It’s a while since I’ve read any Alexander McCall Smith books, to the point that I wasn’t sure if I’d read this one already or not – it’s hard to keep track as I have some on kindle, some on Audible and some as physical copies (some of which I’ve given away),and he has written about 47 million novels, and in a sense it doesn’t really matter since they’re all pretty much the same.
When I want something sweet and gentle and predictable (like a favourite comfort food or old movie) a 44 Scotland street book will usually hit the spot – I did quite enjoy it. I have to spread them out, as I do get annoyed by the sameness of them, especially since they are often very expensive for a lightweight read.
Typical stuff with Bertie’s mum being awful, Bertie’s dad being pathetic and Bertie being wise beyond his years, and the other cast members pontificating and having misunderstandings. I pick them up when they’re on offer and will keep reading, but I won’t go out of my way to pay full price for the next in series.
Sarah Wray Writer 