Step into the charming, mystery-filled world of Constable Evans, where the quaint Welsh village of Llanfair hides secrets as deep as the Snowdonia mountains! Rhys Bowen’s Constable Evans series, a beloved cozy mystery saga, follows young constable Evan Evans as he solves perplexing crimes amidst quirky villagers, romantic entanglements, and the rugged beauty of North Wales. With ten books brimming with Welsh charm, humor, and intricate plots, this series is a delightful escape for mystery lovers.
Blending small-town gossip with clever whodunits, Bowen’s series captures the heart of rural Wales while delivering stories that keep you guessing. Whether it’s a murder on a mountain trail or a missing person case tied to ancient secrets, Evan’s adventures are as heartwarming as they are thrilling. Ready to uncover the magic of Llanfair? Let’s dive in!
How Constable Evans Began
Rhys Bowen, a New York Times bestselling author, drew inspiration for the Constable Evans series from her Welsh heritage and childhood summers spent in a village much like Llanfair. Born in Bath, England, with Welsh relatives, Bowen infused her love for Wales’ culture and landscapes into the series. Launched in 1997 with Evans Above, the series introduced Evan Evans, a city cop turned village constable, seeking peace but finding crime. Bowen’s knack for crafting vivid settings and quirky characters quickly earned the series critical acclaim, including an Edgar Award nomination for Evan’s Gate.
The Heart of Constable Evans
The series spans ten novels, each a standalone mystery enriched by Evan’s evolving personal life. In Evans Above, Evan investigates the deaths of two hikers on Mount Snowdon, uncovering a web of local rivalries. Evan Help Us sees him tackling two suspicious deaths linked to a proposed theme park, blending humor with suspense. Evan’s Gate, a standout, connects a decades-old child’s skeleton to a present-day disappearance, showcasing Bowen’s skill at intertwining past and present. Evan Blessed ramps up the stakes when Evan’s fiancée, Bronwen, vanishes, tying a missing hiker case to a chilling underground bunker.
Set against the lush meadows and slate cottages of Llanfair, the series weaves themes of community, tradition, and resilience. Bowen’s vivid descriptions bring Wales to life, from the banter at the Red Dragon pub to the feuds between rival ministers. The cozy mystery style, paired with Evan’s relatable charm—he’s a self-effacing hero dodging a flirtatious barmaid and a shy schoolteacher—makes each book a comforting yet gripping read. Welsh culture shines through, with nods to local customs, language, and the fierce pride of Llanfair’s residents.
Why Constable Evans Resonates
The Constable Evans series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, enchanting readers with its blend of humor, heart, and clever plotting. Fans praise Bowen’s ability to craft memorable characters, like Evans-the-Post, who reads mail before delivering it, and the battling chapels vying for souls. The series’ focus on Welsh identity resonates with readers seeking authentic cultural narratives, while its gentle humor and satisfying resolutions offer a welcome escape. Its lasting appeal lies in its ability to transport readers to a world where community triumphs over chaos, earning it a devoted following and critical nods like the Edgar nomination.
- Publication Years: 1997–2006
- Number of Books: 10
- Notable Award: Edgar Award nomination for Evan’s Gate
- Setting: Llanfair, a fictional Welsh village in Snowdonia
Grab Evans Above and dive into Constable Evans’s cozy, captivating world of Welsh mysteries! Whether you’re a seasoned sleuth or new to Llanfair, Evan’s adventures promise a delightful journey filled with charm, intrigue, and a touch of Welsh magic.