Isabel Dalhousie, philosopher and amateur solver of other people's problems, meets an old foe, Minty Auchterlonie, at a birthday party attended by their young children. Ambitious Minty, now the head of a small investment bank, is in trouble with her shareholders. Isabel becomes involved, and is drawn into a murky world of financial concealment. Minty is not the only high-flier in Isabel's life; her niece Cat has just become engaged to a tightrope-walking stuntman. Isabel fears his next job - and the engagement - could end in disaster. Meanwhile, her own boyfriend Jamie has marriage in mind too . . .
Alexander McCall Smith
Alexander McCall Smith is a prolific Scottish writer best known for his No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, which follows the adventures of Precious Ramotswe in Botswana. His writing style is characterized by gentle humor, vivid descriptions of landscapes, and insightful observations on human nature. McCall Smith's works often explore themes of morality, ethics, and the complexities of human relationships. He has made significant contributions to the genre of contemporary fiction, particularly in the realm of cozy mysteries and feel-good novels. His most famous work, The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, has been adapted into a successful television series and has garnered international acclaim for its charming characters and engaging storytelling.