who claimed the shooting was purely accidental. So convincing was he that the judge gave the young man a four-year sentence. Tony Mancini is out of jail when Evan goes home to take his fiancé to meet his widowed mom.
The introduction of Mrs. Evans and Bronwen was as difficult as Evan feared it would be. His mother even suggested he reacquaint himself with an old girlfriend who still lived in the area. But the two forge on through the family visit, believing that a visit to her family in a nearby town would make things better.
It is while Evan and Bronwen are visiting his mother’s that Tony Mancini, earlier convicted of killing Evan’s dad, is again charged with murder. This time, the victim is a young manufacturing heiress—the spoiled wealthy daughter of a man whose computer case manufacturing plant kept the community alive economically.
Evan convinces the local cops that he simply wants to talk to Mancini to perhaps draw together some loose ends regarding his dad’s death. But the more the two converse, the more convinced Evan becomes that, while Mancini clearly killed his dad, he’s not guilty of the death of the young woman.
What’s a good cop to do? He feels cheated as to the sentence Mancini got for killing his dad; but does he allow an innocent man to go to prison? Despite the conflict and difficulty of the situation, Evan becomes convinced that even his dad wouldn’t have wanted him to do nothing if Mancini was innocent.
Getting involved in the case means even Evan’s mom turns against him, as do the local cops who resent his digging into a case they feel is cut and dried, especially when you take into account the fact that the last sentence the man got was ridiculously small.
Before the book ends, Bronwen has gone undercover in an effort to help Evan ferret out the real killer.
The subplots here are fun and engaging. Wales is under the grip of Foot-and-Mouth disease, which means that farmers are forced to destroy their sheep to prevent the disease from spreading. That massively complicates things for Bronwen, a schoolteacher who agrees to keep a pet lamb for a student while the school is on break. She finds herself bringing the lamb to Evan’s mother’s place and then to her own house, where her dad is apoplectic about the fact that she may have unwittingly exposed his rare breeds of sheep to the disease by bringing the pet.
This is a short cozy mystery that you’ll enjoy. Indeed, I heartily recommend the entire series.
Evan Evans comes by his work as a policeman honestly. His dad was a cop, and his dad had been killed in the line of duty by a young gang thug who claimed the shooting was purely accidental. So convincing was he that the judge gave the young man a four-year sentence. Tony Mancini is out of jail when Evan goes home to take his fiancé to meet his widowed mom.
The introduction of Mrs. Evans and Bronwen was as difficult as Evan feared it would be. His mother even suggested he reacquaint himself with an old girlfriend who still lived in the area. But the two forge on through the family visit, believing that a visit to her family in a nearby town would make things better.
It is while Evan and Bronwen are visiting his mother’s that Tony Mancini, earlier convicted of killing Evan’s dad, is again charged with murder. This time, the victim is a young manufacturing heiress—the spoiled wealthy daughter of a man whose computer case manufacturing plant kept the community alive economically.
Evan convinces the local cops that he simply wants to talk to Mancini to perhaps draw together some loose ends regarding his dad’s death. But the more the two converse, the more convinced Evan becomes that, while Mancini clearly killed his dad, he’s not guilty of the death of the young woman.
What’s a good cop to do? He feels cheated as to the sentence Mancini got for killing his dad; but does he allow an innocent man to go to prison? Despite the conflict and difficulty of the situation, Evan becomes convinced that even his dad wouldn’t have wanted him to do nothing if Mancini was innocent.
Getting involved in the case means even Evan’s mom turns against him, as do the local cops who resent his digging into a case they feel is cut and dried, especially when you take into account the fact that the last sentence the man got was ridiculously small.
Before the book ends, Bronwen has gone undercover in an effort to help Evan ferret out the real killer.
The subplots here are fun and engaging. Wales is under the grip of Foot-and-Mouth disease, which means that farmers are forced to destroy their sheep to prevent the disease from spreading. That massively complicates things for Bronwen, a schoolteacher who agrees to keep a pet lamb for a student while the school is on break. She finds herself bringing the lamb to Evan’s mother’s place and then to her own house, where her dad is apoplectic about the fact that she may have unwittingly exposed his rare breeds of sheep to the disease by bringing the pet.
This is a short cozy mystery that you’ll enjoy. Indeed, I heartily recommend the entire series.
January 17, 2014
If I had not read five previous books in this Constable Evans cozy mystery, I would not have stuck with it. It was slow to get going and at times poorly edited. Ms Bowen telegraphs her punches here, and there was little suspense. However, I am glad I made it to the end.
This book helped me clarify why I like Constable Evans and why I get the same comforting feeling from this series that I did from Alexander McCall Smith's Isabel Dalhousie books, which are much more sophisticated and literary.
I believe in doing the right thing, regardless of the cost and regardless of whether others agree. This is core of Evan Evans' personality and also crucial to the Isabel Dalhousie character. Toward the end of "Evan Only Knows," Evans says: "It seems to me we can't pick and choose justice in this life. We can just do our bit, and sometimes we get it right and sometimes we get it wrong." Too often in modern society, the morality of expediency trumps our inner sense of right and wrong. I wouldn't try to impose my ethical views on others, but I do try to live by an internal moral compass. That's what I like about Evan Evan.
The bucolic Welsh setting also contributes to a feeling of peace in this series. I wish the characters evolved more, but at the same time there is a certain comfort in opening a Constable Evans book as we know what we are going to get. The cast of characters in these pages reminds me a bit of the villagers in "Doc Martin," the British television series that is also quite cozy.
The other aspect of this novel that I found appealing -- and it is a constant theme in this series -- is that hope can be rewarded, regardless of the odds. Near the end of this book, another policeman tells Evan: "I've lived long enough to know that little miracles are happening every day. That's what we need in times like this (sic) -- a few little miracles."
As one who struggles with a serious albeit not life-threatening illness, I find that sentiment uplifting and inspiring.
To sum up, this is not the best Constable Evan book but if read in sequence it is rewarding.
This book helped me clarify why I like Constable Evans and why I get the same comforting feeling from this series that I did from Alexander McCall Smith's Isabel Dalhousie books, which are much more sophisticated and literary.
I believe in doing the right thing, regardless of the cost and regardless of whether others agree. This is core of Evan Evans' personality and also crucial to the Isabel Dalhousie character. Toward the end of "Evan Only Knows," Evans says: "It seems to me we can't pick and choose justice in this life. We can just do our bit, and sometimes we get it right and sometimes we get it wrong." Too often in modern society, the morality of expediency trumps our inner sense of right and wrong. I wouldn't try to impose my ethical views on others, but I do try to live by an internal moral compass. That's what I like about Evan Evan.
The bucolic Welsh setting also contributes to a feeling of peace in this series. I wish the characters evolved more, but at the same time there is a certain comfort in opening a Constable Evans book as we know what we are going to get. The cast of characters in these pages reminds me a bit of the villagers in "Doc Martin," the British television series that is also quite cozy.
The other aspect of this novel that I found appealing -- and it is a constant theme in this series -- is that hope can be rewarded, regardless of the odds. Near the end of this book, another policeman tells Evan: "I've lived long enough to know that little miracles are happening every day. That's what we need in times like this (sic) -- a few little miracles."
As one who struggles with a serious albeit not life-threatening illness, I find that sentiment uplifting and inspiring.
To sum up, this is not the best Constable Evan book but if read in sequence it is rewarding.
May 20, 2019
Fun Read. Evan Evans is s constable in North Wales, and rather than deal w/ the hoof and mouth disease and the killing of mass sheep that was to come, he takes a long needed vacation to South Wales, taking his girlfriend, Bronwen to meet his mother and he to meet her parents also. While there however, he gets involved in a murder investigation. Look forward to the next book in this series.
July 23, 2024
One of the strongest of the series, Constable Evans heads to south Wales and engages in a chase to catch the man who killed his father. (Gasp!)
October 25, 2011
Seventh in the Constable Evans mystery series set in Llanfair, North Wales and revolving around Constable Evan Evans, the so-far local policeman for the area.
The Story
Disaster strikes in North Wales! The Ministry of Agriculture plans to destroy the flocks of sheep of all the farmers in a wide area in Wales including Evans' area. All leave and the course Evans was supposed to attend has been canceled. Then Evans learns that Bronwen's job may be at risk as well.
Unable to bear the emotional side of the farmers' losses, Evans manages to slip off with "compassionate leave" arranged by the newly-promoted DI Watkins and intends to spend the next two weeks introducing Bronwen to his mother and for Bronwen to introduce him to her parents.
There's just two little problems: Bronwen has promised to help one of the girls in her class that she'll save young Eirlys' pet lamb and Tony Mancini, the lad convicted of killing Evan's father, has been arrested for the rape-murder of a young girl.
The Characters
Constable Evan Evans is a quietly strong person; as a character, he's strong only in comparison to the others in the story. He certainly understands his mother and her crotchety ways! He does discover what a jewel he has in Bronwen Price when she shows up and helps him with his investigation. Her support in the face of her parents, his mother, and the policemen in Swansea goes a long way to boosting his confidence.
Maggi provides a bit of the old cat as Evans' old girlfriend while the policemen at Swansea run through the welcome, the detestation, and finally the understanding when Evans throws everything into chaos. I'm curious as to how long it takes before Evan and Bronwen realize their parents are very much alike in their prejudices and need for routine.
I don't think Evan or Bronwen will have to worry too much about one or the other insisting upon spending their holidays with their parents as they seem fairly agreed upon their natures.
My Take
This is a difficult case for Evans as there is nothing he'd like better than to see Tony convicted properly this time. But between his conscience and what Evans believes his dad would say, he must investigate the discrepancies he stumbles across. Even if it means his father's killer goes free.
Bowen does lovely work with Evans' thought processes and the conversations. There is a nice realism to exchanges between characters and a wee touch of the Agatha Christie in how Evans ferrets out the clues.
The Cover
This is an unexpected cover! It's all that white background that throws me off although maybe it's to reflect the 'eaven to which all the sheep go when the Min of Ag gets through with them?? I am confused as to the meaning of the angel statue hoisted so high in the air with all its cracks. Is it to reflect the cracks in the justice system or perhaps those that Evans perceives in himself? It is possible that it's a monument to Evan's dad having fallen in the line of duty and then his killer getting such a light sentence. Anyway, it certainly is true that the truth of this case is something Evan Only Knows.
The Story
Disaster strikes in North Wales! The Ministry of Agriculture plans to destroy the flocks of sheep of all the farmers in a wide area in Wales including Evans' area. All leave and the course Evans was supposed to attend has been canceled. Then Evans learns that Bronwen's job may be at risk as well.
Unable to bear the emotional side of the farmers' losses, Evans manages to slip off with "compassionate leave" arranged by the newly-promoted DI Watkins and intends to spend the next two weeks introducing Bronwen to his mother and for Bronwen to introduce him to her parents.
There's just two little problems: Bronwen has promised to help one of the girls in her class that she'll save young Eirlys' pet lamb and Tony Mancini, the lad convicted of killing Evan's father, has been arrested for the rape-murder of a young girl.
The Characters
Constable Evan Evans is a quietly strong person; as a character, he's strong only in comparison to the others in the story. He certainly understands his mother and her crotchety ways! He does discover what a jewel he has in Bronwen Price when she shows up and helps him with his investigation. Her support in the face of her parents, his mother, and the policemen in Swansea goes a long way to boosting his confidence.
Maggi provides a bit of the old cat as Evans' old girlfriend while the policemen at Swansea run through the welcome, the detestation, and finally the understanding when Evans throws everything into chaos. I'm curious as to how long it takes before Evan and Bronwen realize their parents are very much alike in their prejudices and need for routine.
I don't think Evan or Bronwen will have to worry too much about one or the other insisting upon spending their holidays with their parents as they seem fairly agreed upon their natures.
My Take
This is a difficult case for Evans as there is nothing he'd like better than to see Tony convicted properly this time. But between his conscience and what Evans believes his dad would say, he must investigate the discrepancies he stumbles across. Even if it means his father's killer goes free.
Bowen does lovely work with Evans' thought processes and the conversations. There is a nice realism to exchanges between characters and a wee touch of the Agatha Christie in how Evans ferrets out the clues.
The Cover
This is an unexpected cover! It's all that white background that throws me off although maybe it's to reflect the 'eaven to which all the sheep go when the Min of Ag gets through with them?? I am confused as to the meaning of the angel statue hoisted so high in the air with all its cracks. Is it to reflect the cracks in the justice system or perhaps those that Evans perceives in himself? It is possible that it's a monument to Evan's dad having fallen in the line of duty and then his killer getting such a light sentence. Anyway, it certainly is true that the truth of this case is something Evan Only Knows.
November 4, 2025
MY RATING GUIDE: 3.5 Stars. This was pretty good. It read quickly, kept my attention and I enjoyed the continuing character development. I had partially solved the case but still enjoyed the unveiling.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I ENJOYED THIS; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= I Loved it, it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
EVAN ONLY KNOWS is bk 7 in Rhys Bowen’s 10 bk Constable Evans Mystery series. It begins several months after bk6.
July in the mountain village of Llanfair, Snowdonia, Wales ~
Foot and a Mouth disease is spreading across England and the small villages up and down the slopes of Snowdonia Mts are locked down and placed on quarantine by the Ministry of Agriculture. Simultaneously, Evan Evans’ much anticipated detective investigator’s training is postponed. Yet with the approaching chaos, Evan is still allowed time off the job to visit his widowed mother in Swansea, located in South Wales with his fiancée Bronwen. While Evan and Bronwen are visiting Evan’s mother, the young man who murdered Evan’s father 5yrs earlier is charged with another murder. Evan pauses during his family visit to investigate the murder unofficially. Has the young “tough” truly killed again (and so soon after receiving his early release)? Or is someone else the perpetrator and the wrong man is being charged?
Comments ~
1) I had this mystery nearly solved by the end but it was still a pretty enjoyable read. In it, Bowen includes a lot of previously unknown background info about Evan & Bronwen’s families and the city Evan grew up in, by the sea.
2) EVAN ONLY KNOWS has a little different feel to it as both Browen and Evan are involved in the South Wales urban investigation and neither are in rural Llanfair except at the beginning and end.
3) The Evan Evans series is an easy and quick read. What I consider “Comfortable.” I recommend it to Cozy Mystery fans but suggest beginning with bk1.
READER CAUTION ~
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used occasionally.
VIOLENCE - Yes. This is a murder mystery. Not dark or graphic in details.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Inferred closed door.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I ENJOYED THIS; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= I Loved it, it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
EVAN ONLY KNOWS is bk 7 in Rhys Bowen’s 10 bk Constable Evans Mystery series. It begins several months after bk6.
July in the mountain village of Llanfair, Snowdonia, Wales ~
Foot and a Mouth disease is spreading across England and the small villages up and down the slopes of Snowdonia Mts are locked down and placed on quarantine by the Ministry of Agriculture. Simultaneously, Evan Evans’ much anticipated detective investigator’s training is postponed. Yet with the approaching chaos, Evan is still allowed time off the job to visit his widowed mother in Swansea, located in South Wales with his fiancée Bronwen. While Evan and Bronwen are visiting Evan’s mother, the young man who murdered Evan’s father 5yrs earlier is charged with another murder. Evan pauses during his family visit to investigate the murder unofficially. Has the young “tough” truly killed again (and so soon after receiving his early release)? Or is someone else the perpetrator and the wrong man is being charged?
Comments ~
1) I had this mystery nearly solved by the end but it was still a pretty enjoyable read. In it, Bowen includes a lot of previously unknown background info about Evan & Bronwen’s families and the city Evan grew up in, by the sea.
2) EVAN ONLY KNOWS has a little different feel to it as both Browen and Evan are involved in the South Wales urban investigation and neither are in rural Llanfair except at the beginning and end.
3) The Evan Evans series is an easy and quick read. What I consider “Comfortable.” I recommend it to Cozy Mystery fans but suggest beginning with bk1.
READER CAUTION ~
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used occasionally.
VIOLENCE - Yes. This is a murder mystery. Not dark or graphic in details.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Inferred closed door.
July 22, 2014
This novel in the Constable Evans mystery series opens with a foot-and-mouth disease that threatens the local sheep in Llanfair, Wales where Evan is the only police officer. He and his finacee, Bronwen, make the decision that Evan should take his vacation days and visit his mother in Swansea rather than see the sheep slaughtered. As they pull out the drive, a neighbor rushes out with a warm egg and bacon pie, a bara brith, bread with mixed fruit, and sandwiches in case they get hungry on the drive. They arrive at Evan's mother's house and she has poached egg on welsh rarebit, a cottage loaf, yellow cheese and several kinds of cakes and biscuits.
Obviously, Rhys Bowen loves food, but she loves mystery even more and the plot soon switches to the death of Evan's policeman father who had been killed by a local man who has been rearrested on murder charges in the death of a girl from a wealthy family. Even though Evan is on vacation, he cannot resist delving into the case and is soon ensconced in the case, trying to, unbelievably, prove the innocence of the man who killed his father. Tony Mancini only served four years in prison and Evan's mother is aghast that he would be released only to be charged with the murder of Alison Turnbull, a local teen and the daughter of Mancini's boss.
This time Bronwen helps him by impersonating a teenager and hanging out at the local pubs that Tony had frequented in order to find information. Evan's mother tries to rein in her son, but he is on another case and won't give up until he finds his man. Or is it a woman? This seventh in the cozy series highlights Bowen's deftness with character, location, and plot. She is the best!
Obviously, Rhys Bowen loves food, but she loves mystery even more and the plot soon switches to the death of Evan's policeman father who had been killed by a local man who has been rearrested on murder charges in the death of a girl from a wealthy family. Even though Evan is on vacation, he cannot resist delving into the case and is soon ensconced in the case, trying to, unbelievably, prove the innocence of the man who killed his father. Tony Mancini only served four years in prison and Evan's mother is aghast that he would be released only to be charged with the murder of Alison Turnbull, a local teen and the daughter of Mancini's boss.
This time Bronwen helps him by impersonating a teenager and hanging out at the local pubs that Tony had frequented in order to find information. Evan's mother tries to rein in her son, but he is on another case and won't give up until he finds his man. Or is it a woman? This seventh in the cozy series highlights Bowen's deftness with character, location, and plot. She is the best!
September 10, 2019
First I've read in this series. I like the characters even if the young village teacher is more than a bit naive in taking a lamb out of a foot and mouth disease infected area, even if it has been an indoor pet all its life. Foot and mouth is terrifying in an agricultural area and killing flocks and herds seems to be the default action. I really sympathise with Owen the Sheep and I'm sure he wasn't alone, although the idea that it was an English plot intended to destroy the Welsh lamb market because Welsh lambs are so much better, you know, would probably the most outside version.
Evan was just intending to visit his mother in Swansea and introduce her to his fiancee before continuing on to her parents' home. It was convenient that it would also get him out of Llanfair until the foot and mouth situation calmed down a little. As he arrived a girl was murdered and her body left on her parents' doorstep. A suspect picked up right away is the young thug who was found guilty five years before of shooting Evan's father.
This plot gives Bowen opportunity to discuss misunderstandings between North and South Wales, police feelings about anyone who attacks one of them, misunderstandings between the English and the Welsh, and between Evan and his mother (who really needs a talking to if she's to keep her son's affection). It's handled well, although the mother and the former girl friend certainly jump to conclusions about what is happening or being said.
Very enjoyable.
Evan was just intending to visit his mother in Swansea and introduce her to his fiancee before continuing on to her parents' home. It was convenient that it would also get him out of Llanfair until the foot and mouth situation calmed down a little. As he arrived a girl was murdered and her body left on her parents' doorstep. A suspect picked up right away is the young thug who was found guilty five years before of shooting Evan's father.
This plot gives Bowen opportunity to discuss misunderstandings between North and South Wales, police feelings about anyone who attacks one of them, misunderstandings between the English and the Welsh, and between Evan and his mother (who really needs a talking to if she's to keep her son's affection). It's handled well, although the mother and the former girl friend certainly jump to conclusions about what is happening or being said.
Very enjoyable.
November 13, 2020
Evan Evans is engaged to Bronwen. They need to visit his mum and her parents to formalize their relationship. Living just under the shadow of Mt Snowdonia in Northern Wales, I'm already hooked. It is interesting to me how Bowen's writing for the Evans series is so very different from her Royal Spyness fripperies. More serious, good representation of a male (though nothing like Penny's Gamache), and the continued use of historical context for the plot.
The elements of the plot braid are relevant. Hoof and mouth disease have taken over Great Britain and the thousands of sheep that are an economic backbone of the area must be slain and burned. Evan, the local constable in Llanfair, with Bronwen, teacher in the local elementary school, head for Swansea where his mother lives in modest poverty and chapel devotion, and Monmouth, where Bronwen's parents have a massive estate. You get that picture. The third element is Evan's involvement in the investigation of the murder of a young girl, the South Wales Police having jailed the fellow who shot Evan's policeman father 5 years earlier.
The exploration of Evan's consistent sense of guilt is the driving force, I think: whether being late for supper at his mum's, not measuring up to Bronwen's parents financial and class expectations, fleeing his outraged community at the loss of their sheep, and most acutely, as he ends up proving the innocence of the young drug runner who killed his dad.
The elements of the plot braid are relevant. Hoof and mouth disease have taken over Great Britain and the thousands of sheep that are an economic backbone of the area must be slain and burned. Evan, the local constable in Llanfair, with Bronwen, teacher in the local elementary school, head for Swansea where his mother lives in modest poverty and chapel devotion, and Monmouth, where Bronwen's parents have a massive estate. You get that picture. The third element is Evan's involvement in the investigation of the murder of a young girl, the South Wales Police having jailed the fellow who shot Evan's policeman father 5 years earlier.
The exploration of Evan's consistent sense of guilt is the driving force, I think: whether being late for supper at his mum's, not measuring up to Bronwen's parents financial and class expectations, fleeing his outraged community at the loss of their sheep, and most acutely, as he ends up proving the innocence of the young drug runner who killed his dad.
February 22, 2014
What do you do when the person who killed your father but got away with a slap on the wrist is arrested for another murder – but you don't think he did it this time? If you're North Wales police constable Evan Evans, you dig to find the truth – after all, that is what his late father would have done.
This 7th book in Rhys Bowen's Constable Evans Mystery series deviates from other books in the series in that the action takes place in the South Wales city of Swansea, rather than the North Wales village of Llanfair. Yes, favorite village characters do make a cameo appearance, but most of the book features new characters, including Evans' and his fiancee Bronwen's immediate families. As such, there is a slightly different flavor – but only slight. Evans is still Evans, and still digging into mysteries and still vexing his superiors.
I applaud the author for coming up with a way to send a new breeze into the series without losing its spirit, and for tying it into Great Britain's historic foot-and-mouth (known as hoof-and-mouth in the US) epidemic in the early 2000's – without turning our police constable into a Ministry of Agriculture expert on the subject.
I'm running out of series – the author only produced 10 books before moving on to other interests – so I plan to savor the next 3. And perhaps to continue to badger Miss Bown to add an 11th book ...
RATING: 4 stars.
This 7th book in Rhys Bowen's Constable Evans Mystery series deviates from other books in the series in that the action takes place in the South Wales city of Swansea, rather than the North Wales village of Llanfair. Yes, favorite village characters do make a cameo appearance, but most of the book features new characters, including Evans' and his fiancee Bronwen's immediate families. As such, there is a slightly different flavor – but only slight. Evans is still Evans, and still digging into mysteries and still vexing his superiors.
I applaud the author for coming up with a way to send a new breeze into the series without losing its spirit, and for tying it into Great Britain's historic foot-and-mouth (known as hoof-and-mouth in the US) epidemic in the early 2000's – without turning our police constable into a Ministry of Agriculture expert on the subject.
I'm running out of series – the author only produced 10 books before moving on to other interests – so I plan to savor the next 3. And perhaps to continue to badger Miss Bown to add an 11th book ...
RATING: 4 stars.
October 21, 2019
Das Cover finde ich wieder richtig toll und passend für die Geschichte.
Es sieht einfach sehr schön und idyllisch aus.
Ich bin ein Fan von der Constable Evans Reihe und den dazugehörigen Covern.
Der Schreibstil ist sehr schön und gut zu lesen, gespickt mit bildlichen Details.
Die Landschaften und Geschehnisse kann ich mir immer sehr gut vorstellen.
In diesem Fall erleben wir Evans und seine Verlobte in seiner Heimatstadt, dort passiert ein schrecklicher Mord und es scheint als wäre Täter der Mann der den Vater von Evans erschossen hat.
Aber war er wirklich der Täter oder steckt da mehr dahinter?
Der bis jetzt persönlichste Fall für Evans und man spürt die Emotionen durch die Zeilen.
Rasant beginnt die Geschichte und die Spannung bleibt durch interessante Charaktere und unvorhersehbare Wendung erhalten.
Irgendwann hatte ich eine leichte Ahnung wer der Täter ein könnte doch die Hintergründe und Erklärungen waren für mich absolut unvorhersehbar und erschreckend.
Ein toller, fesselnder Cosy Crime mit umwerfenden Charakteren und erschreckenden Hintergründen.
Die Krimireihe fesselt mich immer wieder aufs neue und jeder Fall ist so spannend und steht dem vorherigen Band in nichts nach.
Krimiempfehlung für jeden der gerne Cosy Crimes liest und auch das idyllische Wales mag.
Es sieht einfach sehr schön und idyllisch aus.
Ich bin ein Fan von der Constable Evans Reihe und den dazugehörigen Covern.
Der Schreibstil ist sehr schön und gut zu lesen, gespickt mit bildlichen Details.
Die Landschaften und Geschehnisse kann ich mir immer sehr gut vorstellen.
In diesem Fall erleben wir Evans und seine Verlobte in seiner Heimatstadt, dort passiert ein schrecklicher Mord und es scheint als wäre Täter der Mann der den Vater von Evans erschossen hat.
Aber war er wirklich der Täter oder steckt da mehr dahinter?
Der bis jetzt persönlichste Fall für Evans und man spürt die Emotionen durch die Zeilen.
Rasant beginnt die Geschichte und die Spannung bleibt durch interessante Charaktere und unvorhersehbare Wendung erhalten.
Irgendwann hatte ich eine leichte Ahnung wer der Täter ein könnte doch die Hintergründe und Erklärungen waren für mich absolut unvorhersehbar und erschreckend.
Ein toller, fesselnder Cosy Crime mit umwerfenden Charakteren und erschreckenden Hintergründen.
Die Krimireihe fesselt mich immer wieder aufs neue und jeder Fall ist so spannend und steht dem vorherigen Band in nichts nach.
Krimiempfehlung für jeden der gerne Cosy Crimes liest und auch das idyllische Wales mag.
January 29, 2016
#7 in the Evan Evans series. Welsh Constable Evans can't bear the thought of opposing his friends and neighbors when the Army comes to destroy their flocks to contain an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease. He takes two weeks accumulated leave and, with fiancée Bronwen, heads south to visit his mother in Swansea. Along with amusing visits to the prospective in-laws, Evan gets involved in a murder case with personal ties.
Evan Evans series - When Constable Evan Evans and his new fiancée decide to travel south from home in Llanfair, Wales, to visit his mother in Swansea, they're not expecting the disturbing news that greets them on their arrival: the young thug convicted of murdering Evan's father several years earlier is suspected of murder once again. Tried as a juvenile for Evan's father's death, Tony Mancini only served four years in prison. Now he's been accused of killing Alison Turnbull, a local teen and the daughter of Mancini's boss. But when Evan goes to meet the boy face to face he's surprised to find not the stone-cold killer he expected but a scared young man who swears his innocence. Against his own wishes, and ignoring his superiors, Evan believes the boy's claim of innocence and decides to investigate, at potential peril to his career
Evan Evans series - When Constable Evan Evans and his new fiancée decide to travel south from home in Llanfair, Wales, to visit his mother in Swansea, they're not expecting the disturbing news that greets them on their arrival: the young thug convicted of murdering Evan's father several years earlier is suspected of murder once again. Tried as a juvenile for Evan's father's death, Tony Mancini only served four years in prison. Now he's been accused of killing Alison Turnbull, a local teen and the daughter of Mancini's boss. But when Evan goes to meet the boy face to face he's surprised to find not the stone-cold killer he expected but a scared young man who swears his innocence. Against his own wishes, and ignoring his superiors, Evan believes the boy's claim of innocence and decides to investigate, at potential peril to his career
June 15, 2018
This volume in the Constable Evans series is quite different. Evan and Bronwen visit Evan's mother in Swansea where they find themselves immersed in trying to save the man who killed Evan's father from another murder charge. The usual pleasantries of village life are left behind. Bad language, bad attitudes and horrible behavior define city life in this book. While not all that gritty, I feel sure there are some older readers of the series that were maybe disappointed with the change in location.
Evan asserts himself in this volume unlike he has done in previous ones. It was refreshing to see him evolve into a more realistic character. I like the Evan Evans character but he is a bit too good to be true at times. There is still that "good boy" quality in this book but the facade did crack a bit.
I found this book faster paced than previous ones. The action was more realistic. All in all, Evan Only Knows was enjoyable and filled with aspects that are unique to the series.
Evan asserts himself in this volume unlike he has done in previous ones. It was refreshing to see him evolve into a more realistic character. I like the Evan Evans character but he is a bit too good to be true at times. There is still that "good boy" quality in this book but the facade did crack a bit.
I found this book faster paced than previous ones. The action was more realistic. All in all, Evan Only Knows was enjoyable and filled with aspects that are unique to the series.
October 22, 2022
(3.5 stars) This is the 7th book in the series and I listened to the Audible version. Foot and mouth disease has come to the area and the local farmers are worried that their flocks will be destroyed. Evan dreads the thought of having to enforce the orders on his friends in the village. He is provided with the opportunity to go on leave and takes Bronwen with him on a visit to his mother and her parents. While visiting his mother, the young man who killed his father is in trouble again after being through a youth probationary program. He is accused of killing a girl who is the daughter of a prominent family. Evan feels compelled to meet him and gets involved in the case when he feels that the suspect may be innocent; even though he would like to see him go to prison. Bronwen helps him to investigate and Evan puts the clues together to find the real killer. For their personal lives, the parental greetings are awkward on both sides, but the two manage to make it through.
April 23, 2007
Another in the Welsh Constanble Evan Evans mysteries. This time he returns home taking his fiancee to meet his mother and then meet her parents. While home he becomes involved in investigating whether the young man who had killed Evan's father several years earlier is really guilty of the recent murder of a young girl. Several plot lines dealing with the continuing developing relationship between Evan and his fiancee Bronwen, Evan's relationship with his widowed mother, and Evan's investigation, without approval of the local police, into the murder of the girl.
A good read, a little more involved than earlier ones while still retaining its humor.
A good read, a little more involved than earlier ones while still retaining its humor.
June 19, 2016
Another enjoyable mystery featuring Constable Evan Evans! In this novel, Evans and his fiancee Bronwen head to south Wales to let their families know that they intend to marry. However, a murder has occured in Evan's home town, and the suspect is the man who shot and killed Evan's father! In addition to solving a murder, Browen and Evan have to get through the minefield that is family accecpting the two of them marrying. As always,Ms. Bowen has done an excellent job!
July 2, 2018
This is the 7th in the Constable Evans series, all of which I have enjoyed immensely until this one. I was bored to tears with the whole backstory of the “sheep disease and they will all have to be slaughtered” angle. I was so very glad when Evan & Bronwen escaped to Swansea and he was able to do more sleuthing. And when Bronwen went undercover just for something to do showed a more interesting side to her character.
September 10, 2007
Bowen, Rhys – Evan Only Knows – G+
Less light than some of the previous offerings in the series. Evan investigates a man who served time for killing his father and is now accused of rape and murder. It also touches on the impact on the community of Mad Cow disease. This is a very enjoyable series.
Less light than some of the previous offerings in the series. Evan investigates a man who served time for killing his father and is now accused of rape and murder. It also touches on the impact on the community of Mad Cow disease. This is a very enjoyable series.
March 3, 2021
This another great Constable Evans adventure. His personal growth is on display. I like this series because it touches on socio-economic issues, the beautiful descriptions on the Welsh countryside, the character development.
I look forward to the next book in the series.
Highly recommended for mystery fans who enjoy the comfortable style of Rhys Bowen (she has written 3 series).
I look forward to the next book in the series.
Highly recommended for mystery fans who enjoy the comfortable style of Rhys Bowen (she has written 3 series).
January 23, 2023
A change of scenery for Evans.
A disaster for the sheep farming community in Snowdonia, which leaves the locals in a frenzy.
While visiting his mother in Swansea, Evan becomes embroiled in a crime that has links to his past.
Rhys Bowen writes this series with an incredible insight into the people and places of Wales; I cannot recommend them highly enough.
A disaster for the sheep farming community in Snowdonia, which leaves the locals in a frenzy.
While visiting his mother in Swansea, Evan becomes embroiled in a crime that has links to his past.
Rhys Bowen writes this series with an incredible insight into the people and places of Wales; I cannot recommend them highly enough.
February 5, 2012
I thought that this volume actually had more of a moral dilemma for Evan. There seemed to be more substance in this story than in some of the others.
December 30, 2013
All of these are really 3.5-to-4 ratings. Totally solid mystery with a nice local feel.
March 2, 2016
This whole series of books is excellent well worth the read.
July 11, 2018
Evan Evans is entertaining as usual. Always a light read and he always catches the killer. If you like the Scottish Hamish MacBeth by M C Beaton, you’ll like Evan Evans of Wales!
November 21, 2022
Ein spannender und gut lesbarer Krimi mit walisischem Charme!
,,Tödliche Tataschen - Ein Wales Krimi“ von Rhys Bowen ist am 17. November 2022 im Digitalpublishers-Verlag erschienen. Hierbei handelt es sich um eine überarbeitete Neuauflage des bereits erschienenen Titels ,,Tödliche Tatsachen". Alle Bände dieser Reihe können sehr gut unabhängig voneinander gelesen werden. Dieser spannende Teil ist ein 315 Seiten langer walisischer Krimi und bestimmt nicht das letzte Buch, welches ich aus der fünfteiligen Reihe gelesen habe. Obwohl ich die anderen Teile nicht kenne, konnte ich dieser spannenden und sehr gut lesbaren Geschichte problemlos folgen. Rhys Bowens Schreibstil hat mich sofort in den Bann gezogen, da er unheimlich locker, flüssig, detailliert, spannend und authentisch ist. Ich kam gut in die Handlung rein und war deshalb schnell direkt mittendrin im Geschehen. Mir fiel es hier leicht, den Überblick zu behalten und auch die Protagonisten haben dazu beigetragen, dass ich das Buch in kurzer Zeit durchgelesen habe. Sie besitzen, besonders Constable Evans, eine Menge Charme und die nötige Tiefe, weshalb ich mich gut in dessen Handlungen, Gefühle und Gedanken hineinversetzen konnte. Außerdem kommen sie unheimlich lebendig und authentisch rüber, was mir besonders gut gefallen hat.
Die angespannte Atmosphäre, die hier die ganze Zeit über herrscht, ist kontinuierlich vorhanden und macht diesen Krimi umso spannender und interessanter. Inhaltlich hat mir der Klappentext nicht zu viel versprochen und auch das Cover, welches mich auf den ersten Blick angesprochen hat, passt hervorragend zum Inhalt. Der walisische Charme ist dezent vorhanden, was den Figuren besonders gut steht. Ich wurde dank regelmäßigen Wendungen ordentlich auf Trab gehalten und der dezente Humor hat mich das ein oder andere Mal zum Schmunzeln gebracht. Dieser ist wohldosiert und die Spannung muss nicht darunter leiden.
Constable Evans weiß nicht, wo ihm der Kopf steht. Die Maul- und Klauenseuche verbreitet nur Unruhe bei den Bauern und Touristen, alle sind in Aufruhr, weil Tiere geschlachtet werden sollen und es die meisten aber nicht einsehen wollen. Aus Freunde werden für Evan Feinde und ihm kommt es mehr als Recht, dass er aus der Schusslinie genommen wird und Urlaub nehmen kann. Er fährt mit seiner sympathischen Verlobten zu seiner Mutter, um sich dort ein paar Tage zu erholen. Doch kurz nach seiner Ankunft erhält er auch hier schockierende Neuigkeiten: Der Mörder von Evans Vater wird beschuldigt, nach seiner Haftstrafe erneut ein Verbrechen begangen und die Tochter seines Arbeitgebers ermordet zu haben. Es herrscht verständlicherweise extreme Aufruhr und ein riesiges Chaos, an Erholung ist jedenfalls nicht mehr zu denken.
Evan sucht den Mörder auf, der seine Unschuld beteuert und diesmal glaubt er ihm sogar. Es beginnt eine extrem spannende Geschichte und die Spannung bleibt die ganze Zeit über erhalten. Oft habe ich versucht, Evans Handeln zu verstehen. Doch der Mord seines Vaters ist nicht vergessen und schleicht natürlich permanent in seinem Kopf herum. Seine Mutter und Verlobte sind schockiert über sein Verhalten, was ich wiederum auch sehr gut nachvollziehen konnte. Sie können nicht nachvollziehen, dass er auf eigene Faust ermittelt und den Mörder seines Vaters schützt. Das Ende ist stimmig und hat mir gut gefallen. Insgesamt ist es ein gut durchdachter Krimi, der mich von Anfang bis Ende bestens unterhalten hat und schockierende Ereignisse an den richtigen Stellen offenbart hat. Ich freue mich, in Zukunft weitere Teile dieser spannenden Reihe zu lesen. Deshalb bekommen die tödlichen Tatsachen eine klare Leseempfehlung von mir.
,,Tödliche Tataschen - Ein Wales Krimi“ von Rhys Bowen ist am 17. November 2022 im Digitalpublishers-Verlag erschienen. Hierbei handelt es sich um eine überarbeitete Neuauflage des bereits erschienenen Titels ,,Tödliche Tatsachen". Alle Bände dieser Reihe können sehr gut unabhängig voneinander gelesen werden. Dieser spannende Teil ist ein 315 Seiten langer walisischer Krimi und bestimmt nicht das letzte Buch, welches ich aus der fünfteiligen Reihe gelesen habe. Obwohl ich die anderen Teile nicht kenne, konnte ich dieser spannenden und sehr gut lesbaren Geschichte problemlos folgen. Rhys Bowens Schreibstil hat mich sofort in den Bann gezogen, da er unheimlich locker, flüssig, detailliert, spannend und authentisch ist. Ich kam gut in die Handlung rein und war deshalb schnell direkt mittendrin im Geschehen. Mir fiel es hier leicht, den Überblick zu behalten und auch die Protagonisten haben dazu beigetragen, dass ich das Buch in kurzer Zeit durchgelesen habe. Sie besitzen, besonders Constable Evans, eine Menge Charme und die nötige Tiefe, weshalb ich mich gut in dessen Handlungen, Gefühle und Gedanken hineinversetzen konnte. Außerdem kommen sie unheimlich lebendig und authentisch rüber, was mir besonders gut gefallen hat.
Die angespannte Atmosphäre, die hier die ganze Zeit über herrscht, ist kontinuierlich vorhanden und macht diesen Krimi umso spannender und interessanter. Inhaltlich hat mir der Klappentext nicht zu viel versprochen und auch das Cover, welches mich auf den ersten Blick angesprochen hat, passt hervorragend zum Inhalt. Der walisische Charme ist dezent vorhanden, was den Figuren besonders gut steht. Ich wurde dank regelmäßigen Wendungen ordentlich auf Trab gehalten und der dezente Humor hat mich das ein oder andere Mal zum Schmunzeln gebracht. Dieser ist wohldosiert und die Spannung muss nicht darunter leiden.
Constable Evans weiß nicht, wo ihm der Kopf steht. Die Maul- und Klauenseuche verbreitet nur Unruhe bei den Bauern und Touristen, alle sind in Aufruhr, weil Tiere geschlachtet werden sollen und es die meisten aber nicht einsehen wollen. Aus Freunde werden für Evan Feinde und ihm kommt es mehr als Recht, dass er aus der Schusslinie genommen wird und Urlaub nehmen kann. Er fährt mit seiner sympathischen Verlobten zu seiner Mutter, um sich dort ein paar Tage zu erholen. Doch kurz nach seiner Ankunft erhält er auch hier schockierende Neuigkeiten: Der Mörder von Evans Vater wird beschuldigt, nach seiner Haftstrafe erneut ein Verbrechen begangen und die Tochter seines Arbeitgebers ermordet zu haben. Es herrscht verständlicherweise extreme Aufruhr und ein riesiges Chaos, an Erholung ist jedenfalls nicht mehr zu denken.
Evan sucht den Mörder auf, der seine Unschuld beteuert und diesmal glaubt er ihm sogar. Es beginnt eine extrem spannende Geschichte und die Spannung bleibt die ganze Zeit über erhalten. Oft habe ich versucht, Evans Handeln zu verstehen. Doch der Mord seines Vaters ist nicht vergessen und schleicht natürlich permanent in seinem Kopf herum. Seine Mutter und Verlobte sind schockiert über sein Verhalten, was ich wiederum auch sehr gut nachvollziehen konnte. Sie können nicht nachvollziehen, dass er auf eigene Faust ermittelt und den Mörder seines Vaters schützt. Das Ende ist stimmig und hat mir gut gefallen. Insgesamt ist es ein gut durchdachter Krimi, der mich von Anfang bis Ende bestens unterhalten hat und schockierende Ereignisse an den richtigen Stellen offenbart hat. Ich freue mich, in Zukunft weitere Teile dieser spannenden Reihe zu lesen. Deshalb bekommen die tödlichen Tatsachen eine klare Leseempfehlung von mir.
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