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No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency #27
The Big Cats Dance Party
In this latest installment of Alexander McCall Smith’s beloved No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency Series, Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi volunteer for an important case up north involving an elephant sanctuary, leaving assistant detective Charlie to manage a complicated and potentially risky new one back home.
Botswana sometimes feels like a small town, so when a client wanders into the detective agency, it comes as little surprise that Mma Ramotswe has met him once before. But Mr. B has not made the trip to Gaborone for pleasure. The animal rescue center he runs, Elephant Havens, is in peril. Someone in the surrounding villages is tarnishing its reputation, and Mr. B cannot fathom why. Determined as ever to aid a noble cause, Mma Ramotswe, her trusted associate Mma Makutsi, and Mr. J.L.B Matekoni travel to Maun to restore the community’s trust in the sanctuary.
While Mma Ramotswe is looking forward to their brief sojourn north, Mma Makutsi is apprehensive at the idea of leaving Charlie in charge of the business, especially with a new high-profile case in hand. Mr. Moepi, the owner of the carwash down the road and a great many others around the country, is facing a rather unusual problem—his carwashes are making money, too much money, and Mr. Moepi suspects something is not quite right. Determined to prove his mettle, Charlie delves headfirst into the case. Meanwhile, he imperils the agency by agreeing to sponsor a concert by a couple of smooth-talking musicians who go by the names Lion and Leopard.
In navigating these precarious situations, Mma Ramotswe and her associates must once again rely on their compassion, gentle humor, and good sense to win the day. Heartfelt and moving, The Big Cats Dance Party is a joyous celebration of life and the ones around us who make it worth living.
Botswana sometimes feels like a small town, so when a client wanders into the detective agency, it comes as little surprise that Mma Ramotswe has met him once before. But Mr. B has not made the trip to Gaborone for pleasure. The animal rescue center he runs, Elephant Havens, is in peril. Someone in the surrounding villages is tarnishing its reputation, and Mr. B cannot fathom why. Determined as ever to aid a noble cause, Mma Ramotswe, her trusted associate Mma Makutsi, and Mr. J.L.B Matekoni travel to Maun to restore the community’s trust in the sanctuary.
While Mma Ramotswe is looking forward to their brief sojourn north, Mma Makutsi is apprehensive at the idea of leaving Charlie in charge of the business, especially with a new high-profile case in hand. Mr. Moepi, the owner of the carwash down the road and a great many others around the country, is facing a rather unusual problem—his carwashes are making money, too much money, and Mr. Moepi suspects something is not quite right. Determined to prove his mettle, Charlie delves headfirst into the case. Meanwhile, he imperils the agency by agreeing to sponsor a concert by a couple of smooth-talking musicians who go by the names Lion and Leopard.
In navigating these precarious situations, Mma Ramotswe and her associates must once again rely on their compassion, gentle humor, and good sense to win the day. Heartfelt and moving, The Big Cats Dance Party is a joyous celebration of life and the ones around us who make it worth living.
Audible Audio
First published September 15, 2026
About the author
Alexander McCall Smith
625 books13k followersAlexander McCall Smith is the author of the international phenomenon The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, the Isabel Dalhousie Series, the Portuguese Irregular Verbs series, and the 44 Scotland Street series. He is professor emeritus of medical law at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland and has served on many national and international bodies concerned with bioethics. He was born in what is now known as Zimbabwe and he was a law professor at the University of Botswana. He lives in Scotland. Visit him online at www.alexandermccallsmith.com, on Facebook, and on Twitter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
October 18, 2026
4 bright stars for book 27 in the No.1 Ladies Detective Agency series. This series is set in Botswana, Africa, which has been a stable, prosperous democracy since independence from Britain in 1966. My wife and and I started reading this series 20 years ago and we have enjoyed every single book that we have read. I do have to read a few books that I missed in the series.
This book has Precious Ramotswe, her husband, J.L.B. Matekoni and her assistant Grace Makutsi traveling to Maun, Botswana from Gaborone where they live to investigate who has spread false accusations against an orphan elephant sanctuary.
While they are in Maun, they leave Charlie, who works part time for the detective agency and part time for Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors, a car repair shop owned by J.L. B. Matekoni, in charge.
Charlie gets a case of his own while they are gone. Both cases are solved with kindness and a satisfactory outcome.
if you like books without violence, bad language or sex, you will enjoy this series and this book. Both my wife and I recommend it.
One quote by Precious, thinking about what she has said to Charlie: "Encouraging words could have the effect of making people physically bigger, as was happening now with Charlie. At the other end of the spectrum, harsh words could make people shrink, as if crushed by the burden of criticism."
Thank You Pantheon Books for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
#TheBigCatsDanceParty #NetGalley
This book has Precious Ramotswe, her husband, J.L.B. Matekoni and her assistant Grace Makutsi traveling to Maun, Botswana from Gaborone where they live to investigate who has spread false accusations against an orphan elephant sanctuary.
While they are in Maun, they leave Charlie, who works part time for the detective agency and part time for Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors, a car repair shop owned by J.L. B. Matekoni, in charge.
Charlie gets a case of his own while they are gone. Both cases are solved with kindness and a satisfactory outcome.
if you like books without violence, bad language or sex, you will enjoy this series and this book. Both my wife and I recommend it.
One quote by Precious, thinking about what she has said to Charlie: "Encouraging words could have the effect of making people physically bigger, as was happening now with Charlie. At the other end of the spectrum, harsh words could make people shrink, as if crushed by the burden of criticism."
Thank You Pantheon Books for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
#TheBigCatsDanceParty #NetGalley
September 30, 2026
Number 27 in the Number 1 Ladies Detective Agency is real value for money since we get two stories for the price of one.
Mma Ramotswe, Mr.J.L.B. Matekoni and Mma Kakutsi travel north to visit a baby elephant sanctuary where the owners need some detecting assistance. While they are gone they leave Charlie in charge of the Detective Agency. Knowing Charlie can we possibly believe this could be a success? However this is Alexander McCall Smith writing so we are assured of a happy ending and can feel comfortable even when events go wrong.
I love that I have been to the places that the journey north takes our three main characters. The author describes Botswana exactly as it is, the people, the scenery, the weather, the townships - everything. As always a sheer pleasure to read and I hope there will be many more!
Mma Ramotswe, Mr.J.L.B. Matekoni and Mma Kakutsi travel north to visit a baby elephant sanctuary where the owners need some detecting assistance. While they are gone they leave Charlie in charge of the Detective Agency. Knowing Charlie can we possibly believe this could be a success? However this is Alexander McCall Smith writing so we are assured of a happy ending and can feel comfortable even when events go wrong.
I love that I have been to the places that the journey north takes our three main characters. The author describes Botswana exactly as it is, the people, the scenery, the weather, the townships - everything. As always a sheer pleasure to read and I hope there will be many more!
August 21, 2026
4 stars overall,
3.5 stars for the story and 5 stars for the audiobook narration.
This is a very light-hearted novel, full of humour and reflections on life and the world. As usual, we follow the antics of Mma Ramotswe and her coworkers in the No.1 Ladies Detective Agency. Mma Makutsi’s sassy, opinionated attitude is quite entertaining.
There isn’t a very strong plot and it takes a while to develop. It just gradually weaves it way around to it with quite a lot of rambling. But it is entertaining rambling. I particularly liked the various characters’ reflections and insights on life and the world, some very sage thoughts in there.
The audiobook narration is stellar! Chipo Chung does a marvellous job of bringing this book to life with her narration. She really makes the personalities of each of the characters shine through. I’d definitely recommend listening to this as an audiobook rather than reading it. The reading experience is so much richer and more enjoyable with the excellent narration.
I liked the book for the characters more than the plot or the investigation. I would like the cases to be introduced a bit earlier and for there to be more focus on the cases. They didn’t really seem to be very central to the book. It’s quite different from other cozy mysteries that focus on a murder mystery. Instead, in this book (and probably the series as a whole), we have private investigations of crimes or other underhanded dealings.
People who enjoy light-hearted, humorous cozy novels will enjoy this book, especially those who are working their way through the No.1 Ladies Detective Agency series and already know and love the characters. If you have the option to choose between the book/ebook or the audiobook – definitely go for the audiobook! It’s the best way to experience this book.
Thank you to Bolina Audio and NetGalley for sharing an advance reader copy of this book with me. All opinions are my own.
This is a very light-hearted novel, full of humour and reflections on life and the world. As usual, we follow the antics of Mma Ramotswe and her coworkers in the No.1 Ladies Detective Agency. Mma Makutsi’s sassy, opinionated attitude is quite entertaining.
There isn’t a very strong plot and it takes a while to develop. It just gradually weaves it way around to it with quite a lot of rambling. But it is entertaining rambling. I particularly liked the various characters’ reflections and insights on life and the world, some very sage thoughts in there.
The audiobook narration is stellar! Chipo Chung does a marvellous job of bringing this book to life with her narration. She really makes the personalities of each of the characters shine through. I’d definitely recommend listening to this as an audiobook rather than reading it. The reading experience is so much richer and more enjoyable with the excellent narration.
I liked the book for the characters more than the plot or the investigation. I would like the cases to be introduced a bit earlier and for there to be more focus on the cases. They didn’t really seem to be very central to the book. It’s quite different from other cozy mysteries that focus on a murder mystery. Instead, in this book (and probably the series as a whole), we have private investigations of crimes or other underhanded dealings.
People who enjoy light-hearted, humorous cozy novels will enjoy this book, especially those who are working their way through the No.1 Ladies Detective Agency series and already know and love the characters. If you have the option to choose between the book/ebook or the audiobook – definitely go for the audiobook! It’s the best way to experience this book.
Thank you to Bolina Audio and NetGalley for sharing an advance reader copy of this book with me. All opinions are my own.
September 21, 2026
This is number 27 in the series, and I have read and loved every single installment. AMS is my go-to author for a comfort read. He infuses all of his books with warmth, tenderness, and humanity. The Big Cats Dance Party was no exception and I was thrilled to be back in Botswana with my favorite detectives.
September 28, 2026
One of the best things about autumn is looking forward to a new installment of The #1 Ladies Detective series by Alexander McCall Smith. The Big Cats Dance Party is the 27th in this wonderful series. By this stage, some long-running series become stale or revert to an obvious formula, but that has never happened with this one, and I doubt it ever will. My huge thanks go to NetGalley and Random House for the review copy. This book is for sale now.
There is a standard format to these stories, which is that two problems get dealt with at once, and it takes place so seamlessly and naturally that I can only shake my head in wonder. Sometimes there are two mysteries; sometimes there’s a mystery and also a personal dilemma. In this book, the agency’s owner and proprietor, Precious Ramotswe, goes on a trip to an elephant sanctuary that is under attack from unknown forces; she is accompanied by her husband and the other detective, Grace Makutsi.
While they are away, Charlie, who is training to become a detective, is left in charge of the agency. Charlie is a tremendously dynamic character, and was originally an apprentice in the auto repair shop owned by Mr. J.L.B. Matakoni, Precious’s husband, but he wasn’t cut out to become a mechanic. Over the course of the series, we’ve seen Charlie get into one scrape after another, generally of his own making, but he’s gradually grown up, matured, and now Precious believes he is ready to take on responsibility. What happens while he is in charge is the more important of the two problems in our story, and it is riveting. To say more might ruin it for you, so I’ll leave it there, except to say that this is how the book’s title comes about.
What has stayed with me after the last page has been turned and I’ve read other books is the disconnect between the understanding we in western cultures have of the elephant’s plight, and the efforts to save it, as opposed to that of people that live in its path. Many of us, myself included, might have imagined that to inadvertently come across an African elephant would be pure magic; this happens to Precious, who steps out into the night for some fresh air while she is on her trip, but for her, it’s not magical. It’s terrifying! The elephant has wandered into her host’s yard, and now it’s between her and the house. She sees “a creature that could end her life with a swipe of its trunk or a single nudge from its great head.” And indeed, the attacks on the sanctuary are suspected to be from a local man that lost an uncle to an elephant attack while he was working in his field. There’s a condition that occurs annually called “musth,” which is the male elephant equivalent of being in heat, and it makes them aggressive. If an elephant has had negative experiences with humans—say, if someone has taken potshots at them or otherwise harmed them—it’s even worse, since elephants are so intelligent. And as the person from the sanctuary points out, it isn’t the elephant’s fault; the elephant is just being an elephant. Of course we want to save the elephants, but a little knowledge and compassion toward those more directly affected wouldn’t go amiss, either.
Before I close, I want to point out that this series is so successful, and so widely loved, not only because of the things it includes, but also because of the things it doesn’t. At one point, Grace is conversing with someone about the ways in which businesses are sometimes misunderstood, and she points out that every now and then, someone calls the agency to report a crime. But, she points out, “We are not law enforcement,” and so the caller is referred to the police. Our detectives don’t share information with cops, as a rule. There are no buddies on the force; there are no wild car chases. Nobody kidnaps the detectives or their loved ones, and there are no serial killers featured. Rather, this series focuses on basic human behavior, and it carries with it the understanding that people are, as the late Anne Frank said, inherently good. Sometimes all it takes is a gentle nudge to get someone to do the right thing.
Get this book, and if you like reading at bedtime, this is your story. Fall asleep with a smile on your lips and at peace with the world. How many novels can do this for you?
There is a standard format to these stories, which is that two problems get dealt with at once, and it takes place so seamlessly and naturally that I can only shake my head in wonder. Sometimes there are two mysteries; sometimes there’s a mystery and also a personal dilemma. In this book, the agency’s owner and proprietor, Precious Ramotswe, goes on a trip to an elephant sanctuary that is under attack from unknown forces; she is accompanied by her husband and the other detective, Grace Makutsi.
While they are away, Charlie, who is training to become a detective, is left in charge of the agency. Charlie is a tremendously dynamic character, and was originally an apprentice in the auto repair shop owned by Mr. J.L.B. Matakoni, Precious’s husband, but he wasn’t cut out to become a mechanic. Over the course of the series, we’ve seen Charlie get into one scrape after another, generally of his own making, but he’s gradually grown up, matured, and now Precious believes he is ready to take on responsibility. What happens while he is in charge is the more important of the two problems in our story, and it is riveting. To say more might ruin it for you, so I’ll leave it there, except to say that this is how the book’s title comes about.
What has stayed with me after the last page has been turned and I’ve read other books is the disconnect between the understanding we in western cultures have of the elephant’s plight, and the efforts to save it, as opposed to that of people that live in its path. Many of us, myself included, might have imagined that to inadvertently come across an African elephant would be pure magic; this happens to Precious, who steps out into the night for some fresh air while she is on her trip, but for her, it’s not magical. It’s terrifying! The elephant has wandered into her host’s yard, and now it’s between her and the house. She sees “a creature that could end her life with a swipe of its trunk or a single nudge from its great head.” And indeed, the attacks on the sanctuary are suspected to be from a local man that lost an uncle to an elephant attack while he was working in his field. There’s a condition that occurs annually called “musth,” which is the male elephant equivalent of being in heat, and it makes them aggressive. If an elephant has had negative experiences with humans—say, if someone has taken potshots at them or otherwise harmed them—it’s even worse, since elephants are so intelligent. And as the person from the sanctuary points out, it isn’t the elephant’s fault; the elephant is just being an elephant. Of course we want to save the elephants, but a little knowledge and compassion toward those more directly affected wouldn’t go amiss, either.
Before I close, I want to point out that this series is so successful, and so widely loved, not only because of the things it includes, but also because of the things it doesn’t. At one point, Grace is conversing with someone about the ways in which businesses are sometimes misunderstood, and she points out that every now and then, someone calls the agency to report a crime. But, she points out, “We are not law enforcement,” and so the caller is referred to the police. Our detectives don’t share information with cops, as a rule. There are no buddies on the force; there are no wild car chases. Nobody kidnaps the detectives or their loved ones, and there are no serial killers featured. Rather, this series focuses on basic human behavior, and it carries with it the understanding that people are, as the late Anne Frank said, inherently good. Sometimes all it takes is a gentle nudge to get someone to do the right thing.
Get this book, and if you like reading at bedtime, this is your story. Fall asleep with a smile on your lips and at peace with the world. How many novels can do this for you?
September 16, 2026
4.5 Stars.
October 21, 2026
Recommended to readers of the prior books in the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series.
This series has an interesting style--endlessly discursive, slow-paced, repetitive ("the 97%"), and lots of interior monologue.
At the same time, the setting--Botswana--is exotic, the characters are very sympathetic, and the mysteries are genuine. Moreover, readers can trust (and this reader trust is a big deal), that the ending will be upbeat.
This series has an interesting style--endlessly discursive, slow-paced, repetitive ("the 97%"), and lots of interior monologue.
At the same time, the setting--Botswana--is exotic, the characters are very sympathetic, and the mysteries are genuine. Moreover, readers can trust (and this reader trust is a big deal), that the ending will be upbeat.
September 23, 2026
YAY #27!! Loved this one. . .Charlie gets to shine a little, and everyone else is their own lovable selves. I'm a fan through and through of Mma Ramotswe, Mma Makutsi and Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni. There's a roadtrip, a problem to solve offsite, and Charlie is left in charge.
so good. . .adding to the bookshelf, and will set aside a random one to read on my next grey day.
so good. . .adding to the bookshelf, and will set aside a random one to read on my next grey day.
October 19, 2026
The Big Cats Dance Party is the twenty-seventh book in the popular No 1 Ladies Detective Agency series by award-winning, bestselling British author, Alexander McCall Smith. The audio version is narrated by Chipo Chung. When Precious Ramotswe and Grace Makutsi travel to the Okavango Delta to see if they can learn who is whipping up bad feeling towards Elephant Havens, Mr JLB Matekoni goes along, taking the opportunity to visit his cousin in Maun.
Mma Makutsi is more than a little worried about leaving Assistant Detective, Charlie Mangope in charge, but Mma Ramotswe feels they have to give him a chance to prove himself. On his own, Charlie muses about changes he would make were the agency his, but he is distracted by a visit from some new friends.
Charlie is quite dazzled by jazz musicians Lion and Leopard, and soon, with the principals completely unaware, the Agency is a commercial guarantor for their upcoming concert. Are Mma Makutsi’s concerns to be vindicated?
Charlie does have a case to investigate: owner of several branches of Botswana Auto Clean, Mr Laurence Moepi is uneasy about the excessive profits of one of the Gabarone branches. Senior mechanic Fanwell makes a comment in passing that turns out to be an important clue. But further investigation sees Charlie realising he is out of his depth. He very wisely consults one of Mma Ramotswe’s trusted sounding boards, Mma Potokwani, to good effect.
What is happening at Rra Moepi’s Car Wash will be glaring obvious to any reader, but this series is never about the crime, but rather, is about the characters and how they act, and how they react to the challenges they meet. In this instalment, McCall Smith gives his secondary characters quite a bit more depth than they have had up to now.
In the background, life goes on: Will the last-minute purchase of two-tone shoes for Mr JLB Matekoni’s birthday meet with his approval? Will he actually wear them? Just what is Mma Potokwani’s husband up to inside his locked shed? Of Mma Potokwani’s legendary fruitcake, she tells her friend “Small helpings of anything never count. Everybody knows that. I shall cut a piece for you that will involve very little guilt, Mma.”
McCall Smith invariably gives the reader lots of gentle philosophy and observations on life. Precious imagines what she would say to the President of Zambia or the King of England, should there be a phone call. She considers the validity of the adage “Better Late Than Never.” And she tells someone: “Anger is a heavy weight to carry in this life. It is like carrying a heavy rock on your back. And it gets heavier and heavier until you discover that you can let it fall off your shoulders. Then you realise what it was that was making your life so difficult.”
There are some inaccuracies in the back-cover blurb that might a lead a reader to wonder if the person who wrote it actually read the whole book, but ignoring that, this is another wonderful dose of Botswana magic.
This unbiased review is from an audio copy provided by NetGalley and Bolinda Audio
Mma Makutsi is more than a little worried about leaving Assistant Detective, Charlie Mangope in charge, but Mma Ramotswe feels they have to give him a chance to prove himself. On his own, Charlie muses about changes he would make were the agency his, but he is distracted by a visit from some new friends.
Charlie is quite dazzled by jazz musicians Lion and Leopard, and soon, with the principals completely unaware, the Agency is a commercial guarantor for their upcoming concert. Are Mma Makutsi’s concerns to be vindicated?
Charlie does have a case to investigate: owner of several branches of Botswana Auto Clean, Mr Laurence Moepi is uneasy about the excessive profits of one of the Gabarone branches. Senior mechanic Fanwell makes a comment in passing that turns out to be an important clue. But further investigation sees Charlie realising he is out of his depth. He very wisely consults one of Mma Ramotswe’s trusted sounding boards, Mma Potokwani, to good effect.
What is happening at Rra Moepi’s Car Wash will be glaring obvious to any reader, but this series is never about the crime, but rather, is about the characters and how they act, and how they react to the challenges they meet. In this instalment, McCall Smith gives his secondary characters quite a bit more depth than they have had up to now.
In the background, life goes on: Will the last-minute purchase of two-tone shoes for Mr JLB Matekoni’s birthday meet with his approval? Will he actually wear them? Just what is Mma Potokwani’s husband up to inside his locked shed? Of Mma Potokwani’s legendary fruitcake, she tells her friend “Small helpings of anything never count. Everybody knows that. I shall cut a piece for you that will involve very little guilt, Mma.”
McCall Smith invariably gives the reader lots of gentle philosophy and observations on life. Precious imagines what she would say to the President of Zambia or the King of England, should there be a phone call. She considers the validity of the adage “Better Late Than Never.” And she tells someone: “Anger is a heavy weight to carry in this life. It is like carrying a heavy rock on your back. And it gets heavier and heavier until you discover that you can let it fall off your shoulders. Then you realise what it was that was making your life so difficult.”
There are some inaccuracies in the back-cover blurb that might a lead a reader to wonder if the person who wrote it actually read the whole book, but ignoring that, this is another wonderful dose of Botswana magic.
This unbiased review is from an audio copy provided by NetGalley and Bolinda Audio
November 7, 2026
Just finished reading The Big Cats Dance Party, book 27 in the series by Alexander McCall Smith.
In this installment, Mma Precious Ramotswe, her husband, and her detective secretary and partner travel to an elephant sanctuary to investigate a series of hate-related attacks. The trip provides an opportunity for some interesting descriptions of Botswana and its people. Meanwhile, Charlie is left in charge of the agency, and regular readers will know exactly the kind of complications that can create.
One of the things I most enjoy about this series is the author's focus on human relationships and social intrigue rather than violent crime. Alexander McCall Smith has created a cast of fascinating characters who seem to become more interesting with each book. I also appreciate his subtle wit, which adds warmth and charm to the storytelling.
I listened to this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The recording is seven hours and fifty minutes long. Bianca Amato does an excellent job narrating the story, bringing both the characters and the Botswana setting to life. Her handling of the accents adds authenticity and makes for a very enjoyable listening experience.
In this installment, Mma Precious Ramotswe, her husband, and her detective secretary and partner travel to an elephant sanctuary to investigate a series of hate-related attacks. The trip provides an opportunity for some interesting descriptions of Botswana and its people. Meanwhile, Charlie is left in charge of the agency, and regular readers will know exactly the kind of complications that can create.
One of the things I most enjoy about this series is the author's focus on human relationships and social intrigue rather than violent crime. Alexander McCall Smith has created a cast of fascinating characters who seem to become more interesting with each book. I also appreciate his subtle wit, which adds warmth and charm to the storytelling.
I listened to this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The recording is seven hours and fifty minutes long. Bianca Amato does an excellent job narrating the story, bringing both the characters and the Botswana setting to life. Her handling of the accents adds authenticity and makes for a very enjoyable listening experience.
September 23, 2026
The Big Cats Dance Party is the most recent installment of the No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series.
Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi travel north to assist an elephant sanctuary, and Charlie is left in charge of the detective agency. What could go wrong?! While Mma Makutsi predicts a total disaster, Mma Ramotswe feels she must trust and support Charlie in his desire to become a full detective.
The Big Cats Dance Party is similar in many ways to every other installment in the series. One interesting element in this new installment is that Charlie has a significant part of the story as he attempts to be in charge of the detective agency while his boss is out of town. Although he manages to solve the current case with some help from Mma Potokwani, he gets himself into a mess when he is enticed to participate in a money-making scheme with a couple of questionable characters. Will this poor decision end up affecting the agency and ruin his chances of becoming a full detective? Is Mma Ramotswe;strust in him misplaced?
This is installment 27 in a quietly written and reflective character-driven series in which the setting is almost a character. Problems/mysteries are resolved quickly with little drama and are often not the main focus of the story. There is no overarching plot that compels you to pick up the next installment. Each book can be read as a standalone and there are no cliff-hangers that leave you desperate to pick up the next. It’s a true uplit, comfort read.
The best way to descibe the series is a Slice-of-Life Cozy Mystery. We follow the daily activities of Mma Precious Ramotswe (founder and owner of the detective agency), Mma Makutsi (her assistant), Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni (owner of Speedy Motors car repair and husband of Mma Ramotswe), Mma Potokwani (owner of an orphanage and dearest friend and confident of Mma Ramotswe) and occasional appearances of Charlie (partime mechanic and detective in training) and Fanwell (mechanic). In The Big Cats Dance Party, the most recent installment, Charlie has a bigger role as part of his training to become a detective.
What do I most appreciate?
* I most appreciate the setting of Botswana, the pace of life, the particular geographical location, the customs, and food.
* I adore the wise, kind, compassionate, and generous Mma Ramotswe.
* I love the unique and descriptive book titles and chapter headings.
What do I wish for?
* I wish for less philosophizing by the author.
* I would like more focus on a compelling mystery.
* I wish for more substantial content. The last installment with some substantial content was The House of Unexpected Sisters; however, the family member that was introduced was never mentioned in later installments. Perhaps an intern or assistant is writing the stories at this point.
Fans of the author and series will want to add this current installment to their TBRs. Readers who enjoy quietly written, character-driven cozy mysteries set in Botswana might consider the entire series. Even though the installments can be read as standalones, I recommend reading in order to appreciate character development. (but 27 is a lot!)
For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com where this review was first published.
Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi travel north to assist an elephant sanctuary, and Charlie is left in charge of the detective agency. What could go wrong?! While Mma Makutsi predicts a total disaster, Mma Ramotswe feels she must trust and support Charlie in his desire to become a full detective.
The Big Cats Dance Party is similar in many ways to every other installment in the series. One interesting element in this new installment is that Charlie has a significant part of the story as he attempts to be in charge of the detective agency while his boss is out of town. Although he manages to solve the current case with some help from Mma Potokwani, he gets himself into a mess when he is enticed to participate in a money-making scheme with a couple of questionable characters. Will this poor decision end up affecting the agency and ruin his chances of becoming a full detective? Is Mma Ramotswe;strust in him misplaced?
This is installment 27 in a quietly written and reflective character-driven series in which the setting is almost a character. Problems/mysteries are resolved quickly with little drama and are often not the main focus of the story. There is no overarching plot that compels you to pick up the next installment. Each book can be read as a standalone and there are no cliff-hangers that leave you desperate to pick up the next. It’s a true uplit, comfort read.
The best way to descibe the series is a Slice-of-Life Cozy Mystery. We follow the daily activities of Mma Precious Ramotswe (founder and owner of the detective agency), Mma Makutsi (her assistant), Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni (owner of Speedy Motors car repair and husband of Mma Ramotswe), Mma Potokwani (owner of an orphanage and dearest friend and confident of Mma Ramotswe) and occasional appearances of Charlie (partime mechanic and detective in training) and Fanwell (mechanic). In The Big Cats Dance Party, the most recent installment, Charlie has a bigger role as part of his training to become a detective.
What do I most appreciate?
* I most appreciate the setting of Botswana, the pace of life, the particular geographical location, the customs, and food.
* I adore the wise, kind, compassionate, and generous Mma Ramotswe.
* I love the unique and descriptive book titles and chapter headings.
What do I wish for?
* I wish for less philosophizing by the author.
* I would like more focus on a compelling mystery.
* I wish for more substantial content. The last installment with some substantial content was The House of Unexpected Sisters; however, the family member that was introduced was never mentioned in later installments. Perhaps an intern or assistant is writing the stories at this point.
Fans of the author and series will want to add this current installment to their TBRs. Readers who enjoy quietly written, character-driven cozy mysteries set in Botswana might consider the entire series. Even though the installments can be read as standalones, I recommend reading in order to appreciate character development. (but 27 is a lot!)
For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com where this review was first published.
October 6, 2026
Quarter stars have arrived just in time to save this from a 3 star like. I've read every single novel in this series and this is only the second time I've given one less than four stars, which is remarkably high for me in a series. To be fair, some of the 4 stars were rounded up, so I may go back and change that now that I can, so if anyone checks and it isn't what I've just written, you've been warned ;)
What I enjoyed most about this book is the character growth of Charlie and Fanwell. I still enjoyed the other main characters, of course, but this novel just didn't hit as many high points for me and I don't always analyze why or why not.
I actually finished this at the end of September, and have a couple more reviews, so am not saying more.
What I enjoyed most about this book is the character growth of Charlie and Fanwell. I still enjoyed the other main characters, of course, but this novel just didn't hit as many high points for me and I don't always analyze why or why not.
I actually finished this at the end of September, and have a couple more reviews, so am not saying more.
September 3, 2026
As a devoted fan of Alexander McCall Smith's beloved series, I look forward annually to the latest installment from Botswana, and The Number One Ladies' Detective Agency: The Big Cat's Dance Party completely delivers - number 27 in the series if you can believe it! This time around, I got my very first ever audiobook from NetGalley via Bolinda Audio, and I was beyond excited to dive in.
In this charming new instalment Mma Ramotswe finds her typically peaceful life filled with a flurry of unexpected events as so often happens. The agency is tangled up in a chaotic scheme hatched by Charlie, the part time mechanic and aspiring detective, involving two local jazz musicians known as Lion and Leopard. While Mma Makutsi (as always) foresees a total disaster, Mma Ramotswe must balance that against supporting Charlie. Mma Ramotswe makes a journey up north to the Okavango Delta to assist an elephant sanctuary facing a campaign against them. Filled with trademark warmth, gentle wisdom, and characteristic Botswana charm, it is another delightful puzzle solved with a generous heart.
The audio narration completely surpassed my expectations. The distinct voices and cadence that the narrator brought to each character was extraordinary, capturing the gentle wisdom of Mma Ramotswe, the sharp wit of Mma Makutsi, and the bustling charm of Gaborone with absolute brilliance. It was clear that Chipo Chung’s theatrical background and familiarity with southern African cadence made her uniquely suited to bring Alexander McCall Smith's Botswana to life with such vibrant precision.
It is always comforting to return to life in Botswana and this time around, elevated wonderfully by a stellar vocal performance. Highly recommended for longtime fans and newcomers alike!
In this charming new instalment Mma Ramotswe finds her typically peaceful life filled with a flurry of unexpected events as so often happens. The agency is tangled up in a chaotic scheme hatched by Charlie, the part time mechanic and aspiring detective, involving two local jazz musicians known as Lion and Leopard. While Mma Makutsi (as always) foresees a total disaster, Mma Ramotswe must balance that against supporting Charlie. Mma Ramotswe makes a journey up north to the Okavango Delta to assist an elephant sanctuary facing a campaign against them. Filled with trademark warmth, gentle wisdom, and characteristic Botswana charm, it is another delightful puzzle solved with a generous heart.
The audio narration completely surpassed my expectations. The distinct voices and cadence that the narrator brought to each character was extraordinary, capturing the gentle wisdom of Mma Ramotswe, the sharp wit of Mma Makutsi, and the bustling charm of Gaborone with absolute brilliance. It was clear that Chipo Chung’s theatrical background and familiarity with southern African cadence made her uniquely suited to bring Alexander McCall Smith's Botswana to life with such vibrant precision.
It is always comforting to return to life in Botswana and this time around, elevated wonderfully by a stellar vocal performance. Highly recommended for longtime fans and newcomers alike!
November 3, 2026
Those lady detectives in Botswana save baby elephants
Why, I keep asking myself, do I continue to read these books about two ladies who operate as private detectives in Gaborone, Botswana? After all, they’re not really detectives. They don’t investigate crime and almost never encounter the police. They “help solve people’s problems.” Sorting out domestic disputes, for example. Or resolving feuds that have grown from misunderstanding. There’s little action in these stories, and not a whole lot of suspense. So, why do I persist after more than two dozen books in the series? Well, the answer’s simple.
Why do I keep reading these little books?
After gorging on often-gruesome thrillers and ugly stories of political malfeasance and stupidity in espionage and war, I welcome the change of pace. Alexander McCall Smith’s #1 Ladies Detective novels are simply charming. They’re delightful tales of clever, well-meaning women who love their country and their work. They give us a window into a fast-changing society where traditional values of decency and respect still have force. And the author’s latest, The Big Cats Dance Party, is a great example.
Recurring characters continue to charm
All the stock characters play their parts here. Mma Precious Ramotswe, proprietor of the agency. Mma Grace Makutsi, her second-in-command in their two-person firm. She’s proud of her 97 percent grade from the Botswana Secretarial College. Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni, Mma Ramotswe’s husband, the best car mechanic in Botswana and owner of Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors. (He is always referred to only as Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni, even by his wife.) His apprentice, Fanwell, has qualified as a mechanic. Charlie, his other apprentice, has not. But Mma Ramotswe has enlisted Charlie as an assistant detective, much to Mma Makutsi’s displeasure. The recurring characters also include, among others, Mma Potokwane, the wise and formidable matron of the orphan farm, known for her fruit cake. Like Mma Ramotswe, she is “traditionally built,” and a lover of her own fruit cake.
A new challenge from the elephant orphanage
The ladies learn of a challenging new case when the director of an elephant orphanage walks in one day. Even though the facility has worked closely with neighboring villagers and often done them favors, someone is spreading awful rumors about the place. And anger is rising among the local people. The director wants Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi to discover who is the culprit and put a stop to the rumor-mongering.
Against her better judgment, Mma Ramotswe agrees that the two of them will take a week away from Gaborone to visit the elephant orphanage and see whether they can solve the problem. But Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni is nervous that Mma Ramotswe’s cherished little white van will break down on the long trip. He insists on driving them in his much more reliable and roomy truck. So, the three of them leave in short order, with Charlie left behind to keep the agency’s doors open. Except that an important new client has shown up just before their departure. Mma Ramotswe believes Charlie can do the initial legwork on his own, but Mma Makutsi is certain he’ll screw things up.
Now, it is no surprise to any fan of these novels that (a) the ladies and Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni put a stop to the ugly rumor-mongering, and (b) Charlie solves the new client’s problem despite falling for an expensive scam by two con men that will cost the agency a lot of money. Even that problem has gone away by the time the three return to Gaborone. So, all is right in the end. Of course.
Reality check
Conservationists refer to the largest, most recognizable animal species such as African elephants, Bengal tigers, and giant pandas as charismatic megafauna. And every one of these species faces the long-term prospect of extinction. Climate change, habitat loss, wildlife trade, and the practice of killing animals for bushmeat are the principal reasons why so many of these large animals are increasingly endangered. But in what may be the cruelest of all these dangers is the killing of elephants for their tusks
Of all the world’s countries, the southern African nation of Botswana has the largest population of elephants. The total is estimated at more than 130,000. And some conservationists contend that the number is too large, not too small. But every elephant killed for its tusks leaves behind one or more juvenile elephants. These orphans roam through the forests and savannah at the mercy of predators. And in response to the problem, which is large, elephant orphanages have sprung into existence. There are two in Botswana, although only one is open to visitors. It’s called Elephant Havens, and it’s clearly the model for the facility Mma Ramotswe and her team visit in this novel.
About the author
Alexander McCall Smith has three sets of abbreviated capital letters following his name. They represent some of the many honors bestowed on him for his extraordinary contributions as a medical legal expert and the author of more than 100 books. Although he has written several series of novels, the #1 Ladies Detective Agency has been his main claim to literary fame. He has been writing the series since 1998, publishing one almost every year since.
Why, I keep asking myself, do I continue to read these books about two ladies who operate as private detectives in Gaborone, Botswana? After all, they’re not really detectives. They don’t investigate crime and almost never encounter the police. They “help solve people’s problems.” Sorting out domestic disputes, for example. Or resolving feuds that have grown from misunderstanding. There’s little action in these stories, and not a whole lot of suspense. So, why do I persist after more than two dozen books in the series? Well, the answer’s simple.
Why do I keep reading these little books?
After gorging on often-gruesome thrillers and ugly stories of political malfeasance and stupidity in espionage and war, I welcome the change of pace. Alexander McCall Smith’s #1 Ladies Detective novels are simply charming. They’re delightful tales of clever, well-meaning women who love their country and their work. They give us a window into a fast-changing society where traditional values of decency and respect still have force. And the author’s latest, The Big Cats Dance Party, is a great example.
Recurring characters continue to charm
All the stock characters play their parts here. Mma Precious Ramotswe, proprietor of the agency. Mma Grace Makutsi, her second-in-command in their two-person firm. She’s proud of her 97 percent grade from the Botswana Secretarial College. Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni, Mma Ramotswe’s husband, the best car mechanic in Botswana and owner of Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors. (He is always referred to only as Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni, even by his wife.) His apprentice, Fanwell, has qualified as a mechanic. Charlie, his other apprentice, has not. But Mma Ramotswe has enlisted Charlie as an assistant detective, much to Mma Makutsi’s displeasure. The recurring characters also include, among others, Mma Potokwane, the wise and formidable matron of the orphan farm, known for her fruit cake. Like Mma Ramotswe, she is “traditionally built,” and a lover of her own fruit cake.
A new challenge from the elephant orphanage
The ladies learn of a challenging new case when the director of an elephant orphanage walks in one day. Even though the facility has worked closely with neighboring villagers and often done them favors, someone is spreading awful rumors about the place. And anger is rising among the local people. The director wants Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi to discover who is the culprit and put a stop to the rumor-mongering.
Against her better judgment, Mma Ramotswe agrees that the two of them will take a week away from Gaborone to visit the elephant orphanage and see whether they can solve the problem. But Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni is nervous that Mma Ramotswe’s cherished little white van will break down on the long trip. He insists on driving them in his much more reliable and roomy truck. So, the three of them leave in short order, with Charlie left behind to keep the agency’s doors open. Except that an important new client has shown up just before their departure. Mma Ramotswe believes Charlie can do the initial legwork on his own, but Mma Makutsi is certain he’ll screw things up.
Now, it is no surprise to any fan of these novels that (a) the ladies and Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni put a stop to the ugly rumor-mongering, and (b) Charlie solves the new client’s problem despite falling for an expensive scam by two con men that will cost the agency a lot of money. Even that problem has gone away by the time the three return to Gaborone. So, all is right in the end. Of course.
Reality check
Conservationists refer to the largest, most recognizable animal species such as African elephants, Bengal tigers, and giant pandas as charismatic megafauna. And every one of these species faces the long-term prospect of extinction. Climate change, habitat loss, wildlife trade, and the practice of killing animals for bushmeat are the principal reasons why so many of these large animals are increasingly endangered. But in what may be the cruelest of all these dangers is the killing of elephants for their tusks
Of all the world’s countries, the southern African nation of Botswana has the largest population of elephants. The total is estimated at more than 130,000. And some conservationists contend that the number is too large, not too small. But every elephant killed for its tusks leaves behind one or more juvenile elephants. These orphans roam through the forests and savannah at the mercy of predators. And in response to the problem, which is large, elephant orphanages have sprung into existence. There are two in Botswana, although only one is open to visitors. It’s called Elephant Havens, and it’s clearly the model for the facility Mma Ramotswe and her team visit in this novel.
About the author
Alexander McCall Smith has three sets of abbreviated capital letters following his name. They represent some of the many honors bestowed on him for his extraordinary contributions as a medical legal expert and the author of more than 100 books. Although he has written several series of novels, the #1 Ladies Detective Agency has been his main claim to literary fame. He has been writing the series since 1998, publishing one almost every year since.
October 19, 2026
The Big Cats Dance Party is the twenty-seventh book in the popular No 1 Ladies Detective Agency series by award-winning, bestselling British author, Alexander McCall Smith. When Precious Ramotswe and Grace Makutsi travel to the Okavango Delta to see if they can learn who is whipping up bad feeling towards Elephant Havens, Mr JLB Matekoni goes along, taking the opportunity to visit his cousin in Maun.
Mma Makutsi is more than a little worried about leaving Assistant Detective, Charlie Mangope in charge, but Mma Ramotswe feels they have to give him a chance to prove himself. On his own, Charlie muses about changes he would make were the agency his, but he is distracted by a visit from some new friends.
Charlie is quite dazzled by jazz musicians Lion and Leopard, and soon, with the principals completely unaware, the Agency is a commercial guarantor for their upcoming concert. Are Mma Makutsi’s concerns to be vindicated?
Charlie does have a case to investigate: owner of several branches of Botswana Auto Clean, Mr Laurence Moepi is uneasy about the excessive profits of one of the Gabarone branches. Senior mechanic Fanwell makes a comment in passing that turns out to be an important clue. But further investigation sees Charlie realising he is out of his depth. He very wisely consults one of Mma Ramotswe’s trusted sounding boards, Mma Potokwani, to good effect.
What is happening at Rra Moepi’s Car Wash will be glaring obvious to any reader, but this series is never about the crime, but rather, is about the characters and how they act, and how they react to the challenges they meet. In this instalment, McCall Smith gives his secondary characters quite a bit more depth than they have had up to now.
In the background, life goes on: Will the last-minute purchase of two-tone shoes for Mr JLB Matekoni’s birthday meet with his approval? Will he actually wear them? Just what is Mma Potokwani’s husband up to inside his locked shed? Of Mma Potokwani’s legendary fruitcake, she tells her friend “Small helpings of anything never count. Everybody knows that. I shall cut a piece for you that will involve very little guilt, Mma.”
McCall Smith invariably gives the reader lots of gentle philosophy and observations on life. Precious imagines what she would say to the President of Zambia or the King of England, should there be a phone call. She considers the validity of the adage “Better Late Than Never.” And she tells someone: “Anger is a heavy weight to carry in this life. It is like carrying a heavy rock on your back. And it gets heavier and heavier until you discover that you can let it fall off your shoulders. Then you realise what it was that was making your life so difficult.”
There are some inaccuracies in the back-cover blurb that might a lead a reader to wonder if the person who wrote it actually read the whole book, but ignoring that, this is another wonderful dose of Botswana magic.
Mma Makutsi is more than a little worried about leaving Assistant Detective, Charlie Mangope in charge, but Mma Ramotswe feels they have to give him a chance to prove himself. On his own, Charlie muses about changes he would make were the agency his, but he is distracted by a visit from some new friends.
Charlie is quite dazzled by jazz musicians Lion and Leopard, and soon, with the principals completely unaware, the Agency is a commercial guarantor for their upcoming concert. Are Mma Makutsi’s concerns to be vindicated?
Charlie does have a case to investigate: owner of several branches of Botswana Auto Clean, Mr Laurence Moepi is uneasy about the excessive profits of one of the Gabarone branches. Senior mechanic Fanwell makes a comment in passing that turns out to be an important clue. But further investigation sees Charlie realising he is out of his depth. He very wisely consults one of Mma Ramotswe’s trusted sounding boards, Mma Potokwani, to good effect.
What is happening at Rra Moepi’s Car Wash will be glaring obvious to any reader, but this series is never about the crime, but rather, is about the characters and how they act, and how they react to the challenges they meet. In this instalment, McCall Smith gives his secondary characters quite a bit more depth than they have had up to now.
In the background, life goes on: Will the last-minute purchase of two-tone shoes for Mr JLB Matekoni’s birthday meet with his approval? Will he actually wear them? Just what is Mma Potokwani’s husband up to inside his locked shed? Of Mma Potokwani’s legendary fruitcake, she tells her friend “Small helpings of anything never count. Everybody knows that. I shall cut a piece for you that will involve very little guilt, Mma.”
McCall Smith invariably gives the reader lots of gentle philosophy and observations on life. Precious imagines what she would say to the President of Zambia or the King of England, should there be a phone call. She considers the validity of the adage “Better Late Than Never.” And she tells someone: “Anger is a heavy weight to carry in this life. It is like carrying a heavy rock on your back. And it gets heavier and heavier until you discover that you can let it fall off your shoulders. Then you realise what it was that was making your life so difficult.”
There are some inaccuracies in the back-cover blurb that might a lead a reader to wonder if the person who wrote it actually read the whole book, but ignoring that, this is another wonderful dose of Botswana magic.
October 3, 2026
4.25 stars
I've read most of the books in The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series, but have missed the most recent ones. A couple before that left me disappointed, but this one has all of the things I originally enjoyed about the series. The character of Mma Ramotswe as well as the Botswana setting never let me down, but the plots had been getting a bit thin. Fortunately, this new book has two different cases being investigated, one regarding an elephant rescue preserve being harrassed and the other about a car wash that is making too much money. In addition, assistant detective Charlie finds himself in a dilemma involving two musicians called Lion and Leopard that puts the whole agency at risk.
I really enjoyed this book. Mma Ramatoswe is wonderful as always and her husband, Mr. J.L.B.Mateconi plays a big role in the story. It was nice seeing a different side of him, out of the car repair garage that he owns and on the case with his wife. I really liked seeing Charlie get a chance to shine, showing maturity and the good sense to ask for help when he finds himself in over his head. As expected from this cozy series, things turn out well in the end. The language in these books is very poetic and this book has a theme of being grateful for what you have and appreciating the loved ones in your life. Fans of the series will enjoy the book and I think new readers could jump in with this book as well.
I received a copy of this book from Pantheon Books. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
I've read most of the books in The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series, but have missed the most recent ones. A couple before that left me disappointed, but this one has all of the things I originally enjoyed about the series. The character of Mma Ramotswe as well as the Botswana setting never let me down, but the plots had been getting a bit thin. Fortunately, this new book has two different cases being investigated, one regarding an elephant rescue preserve being harrassed and the other about a car wash that is making too much money. In addition, assistant detective Charlie finds himself in a dilemma involving two musicians called Lion and Leopard that puts the whole agency at risk.
I really enjoyed this book. Mma Ramatoswe is wonderful as always and her husband, Mr. J.L.B.Mateconi plays a big role in the story. It was nice seeing a different side of him, out of the car repair garage that he owns and on the case with his wife. I really liked seeing Charlie get a chance to shine, showing maturity and the good sense to ask for help when he finds himself in over his head. As expected from this cozy series, things turn out well in the end. The language in these books is very poetic and this book has a theme of being grateful for what you have and appreciating the loved ones in your life. Fans of the series will enjoy the book and I think new readers could jump in with this book as well.
I received a copy of this book from Pantheon Books. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The assistance of the No 1 Ladies Detective Agency is sought to solve a problem at an elephant sanctuary in the north which will require a long trip and a few over night stays for Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi. Mr J.L.B. Matekoni, husband of Mma Ramotswe decides to make the trip with the women.
That leaves assistant to the detectives Charlie in charge just as a wealthy client comes forward to seek assistance to find out why one of his enterprises seems to be making too much money. Will Mma Makutsi’s ominous predictions about Charlie come true or will the trust placed in him pay off?
This is the twenty-seventh installment in the delightful and heartwarming No. 1 Ladies Detective series. All the beloved familiar characters are here.
And, yes, the talking shoes do make a cameo appearance!
This is another uplifting addition to the series. While each new case presents an intriguing challenge, the true essence of the series lies in the joy derived from the interactions and musings of the main characters.. Mma Ramotswe’s gentle demeanor and unwavering optimism in finding the positive in even the most daunting situations offer a sense of comfort and solace. Her wisdom is profound in its simplicity.
This story is perfect for a relaxing afternoon or evening read, especially while sipping a soothing cup of tea. Fans of McCall Smith’s gentle prose and insightful observations will undoubtedly welcome this latest addition to his remarkable body of work.
Thanks to @NetGalley and @AAKnopf for the DRC.
That leaves assistant to the detectives Charlie in charge just as a wealthy client comes forward to seek assistance to find out why one of his enterprises seems to be making too much money. Will Mma Makutsi’s ominous predictions about Charlie come true or will the trust placed in him pay off?
This is the twenty-seventh installment in the delightful and heartwarming No. 1 Ladies Detective series. All the beloved familiar characters are here.
And, yes, the talking shoes do make a cameo appearance!
This is another uplifting addition to the series. While each new case presents an intriguing challenge, the true essence of the series lies in the joy derived from the interactions and musings of the main characters.. Mma Ramotswe’s gentle demeanor and unwavering optimism in finding the positive in even the most daunting situations offer a sense of comfort and solace. Her wisdom is profound in its simplicity.
This story is perfect for a relaxing afternoon or evening read, especially while sipping a soothing cup of tea. Fans of McCall Smith’s gentle prose and insightful observations will undoubtedly welcome this latest addition to his remarkable body of work.
Thanks to @NetGalley and @AAKnopf for the DRC.
October 14, 2026
A quick warmhearted read. Mma Ramotswe's husband Mr J.L.B. Matekoni gets a crack at a case, Charlie gets to show what he can do, and all is right with their world in the end.
Tea quote: "Tea did not always provide a solution to difficult problems, but there was no doubt in her mind that it helped."
Wisdom from Mma Ramotswe: "Encouraging words could have the effect of making people physically bigger, as was happening now with Charlie. At the other end of the spectrum, harsh words could make people shrink, as if crushed by the burden of criticism."
Love in action: "She took his hand, there in the garden, under the gradually darkening evening sky, and pressed it gently so that he would know that she appreciated what he said and that she felt much the same."
Travel joy: "You could travel anywhere, people said, but Botswana would always be with you, a presence in your heart, the daily weather of your life."
Home: "To go to a far place with one you loved meant that you were, in an important sense, taking your home with you."
Dance for joy: "The dance was joyful - for that is what a dance should be. It should be a celebration of being alive..."
Tea quote: "Tea did not always provide a solution to difficult problems, but there was no doubt in her mind that it helped."
Wisdom from Mma Ramotswe: "Encouraging words could have the effect of making people physically bigger, as was happening now with Charlie. At the other end of the spectrum, harsh words could make people shrink, as if crushed by the burden of criticism."
Love in action: "She took his hand, there in the garden, under the gradually darkening evening sky, and pressed it gently so that he would know that she appreciated what he said and that she felt much the same."
Travel joy: "You could travel anywhere, people said, but Botswana would always be with you, a presence in your heart, the daily weather of your life."
Home: "To go to a far place with one you loved meant that you were, in an important sense, taking your home with you."
Dance for joy: "The dance was joyful - for that is what a dance should be. It should be a celebration of being alive..."
September 18, 2026
The Big Cats Dance Party is an absolutely delightful 27th book in the No. 1 Ladies Detective series! Mma Ramotswe is hired for a case involving ill feelings against an elephant sanctuary in the distant town of Maun. She plans a trip with Mma Makutsi in the little white van, but her husband, Mr. J L B Matekoni fears the little white van will not be able to make such a long journey and offers to drive them. This will leave their apprentice Charlie in charge of the office. When a new customer, with a new case to be solved, Charlie knows he must take on the case and prove he is equal to the challenge. Alexander McCall Smith has written another outstanding addition to this series, that is full of wit and wisdom, wrapped within dual mysteries that must be solved. I loved the continued character development in this book, and the way the author, through the words of his characters, shares wisdom that is both timeless and contemporary. This book and this series are a treasure. Thank you to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for my advance copy. The opinions of this review are my own.
October 5, 2026
The agency has a new client. Their friends at an elephant sanctuary are wondering why the local people are turning against them, so Precious, Grace, and Mr. JLB Matekoni travel north to investigate, leaving Charlie in charge. Will Charlie prove he is capable, or mess up this opportunity? Will they find out who is criticizing the sanctuary, which rescues baby elephants when their mothers are shot by poachers? This series is always a pleasure to read with its gentle wisdom and well-drawn characters. And I really liked the cover illustration!
October 16, 2026
In this 27th entry in The No. 1 Ladies' Devtective Agency series, Mma Ramotswe, Mma Makutsi, and Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni have to travel from home to investigate and try to solve the latest mystery they have been presented with. Left in charge of the agency in their absence, Charlie decides it's time to step out on his own despite being warned against doing so, and takes on the case of a car washing business that is making too much money. Both cases turn out to be more complicated than they seemed but as usual, all of our heroes will rely on their wits, humor, and common sense to hopefully win the day.
Charming, sweet, relaxing, and kindhearted are not words normally associated with mysteries but then these have never been your typical mysteries. Twenty-seven now in the series and they are still clever and a pleasure to read. The half star is because Charlie had a secondary story that seemed kind of unnecessary to me, but these books remain impossible not to enjoy.
Charming, sweet, relaxing, and kindhearted are not words normally associated with mysteries but then these have never been your typical mysteries. Twenty-seven now in the series and they are still clever and a pleasure to read. The half star is because Charlie had a secondary story that seemed kind of unnecessary to me, but these books remain impossible not to enjoy.
September 27, 2026
All the usual suspects in another installment of The #1 Ladies’ Detective Agency.
This time the Tlokweng Speedy Motors men have a hand in solving the cases.
This time the Tlokweng Speedy Motors men have a hand in solving the cases.
September 25, 2026
Excellent as always. The kinder, slower pace of life in Botswana was even more of a balm for my soul in this dystopian horror show we’re all living through thanks to the orange clown.
October 21, 2026
If you’ve ever fallen in love with a TV series that seems able to go on forever without any discernible plot or character fatigue, you’ll identify immediately with the universal fan base of Alexander McCall Smith’s No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency books. The latest episode in this delightful series, #27 to be exact, is set in the author’s beloved Botswana in Southern Africa.
THE BIG CATS DANCE PARTY is titled after one of many interconnected (or not) events in the lives of enterprising Gaborone businesswoman Precious Ramotswe and her slightly haphazard circle of family and friends. All of them contribute, sometimes in unexpected ways, to the solutions she finds for her clients’ problems.
Unlike most mystery novel sleuths, Mma Ramotswe never goes after serial killers, mass murderers or even solitary murderers. Fatal crimes are left up to the police. Instead, her unique agency, which shares quarters with the renowned Speedy Motors garage of mechanic husband Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni concentrates on solving seemingly small but intense mysteries that can change ordinary people’s lives.
And because good things often come in twos and threes in McCall Smith stories, one can expect several plot threads to meander gently through the pages, as happens in THE BIG CATS DANCE PARTY. In fact, the title is an event that happens right at the end of the story and is no mystery at all --- it’s the fortunate outcome of a supporting character’s risk-taking.
Leading up to the happy yet never bland ending so typical of the author are two separate but relatable plot lines that delve deeply into the core of human nature and the transformative power of trust.
First, Precious and her associate, Mma Grace Makutsi, are approached by a business client with a problem any entrepreneur would envy: ever since he took on a new partner, one of his car wash franchises is making too much money. Being a man raised in “the old Botswana way,” where decency, honesty and ethics are paramount (the way Precious herself was raised and wants to preserve), his conscience insists on finding out what’s amiss. To everyone’s surprise, Precious enlists aspiring but awkward junior detective Charlie, one of J.L.B. Matekoni’s apprentice mechanics, to help solve the case.
Then the agency receives another request, this one from several hours’ drive out of town. The managers of an orphan elephant sanctuary (based on one that really exists north of Gaborone) can’t understand why someone is turning local villagers against the sanctuary, even though they have received substantial benefits from the organization, like veterinary services for their cattle.
The only way to get into the details is for Mma Ramotswe to go there in person. Mma Makutsi insists on coming along to assist her. J.L.B. Matekoni doesn’t trust his beloved wife’s rickety old van and in a rare moment of assertiveness volunteers to drive all three of them north in his sturdy company truck. Which leaves the somewhat feckless young Charlie the sole temporary manager of the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, a responsibility he’s never had before.
As usual, McCall Smith brilliantly draws together all the plot chemistry for a perfect storm. And whether one is exploring his world of fiction for the first or 50th time, the result is guaranteed not to disappoint. Through twists and turns of coincidence, conscience, surprise, and especially unknown strength from characters we easily might underestimate, everything resolves in ways that can’t fail to deepen our empathy, insight and even love in a world that needs those qualities now more than ever.
But no spoilers are allowed here; Mma Ramotswe wouldn’t approve. It’s now up to you to crack open THE BIG CATS DANCE PARTY and take it from there. You’ll be glad you did.
Reviewed by Pauline Finch
THE BIG CATS DANCE PARTY is titled after one of many interconnected (or not) events in the lives of enterprising Gaborone businesswoman Precious Ramotswe and her slightly haphazard circle of family and friends. All of them contribute, sometimes in unexpected ways, to the solutions she finds for her clients’ problems.
Unlike most mystery novel sleuths, Mma Ramotswe never goes after serial killers, mass murderers or even solitary murderers. Fatal crimes are left up to the police. Instead, her unique agency, which shares quarters with the renowned Speedy Motors garage of mechanic husband Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni concentrates on solving seemingly small but intense mysteries that can change ordinary people’s lives.
And because good things often come in twos and threes in McCall Smith stories, one can expect several plot threads to meander gently through the pages, as happens in THE BIG CATS DANCE PARTY. In fact, the title is an event that happens right at the end of the story and is no mystery at all --- it’s the fortunate outcome of a supporting character’s risk-taking.
Leading up to the happy yet never bland ending so typical of the author are two separate but relatable plot lines that delve deeply into the core of human nature and the transformative power of trust.
First, Precious and her associate, Mma Grace Makutsi, are approached by a business client with a problem any entrepreneur would envy: ever since he took on a new partner, one of his car wash franchises is making too much money. Being a man raised in “the old Botswana way,” where decency, honesty and ethics are paramount (the way Precious herself was raised and wants to preserve), his conscience insists on finding out what’s amiss. To everyone’s surprise, Precious enlists aspiring but awkward junior detective Charlie, one of J.L.B. Matekoni’s apprentice mechanics, to help solve the case.
Then the agency receives another request, this one from several hours’ drive out of town. The managers of an orphan elephant sanctuary (based on one that really exists north of Gaborone) can’t understand why someone is turning local villagers against the sanctuary, even though they have received substantial benefits from the organization, like veterinary services for their cattle.
The only way to get into the details is for Mma Ramotswe to go there in person. Mma Makutsi insists on coming along to assist her. J.L.B. Matekoni doesn’t trust his beloved wife’s rickety old van and in a rare moment of assertiveness volunteers to drive all three of them north in his sturdy company truck. Which leaves the somewhat feckless young Charlie the sole temporary manager of the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, a responsibility he’s never had before.
As usual, McCall Smith brilliantly draws together all the plot chemistry for a perfect storm. And whether one is exploring his world of fiction for the first or 50th time, the result is guaranteed not to disappoint. Through twists and turns of coincidence, conscience, surprise, and especially unknown strength from characters we easily might underestimate, everything resolves in ways that can’t fail to deepen our empathy, insight and even love in a world that needs those qualities now more than ever.
But no spoilers are allowed here; Mma Ramotswe wouldn’t approve. It’s now up to you to crack open THE BIG CATS DANCE PARTY and take it from there. You’ll be glad you did.
Reviewed by Pauline Finch
October 27, 2026
This book is the twenty-seventh in the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency, set in Gaborone, Botswana. As usual, Mma Precious Ramotswe, the founder of the agency, and her friend Mma Grace Makutsi, her associate in the business, find themselves solving minor mysteries and helping their friends. And I very much enjoyed this entry in the series.
The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency gets a new case; a Mr. Moepi, who owns several car washes, and who has a relatively new partner in the business, is concerned that a particular car wash he owns is making far too much money. At the same time Mr. B., who runs Elephant Haven up in Maun, is concerned that someone in the surrounding villages is trying to poison the reputation of the outfit, which takes in orphaned elephants and raises them to eventually place with an adult herd. Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi decide to go to Maun to do an investigation, and since it is a two-day drive, and one that Mma Ramotswe’s little van could probably not manage (it can barely manage travel around Gabronne), Mma Ramotswe’s husband Mr. J. L. B. Maketoni, the owner of Speedy Motors (which houses the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency), decides to drive the ladies there in his truck. With some misgivings on the part of Mma Ramotswe, and with major misgivings on the part of Mma Makutsi, they opt to leave Charlie (the Junior Assistant Detective, who used to be an Apprentice in the Speedy Motors garage) in charge of operations in Gabronne, especially in the case of Mr. Moepi. However, while in charge, two musicians that Charlie knows, Lion and Leopard, approach him and ask that the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency be the guarantee for their next concert; they assure Charlie that it is a great opportunity, as he will make money, and that the only way things could go bad would be if there were not enough tickets sold, so of course Charlie signs off on the deal. So while Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi do their investigations in the area of Elephant Haven in Maun, Charlie does his investigations of the car wash, and discovers a problem with Lion and Leopard’s business dealings.
These novels are easy reading, and I hope we will have more books in the series.
The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency gets a new case; a Mr. Moepi, who owns several car washes, and who has a relatively new partner in the business, is concerned that a particular car wash he owns is making far too much money. At the same time Mr. B., who runs Elephant Haven up in Maun, is concerned that someone in the surrounding villages is trying to poison the reputation of the outfit, which takes in orphaned elephants and raises them to eventually place with an adult herd. Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi decide to go to Maun to do an investigation, and since it is a two-day drive, and one that Mma Ramotswe’s little van could probably not manage (it can barely manage travel around Gabronne), Mma Ramotswe’s husband Mr. J. L. B. Maketoni, the owner of Speedy Motors (which houses the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency), decides to drive the ladies there in his truck. With some misgivings on the part of Mma Ramotswe, and with major misgivings on the part of Mma Makutsi, they opt to leave Charlie (the Junior Assistant Detective, who used to be an Apprentice in the Speedy Motors garage) in charge of operations in Gabronne, especially in the case of Mr. Moepi. However, while in charge, two musicians that Charlie knows, Lion and Leopard, approach him and ask that the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency be the guarantee for their next concert; they assure Charlie that it is a great opportunity, as he will make money, and that the only way things could go bad would be if there were not enough tickets sold, so of course Charlie signs off on the deal. So while Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi do their investigations in the area of Elephant Haven in Maun, Charlie does his investigations of the car wash, and discovers a problem with Lion and Leopard’s business dealings.
These novels are easy reading, and I hope we will have more books in the series.
October 18, 2026
I haven’t read this series since book 4 or 5 and now we’re up to 27, so I decided to pop in and see what Mme Ramotswe was up to these days. I confess it was a bit of a disappointment. I still enjoyed the characters and love the setting in Botswana. But while I enjoyed Charlie as a character, and understand he’s quite young, I could have figured out the car wash mystery before the client walked out the door.
I do not mind slower character driven novels, but this was almost too slow, even for me. I didn’t feel any real sense of mystery or concern with any of the storylines and the wrap was almost too neat and tidy. I still had questions.
Overall, this might be fun for readers who have been following this extended series from the beginning. But this is probably not the place to start if you’re new to the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency.
Thank you to Pantheon Books for my complimentary finished copy of the book.
I do not mind slower character driven novels, but this was almost too slow, even for me. I didn’t feel any real sense of mystery or concern with any of the storylines and the wrap was almost too neat and tidy. I still had questions.
Overall, this might be fun for readers who have been following this extended series from the beginning. But this is probably not the place to start if you’re new to the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency.
Thank you to Pantheon Books for my complimentary finished copy of the book.
November 6, 2026
I always love catching up with Mma Ramotswe and the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency. These books are a balm to my soul.
“… anger is a heavy weight to carry in this life. It is like carrying a heavy rock on your back. And it gets heavier and heavier, until you discover that you can let it fall off your shoulders. Then you realize what it was that was making your life so difficult.”
“Never miss out on an opportunity to say sorry.”
“… anger is a heavy weight to carry in this life. It is like carrying a heavy rock on your back. And it gets heavier and heavier, until you discover that you can let it fall off your shoulders. Then you realize what it was that was making your life so difficult.”
“Never miss out on an opportunity to say sorry.”
September 29, 2026
While slightly better than the last few which proceeded it, this novel strongly suggests that it is time for Mma. Ramotswe to close the Number 1 Ladies Detective Agency and slip quietly into retirement.
Slow to start, slow in the middle and rushed as usual, at the end.
There were two basic detective matters. One involved an elephant refuge a day’s ride from Gabarone. Mma. Mamkutse, Mma. Ramotswe and even Mr. JLB Matakone all had to go. This left Charlie in charge of both the agency and the car repair shop. Of course, Charlie undertook the second case involving a man complaining that one of his many car washes made too much money which he found very suspicious. He also becomes involved with two musicians of dubious character.
To say more would give it all away. These novels are still charming and still gently preachy, but something has been lost.
Slow to start, slow in the middle and rushed as usual, at the end.
There were two basic detective matters. One involved an elephant refuge a day’s ride from Gabarone. Mma. Mamkutse, Mma. Ramotswe and even Mr. JLB Matakone all had to go. This left Charlie in charge of both the agency and the car repair shop. Of course, Charlie undertook the second case involving a man complaining that one of his many car washes made too much money which he found very suspicious. He also becomes involved with two musicians of dubious character.
To say more would give it all away. These novels are still charming and still gently preachy, but something has been lost.
October 20, 2026
Delightful observations about the special qualities o physical nature in Botwana and about the country's traditional culture. Also aobservations about human nature in generate and the importance of norms of behavior, and what is tyupical and right at what stage of life. Throughout the tone is relaxing/refreshing/conversational. I've read every book in the series. This is one of the best.
September 17, 2026
I have been rather critical of the last few books in this series, but this one is a return to form, we have 2 genuine cases that allow for the novelty of a road trip, and a solo outing for Charlie, with good results (eventually) and a minimum of hokey folk wisdom
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