Life in the quite village of St Denis is disturbed when a case of arson brings attention from far and near. The mayor puts pressure on the village chief of police, Bruno, to ensure the case is solved quickly, even though he is not heading up the investigation, as an investment opportunity is at risk. But life goes on and grapes are picked and crushed. When there is an unexpected death of two locals, a young man and an old man, even more attention is paid on the village. Bruno must tread the middle ground of protecting the village and finding those who are responsible.

This feels like an idealised French village country life. It's informative but one has to wonder how real this cosy setting is. As a novel it's entertaining and the main character, Bruno, is likeable, with his cooking, steady approach, evenness and attempts at a love life.