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No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency #27
The Big Cats Dance Party: No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, Book 27
'I am a fortunate woman to have such an eventful life', observes Mma Ramotswe. Perhaps, but there are times when rather too much seems to be happening. This latest despatch from Botswana is certainly full of events, even if it starts with a leisurely trip to buy a pair of shoes for Mr J.L.B. Matekoni.
As often happens, one thing leads to another, and we are soon caught up in an ill-thought-out plan hatched by Charlie, junior mechanic and trainee detective. Charlie has met up with two rising stars of the local musical world – jazz players known as Lion and Leopard. He is keen to plan a big event with them, even though Mma Makutsi sees nothing but disaster ahead.
Mma Ramotswe would like to keep an eye on the situation, but she has to go up north, to the Okavango Delta, where her friends at an elephant sanctuary are battling with a campaign being waged against them. Mma Ramotswe's help is given with all the generosity of spirit that illuminates the character of this most beloved of lady detectives.
As often happens, one thing leads to another, and we are soon caught up in an ill-thought-out plan hatched by Charlie, junior mechanic and trainee detective. Charlie has met up with two rising stars of the local musical world – jazz players known as Lion and Leopard. He is keen to plan a big event with them, even though Mma Makutsi sees nothing but disaster ahead.
Mma Ramotswe would like to keep an eye on the situation, but she has to go up north, to the Okavango Delta, where her friends at an elephant sanctuary are battling with a campaign being waged against them. Mma Ramotswe's help is given with all the generosity of spirit that illuminates the character of this most beloved of lady detectives.
Audible Audio
First published September 15, 2026
About the author
Alexander McCall Smith
661 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 97 reviews
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.
September 23, 2026
RTC. . .
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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
October 3, 2026
3.75 rounded up. These books are like a cozy blanket and a hot cup of tea!
October 3, 2026
It’s like meeting back up with friends you haven’t seen in a while!
October 6, 2026
I've read every book in this series, and this is probably one of the best yet. Masterful storytelling.
September 19, 2026
Happy #1LDA release month to all who celebrate.
September 26, 2026
A charming tale of humans and animals, just as I’ve come to enjoy in this entire series!
September 29, 2026
A cozy cup of tea with Precious Ramotswe ♥️
September 13, 2026
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy. #partner
You have cozy mysteries and then you have The Big Cats Dance Party kind of cozy. Which gives an even calmer mystery with soothing characters and an almost sweet type of chaos. I read it in two sittings. A long enough story at 225 pages where the sweet does not become overly so.
You have cozy mysteries and then you have The Big Cats Dance Party kind of cozy. Which gives an even calmer mystery with soothing characters and an almost sweet type of chaos. I read it in two sittings. A long enough story at 225 pages where the sweet does not become overly so.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
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.
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.
September 9, 2026
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
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.
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.
October 2, 2026
I really enjoyed this sweet and charming little book. Alexander McCall Smith has such a lovely way of telling a story, and this one was a real pleasure to read.
The big cats are getting ready for a dance party, and watching everything come together is both fun and heartwarming. There is plenty of playful silliness, but the story also has a lovely message about friendship, being yourself, and enjoying time together.
What I loved most was how warm and easy the story feels. The characters are fun, the writing is simple and engaging, and there is a gentle sense of humor throughout. It is the kind of book that leaves you with a smile when you reach the end.
I’m a big fan of Alexander McCall Smith, so I was especially happy to read this one. His books always seem to have a little bit of kindness and wisdom tucked inside them, and The Big Cats Dance Party is no exception.
A sweet, fun story that would be wonderful to read together with children.
5 stars — another lovely book from an author I always enjoy.
ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The big cats are getting ready for a dance party, and watching everything come together is both fun and heartwarming. There is plenty of playful silliness, but the story also has a lovely message about friendship, being yourself, and enjoying time together.
What I loved most was how warm and easy the story feels. The characters are fun, the writing is simple and engaging, and there is a gentle sense of humor throughout. It is the kind of book that leaves you with a smile when you reach the end.
I’m a big fan of Alexander McCall Smith, so I was especially happy to read this one. His books always seem to have a little bit of kindness and wisdom tucked inside them, and The Big Cats Dance Party is no exception.
A sweet, fun story that would be wonderful to read together with children.
5 stars — another lovely book from an author I always enjoy.
ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 15, 2026
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.
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.
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