The Chief Inspector Armand Gamache series by Louise Penny is typically read in the order of publication. Some of the early ones include 'Still Life', 'A Fatal Grace', etc. Publication order generally helps in following the character development and the evolving storylines in the fictional Quebecois village of Three Pines.
Louise Penny has created a wonderful world around Armand Gamache. She has a great talent for writing mysteries that are not just about the crime but also about the characters, their relationships, and the beautiful settings like Three Pines. Her writing style makes the Armand Gamache novels very engaging and popular among mystery lovers.
The easiest way is to check the publication dates. The earlier published ones should be read first. For example, 'Still Life' was one of the first, so start there.
Another is 'A Fatal Grace'. In this novel, Gamache has to deal with a murder during the Christmas season in Three Pines. It delves deeper into the relationships between the characters in the village and also shows more of Gamache's detective skills and his empathetic nature towards the victims and the suspects alike.
Chief Inspector Armand Gamache has been in a substantial amount of novels. The author has continued to expand the story with his adventures. The count could change as more books are published, but it's a substantial collection for sure.
Louise Penny is the novelist. Armand Gamache is a well-crafted character in her mystery novels. The inspector is known for his sharp detective skills and charming personality.