The Big Cats Dance Party

No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency #27

by Alexander McCall Smith

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.

Genres: Mystery, Fiction, Africa, Audiobook, Mystery Thriller, Cozy, Cultural

Audible Audio

First published September 15, 2026

About the author

Alexander 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.

Reviews

[Julie MacKay]

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.

[Ellery Adams]

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.

[Carolyn Walsh]

4.5 Stars. Review to follow.

[Helen - Great Reads & Tea Leaves]

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!

[Shereadbookblog]

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.

[Donna]

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.

[Donald]

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

[Abby]

Happy #1LDA release month to all who celebrate.

[Lisa Ahlstedt]

All of the endearing characters are back for this latest installment in the "No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency" series. The cases, as always, are intriguing and test the detectives and their implementation of the rules in the "Principles of Modern Detection," the book they refer to in order to be the best detectives they can. In this new adventure, the owner of an elephant rescue charity has somehow made an enemy. Someone is spreading false information and rumors and generally trying to get the charity shut down. Who would be opposed to helping orphaned baby elephants? Mma Ramotswe, founder and chief detective, and Mma Makutsi, partner and co-chief detective (in her mind, anyway), must travel to the area where the elephant rescue operates in order to ask questions. This involves a trip of many hours in Mma Ramotswe's beloved, yet mechanically unreliable, Tiny White Van. Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni, Botswana's best mechanic and Mma Ramotswe's husband, is alarmed by the plan and instead persuades the ladies to let him drive them in his newer vehicle. They agree, but this creates a problem. With the two main employees of the detective agency away, that means the business will be left in the hands of Assistant Detective and part-time Apprentice Mechanic, Charlie. What Charlie lacks in common sense and experience is more than offset by his enthusiasm for the job. On the bright side, Mma Makutsi promises not to say, "I told you so" if this plan ends in disaster. Charlie has another case to work on. A businessman who operates many different types of businesses is concerned that one of them, a car wash, is making too much money. Everyone at the detective agency fails to see how this is a problem, but they agree to take on the case. Before Charlie can get started on the investigation, he makes a rash decision on behalf of the agency which might end his fledgling detective career.

As usual, the story is filled with many wise sayings from Mma Ramotswe and plenty of love for Botswana. Even the feud between Mma Makutsi and Charlie seems to be easing a bit, although the evil Violet Sepotho is still the enemy of all. I always feel a bit sad when finishing one of the books in this delightful series and can't wait for the next outing with these kind and endearing characters.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.

[Caroline]

This is a review for the audio book version of this book. It’s another book from a long list of books about the Number 1 Lady Detective Agency. I have read some but not all of the other books, I read them mostly around 2009 so it was good to revisit the characters. It felt like only a short time had passed for the characters not almost 2 decades. As with the other books there is minimal peril and just so heart warming. The books make me want to visit Botswana, they are so evocative. Although the themes are consistent the characters have developed and the storylines also whilst gentle continue to be interesting. At times I was shouting the solutions but I think that’s the point. Everyone is so gentle and it’s the perfect book for if you are feeling stressed. It felt like visiting old friends. I love the gentle reflections and only wish I could act on some of the wisdoms that are explored.
Now the elephant in the room is the narrator,I was unsure but felt she was tolerable…. Until I realised I was listening not at normal speed but at 1.25 speed I didn’t even realise that was an option! 😂 I restarted and realised the narrator is one of the best I have ever heard, even at the wrong speed she sounded pretty good. 🫣 I would recommend the audio book version if you can because she really brings the story to life. Her tone is exactly how I would imagine the characters.
If you are looking for a gentle book I’d recommend this, it is cozy personified. I think you could listen to this as a first entry point but you would get far more if you read the rest of the books. I’m going to go back and see what I’ve missed.
I’m just back from a dance class and the final part of the book has me pretty teared up. 🥹💜
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this book for my consideration, this is all my own rambling, honest and personal opinion.

[Barb]

Precious Ramotswe and Grace Makutsi are once again find themsleves with a couple of new cases to investigate. One of them will take them to a village a considerable distance from Gaborone, meaning they will have to leave Charlie in charge of the office – and any cases that arise in their absence – while they are gone. Mma Ramotswe feels he is ready, but of course Mma Makutsi disagrees.

These books are not murder mysteries, but there are mysteries to solve in each story, and I enjoy visiting Botswana with every book. The gentle way of life, the compassion, kindness and even humor that go into every story, every case, are soothing and a nice change of pace from the murder and mayhem in most of the other books I read.

It would be hard to find a reader who does not like Mma Ramotswe, a wise ‘old soul’ who uses her knowledge of the area and its people to advance the cases she investigates. While I understand that she is terribly insecure, Mma Makutsi, on the other hand, grates on my nerves. She speaks out of turn, inflates her importance in the agency, and frequently belittles others, especially Charlie, often leading to a good deal of conflict. Mma Ramotswe must get very tired of having to step in and soothe ruffled feathers! In the end, I was impressed with Charlie’s ability to resolve the problems that arise for him, and hope he will get a bigger role in future investigations.

I look forward to returning to Botswana for another visit with the folks at the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency and their friends.

Thank you to NetGalley and Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage and Anchor for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Abbie]

These books are set at a very gentle pace and they immerse you into the culture and the ways of the Botswana way of life. And what a joy it is!
The latest instalment (book number 27) in the No 1 Ladies Detective Agency series is as charming as ever with another bunch of mysteries to be solved and the lessons we can learn from the African plains are as wonderful and wise and profound as ever.
Charlie, our part time detective is left in charge of the business where a case arrives in the agency which could have disastrous consequences and Mma Romotswe and Mma Mukutse take a long journey in the little white van to an elephant sanctuary where foul play is afoot.
These are engaging stories that are life affirming and where the characters stay alive in one’s head long after the last page has been turned and the book has been closed for these are all old friends that come back year after year. These books are illuminated beautifully by the narrator, Chipo Chung who brings The Big Cats Dance Party into your world! I can’t wait for the next one as always.

[Sangitha]

Another quiet masterpiece in this extraordinary series.

I have been a devoted reader of The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series for several years, and I have returned to each of the books many times. There is something rare about these stories: they are gentle without being sentimental, philosophical without ever becoming heavy-handed, and deeply comforting without losing their insight into the complexities of life.

This latest book carries all of those qualities. Through the troubles surrounding the elephant sanctuary and Charlie’s own difficulties, the story gradually brings together its many threads in a way that feels both natural and deeply satisfying. As always, the real pleasure lies not simply in discovering how the story ends, but in spending time with these characters and seeing the world through their patient, humane, and thoughtful perspective.

These books have a remarkable ability to leave the reader feeling calmer and more hopeful about life. They remind us that wisdom can be found in ordinary moments, that kindness matters, and that even difficult circumstances can eventually find their way toward resolution.

I highly recommend this book, particularly to longtime admirers of the series. It is the kind of book that rewards rereading: each return brings the same warmth and serenity, yet somehow offers a little more to savor. A book to read once, and then read again and again, with each reading bringing as much pleasure as the first.

[Bookwormbadger]

I have been reading and loving this wonderful long-running series for years. This one is - incredibly - book 27; although classified as a mystery, in reality these books are "cosy mystery" and are very gentle. They are all about the fantastic characters that we have come to know and love - Mma Ramotswe, her husband Mr J L B Matekoni (presumably we will never discover his first name, given that his wife also calls him Mr J L B Matekoni!), and of course Mma Makutsi, Charlie, Fanwell and Phuti. These books are very evocative, and I find I can really picture each scene and person so clearly.
The last several audiobooks have been narrated brilliantly by Adjoa Andoh, however I thought that Chipo Chung did an excellent job with the narration.
With grateful thanks to NetGalley and Bolinda Audio for my advance copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

[Tredaran]

The 27th instalment in the No 1 Ladies Detective Agency series sees Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi travelling north to investigate an issue at an elephant sanctuary, leaving the agency in the hands of trainee detective Charlie. Charlie takes it upon himself to progress an investigation into a car wash that is generating a suspicious amount of profit whilst also venturing into events management by acting as guarantor to an upcoming gig by jazz musicians Lion and Leopard. As always, this cosy crime series continues to charm with its gentle humour and warm hearted characters. The audiobook is superbly narrated by Chipo Chung who captures the tone and pace of the storytelling brilliantly.

Thanks to NetGalley and Bolinda audio for the opportunity to listen and review this audiobook.

This is a review of the audiobook.

[Linda]

This latest in a series I always enjoy has to be one of my favorites. The regular characters are present, but for most of the story. Mma Ramotswe, Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni and Mma Matkutsi are a 2 day drive out of Gaborone trying to solve a mystery for the owners of an orphaned elephant preserve. Charlie is left in Gaborone to cover at the Number 1 Ladies Detective Agency. It was fun to see them all kind of out of their element, not having the local knowledge they rely on, and in Charlie’s case, having a lot of new responsibilities. As always the gentle philosophical musings add to the atmosphere and often guide the action. Each book in this series is, for me, a mix between a mystery and a warm hug, see if you don’t feel the same way after reading them!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy. I can’t sing its praises enough.

[Jen]

Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC

Another amazing installment in the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series - a cozy mystery with philosophical wisdom sprinkled throughout, harkening back to a less complicated time. There's a heartfelt nostalgia when returning to the Botswana depicted in this series, seemingly untouched by current (or even recent) events in the real world, which adds to its charm.

The concurrent cases the agency undertakes are fairly harmless, and are resolved with critical thinking, patience and logic typical in this series. The character development and relationships grow with each new entry, especially with Charlie, who has matured to be a capable assistant detective, and addition to the detection team.

I look forward to the next installment

[Sarah Truckell]

Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook. 4 stars. I love this series featuring the No 1 Ladies Detective Agency and seeing the development of the characters. In the book Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi have to travel to another part of Botswana to investigate a case. Mma Ramotswe’s husband Mr JLB Matekoni goes along too and the agency is left in the hands of trainee detective Charlie. I love the story telling on these books. The investigations are important but always come second place to the other goings on between the characters. Very warm and funny. Great book.

[zoe Hitchen]

Another visit to the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency bringing its trade mark humour and slower pace of life .
The ladies are visiting an elephant sanctuary and investigating a case for the owner .
Whilst away they’ve left Charlie in charge .
Will he prove himself or not?
This story is filled with engaging characters and an endearing tale .
Listen to this book in your favourite chair and drift away to a more simple life.
The narrator really brought the characters to life and enhanced the audio experience.
Looking forward to the agency’s next case .
Thanks to NetGalley and Bolinda Audio.

[Alisha]

A deeply pleasant visit to the environs of the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, full of the trademark gentle humour one expects from Alexander McCall Smith.
This audiobook was narrated by Chipo Chung, who did a fantastic job embodying the rhythms of the different characters. A true storytelling voice that captured my attention in a way that doesn't always happen in an audiobook!

Thanks to Bolinda Audio for this advance review copy via Netgalley UK!

[Nick Morice-Jones]

Another delightful story

Yet again Alexander McCall Smith has delivered another delightful observation on human frailties and life in general. Even after 27 episodes he never ceases to amaze with his gentle commentary on life depicted through the eyes of his epic cast of regular characters, through his relatable description of African culture and courtesy, which we in the Western world would do well to emulate.

[Daria]

Two separate mysteries to solve in the latest installment of the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series. The pace is slow and gentle, with plenty of time for philosophizing about life, happiness, and the joys of Botswana and cattle. Best suited for readers who are familiar with the series and readers who like an uber-cozy mystery with no violence at all. Thanks to NetGalley and Pantheon for the eARC.

[Christine Cook]

A Feel good book with suspense

The values, sense of family, duty, right and wrong were in full play in this episode, while the suspense of Charlie's dilemma gave it structure and drama. That young man seems to teeter on the line between good judgement and foolishness. In the end, his sweet and slightly reckless personality jumps right off the page to win the day. The story is warm, funny and full of characters!

[Carlyn Morenus]

I've skipped the last few No. 1 Ladies Detective novels, just not gotten around to them. But I think it's safe to say that the charming formula is still alive and well with this latest installment in the long-running series. We see all the familiar characters, and meet interesting new ones, as the ladies continue to do their thoughtful work. Always a pleasure.

[Stacey O'Brien]

He outdid himself again

This author is so wildly popular that he doesn't have to write another word, but I'm grateful he does.
This book is a gem, full of empathy and goodness and life lessons.
It's like visiting a dear friend, reading this series. I hope he never stops!

[Carole Turner-Record]

Another Charming Story

It was heartwarming to once again spend time with Mma Ramotswe’s No.1 Ladies Detective Agency….. I’ve read all 27 of the books over the years and it’s always a pleasure to be with this delightful traditionally built lady and her friends.

[Quinn Fforde]

I loved this entry into the series. We get to spend time with these lovely characters as they travel Botswana and spend time in villages. We also get to see Charlie get more responsibility. Everyone learns a few things in this book.

[Patty]

This may be the best story in the series. I was especially pleased with the change in Charlie. Also, the comments on the human condition and how we deal with them were especially perceptive. May AMS write on and on!

[Jennifer Jean Luner]

Hope for Charlie

Charlie seems doomed, but in the end does well and gets praise all around. He did finally really read a pertinent chapter of Clovis Anderson's book. There is hope for him after all.

[Kathy Hunter]

Charlie grows up

Another of this absorbing series that I love so much! The characters have become so familiar to me and are presented so consistently in each episode. May they continue to delight us all!