In January, Annie and Peter Mayle made a definitive decision: to embrace a new life. The tax investigator and the advertising executive, respectively, resigned from their careers and embarked on a move to Provence, in the south of France.

Now well into their second month in Provence, the Mayles are immersed in the rhythms of local life, continually discovering its nuances. They locate Columbani, the plumber and electrician, and reach an agreement for improvements to the kitc…

In March, Peter found himself drawn into the enigmatic world of truffles when a call from his friend Harry in England requested two kilograms of the prized fungi. His initial inquiries led him to Amédée, his neighbor, who pointed him toward…

April brought a welcome shift in the weather, yet the Mayles were still burdened by Tony, their unwelcome houseguest. Annie finally drew a line, stating it was a matter of him or her. When Tony declared he would depart if he didn't acquire …

As May arrived, the Mayles received two unwelcome surprises. First, Tony, their guest who had lingered longer than intended, had purchased Rivière’s property. Assuming the Mayles had some involvement in the sale, Rivière brought them a live…

A letter arrived for June and Annie, penned by a friend from years past. The friend inquired whether they and Peter might consider contributing an article on Provence for her magazine. Soon after, it became clear that their piece would requ…

The month of July arrived, and Peter inadvertently scrambled the visiting schedules. The consequence was an unexpected influx of guests, filling the house to overflowing. They were a curious company: one man, convinced of his own skill as a…

The August heat hung heavy, but on a Sunday afternoon in the village, the Mayles discovered the annual goat race was about to take place. They received a promising tip and decided on a small wager. Peter, meanwhile, resolved to challenge th…

As September arrived, Peter’s thoughts turned resolutely to his vineyard and the approaching harvest. He maintained a partnership with Amedee Clement, agreeing to handle all the labor in exchange for a share of the yield: one-third belongin…

October found the Mayles’ kitchen still in a state of disrepair, Zanetti the carpenter absent for a month. It finally struck him that the man had likely been taken by Madame Hermonville, only to discover the result was merely an invitation …

In November, Annie had been teaching English to the children at the local school twice a week. So, she was deeply troubled to read in the local newspaper that the school might be compelled to close.

December’s arrival marks the Mayles' impending first anniversary in Provence. Yet, Annie finds herself increasingly frustrated by the unfinished work within their home.