Discovered a new likable mystery writer..

[dixiegrrrrl]

Donald Harstad.
A summary:

Reflecting 26 years as a deputy sheriff in northeastern Iowa, Donald Harstad's books feature an Iowa deputy sheriff named Carl Houseman, is full of convincing details of everyday police work and is told in such a droll, natural voice that you'll swear you've met both author and hero.
Harstad's dead-on, no-nonsense manner makes it all very convincing--and extremely readable.

the "voice" of the first person books is so natural and relaxed, it is a pleasure to read, and it is so very character driven that the actual crimes are almost secondary.

So far only 3 books to what looks like a promising series.