Guided Sleep Meditation & Sleep Hypnosis from Sleep Cove - A Cozy Original Mystery - Sophie Meadows Investigates The Missing Choir

Episode Date: December 24, 2025

Welcome to an original Sophie Meadows mystery set in the peaceful village of Sleep Cove. On Christmas Eve, Sophie arranges for the village choir to spread festive cheer to nearby hamlets. But when the choir fails to return home as expected, worry begins to grow. As snow falls and night draws closer, Sophie follows a trail of gentle clues to uncover what has really happened — and to bring everyone safely home. Here is the version without music - here Please remember to subscribe with the bell, and let's begin. Please let us know in the comments and on the polls what you think. Sleep Cove Premium Become a Premium Member for Bonus Episodes & Ad-Free listening: Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.sleepcove.com/support⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and become a Premium Member. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get Instant Access⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and sign up in two taps. The Sleep Cove Premium Feed includes: - Access to over 400 Ad-free Episodes - Regular Exclusive Bonus Episodes - A Back Catalogue of Dozens of Exclusive Episodes - Full Audiobooks like Alice in Wonderland - Your name read out on the Show - Our Love! Get your 14-day free trial:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://sleepcove.com/support⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ For Apple users, click the TRY FREE button for a 2-week free trial and become a Premium Member Today. - YouTube Bedtime Story Channel -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://rb.gy/t7wyjk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - YouTube Sleep Hypnosis & Meditation Channel with three hour episodes - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClE6WJgPYRBtwVQ1qDBrbqw⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support our Sponsors: This episode of Sleep Cove is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠betterhelp.com/sleepcove ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and get on your way to being your best self. - YouTube Bedtime Story Channel -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://rb.gy/t7wyjk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - YouTube Sleep Hypnosis & Meditation Channel - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClE6WJgPYRBtwVQ1qDBrbqw⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect: - Join the Newsletter for a Bonus Meditation -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.sleepcove.com/bonus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Facebook:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://rb.gy/azpdrd⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/sleep_cove/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@sleepcovechris⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Recommended Products: Comfortable Sleep Headphones -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.sleepcove.com/headphones⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Best Mattress from Puffy: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sleepcove.com/puffy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ _______________ All Content by Sleep Cove is for educational or entertainment purposes and does not provide or replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your medical professional before making any changes to your treatment and if in any doubt, contact your doctor. Please listen in a place where you can safely go to sleep. Sleep Cove is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage or injury arising from the use of this content. _________________ Sleep Cove content includes guided sleep meditations, sleep hypnosis (hypnotherapy), sleep stories (visualizations) and Bedtime Stories for adults and grown-ups, all designed to help you get a great night's sleep Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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please go to sleepcove.com slash support. That's sleepcove.com slash support. If you can't support the show right now, please subscribe with a bell to get alerts on all new free content. Thank you. Have you ever gazed in wonder at the Great Pyramid? Have you marvelled at the golden face of Tudankhamun? Or admired the delicate features of Queen Nefertiti?

If you have, you'll probably like The History of Egypt podcast. Every week, we explore tales of this ancient culture. The history of Egypt is available. wherever you get your podcasting fix. Come, let me introduce you to the world of ancient Egypt. Welcome to this original Sophie Meadows Mystery, set in the peaceful village of Sleap Cove. On Christmas Eve, Sophie arranges for the village choir

to spread festive cheer to nearby villages. But when the choir fails to return home as expected, worry begins to grow. As snow falls and night draws closer, Sophie follows a trail of gentle clues to uncover what has really happened and to bring everyone safely home. As snow falls and night draws closer,

Sophie pieces together the truth behind the missing choir in a story filled with walls, community and Christmas magic. This story is available without music on my mysteries at midnight podcast and bedtime story YouTube channel. I will leave the links in the description. So please remember to subscribe with the bell

and let's begin. It was Christmas Eve afternoon in St. Cove and the village lay beneath a soft white blanket of glistening snow. It'd been snowing all day and showed no signs of stopping. Sophie Meadows stood in the village square, her attention fixed on the main road ahead. She pulled her woolen coat a little closer around herself

and tucked her chin. into her scarf. Every few minutes she glanced down as her phone though she already knew there were no new messages. She checked it again anyway. Still nothing.

A small knot of worry had settled in her stomach and refused to budge. The Sleep Cove Choir should have been back by now. They had set off that morning in a hired coach. They'd all been in high spirits, their voices already in good form as they tried out parts of carols on the coach. Sophie had waved them off with a mixture of pride and nervousness.

It had been her idea after all. She had arranged for the Sleepcove Choir to visit several smaller villages and hamlets in the surrounding area that didn't have choirs of their own, so that they could enjoy some carols on Christmas Eve. It had seemed such a lovely thing to do. The bookie and the coach company had gone smoothly and everyone. had been delighted with the plan. But that was before the weather warning. Sophie had heard it on the radio that morning. The forecast of heavy snow sweeping across the area.

Her first thought was to cancel the outing, but after making calls to the choir members, they refused to do so. They assured Sophie they would be fine and that they were looking forward to performing for people who might not hear live carols that year They had persuaded her that they would be okay Now watching the snow fall more thickly

She wasn't so sure Sophie A familiar voice called She turned to see Harry Jameson crossing the square towards her. Harry was the village's retired postman. Harry hello, Sophie said, mustering a smile. Harry came to stand beside her and followed her gaze towards the road. Any sign of the village choir yet, he asked.

Sophie shook her head No And they should have been back by now I've tried phoning them But they must have their phones switched off Or perhaps the weather has affected The phone signals I've left messages with them all

Asking them to phone me She hesitated Then admitted I feel rather guilty Harry It was my idea To send them to all those smaller villages I did try to cancel it once I heard about the weather

But they refused I should have been more insistent Harry gave her a sympathetic smile This isn't your fault The choir decided to go They're sensible people I imagine Whoever is driving

the coach is taking the road slowly in this snow. That's all. I dare say, the choir is on their way back now, just delayed. Try not to worry too much. I'm trying, Sophie said, I just feel so responsible. Harry patted her arm. Responsibility is one thing, but don't go blaming yourself for the weather. The choir will return to Sleep Cove at some time. You'll see. He glanced at the sky. I'd best had home before it comes down any harder. My wife will be wondering where I've got to. He gave her a cheerful wave and set off. His figure growing fainter as the flakes thickened around him. Sophie looked back at the road, still no sign of the returning coach.

She checked her phone one more time. The blank screen offered no comfort. She looked skywards at the falling snow. Would it ever stop? Every Christmas Eve, the residents of Sleep Cove, gathered for carols in the village square. It was a wonderful occasion, but Sophie wondered if the weather would stop them this year. Standing in the cold and simply hoping the coach would return wasn't going to help.

She had to do something. She decided to treat the situation as a mystery from one of her favourite detective books. She would start by finding out when and where the choir had at last been seen. She moved to a sheltered corner of the square, away from the falling snow. Then she scrolled through the list of numbers that she had for each location that the choir were due to visit. One by one she began to call them. A younger woman from the first village on the itinerary picked up on the second ring. Sophie didn't mention that the choir hadn't returned as she didn't wish to worry anyone

and only asked what time the choir had left. The woman gave her the time of their departure and added, They gave a wonderful performance. They stood in the little green by the postbox and sang for us. We haven't had proper carolers in years. It was magical, truly magical. I hope they come back next year. Sophie smiled in spite of her worry.

I'm so glad you enjoyed it. She thanked the woman. for her time and moved on to the next venue. At each place she phoned, the story was much the same. The choir had arrived, sung beautifully and warmed hearts. They had left in good time to move on to the next location. Every conversation reassured Sophie that the outing had done exactly. exactly what she'd hoped, spreading joy wherever the choir went.

But each time she asked when the choir had left, the times crept closer to the present. And still, there was no sign of them on the road back to Sleep Cove. Finally, Sophie telephoned the last venue on the list, a hamlet, about three miles away. away. A cheerful sounding woman answered. Oh yes, they were here, the woman said. It was the most wonderful surprise. They sang by the old oak tree, our village square. If you can call it that, she laughed. Everyone came out to listen, even Mr. Barker from the end cottage, and he never comes out for anything like this.

Do you remember what time they left you? Sophie asked. Let me think, the woman paused. It must have been well over an hour ago. They didn't hurry off. We made them come into the hall for hot drinks. They were such a friendly group. We do hope they'll come back next year.

I'm glad you went so well, Sophie said. Her fingers tightened slightly around her phone. Thank you. I hope you have a very happy Christmas. You too, and thank you for organising such a treat. Sophie ended the call and looked towards the road once more. The coach had left over an hour ago Even driving slowly

They should have been back by now There was one more call to make Sophie phoned the coach company Her call was answered on the fifth ring Good afternoon Prestige coaches Gwen speaking came a bright slightly hurried voice

How can I help you? Hello, my name's Sophie Meadows, she said. I'm calling from Sleak Cove. We've hired one of your coaches today for our village choir. Oh yes, Sleak Cave, Gwen said. I remember that booking. Lovely idea, taking your choir round the villages, very festive. The choir hasn't really.

returned yet, Sophie explained, and I'm starting to get a little concerned. I can understand that, especially with this snow, Gwen replied. I was about to finish up for the day and close the office. You caught me just in time. Let me see who's driving that coach. Sophie heard the faint rattle of a keyboard in the background. Gwen continued after a moment. It's Ian Johnson, who's driving the coach.

He's one of our best drivers. He's been with us for years and knows all the roads in this area like the back of his hand. He's driven through snow more times than I can count. He always makes sure there are shovels on board just in case. Sophie felt herself

relaxing a little, she said, that is reassuring. I know Ian, as he often visits Sleep Cove, to see his family, and I've been on some of your coach trips when he's been driving. I'm sure he's just taking it slowly for safety, Gwen said, try not to worry. I'll try, Sophie said with a small laugh, I won't keep you any longer I hope you have a lovely Christmas

when replied warmly Merry Christmas Sophie ended the call and put the phone into her pocket She knew that Ian was experienced and careful If anyone

could get the choir home safely In such weather Mid was him Feeling a little better she decided that the most sensible thing now would be to wait somewhere warm. She set off towards Emma's cafe, already picturing a mug of hot tea and a mince pie, when a familiar figure caught her eye. A man was crossing the square, hands in his coat pockets,

heading in the direction of Mervid's rest. It was Ian Johnson. Sophie stopped in her tracks, but then being in surprise. For a moment, she thought she might be mistaken, but as he passed beneath a string of fairy lights, there was no doubt. It was definitely Ian, the same tidy grey hair, the same easy, cheerful walk. Her thoughts were. Her thoughts were. If Ian were here in Sleep Cove walking towards the pub, who was driving the coach, entered the pub. Sophie changed directions and followed him in. The manmaid's rest was warm and softly lit, its windows glowing golden against the snowy evening. inside the air smelled of something delicious cooking in the kitchen our log fire crackled and a handful of locals sat at tables talking quietly Ian was at the bar speaking to the landlady and ordering a pint

Sophie made her way through the room Ian she called as she drew near a He turned, then smiled when he saw her. Sophie, Merry Christmas Eve. He frowned slightly as he took in her expression. Is everything all right? I hope so, Sophie said, coming to stand beside him. I've just spoken to prestige coaches.

They told me you were driving the Sleep Cove Choir today. Have you dropped them off somewhere? I did have that job, he explained, but I swapped shifts at the last minute with one of the newer drivers, a young chap called Austin. He asked if I'd mind. He was quite happy to work today and said the extra money would come in handy. I meant to tell Gwen out of the office, but with one thing and another I completely forgot. Sophie, is something wrong? You look worried. Sophie told him the coach hadn't appeared yet. She said, this new driver, Austin, is he in his mid-twenties with a dark hair?

That's the one, Ian said. Have you met him? I have, Sophie replied. A few weeks ago, I went on a trip with some friends to visit. estate the home. It's about ten miles away, but Austin kept getting lost. He was very embarrassed and explained that he was new to the company and was still learning the roots. I offered to sit near him and give him directions. We reached the right place in the end. I sat with him again on the way back and he still needed help.

I'm sure he'll get used to the roads before long, Ian said. He's a careful driver. He must be taking his time coming back in the snow, that's all. So if he glanced over at the window. The snow outside was falling faster now, swirling thickly,

under the lampposts. The sky was darkening and the familiar shapes of Sling Cave were gradually being softened by the white. She said to Ian the weather has taken a turn for the worse.

Landmarks will be hidden and roads look different under snow and if he's still getting used to the area he might have taken a wrong turn. The choir could be anywhere. They might even be stuck in a snowdrift somewhere. Do you have Austin's telephone number?

I don't, but Gwen at the office should have it. Ian took out his phone. I'll give her a ring. Sophie said, she probably won't be there. When I spoke to her earlier, she said she was about to leave. for the day and close the office. Ian lowered his phone. Of course, I forgot the office was closing early today.

Okay, let's think. It doesn't look like that snow is stopping any time soon. I'd better go and look for them. He cancelled his pint and turned away from the bar. I'm coming with you, Sophie said in a first time. tone. The choir is my responsibility. Ian nodded. That's fine by

me. Let's see if the garage is open. They've got a tow truck. They've pulled my coach out of a snowdrift or two over the years. They left the mermaid's rest. The cold air was sharp after the warmth of the pub.

But Sophie hardly noticed. She walked as quickly as she could through the thick snow. Ian's strides were longer and she almost had to run to keep up with them. Thankfully, the garage lights were still on,

spinning a yellow glow across the forecourt. They went inside. Ian pointed to the far side, to the far side of the garage and said, I can see Neil in his office. I'll go and have a word with him.

Won't be long. He strode over to the glass fronted office and went inside. Sophie turned around and looked towards the main road again, hoping to see the headlights of the coach appear. But there was still no sight. of it. She checked her phone, but there was no new messages. She thought about the driver Austin and the coach trip when she had given him directions. Once they had reached their destination, they chatted for a while. Austin mentioned something about his personal life.

Sophie had a sudden feeling that it could be relevant to the missing coach. But what was it? She tried to recall the conversation, but couldn't think clearly. Sophie took some deep breaths to calm her mind. She pictured Austin as he had been that day, leaning on the steering wheel with the engine off, the passengers filing out of the coach. His face had lit up when he mentioned something

that clearly meant a great deal to him. It was something about a farm. Yes, that was it. Now what was the name of the farm? At that moment, the sound of an engine rumbled through the garage. A tow truck drove slowly towards her, with a kneel behind the steering wheel, and Ian sitting beside him.

it came to a stop next to Sophie Ian leaned over and opened the door he said Neil's happy to help us hop in Sophie there's plenty of room the cab of the tow truck was high and Sophie knew there was no chance of her hopping in

she placed her foot carefully on the metal step and hauled herself up as neatly as she could manage It was quite an effort. Once inside, she closed the door. The seat was comfy, and the warmth, coming from the heater, was welcome. Are you all right? Ian asked.

Perfectly fine, Sophie assured him with a smile. Just not quite as nimble as I used to be. Neil, a man in his late 50s, gave her a friendly nod from the driver's seat. I'm the same. Now then, can you tell me where the choir was last seen? Sophie gave him all the details. Neil nodded.

Right, we'll set off on the main road and see if we can locate the coach. Eyes peeled everyone. We'll find your choir, Sophie, even if it takes us all here. hearing the reassurance in his voice made Sophie relax. Thank you, she said. Neil added, with a bit of luck, we'll have them back

before our carols tonight in the village square. Do you think that will still go ahead, Sophie asked. Neil grinned, I'll be there. A bit of snow won't stop me. Me neither, Ian said. so that will be two of us. Sophie laughed. Make that three.

I do love our Christmas Eve carols. The truck's engine honed steadily as they left the village behind and headed into the countryside. The houses thinned out, replaced by hedgerows and fields that lay smooth and white on either side of the lane.

In the headlights, the falling snow looked like countless tiny feathers drifting past. Ian looked at Sophie. You were looking thoughtfully in the garage. Is everything okay? She answered. I was thinking about something Austin said to me. The last time I saw him, it could be important. It was something about a farm.

Ian said A farm I wouldn't know about that I haven't had the chance to speak to Austin much yet but I know he moved here recently to me with his wife's family Sophie nodded

Yes he mentioned that as well The information will come to me I'm sure of it I've got a feeling It's important She looked out at the snowy landscape.

Neil expertly navigated the truck through the glistening snow. After a few minutes, they saw headlights at the side of the road. It wasn't the coach, but a driver

who had got stuck in the snow. Neil stopped the truck, got out and collected a shovel from the back of the truck. Ian did the same. and Sophie watched them dig away the snow beneath the car wheels. Very soon, the car was free to continue on its way, returned to the cab, and they set off again. Ian told Sophie that the occupants of the car hadn't seen a prestige coach during their drive.

Neil put the radio on low and they listened to soothing, carols as they drove along. Sophie continued to look out of the window. Away in a manger came on the radio and Sophie's breath caught in her throat. Of course, she cried out. A baby, that's it, and it's a blueberry farm, that's the name of it. I knew it would come to me. She grinned at her companions, who looked very confused. Sophie explained, I remembered what Austin told me. He moved to Blueberry Farm with his wife Poppy to live with her parents.

They're expecting their first child, and they want to be near the new grandparents. Neil, do you know where Blueberry Farm is? I do, he confirmed. Why are you asking, do you want us to go there? Sophie said the baby was due after Christmas. But what if the child decided to arrive early? Poppy or her parents could have phoned Austin to let him know.

He would have wanted to return home immediately. And knowing how thoughtful the choir are, they would have insisted he'd drive to the farm without any delay, taking them with him. It's a possibility, isn't it? She gave them a hopeful look. Neil nodded. It is. Baluberry farm isn't far away.

It would hurt to see if the coach is there. And if it isn't, we'll continue with our search along the main road. Thank you, Sophie said. She hoped her theory was correct. The tow truck climbed gently uphill, its tyres gripping carefully on the snow-covered road. The landscape outside the cab looked almost dreamlike now, softened and simplified by the snow.

Hedges, walls and trees were all turned, into soft shapes under the white covering. An occasional farmhouse window glowed faintly in the distance like a lantern in the dark. Neil said the turning to blueberry farm is coming up soon. A few minutes later, he turned the wheel and guided the truck carefully along a narrower road. As they drove along, a cluster of warm lights appeared ahead. Windows glow softly against the dark stone of a large farmhouse and smoke curled from the chimneys into the snowy night.

Beside the farmhouse, half covered in snow, but unmistakable, stood a coach. There they are. Ian said, relief clear in his voice. You were right, Sophie. Sophie let out a soft sigh. Thank goodness. Neil brought the tow truck to a stop near the coach and switched off the engine. The three of them climbed down carefully,

their boots sinking into the snow. Before they reached the farmhouse door, It was opened by a woman. She broke into a wide smile and said, Ah, the rescue party. She looked Sophie's way and added, You must be Sophie Meadows. The choir said you would find them.

Oh, quickly come inside into the wolf. I'm Haley, puppy's mum. Ian and Neil quickly introduced themselves and followed Sophie into the warm firehouse. Haley closed the door behind them. She said, We've been trying to phone you, Sophie, but there's no signal. Possibly because of the weather.

How do you work out where we were? Sophie explained and then said, Am I right about the baby arriving early? Before Haley could answer, A small but determined cry floated from an upstairs room. It was the unmistakable sound of a newborn. Haley cast her hands to her chest. Oh, right on cue.

Yes, you're all right, Sophie. What a wonderful sound. Come on into the sitting room. The choir is in there. She led the way through a doorway into a large, living room. A fire burned brightly in the half, creating a cozy atmosphere. The room was full of the familiar faces of Sleep Cove Choir, holding steaming mugs of tea and hot chocolate. Their cheeks were flushed with wolf and they looked quite at home. The moment Sophie came into the room. There was a ripple

of movement. Several people rose to their feet and someone called out, I knew you would find us, Sophie. I know how much you love solving mysteries. The others laughed and nodded, and a little cheer went up. Sophie laughed with them. The tension of the search finally ebbing away. I'm just glad you're all safe. We were starting to worry. It turned into a bit more of an adventure than we expected. One of the autos omitted, but we're perfectly all right. We're being very well looked after. At that moment, Austin appeared in the doorway,

carefully cradling a small bundle wrapped in a soft blanket. The new father was glowing with happiness. Let me have a look at my grandchildren. child, Haley said softly, how's Poppy doing? She moved over to the baby and gazed down at the new addition to their family. She's exhausted but happy, Austin answered. I'll go up and see her, Haley said, reluctantly tearing her gaze away from the baby. She nodded over at Sophie, Ian and Neal. Austin, we've got some new visitors. Haley headed upstairs.

Austin looked over at Ian and said, I'm so sorry, I should have telephoned to the office about our shift swap, and I should have found a way to let someone know we were coming here. Poppy went into labour earlier than we expected, and I couldn't think of anything except getting back. back to her. Ian shook his head. You have nothing to apologise for, he said kindly, you did exactly the right thing. Congratulations, Austin. Congratulations, Sophie echoed, smiling at the tiny face peeping out from the blanket. Thank you, Austin said. His voice thick with emotion.

This is our son. We've called him William. A gentle murmur of approval ran around the room. Hello William, one of the choir members said softly. Welcome to the world, another added. The baby screwed up his face and gave a little wail at all the new voices. Austin chuckled softly. I think he's wondering what all the fuss is about.

Perhaps he needs a lullaby, someone suggested. The suggestion was only half a joke, but at once the choir fell naturally into their familiar pattern. They settled themselves, and almost without decision, began to sing silent night in soft, harmonious voices. Their gentle notes filled the room. Austin rocked William, lightly in his arms, as the beamed his cries faded. Before long, the tiny voice's face relaxed, and he drifted to sleep.

When the carol ended, there was a brief, peaceful silence. Thank you, Austin said quietly. That was perfect. Sophie, Ian and Neil took a seat and heard the story of the missing coach from the choir's side. It had all happened very quickly. The telephone call from Blueberry Farm

had come just after they had left the hamlet. Haley had sounded calm but firm. The baby was on the way and it would be best if Austin came home. as soon as he could. The moment we heard, one of the soprano said, we all told him to turn the coach around and go straight home. There was no question of doing anything else.

We thought we'd be able to telephone sleep cave when we arrived. Another added, but there's no signal and the line keeps crackling at the moment. So he told Haney that if anyone could work it out, Sophie would. Sophie shook her head in a modest protest, but she couldn't help feeling quietly pleased. Before too long, it was time to think about getting everyone back to Sleep Cove. The snow had finally stopped and they looked through the window. They could see a few stars beginning to show. through the gaps in the clouds.

I think I can manage the drive back, Ian said. I know these roads well and will take it very slowly. The tow truck can go in front, Neil offered. If there's a drift, I'll see it first and deal with it. After making their farewells, so few of the others left the farmhouse. Neil set off down the road. road on his tow track first. Sophie and the choir settled down in the coach with Ian behind the wheel. On the snow, but steady journey back to Sneep Cove, Sophie looked out of the night sky.

It was free from any clouds. Sophie pointed out the stars to the others and said, they seemed to be shining extra bright tonight. They look almost magical. The others agreed. As the vehicles continued on their way, someone began a carol and others joined in. The singing soft and unhurried. It was a slow journey, but no one minded.

And the gentle singing continued. Eventually, familiar shapes appeared through the windscreen. The hedges gave way to cottages, and the lights of St. Cove shone ahead. The village looked like something from a Christmas card. Its roofs and gardens covered in snow, fairy lights twinkling in windows, and along shalt fronts. Sophie was surprised to see what looked like the whole village gathered in the square.

The villagers waved when they saw the vehicles approaching. The tow truck came to a slow stop. Ian brought the coach to a gentle stop behind it. A few villagers came closer to greet everyone as they alighted. There were hugs and exclamations, and the story of the evening began to be told and retold. each version accompanied by smiles and laughter. Ian climbed down from the driver's seat and stretched his legs.

I'll run the coach round and drop people at their homes, he said. No sense in anyone walking in this snow. But what about our Christmas Eve carols? One of the male choir members said, I've never missed one. haven't you done enough scene today, Sophie asked. The man laughed. There's no such thing as enough singing.

He gestured to the choir. Come on everyone, let's get the party started, or the singing started, should I say? The choir didn't hesitate and hurried over to the village square. Ian and Neil right behind them. Within seconds, the choir was singing joyfully beneath the sparkling stars. The rest of the village joined in. Sophie stood watching the residents of Sleep Cove, her heart full of joy and love at the sight of her beloved community.

Sleep Cove really was a most wonderful place to live. Later that evening, when the last song had been, been so. Ian insisted on driving Sophie back to the lavender cottage. She thanked him for his help. Ian replied that it had been a great adventure and one you would never forget. Sophie agreed with him. She wished him a Merry Christmas and stepped down from the coach. A Merry Christmas to you, Sophie Meadows. Ian called through the open door. And, may you continue to solve mysteries. He waved, closed the door and drove away. Sophie stood for a moment, watching the red lights of the couch, glowing briefly at the end of the lane, before

disappearing from view. Then she turned and went up the short path to her lavender cottage. Inside the house welcomed her with familiar warmth and the faint scent of pine from the Christmas tree She hung up her coat, took off her boots and put the kettle on For her last cup of tea Later in her bedroom She drew the curtains back For a moment before getting into bed

The night outside was still and quiet The snow lay thick and disturbed in the garden and above it all the stars shone clearly. What a beautiful evening! She closed the curtains and got into bed, pulling the covers up around her. Her limbs felt pleasantly heavy with tideness, but her mind was peaceful.

She thought of the choir now, safely at home, and of blueberry farm with its new family gathered inside. It had been a most enchanted Christmas Eve and one she could never forget. Her eyes closed and within a few moments she was asleep. Outside the stars twinkled brightly in the clear night sky

their light casting a magical spell over the slumbering village of Sleep Cove.