annieb123's Review of The Conditions of Unconditional Love (Isabel Dalhousie)

by Alexander McCall Smith

BOOK 15 IN THE MUCH-LOVED ISABEL DALHOUSIE SERIES

'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

Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.

The Conditions of Unconditional Love is the 15th Isabel Dalhousie novel by Alexander McCall Smith. Released 16th July 2024 by Knopf Doubleday on their Pantheon imprint, it's 256 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links.

This is such a gently written, slow, introspective series. The main character is a philosopher and the books more or less revolve around her life and experiences and the lives of the people in her orbit: her husband Jamie, her sons Magnus & Charlie, her niece Cat, her housekeeper/factotum/nanny Grace and others who live in the village and/or academic colleagues. The narrative moves along quite slowly and the overall effect is of a long and unhurried chat with an old friend.

It's not necessary to have read the books in order, however, the large changes which occur (marriage, children, etc) will be obvious if they're read out of order. For readers who are unfamiliar with the author's style, the stories are episodic and not directly narrative.

Especially with the desperate struggles, illnesses, upheavals, and sadness which seem universal in the world right now, this series and these characters are a balm to the soul. It's full of music, food, and Scottish sensibility. Relaxing, refreshing, and absolutely wonderful. It's one of the few series which can be revisited over and over without ever getting stale.

Five stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Reading updates

3 August, 2024: Started reading

3 August, 2024: Finished reading

3 August, 2024: Reviewed