As always McCall Smith is smart and thoughtful. Another beautiful novel in the Isabel Dalhouse series!

There is a quiet sweetness to these stories but this one dragged a bit. The problem is presented early on and then not much happens until a very quick resolution presents itself in the last few pages. ( )

Not really a mystery, more of a prolonged meditation on the wisdom of intervening in the lives of others. Isobel decides it is her nature and that she just can't turn away when asked for help.

I think this is my most favorite Isabel Dalhousie novel. Lots of food for thought and rumination, as to human behavior, with gentle prodding from the master of unobtrusive advice. It was a quiet, rewarding joy to read, it truly gave my mind some rest from the torment of the current events (even while still discussing them) and asserted hope that decency might yet prevail in this world. ( )

Philosopher Isabel Dalhousie has never been one to say “no” when asked to do something, so when an art gallery asks her to join their board, she immediately agrees. But it turns out that one of the members has an ulterior motive in bringing Isabel on-board: there is a huge rift in her family, especially between her husband and adult son, and she has heard that Isabel is good at sorting these kinds of things out. Never mind that Isabel’s husband Jamie would prefer that she stay out of other people’s business, she is simply unable to say “no”....This is something like the 14th in the Isabel Dalhousie series and while not as popular as some of Mr. Smith’s other work, she is easily my favorite character of his creation. Nothing much happens in these books, but the reader is treated to some lovely descriptions of Edinburgh, Scotland, and to Isabel’s constant musings about ethical behavior and how to treat those one encounters. Throw in some engaging secondary characters - beautiful Jamie, rather obnoxious niece Cat, developing Eddie and, of course, housekeeper Grace and adorable children Charlie and Magnus - and you have the ingredients for a very pleasant afternoon read that leaves the reader feeling contented and, perhaps, a little kinder. Recommended. ( )