Book Log 2019 #18: Bruno, Chief of Police by Martin Walker

Benoit Courreges, known to all as Bruno, is a former solider who has returned to the Perigord, an area of southwest France, to be the police chief in a small town. He enjoys coaching rugby, having great meals with his friends in town, and hanging out with his dog. He doesn't wear his gun, and will take the extra time to work out disagreements rather than arrest someone.

But when an elderly immigrant from North Africa is murdered, Bruno has to team up with an ambitious (and attractive) officer from Paris to investigate if the killing may be terror-related. 

While this does suggest the trope of small town cops who don't actually enforce the law, the book takes a more nuanced approach. Bruno has no problem with his job, but he sees greater value in maintaining harmony among the townsfolk and preserving the area's way of life when he can. The story is entertaining, with good characters who fit the setting. It also made me think for a hard second about moving to the Perigord. A strong start for what will hopefully be a fun series.