Status Updates From Christmas at Nettleford

“There’s always bloom in a garden for those who know where to look for it…” (138).

This was slow at first but now I’m liking it better and better with every new chapter. It has a bit of a Best Christmas Pageant Ever feel to it only set in 1950s England.

Especially as these weren't rescue hens, the Vicar was going to EAT them for Christmas dinner! Incidentally the Vicar is disappointed that more people don't come to him for 'spiritual advice'. Here's some 'spiritual advice': Stop treating the local police constable like your personal butler. That goes double for you, Julian Kirrin of the Famous Five.

The Vicar gets shirty when the local constable doesn't immediately find his stolen chickens. '"I'm on my way to Guildcombe now, and shall call in and see the Inspector at the Police Station and see if he has any news."' Good luck with that, mate. This isn't the Great Train Robbery. Even in rural England in 1953 Police Inspectors had more to worry about than some vicar's missing fowls!

The heroine’s name is Elizabeth. What fun! I love books set in a vicarage too.