In 1990, American journalist Allman (Finding Florida), purchased an 800-year-old home in the southern French town of Lauzerte. In his latest book, he captures what his life is like in his adopted community, and he examines the history of the region as well. His writing is often brilliant, warm, and clever. The stories of present-day Lauzerte are, by turns, gripping and amusing; the details of Allman’s routines and the people of the village are touching and edifying. The historical portions emphasize brutal incidents and people. For example, the book mentions Pope Innocent III, who was viewed as one of the biggest and most ruthless and cruel rivals of Philip II, king of France. This is the same pope who initiated the most well-known of the Crusades, the violent religious wars between Christians and Muslims to secure land deemed sacred. Allman also discusses the cruel colonial empires of France and Britain. VERDICT Best suited for fans of Allman’s work, along with readers intrigued by a little-known French town, the author’s 800-year-old house, and the book’s contemporary elements. This will appeal to readers who enjoy Martin Walker’s “Bruno, Chief of Police” mystery series as well.