Alexander McCall Smith is celebrated for his masterful storytelling, which often explores the human condition with kindness and gentle humor. His style is characterized by its unhurried pace, keen observations, and lyrical prose that draws readers into his narratives. Smith frequently delves into themes of ethics, morality, and the complexities of human connection. His work is a celebration of ordinary life and the profound wisdom found in everyday experiences.
'The whole world has become a prison, and Alfred Furnace is its master. Monsters rule the streets, beasts of pure fury that leave nothing but murder and madness in their wake. I have to find a way to use my powers to destroy Furnace, but in doing so I risk becoming the very force that kills us all.'
The gripping third instalment in Alexander Gordon Smith's epic series about Furnace, a terrifying underground prison for teenagers - now with the bestselling US cover. We had one last shot at freedom and we failed.
Katie Donald, the dedicated matchmaker in Edinburgh, continues her mission to unite lonely hearts through her company. As her reputation grows, she encounters a diverse array of clients, each with their own quirks and personalities, prompting her to devise innovative matchmaking strategies. The narrative explores the psychology behind love and attraction, showcasing the universal quest for connection and the tender moments that define human relationships, all delivered with McCall Smith's signature warmth and insight.
"Precious Ramotswe is a kind, warm-hearted and large African lady. She is also the only female private detective in Botswana. Her agency - the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency - is the best in the country. With the help of her secretary, Mma Makutsi, and her best friend, Mr JLB Matekoni, she solves a number of difficult - and sometimes dangerous - problems. A missing husband, a missing finger and a missing child - she will solve these mysteries in her own special way"--Back cover
Once upon a time in Botswana in Africa there was a little girl who would later grow up to be a famous detective: Precious Ramotswe of the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency. Having already cracked the case of the missing cakes at school, she now has a new mystery to solve.
As the countdown to Mma Makutsi's wedding begins, all is not as it should be at the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency. While investigating unpleasant occurrences on a southern cattle-post, Mma Ramotswe, always on the side of the weak against the strong, has reason to reflect on Rule No.3 of The Principles of Private Detection: never lie to the client. Apprentice mechanic Charlie seems to be avoiding certain important responsibilities. And as Mma Makutsi's big day approaches, her nemesis Violet Sephotho is casting her net wider: by standing for election which could spell trouble for the entire nation. But as friends and family gather under starry African night skies, it turns out that even the most perplexing of apparitions - and the most shocking of crimes - may yield to rational explanation. And, of course, to Mma Ramotswe's inimitable way with love, intuition and redbush tea.
"In the microcosm of 44 Scotland Street, all of life's richness is found in the glorious goings-on of its residents. There's Domenica, whose anthropological training has honed her observations of her neighbors; Matthew, whose growing triplets are more than a handful; Bruce, whose challenge as ever is thinking of anything but himself; and Big Lou, who may just have found her shot at romance. And of course, there's young Bertie Pollock, whose starry-eyed explorations of Edinburgh's New Town are a touching reminder that life itself is an adventure and there's joy to be found wherever you choose to look"-- Provided by publisher
Asked by a Swiss banker to investigate a series of bank robberies committed by dogs, young detectives Max and Maddy Twist travel to Switzerland, where they discover that the man behind the robberies is none other than Professor Sardine. Reprint.
The first three books in Alexander MCCall Smith's beloved bestselling series, featuring Mma Precious Ramotswe, the traditionally built, eminently sensible, cunning proprietor of the only ladies' detective agency in Botswana, are now available in a beautifully designed boxed set.
The gripping fourth installment in an epic series about Furnace - a terrifying, underground prison for teenagers - now with a stunning new cover treatment. Alex thought that escape was impossible.