The smooth running of the village of Turnham Malpas falters when Peter, the rector, goes missing. His wife Caroline is distraught. Then the appointment of Tom Nicholls as the new verger causes unease when his past returns to haunt him and Mr Fitch, the owner of the Big House, causes further ructions by his plans to uproot an ancient hedgerow. When Peter returns, it seems that only he can provide solutions to village problems - although resolving his marital difficulties is another matter altogether. But troubles in Turnham Malpas are put to rest as Bonfire Night at the Big House arrives and the celebrations unite the village once again. Rebecca Shaw has created a captivating imaginary village which is collecting an ever-growing fan base, and she continues to write about it with the warmth and sharp humour she has made her own.