Nothing captures the charm of Edinburgh like the bestselling
Isabel Dalhousie series of novels featuring the insatiably
curious philosopher and woman detective. Whether
investigating a case or a problem of philosophy, the
indefatigable Isabel Dalhousie, one of fiction’s most richly
developed amateur detectives, is always ready to pursue the
answers to all of life’s questions, large and small.
In this latest installment of Alexander McCall Smith’s
endearing Isabel Dalhousie series, the Edinburgh philosopher
and amateur sleuth answers an unexpected appeal from a
wealthy Scottish collector who has been robbed of a valuable
painting.
One afternoon over coffee at Cat’s delicatessen, a friend of
Isabel’s shares a call for help from Duncan Munrowe. Crafty
thieves have stolen a prized painting from his collection, a
work by the celebrated French artist Nicolas Poussin that
was earmarked for donation to the Scottish National Gallery.
Munrowe has been approached by the thieves and hopes that
Isabel will assist him in recovering the painting. Never one
to refuse an appeal, she agrees, and discovers that the
thieves may be closer to the owner than he ever would have
expected.
Against the backdrop of this intriguing case, Isabel copes
with life’s issues, large and small. She and Jamie have
begun to suspect that their three-year-old son, Charlie,
might be a budding mathematical genius. What should be done
about it? Then there is the question of whether Isabel
should help a young couple who want to move in
together—against the wishes of the girl’s parents. The
boyfriend is hoping Isabel might intercede.
As she wrestles with these problems, Isabel finds herself
tested as a parent, a philosopher and a friend. But, as
always, she manages to use the right combination of good
sense, quick wits and a kind heart to come to the right
solution, proving once again why Isabel Dalhousie has become
one of Alexander McCall Smith’s most beloved characters.
© 2003-2024 off-the-edge.net
all rights reserved Privacy Policy