As always, a delightfully engaging read, this time Isabel is wondering how to deal with an unexpected house guest, difficult book group, and potentially corrupt colleague. Award-winning and best-selling author Alexander McCall Smith has the most eloquent, kindly humoured, and empathetic of pens. He has written several wonderful series and standalone novels. Here we are at book 15 in the Isabel Dalhousie series, of while of course I recommend starting at the beginning, you could easily drop in at The Conditions of Unconditional Love and immediately feel right at home. It feels as though you are witnessing a snapshot in Isabel’s life as she observes, acts, and mostly resolves the small life difficulties that fall in her path. I love the way she thinks, and her pondering and musings can sooth and smooth your own little anxieties, allowing the comfort of these novels to work their unique magic. The Conditions of Unconditional Love is a gently amusing and thoughtfully pointed novel that champions kindness, reasoning, and consideration.
'You can't go out of the house without tripping over a philosophical question.' That is a remark made by Isabel Dalhousie to Jamie, the bassoonist who is her handsome younger husband. Isabel's own life, of course, points to the truth of this observation: she seems to attract philosophical problems in much the same way as a magnet attracts iron filings.
In this latest movement in the symphony of her life, Isabel is faced with novel challenges, each of which tests her resolution to do the right thing. Dawn, a nurse in an infectious diseases ward, is let down by her lover and needs a place to live. Not surprisingly, Isabel offers her a roof over her head. What do you do, though if your house-guest locks herself away and avoids all contact?
And then there is the pompous and slippery Professor Robert Lettuce. He is planning a prestigious conference, and involves Isabel in it. But look at the budget: why is there such a large payment for Lettuce himself and for a young female assistant? Isabel is suspicious.
Other intriguing problems abound, including Isabel's involvement in a book group threatened by discord and bickering. Isabel remains calm. Of course she does. She knows the power of love, reason, and a clear head to resolve all of these issues, and more.
PRAISE FOR THE ISABEL DALHOUSIE NOVELS:
'Isabel Dalhousie's charm is undeniable'Sunday Times
'The No. 2 Lady Detective . . . anyone who loves Precious cannot fail to be charmed' Mail on Sunday
'Delightful . . . McCall Smith is a writer who celebrates kindness, in short supply in the world today' Sunday Telegraph
'McCall Smith's greatest gift as a writer - and God knows this is just one of many - is that he can write likeable characters' New Statesman
