This is a wonderful book but then I love all the "Number One Ladies' Detective Agency" books. The eighth book in the series
continues the adventures of Precious Ramotswe, Botswana's first lady of detection. All the regulars, Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni and Mma Makutsi, are there. So many authors seem to highlight the dark side of their characters and almost seem to revel in their faults and
failings, while McCall Smith treats his characters with genuine love and affection. If they do have foibles they don't detract from the essential
humanity of the characters. McCall Smith sets his characters numerous ethical dilemmas to wrestle with but generally the good people, who choose truth and honesty over deception triumph over the evil ones, not that there are any truly evil characters, just misguided ones. The humour is gentle and we laugh with the characters rather than at them, humanity's virtues at all times emphasised over its failings and above all a love of all things African shines through every chapter. These books are a wonderful tonic and always leave me feeling happy, my faith renewed in humanity, at least temporarily. If you've never read one I urge you to begin with the first volume and work your way through. You won't regret it.