- Pub. Date: April 2010
- Publisher: Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group
- Format: Paperback , 288pp (Also available in Nook and Kindle format)
- Series: Vintage Series
- ISBN-13: 9780307454690
- ISBN: 030745469X
Benoit Courréges, aka Bruno, lives in a small village in the South of France. Bruno, a policeman in the village, embraces country life, shopping at the local market, distilling his own vin de noix, and enjoying great food with great friends. His most difficult work usually involves helping local farmers avoid the E.U. inspectors and the fines they impose.
Murder interrupts the quiet paces of this simple country life. A North African man who fought for the French army is the unlikely victim. In order to restore order to this quiet village, Bruno must figure out who murdered this man. The investigation opens old wounds from the Nazi occupation and threatens to destroy the peace and tranquility of the village.
Review:
This title was a thoroughly enjoyable read. Walker does a great job of giving us a picture of life in a small village in Southern France. Bruno is a likable character, who is sympathetic and sensitive of the issues that are raised during his investigation.
The book is "gentle" in telling but engaging. The story unfolds rather then busting out. I don't remember which blog had made me aware of this book but I am grateful. I fell in love with the people and the village itself. I find myself wanting to move to this area and enjoy the quiet, elegant life of Southern France.
Mystery lovers will enjoy the quiet rhythms of this book. I plan to pick up other books in this series. Next one up The Dark Vineyard.
