Here's an intriguing mystery full of a variety of characters with their share of human problems. The hero is a vicar with a background that piques your interest. The setting and descriptions are a nice change from so many current mysteries that are full of angst and vampires. Sorry! Well, it is a nice change, though the inept village constable is a bit of a cliche. But DCI Cotton working with Max was a relief, unlike, say, the police in the Father Brown TV series. It's an enjoyable read, with nice touches such as baptizing the teddy bear--so you don't plunge a terrified kid into an unknown situation having to do with water. 
 Note: A writer has the opportunity to air his opinions on different subjects, but his apparent dislike of John Wayne movies puzzled me--or is it a character's trait?