{"title":"Alexander McCall Smith collection","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"mccall-smith-novel-habits-of-happiness-isabel-dalhousie-novels","title":"McCall Smith: Novel Habits of Happiness (Isabel Dalhousie Novels)","description":"Isabel Dalhousie is one of Edinburgh's most generous (but discreet) philanthropists - but should she be more charitable?  She wonders, sometimes, if she is too judgmental about her niece's amorous exploits, too sharp about her housekeeper's spiritual beliefs, too ready to bristle in battle against her enemies.\n\n  As the editor of the Review of Applied Ethics, she doesn't, of course, allow herself actual enemies, but she does feel enmity - especially towards two academics who have just arrived in the city.   Isabel feels they're a highly destabilizing influence; little tremors in the volcanic rock upon which an Enlightened Edinburgh perches.  Equally troubling is the situation of the little boy who is convinced he had a previous life.  When Isabel is called upon to help, she finds herself questioning her views on reincarnation.  And the nature of grief.  And - crucially - the positioning of lighthouses.\n\n  The only questions Isabel doesn't have to address concern her personal life.  With her young son and devoted husband her home life is blissfully content.  Which is the best possible launching pad for the next issue of the Review - the Happiness issue. As Isabel is beginning to appreciate, happiness, for most people, is not quite what it seems . . .","brand":"smeikalbooks","offers":[{"title":"New - Paperback","offer_id":12657485643861,"sku":"9780349141022N","price":5.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/McCallSmith.jpg?v=1603891211"},{"product_id":"mccall-smith-fatty-olearys-dinner-party-1","title":"McCall Smith: Fatty O'Leary's Dinner Party","description":"It takes a lot to get under the skin of Cornelius 'Fatty O'Leary, but then there is a lot of skin to get under. The heroically proportioned Fatty can normally take life as it comes. Right at home in easy-going Fayetteville, Arkansas, he is happily married to his childhood sweetheart Betty, and likes nothing better than the company of good friends Tubby O'Rourke and Porky Flanagan. But when Fatty and Betty head off to Ireland on the trip of a lifetime, they find that they have left their comfort zone far behind. Calamity and mayhem ensue as one mishap after another befalls the beleaguered couple. Can Fatty's broad shoulders take the strain or will he suffer one indignity too many? Will he get his just deserts, or just dessert?","brand":"smeikalbooks","offers":[{"title":"New","offer_id":32679073841237,"sku":"9781846974519N","price":4.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/9781846974519.jpg?v=1598611554"},{"product_id":"mccall-smith-bertie-project","title":"McCall Smith: Bertie Project","description":"Bertie's respite from his overbearing mother, Irene, is over. She has returned from the middle-east, only to discover that her son has been exposed to the worst evils of cartoons, movies and Irn Bru, and her wrath falls upon her unfortunate husband, Stuart. Meanwhile, Bruce has fallen in love with someone other than himself; Big Lou wants to adopt her beloved Finlay; Matthew and Elspeth host the Duke of Johannesburg for supper and Bertie decides he wants to move out of Scotland Street altogether and live with his grandmother, Nicola.\n\nCan Irene and Stuart's marriage survive? Will Bruce's newfound love last? And will Bertie really leave Scotland Street? Find out in the next instalment of this charming, beloved series.","brand":"smeikalbooks","offers":[{"title":"New","offer_id":32686146125909,"sku":"9780349142661N","price":5.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/9780349142661.jpg?v=1598878945"},{"product_id":"mccall-smith-house-of-unexpected-sisters-no-1-ladies-detective-agency","title":"McCall Smith: House of Unexpected Sisters (No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency)","description":"THE EIGHTEENTH BOOK IN THE BELOVED NO. 1 LADIES' DETECTIVE AGENCY SERIES\n\nThe one with the other Mma Ramotswe . . . \n\nThe dismissal of an employee at a thriving local business leads to an investigation by Precious Ramotswe and self-appointed Principal Investigating Officer Grace Makutsi. But Mma Ramotswe also has to contend with the re-appearance of her ex-husband, and the arrival of a long-lost relation: another Mma Ramotswe. Can Precious draw on her strength, compassion and powers of detection to manage these surprises from the past?\n\n'A delight' Daily Telegraph","brand":"smeikalbooks","offers":[{"title":"New","offer_id":32686725300309,"sku":"9780349142043N","price":5.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/9780349142043.jpg?v=1598884974"},{"product_id":"mccall-smith-akimbo-the-baboons","title":"Akimbo \u0026 the Baboons","description":"Product Description\n\nIncludes brilliant baboon facts! Akimbo loves his life in Africa and the animals that live there. In this newest Akimbo story, a lady comes to study the baboons in the game reserve where Akimbo's father is the head ranger. Akimbo is keen to help and find out all he can about baboons - and in so doing comes closer to a much more dangerous animal\n\nReview\n\n'The illustrations by the great Peter Bailey are an added delight' The Children's Bookseller\n\nAbout the Author\n\nAlexander McCall Smith is Professor of Medical Law at the University of Edinburgh. He is also the author of over fifty books, including the international bestselling series The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency. Sandy is the winner of three Author of the Year awards in 2004 (British Book Awards, Booksellers' Association and Waterstone's). Bloomsbury have re-issued fourteen of his backlist titles for the 7-9 age-range with a cohesive series look. The Akimbo books are beautifully illustrated by Peter Bailey, who has worked with many fine authors over the years, including Philip Pullman, Michael Morpurgo and Jamila Gavin.","brand":"smeikalbooks","offers":[{"title":"New","offer_id":32687837085781,"sku":"9780747594581N","price":3.59,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/9780747594581.jpg?v=1598897070"},{"product_id":"mccall-smith-quiet-side-of-passion","title":"McCall Smith: Quiet Side of Passion","description":"THE TWELFTH INSTALLMENT OF THE MUCH-LOVED ISABEL DALHOUSIE SERIES\n\nIt is summer in Edinburgh and Isabel Dalhousie is once again caught between 'gossip' and significant rumour. It is none of her business that Patricia, the mother of her son Charlie's little friend Basil, is estranged from Basil's father, or that the woman has a somewhat brazen attitude to childcare. And yet, it is curious.\n\nIsabel, however, has much else on her mind as editor of the 'Review of Applied Ethics'.  Along with the work involved for its impending next issue, she really needs to get her house in order and tend to the demands of her niece, Cat. Thankfully, the arrival of Antonia, the exuberant Italian au pair, will take care of urgent chores. And the hiring of Claire, a diligent if unsettlingly beautiful new assistant at the 'Review', surely means that Isabel can breathe, at least a little.\n\nBut her sharp observation and assured role as confidante soon have Isabel doubting all her recent decisions. What's more, her instinct to help others may have put her in real danger. In her desire to run both a smooth household and working life, has she simply created more chaos? Perhaps the quiet side of passion is, after all, the best side on which to be?\n\nThe Quiet Side of Passion is the twelfth book in the series, but you may enjoy reading the series in any order.","brand":"Little, Brown Book Group","offers":[{"title":"New - Paperback","offer_id":32688189243477,"sku":"9780349142708N","price":5.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/9780349142708.jpg?v=1598903491"},{"product_id":"mccall-smith-44-scotland-street","title":"McCall Smith: 44 Scotland Street","description":"The story revolves around the comings and goings at No. 44 Scotland Street, a fictitious building in a real street in Edinburgh. Immediately recognisable are the Edinburgh chartered surveyor, stalwart of the Conservative Association, who dreams of membership of Scotland's most exclusive golf club. We have the pushy Stockbridge mother, and her prodigiously talented five-year-old son, who is making good progress with the saxophone and with his Italian. Then there is Domenica Macdonald who is that type of Edinburgh lady who sees herself as a citizen of a broader intellectual world. In McCall Smith's hands such characters retain charm and novelty, simultaneously arousing both mirth and empathy. 44 Scotland Street is vintage McCall Smith, tackling issues of trust and honesty, snobbery and hypocrisy, love and loss, but all with great lightness of touch. Clever, elegant and funny, this is a novel that provides huge entertainment but which is underpinned by the moral dilemmas of everyday life and the characters' struggles to resolve them.","brand":"Little, Brown Book Group","offers":[{"title":"New - Paperback","offer_id":32688228466773,"sku":"9780349118970N","price":5.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/9780349118970.jpg?v=1598904656"},{"product_id":"colours-of-all-the-cattle","title":"Colours of all the Cattle","description":"THE NINETEENTH BOOK IN THE BELOVED NO. 1 LADIES' DETECTIVE AGENCY SERIES\n\nThe one with the election . . .\n\nWhen Ramotswe enters politics to oppose the construction of the dubious-sounding 'Big Fun Hotel', her opponent turns out to be local troublemaker, Violet Sephotho. But the general air of excitement cannot eclipse important matters of detection. Charlie, assigned a mysterious hit-and-run case, strives to prove his worth to his superiors as well as Queenie-Queenie, the woman who has captured his heart.\n\nMma Makutsi is meanwhile in danger of being outwitted by a local bigwig property developer.\n\nTwists and turns abound in the latest adventures from the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency.","brand":"smeikalbooks","offers":[{"title":"New","offer_id":32689636769877,"sku":"9780349143279N","price":5.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/9780349143279.jpg?v=1598954905"},{"product_id":"mccall-smith-precious-the-zebra-necklace-1","title":"McCall Smith: Precious \u0026 the Zebra Necklace","description":"Well before Precious Ramotswe founded her Number One Ladies' Detective Agency, as an eight-year-old girl she was already solving mysteries. Here, in this delightful, new, enchanting tale for children, we see how the young Precious became the crafty and intuitive private investigator we all know and love!Find out as Alexander McCall Smith tells the story of in another adventure featuring Precious Ramotswe.","brand":"smeikalbooks","offers":[{"title":"New","offer_id":32689844158549,"sku":"9781780273624N","price":4.19,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/9781780273624.jpg?v=1598959346"},{"product_id":"mccall-smith-akimbo-the-baboons-1","title":"McCall Smith: Akimbo \u0026 the Baboons","description":"Product Description\n\nAkimbo is excited to have his cousin, Kosi, visit him on the game reserve\nwhere he lives. And when a visiting scientist invites the boys to join her\nwhen she studies a pack of baboons, they can't wait to assist her in the\nbush. The baboon pack they find are fun to observe, but when a black\nleopard threatens the pack--and the scientist--Akimbo and Kosi are\nreminded that danger is ever present in the African bush. Alexander\nMcCall Smith takes young readers on a vicarious safari to his beloved\nAfrica in this perfect first chapter book, beautifully brought to life with\nillustrations by LeUyen Pham.\n\nAbout the Author\n\nAlexander McCall Smith has written more than fifty books, including the bestselling No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency mysteries, The Sunday Philosophy Club series, and many children's stories, including the Akimbo, Harriet Bean, and the Max and Maddy series. A professor of medical law at Edinburgh University, he was born in what is now Zimbabwe and currently lives in Scotland. www.alexandermccallsmith.com\nLeUyen Pham illustrated five previous Akimbo stories, as well as numerous picture books, including the New York Times bestselling Grace for President, Freckleface Strawberry, by Julianne Moore, and Big Sister, Little Sister, which she also wrote. She lives in San Francisco, California with her husband and young son.\nwww.leuyenpham.com","brand":"smeikalbooks","offers":[{"title":"New","offer_id":32808623243349,"sku":"9781599903040N","price":2.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/9781599903040.jpg?v=1655286537"},{"product_id":"mccall-smith-distant-view-of-everything","title":"McCall Smith: Distant View of Everything","description":"Product Description\n\n\nRecently distracted by the arrival of her and Jamie's second son, Magnus, Isabel Dalhousie - philanthropic editor of the Review of Applied Ethics - is anxious. The next issue of the Review is far from ready, her eldest, Charlie, is jealous, and their housekeeper, Grace, has an officious approach to childcare. With some relief, Isabel returns to helping out at her niece Cat's delicatessen, where surely the most taxing duty is the preparation of sandwiches.\nIt's not long before Isabel's helpful, philosophical nature draws her into customers' problems, specifically that of ambitious, self-proclaimed matchmaker, Bea Shandon. Bea has staged a potentially dangerous liaison involving enigmatic plastic surgeon, Tony MacUspaig, who may not be quite who he claims to be - and Isabel's help is required in getting to the truth of the matter. \nGood-hearted Isabel proceeds with her usual thorough attention to task, and on Bea's advice talks to her friend Rob, a trustworthy regular on Bea's dinner party circuit, and known to have deep suspicions about MacUspaig. It becomes clear, however, that Rob has an agenda of his own and Isabel is now contending with that, along with a mysterious medical condition of Jamie's and some frustrating dead ends when it comes to Bea's predicament. \nWhen the truth finally reveals itself, Isabel must conclude that along with MacUspaig, Bea, Jamie - and even Cat - she herself is not immune to misunderstandings, or the neurotic fantasies that arise from keeping secrets . . .\n\n\nReview\n\n\nLike [Barbara] Pym, McCall Smith believes that the small stuff in life matters,\nScotsman\n\n\nBrimming\nwith discreet charm,\nMail on Sunday\n\nIsabel Dalhousie's\n charm is undeniable,\nSunday Times\n\n\nDelightful,\nSunday Telegraph\n\nMcCall Smith's greatest gift as a writer - and God knows this is just one of many - is that he can write\nlikeable characters,\nNew Statesman\n\nIn ALEXANDER McCALL SMITH'S delightful new Isabel Dalhousie novel A DISTANT VIEW OF EVERYTHING, Isabel risks antagonising husband Jamie, as she investigates a suspiciously amorous surgeon,\nGood Housekeeping\n\nMcCall Smith's distinctively charming writing style makes this book a very easy summer read,\nScottish Field\n\nA delightful read,\nMature Times\n\n\nBook Description\n\n\nThe latest novel in Alexander McCall Smith's much-loved Isabel Dalhousie series.\n\n\nFrom the Back Cover\n\n\n'Brimming with discreet charm' MAIL ON SUNDAY \nIsabel Dalhousie is feeling unsettled. She is adjusting to life as a new mother, alongside her work as a philanthropist and as editor of the Review of Applied Ethics. With a desire to create some space in her busy life, Isabel returns to lending a hand at her niece's delicatessen, where surely the most taxing duty is the preparation of sandwiches. \nIt's not long before Isabel's helpful nature draws her into customers' problems, specifically that of self-proclaimed matchmaker, Bea Shannon. Bea has staged a potentially dangerous liaison involving enigmatic plastic surgeon, Tony MacUspaig, who may not be quite who he claims to be - and Isabel's help is required in getting to the truth of the matter. But even she is not immune to misunderstandings, or the neurotic fantasies that arise from keeping secrets . . . \n'Delightful' SUNDAY TELEGRAPH\n\n\nAbout the Author\n\n\nAlexander McCall Smith is the author of over eighty books on a wide array of subjects, including the award-winning The No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series. He is also the author of the Isabel Dalhousie\n novels and the world's longest-running serial novel, 44 Scotland Street. His books have been translated into forty-six languages. Alexander McCall Smith is Professor Emeritus of Medical Law at the University of Edinburgh and holds honorary doctorates from thirteen universities.","brand":"Abacus","offers":[{"title":"New - Paperback","offer_id":39267649060949,"sku":"9780349142692N","price":5.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/9780349142692.jpg?v=1615222037"},{"product_id":"tea-time-for-the-traditionally-built-no-1-ladies-detective-agency-book-10-the-no-1-ladies-detective-agency-book-10","title":"Tea Time For The Traditionally Built (No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency) Book 10: The No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency, Book 10","description":"It is a troublesome fact on which even Mma Ramotswe and her assistant Mma Makutsi agree: there are things that men know and ladies do not, and vice versa. It is unfortunate, for example, when Mma Ramotswe's newest client is the big-shot owner of the ailing Kalahari Swoopers, that one thing lady detectives know very little about is football. And when the glamorous Violet Sephotho sets her sights on Mma Makutsi's unsuspecting fiance, it becomes exasperatingly clear that some men do not know how to recognise a ruthless Jezebel even when she is bouncing up and down on the best bed in the Double Comfort Furniture Shop. In her attempt to foster understanding between the sexes and find the traitor on Mr Football's team, Mma Ramotswe ventures into new territory, drinks tea in unfamiliar kitchens and learns to trust in the observational powers of small boys. And, as wise and warm-hearted as his heroine, Alexander McCall Smith reminds us that we must dig deep to uncover the goodness of the human heart.","brand":"Little, Brown Book Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39655497498709,"sku":"9780349119977N","price":4.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/7d2df532-562e-4009-ae3c-4014bf44a0e1.jpg?v=1644287830"},{"product_id":"the-second-worst-restaurant-in-france-paul-stewart-3","title":"The Second Worst Restaurant in France (Paul Stewart 2)","description":"Paul Stewart has returned to Scotland to continue his successful career. His agent and girlfriend, Gloria, has arranged for him to write The Philosophy of Food in Six Easy Chapters, a project he relishes but that will have to be delivered in six months. It is not going well, as Paul finds his domestic circumstances unsuited to concentrated hard work: Gloria has now moved in with him (not specifically invited) and has brought with her two extremely vocal and demanding Siamese cats. The cats give Paul no peace.\n\n\n\nBeginning to worry that The Philosophy of Food will never be written Paul calls on the aid of his cousin, Chloe, who suggests a radical course of action. She has taken a six-month lease on a house in a French village not far from Poitiers and invites him to join her there and get the book finished in peace. He needs no second bidding and it is not long before he escapes to France.\n\n\n\nOnce there, however, Paul finds his fortunes tangled up with the fate of one eating establishment in the village: the infamous Second Worst Restaurant in France ...","brand":"Birlinn General","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39656960557141,"sku":"9781846975479N","price":5.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/9781846975479_b75d653c-021f-4907-9a87-bfebe19c6d84.jpg?v=1655286762"},{"product_id":"the-woman-who-walked-in-sunshine-no-1-ladies-detective-agency-book-16-mma-ramotswe-16","title":"The Woman Who Walked in Sunshine (No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency) Book 16: Mma Ramotswe 16","description":"Mma Ramotswe is not one to sit about. Her busy life as the proprietress of the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency gives her little time for relaxation. Nonetheless, she is persuaded by her co-director Mma Makutsi to take a holiday. \n\n But Mma Ramotswe finds it impossible to resist the temptation to interfere with the agency's cases - secretly, she intends . . . This leads her to delve into the past of a man whose reputation has been called into question. It also leads her to an orphan named Samuel. Meanwhile, Violet Sephotho, Mma Makutsi's arch-enemy, has had the temerity to set up a new secretarial college - one that aims to rival that great institution, the Botswana Secretarial College. Will she get her comeuppance? It will be a close-run thing.","brand":"Little, Brown Book Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39664461742165,"sku":"9780349141039N","price":5.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/ee7a4b5a-7aeb-4225-87d2-e1e97a50a057.jpg?v=1644277780"},{"product_id":"blue-shoes-and-happiness","title":"Blue Shoes And Happiness","description":"Now that she is finally and happily married to her long-term suitor Mr J.L.B. Matekoni, Mma Ramotswe of the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency of Botswana might have expected life to grow more sedate.  But the many problems that lead customers to Mma Ramotswe's door seem, if anything, to have multiplied, and no sooner has she settled her traditionally built person into the married state than she finds herself looking into several troublesome matters at once. There is, to begin with, a disturbing case of blackmail and theft from the Government catering college. Then, while on an errand for her husband to the Mokolodi Game Reserve Mma Ramotswe is seconded to investigate an unpleasant atmosphere that may be down to witchcraft, or something worse.  There are sinister goings-on at a health clinic to be looked into, not to mention any number of small wrongs to be righted along the path to detective triumph. And all the time Mma Ramotswe has weighty questions of a philosophical nature to consider, such as whether it is right to find happiness in small things, such as a new pair of blue shoes, a slice of cake, or a red sunset over the Kalahari.","brand":"Abacus","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39664468754517,"sku":"9780349117720N","price":5.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/b219917e-dd3c-4e70-bc4b-8fc4004a2c47.jpg?v=1644288156"},{"product_id":"the-talented-mr-varg-a-detective-varg-novel","title":"The Talented Mr Varg: A Detective Varg novel","description":"The second book in Alexander McCall Smith's new DETECTIVE VARG series . . . \n\n'Reading the novel feels like a form of meditation . . . There is much to enjoy' Scotsman\n\n'Wonderfully soothing and relaxing' Telegraph\n\n'Heaven is in the detail with this sort of escapist writing. It's like AA Milne meets Karl Ove Knausgaard' Financial Times \n\nSpring is coming slowly to Sweden - though not quite as slowly as Detective Ulf Varg's promised promotion at the Department of Sensitive Crimes. For Varg, referred by his psychoanalyst to group therapy at Malmoe's Wholeness Centre, life now seems mostly a circle of self-examination, something which may or may not be useful when it comes to the nature of his profession and the particularly sensitive cases that have recently come to light.\n\nAll in a day's work for Detective Varg, except that one of his new investigations involves fellow detective Anna; it will require every ounce of self-discipline he has in order to remain professional. The other, more curious case is centred around internationally successful novelist Nils Personn-Cederstroem. According to his girlfriend, Cederstroem is being blackmailed - but by whom and for what reason?\n\nAccompanied by his irritating but kindly colleague Blomquist, Varg begins his enquiries and soon the answers fall neatly into place. Nothing and no one is ever that simple, however, and not for the first time he learns as much about his own emotional and moral landscape as he does about the motives of others. Now Varg must make a possibly life-changing decision. Will he choose his own happiness over that of his heart's desire?","brand":"Little, Brown Book Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39664962699349,"sku":"9781408712764N","price":11.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/7d3998fe-518f-4b5a-934f-c9816573fc91.jpg?v=1644295188"},{"product_id":"sunshine-on-scotland-street-44-scotland-street-a-44-scotland-street-novel-book-8","title":"Sunshine on Scotland Street (44 Scotland Street): A 44 Scotland Street Novel, Book 8","description":"Scotland Street witnesses the wedding of the century of Angus Lordie to Domenica Macdonald, but as the newlyweds depart on honeymoon Edinburgh is in disarray. Recovering from the trauma of being best man, Matthew is taken up by a Dane called Bo, while Cyril eludes his dog-sitter and embarks on an odyssey involving fox-holes and the official residence of a cardinal. Narcissist Bruce meets his match in the form of a sinister doppelganger; Bertie, set up by his mother for fresh embarrassment at school, yearns for freedom; and Big Lou goes viral. But the residents of Scotland Street rally, and order - and Cyril - is restored by the combined effects of understanding, kindness, and, most of all, friendship.","brand":"Little, Brown Book Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39668064256085,"sku":"9780349139166N","price":5.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/ca879029-b0e3-4fc6-87c6-0e0dd80d7d33.jpg?v=1644260648"},{"product_id":"the-uncommon-appeal-of-clouds-isabel-dalhousie-novels-book-9","title":"The Uncommon Appeal of Clouds (Isabel Dalhousie Novels) Book 9","description":"As a mother, wife, employer and editor of the Review of Applied Ethics, Isabel Dalhousie is aware that to be human is to be responsible. So when a neighbour brings her a new and potentially dangerous puzzle to solve, once again Isabel feels she has no option but to shoulder the burden.\n\nA masterpiece painting has been stolen from Duncan Munrowe, old-fashioned philanthropist, father to two discontented children, and a very wealthy man. As Isabel enters into negotiations with the shadowy figures who are in search of a ransom, a case where heroes and villains should be clearly defined turns murky: the list of those who desire the painting - or the money - lengthens, and hasty judgement must be avoided at all cost. Morals, it turns out, are like Scottish clouds: complex, changeable and tricky to get a firm grip on; they require a sharp observational eye, a philosophical mindset, and the habit of kindness. Fortunately for those around her, Isabel Dalhousie is in possession of all three.","brand":"Little, Brown Book Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39668064419925,"sku":"9780349138763N","price":5.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/5fe71cdb-874d-42bb-8fc7-d200cd1e5ecd.jpg?v=1644272866"},{"product_id":"the-double-comfort-safari-club-11-no-1-ladies-detective-agency-book-11-the-no-1-ladies-detective-agency-book-11","title":"The Double Comfort Safari Club: 11 (No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency) Book 11: The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency, Book 11","description":"THE ELEVENTH BOOK IN THE BELOVED NO. 1 LADIES' DETECTIVE AGENCY SERIES\n\nThe one with the difficult aunt . . .\n\nThe no. 1 lady detectives of Botswana travel to a safari lodge in the Okavango Delta to carry out a delicate mission on behalf of a former guest. 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Matekoni himself decides to try a little detective work, disaster looms ...Tender, witty and wise, the latest instalment in the lives of Alexander McCall's Smith's extended Botswana family instructs us with familiar modesty in the importance of trust, love, not judging by appearances and what really makes a good husband.","brand":"Little, Brown Book Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39668065435733,"sku":"9780349117737N","price":5.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/b56aa925-17cb-4522-84ab-43e768cee565.jpg?v=1644277868"},{"product_id":"the-revolving-door-of-life-44-scotland-street-a-44-scotland-street-novel","title":"The Revolving Door of Life (44 Scotland Street): A 44, Scotland Street Novel","description":"About the Author\n\nAlexander McCall Smith is the author of over eighty books on a wide array of subjects, including the award-winning The No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series. He is also the author of the Isabel Dalhousienovels and the world's longest-running serial novel, 44 Scotland Street. His books have been translated into forty-six languages. Alexander McCall Smith is Professor Emeritus of Medical Law at the University of Edinburgh and holds honorary doctorates from thirteen universities.\n\nProduct Description\n\nFor seven-year-old Bertie Pollock, life in Edinburgh's most celebrated fictional street has just got immeasurably better. The enforced absence of his endlessly pushy mother Irene - currently consciousness-raising in a Bedouin harem (don't ask) - has manifold and immediate blessings: no psychotherapy, no Italian lessons and no yoga classes. Bliss.\nFor Scotland Street's grown-ups, life throws up some new dilemmas. Matthew makes a discovery that could make him even richer but also leaves him worried. Pat makes one that could make her poorer and her father miserable - unless that uber-narcissist, Bruce, can help her out. And the Duke of Johannesburg, we discover, isn't exactly who he says he is.\nFrom what happens behind Edinburgh Airport's luggage carousel to Machiavellian manoeuvrings at the Association of Scottish Nudists, Alexander McCall Smith guides us through the brighter, lighter and frankly unexpected side of Edinburgh life. As ever with his 44 Scotland Street series, his readers will make their own discovery: that its blend of wit and wisdom mark it out as a comedic tour de force.\n\nBook Description\n\nWe catch up with the latest delightful goings-on in the fictitious 44 Scotland Street from Alexander McCall Smith.\n\nFrom the Author\n\nAlexander McCall Smith is the author of over eighty books on a wide array of subjects, including the award-winning The No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series. He is also the author of the Isabel Dalhousie novels and the world's longest-running serial novel, 44 Scotland Street. His books have been translated into forty-six languages. Alexander McCall Smith is Professor Emeritus of Medical Law at the University of Edinburgh and holds honorary doctorates from thirteen universities.\n\nFrom the Inside Flap\n\nFor seven-year-old Bertie Pollock, life in Edinburgh's most celebrated fictional street has just got immeasurably better. The enforced absence of his endlessly pushy mother Irene - currently consciousness-raising in a Bedouin harem (don't ask) - has manifold and immediate blessings: no psychotherapy, no Italian lessons and no yoga classes. Bliss.\n\nFor Scotland Street's grown-ups, life throws up some new dilemmas. Matthew makes a discovery that could make him even richer but also leaves him worried. Pat makes one that could make her poorer and her father miserable - unless that uber-narcissist, Bruce, can help her out. And the Duke of Johannesburg, we discover, isn't exactly who he says he is.\n\nFrom what happens behind Edinburgh Airport's luggage carousel to Machiavellian manoeuvrings at the Association of Scottish Nudists, Alexander McCall Smith guides us through the brighter, lighter and frankly unexpected side of Edinburgh life. As ever with his 44 Scotland Street series, his readers will make their own discovery: that its blend of wit and wisdom mark it out as a comedic tour de force.\n\n\nFrom the Back Cover\n\nFor seven-year-old Bertie Pollock, life in Edinburgh's most celebrated fictional street has just got immeasurably better. The enforced absence of his endlessly pushy mother Irene - currently consciousness-raising in a Bedouin harem (don't ask) - has manifold and immediate blessings: no psychotherapy, no Italian lessons and no yoga classes. Bliss.\n\nFor Scotland Street's grown-ups, life throws up some new dilemmas. Matthew makes a discovery that could make him even richer but also leaves him worried. Pat makes one that could make her poorer and her father miserable - unless that uber-na","brand":"Little, Brown Book Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40236049268821,"sku":"9780349141046N","price":5.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/products\/e02fe380-b229-4f5e-aefb-fb23b16ade9a.jpg?v=1660302382"},{"product_id":"love-in-the-time-of-bertie-44-scotland-street","title":"Love in the Time of Bertie (44 Scotland Street)","description":"Book Description\n\nThe latest warm hearted instalment in the 44 Scotland Street series\n\nProduct Description\n\nThe latest in the hugely popular 44 Scotland Street series from the worldwide bestselling author, Alexander McCall Smith\n\nLife for Bertie seems to be moving at a pace that is rather out of his control. Upstairs, at 44 Scotland Street, his father Stuart is powerless to stop over-bearing Irene and her determination that Bertie will travel to deepest, coldest Aberdeen on a three-month sojourn. Can his friend Ranald Braveheart Macpherson save the day? And can the boys execute a great escape? Meanwhile, further up in the New Town, Bruce Anderson's property development plans are thwarted by a sudden crisis of conscience that leads to a shocking revelation. And, in Big Lou's cafe, it seems that love might blossom at last.\n\nWarm hearted, humorous and always wonderfully wise, Love in the Time of Bertie offers philosophical insight as well as sartorial elegance. There are tribulations as well as celebrations in this the next instalment in the 44 Scotland Street series.\n\nFrom the Back Cover\n\nPraise for 44 Scotland Street series\n\"A joyous, charming portrait of city life and human foibles\" Sunday Express\n\nLife for Bertie seems to be moving at a pace that is rather out of his control. Upstairs, at 44 Scotland Street, his father Stuart is powerless to stop over-bearing Irene and her determination that Bertie will travel to deepest, coldest Aberdeen on a three-month sojourn. Can his friend Ranald Braveheart Macpherson save the day? And can the boys execute a great escape? Meanwhile, further up in the New Town, Bruce Anderson's property development plans are thwarted by a sudden crisis of conscience that leads to a shocking revelation. And, in Big Lou's cafe, it seems that love might blossom at last.\n\nWarm hearted, humorous and always wonderfully wise, Love in the Time of Bertie offers philosophical insight as well as sartorial elegance. There are tribulations as well as celebrations in this the next instalment in the 44 Scotland Street series.\n\nAbout the Author\n\nAlexander McCall Smith is the author of over one hundred books on a wide array of subjects, including the award-winning The No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series. 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For all its gentle humour, this latest novel shows Alexander McCall Smith to be a steely moralist -- Stuart Kelly ― Scotsman\n\nA gentle exploration of morality... cosy and effortlessly charming ― Herald\n\nMcCall Smith delves into the inner machinations of a modern-day philosopher whose nuanced approach stands in stark contrast to the fiery rhetoric of the day... While touching on a variety of topics, the tone is never preachy or pedantic but instead is an open examination of how to lead a moral life... Hand this title to those looking for a more contemplative approach to their mysteries ― Library Journal\n\nAn intriguing and rather beguiling book that is by turns humorous and thought-provoking ― Undiscovered Scotland\n\nProduct Description\n\nOur favorite moral philosopher is caught up in a delicate dispute between members of a prominent family as her husband, Jamie, is dragged into his own internecine rivalry.\n\nIsabel accepts an invitation to serve on the advisory committee of the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, but soon finds herself swept up in an all-too-familiar dilemma. David is the grandson of a Scottish clan chief and is supportive of Scottish nationalism. But his fervent beliefs are threatening family harmony, especially because his sister Catriona's socialist views put her at odds with her brother. When their mother, Laura, a fellow committee member, asks Isabel to intervene, she tries to demur. But always one for courteous resolutions to philosophical disagreements, Isabel can't help but intercede.\n\nIn the meantime, Jamie, having criticized Isabel for getting involved in the affairs of others, does precisely that himself. Jamie is helping to select a new cellist for his ensemble, but he suspects that the conductor may be focused on something other than his favored candidate's cello skills.\n\nWith so many factors complicating matters, Isabel and Jamie will have to muster all their tact and charm to ensure that comity is reached between all these fractious parties.\n\nBook Description\n\nThe latest installation in the beloved Isabel Dalhousie series\n\nFrom the Inside Flap\n\nWhen Isabel Dalhousie accepts an invitation to serve on the advisory committee of the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, she soon finds herself swept up in an all-too-familiar dilemma. David is the grandson of a Scottish clan chief and is supportive of Scottish nationalism. But his fervent beliefs are threatening family harmony, especially because his sister Catriona's socialist views put her at odds with her brother. When their mother, Laura, a fellow committee member, asks Isabel to intervene, she tries to demur. But always one for courteous resolutions to philosophical disagreements, Isabel can't help but intercede.\n\nIn the meantime, Jamie, having criticised Isabel for getting involved in the affairs of others, does precisely that himself. Jamie is helping to select a new cellist for his ensemble, but he suspects that the conductor may be focused on something other than his favoured candidate's cello skills.\n\nWith so many factors complicating matters, Isabel and Jamie will have to muster all their tact and charm to ensure that harmony is reached between all these fractious parties.\n\nFrom the Back Cover\n\nThe latest Isabel Dalhousie novel finds our favourite moral philosopher is caught up in a delicate dispute between members of a prominent family as her husband, Jamie, is dragged into his own internecine rivalry.\n\nAbout the Author\n\nAlexander McCall Smith is the author of over one hundred books on a wide array of subjects, including the award-winning The No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series. He is also the author of the Isabel Dalhousienovels and the world's longest-running serial novel, 44 Scotland Street. His books have been translated into forty-six languages. 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David's support for Scottish nationalism puts him at odds with his sister Catriona and her socialist views, threatening family harmony. Always one for courteous resolutions to philosophical disagreements, Isabel can't help but intercede when she is asked to by their mother, Laura, a fellow committee member.  Meanwhile, Jamie, having criticised Isabel for getting involved in the affairs of others, does precisely that himself when he suspects the conductor of his ensemble may have selected a new cellist based on something other than musical skills.  With so many factors complicating matters, Isabel and Jamie will have to muster all their tact and charm to ensure that harmony is reached between all these fractious parties.","brand":"Abacus","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40695305207893,"sku":"9780349145204N","price":5.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/files\/aacd4d36-2cae-49c6-b590-afd5de0950b9.jpg?v=1695636413"},{"product_id":"the-discreet-charm-of-the-big-bad-wolf","title":"The Discreet Charm of the Big Bad Wolf","description":"In the hilarious new novel in the best-selling Detective Varg series, Ulf Varg will need to resolve both a sensitive crime and his own delicate dilemma in the hopes of preserving the peace.  The Department of Sensitive Crimes is downsizing in light of a recent downturn of sensitive crime, and staff members are wondering who among them will be transferred elsewhere. As the bickering between colleagues intensifies, Ulf tries his best to stay above the fray. But when Anna, a longtime friend and coworker, appears to blame him for an old case that went sideways, it seems she may be putting her own job prospects above their friendship.  In the midst of all this, Ulf embarks on an important inquiry: a man's cabin has mysteriously disappeared and Ulf is tasked with finding out what happened. How exactly does one steal a house? And, more to the point, how does one track down a stolen house? Meanwhile, a promising veterinary treatment for deafness in dogs has been announced, and Ulf's dog, Martin, might be the perfect patient.  This latest novel is another masterful, farcical installment in the series that defines the genre that Alexander McCall Smith is singlehandedly championing: Scandi blanc.","brand":"Abacus","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40708497211477,"sku":"9780349146010N","price":11.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/files\/3b3fbd34-c7d0-4b82-8cf8-9ffaebf8f2de.jpg?v=1696946937"},{"product_id":"the-enigma-of-garlic","title":"The Enigma of Garlic","description":"The latest in the hugely popular 44 Scotland Street series from the worldwide bestselling author, Alexander McCall Smith  It's the most anticipated event of the decade: Big Lou and Fat Bob's wedding and everyone is invited! After a wonderful day, Big Lou crashes back down to earth and finds that she is a victim of her own success. The lure of those famous bacon rolls is preventing her from leaving hungry customers without their daily dose of deliciousness - even to go for a long-awaited honeymoon. Will Big Lou find the happiness she so richly deserves? Everyone in Scotland Street hopes so, but, as Burns warned, the best laid plans...  The relative peace and tranquillity of 44 Scotland Street is about to be disrupted. Irene is to return for a two-month stay, consigning Bertie to a summer camp. Not satisfied with that, she somehow manages to come between the enigmatic nun, Sister Maria-Fiore dei Fiori di Montagna, and her friend, the hagiographer, Antonia Collie.  Can a person really change, even after being struck by lightning? Bruce's metamorphosis and new-found outlook on life is put to the test as he prepares to leave his creature comforts for the monastic simplicity of Pluscarden Abbey. 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Tender and true, The Forever Girl traces love's unpredictable path to maturity with style, wit and feeling.","brand":"Little, Brown Book Group","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40741768429653,"sku":"9780349138718N","price":5.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2481\/5790\/files\/a105f4e2-a201-414d-9ebb-7796a8feb794.jpg?v=1702673795"},{"product_id":"in-the-company-of-cheerful-ladies-the-no-1-ladies-detective-agency-series-book-6","title":"In The Company of Cheerful Ladies (The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency Series) Book 6","description":"THE SIXTH BOOK IN THE BELOVED NO. 1 LADIES' DETECTIVE AGENCY SERIES  The one where Mma Makutsi finds a dancing partner . . .   Although Mma Ramotswe and Mr J. L. B. Matekoni have finally settled down, at the shared premises of the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency and Speedy Motors the staff are not mixing in a perfectly peaceful manner.  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