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Isabel Dalhousie #13
The Geometry of Holding Hands
Isabel finds herself entangled in some tricky familial and financial situations that will require all of her kindness, charm, and philosophical expertise to navigate.
Just when Isabel and Jamie finally seem to have some time to connect and unwind, a wealthy Edinburgh resident reaches out to Isabel with an unusual request--he would like her to become the executor of his large Highland estate. Though Isabel initially demurs, he presses on. He has only a short time to live, and, without any direct heirs, is struggling to determine which of his three cousins would be the best caretaker. Should it go to the bohemian artist, the savvy city property developer, or the quiet, unassuming bachelor?
As if this weren't enough to keep Isabel occupied, she's also spending more time helping her niece Cat at the deli. Cat, perennially unlucky in love, seems to have finally found her match in the leonine Leo. But Isabel is beginning to suspect that Leo might be interested in more than Cat's charms, namely her access to the family trust. Isabel will need to rely upon remarkable reserves of intelligence and compassion in order to give all parties exactly what they want and deserve--no more, and no less.
Just when Isabel and Jamie finally seem to have some time to connect and unwind, a wealthy Edinburgh resident reaches out to Isabel with an unusual request--he would like her to become the executor of his large Highland estate. Though Isabel initially demurs, he presses on. He has only a short time to live, and, without any direct heirs, is struggling to determine which of his three cousins would be the best caretaker. Should it go to the bohemian artist, the savvy city property developer, or the quiet, unassuming bachelor?
As if this weren't enough to keep Isabel occupied, she's also spending more time helping her niece Cat at the deli. Cat, perennially unlucky in love, seems to have finally found her match in the leonine Leo. But Isabel is beginning to suspect that Leo might be interested in more than Cat's charms, namely her access to the family trust. Isabel will need to rely upon remarkable reserves of intelligence and compassion in order to give all parties exactly what they want and deserve--no more, and no less.
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 21, 2020
390 people are currently reading
1390 people want to read
About the author
Alexander McCall Smith
669 books12.7k 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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January 8, 2022
3.5 stars
Alexander McCall Smith is probably best known for his 'Number 1 Ladies Detective Agency' series, but he's a prolific author who pens other series as well.
In this 13th book in the 'Isabel Dalhousie' series, ethicist Isabel tackles problems related to her niece's engagement, and deals with a dying man's unusual request. The book can be read as a standalone but familiarity with the characters is a plus.
*****
Isabel Dalhousie and her younger husband Jamie live in Edinburgh and have two little boys, Charlie and Magnus. Isabel is a philosopher who publishes and edits The Review of Applied Ethics.....
…..and Jamie is an elite musician who gives concerts, teaches music, and assists with a high school band.
Isabel is the prime beneficiary of a well-funded family trust, but is nevertheless reluctant to splurge on 'fripperies' like expensive restaurants, though she and Jamie do treat themselves on occasion.
Isabel's niece Cat owns an artisanal deli......
…..and has a single employee, a vulnerable young man named Eddie who was rescued from difficult circumstances.
Cat doesn't hesitate to call Isabel when the deli needs an extra pair of hands, and Isabel is always happy to help. Nevertheless the two women have a tricky relationship because Isabel's husband Jamie was once Cat's boyfriend - the only 'nice one.' Cat has a habit of taking up with bad boys, and her current fiancé Leo is a loutish 'hot body' with an eye on Cat's assets, including Cat's small share of the family trust.
Isabel is uncertain what to do about this because, on one hand she doesn't want to see Cat taken advantage of, and on the other hand she thinks people should be allowed to learn from their mistakes.
This kind of thinking is typical of Isabel, who always feels compelled to look at every side of an issue.....to tease out all the ethical implications. Moreover, Isabel's mind constantly wanders down tangents. For example, when Isabel is talking to Cat about the trustees of the family assets, MacGeorge and MacGregor, who travel to other countries to participate in Scottish folk dancing exhibitions.....
…..she starts to think about the men "playing golf together and having tea in the clubhouse, sharing a Dundee cake."
Then Isabel thinks about the trustees " sitting at a shared desk, counting Greek government bonds, a Greek dictionary at their side. She sees them doing a Zorba-like dance on the beach of a Greek Island, still wearing their identical glasses, the sun on their pallid Scottish skin, with, in the background, a chorus of local fisherman and their wives clapping their hands to the music."
Isabel's mind is frequently distracted with random thoughts like this.
In addition to being concerned about Cat, Isabel is thinking about a 68-year-old man named Iain Melrose, who has terminal cancer. Melrose approaches Isabel in a café, mentions acquaintances they have in common, and asks her to be the executor of his will.
Melrose is impressed with Isabel's moral philosophy and wants her to choose which of his relatives will inherit his estate - which is close to his heart, and which he wants to be well-managed. The candidates are artist Jack and his wife Hillary; developer Sarah; and accountant John. As it happens Isabel knows something compromising about one of these people, which complicates the situation.
Isabel's chats with Melrose drift into side issues like films as works of art; irresponsible capitalism; morality in countries that committed genocide like Germany, Cambodia, and Japan; unfulfilled good intentions; the pharmaceutical industry; and so on....all of which have ethical implications. Isabel indulges in this type of chitchat at every opportunity, including with her husband Jamie.
The various ethical issues Isabel tackles in this book come to affect her niece Cat; deli employee Eddie; Jamie's music student Mark; Melrose's heirs; Isabel's philosopher colleagues; and more. On a personal level, Isabel gets help from her housekeeper/nanny Grace and takes care of little Magnus and Charlie. Charlie is a biter, and Isabel agonizes over her remedy for this behavior.
Isabel also has unpleasant interactions with Cat's crude boyfriend Leo, and works on The Review of Applied Ethics (which I'd like to read if it was real 😊).
The plot is slight but engaging, and the book lends itself to a cozy read with a beverage and a snack. I'm curious to see what happens with Cat and Leo, so I look forward to the next entry in the series.
I think fans of Alexander McCall Smith's quiet musings would like the book.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author (Alexander McCall Smith) and the publisher (Pantheon Books) for a copy of the book.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot....
October 27, 2021
EXCERPT: Back at the house where Grace, doing a sleepover babysit, had already retired to her room, Jamie and Isabel sat in the kitchen and shared the last glass of wine from a bottle they found in the fridge. There were several books on the kitchen table: Jamie had been at a book sale and had come home with a book of poetry, a biography of Patrick Leigh Fermor, and a book on the Darien colony - Scotland's Central American disaster.
He picked up the book of poetry. 'Have you seen this?' he said to Isabel. 'Scottish poetry. There are woodcuts. Look at this one. Celtic.'
He opened the book at random and found what he was looking for. Three figures, in a typical Celtic circle, held hands with one another, arms in a complicated pattern of intermingling. 'I love that,' he said. 'I think it says everything there is to be said about helping one another and loving one another and being part of . . . well, I suppose of being part of something bigger than oneself.'
Isabel looked. 'The geometry of holding hands,' she said.
ABOUT 'THE GEOMETRY OF HOLDING HANDS': Just when Isabel and Jamie finally seem to have some time to connect and unwind, a wealthy Edinburgh resident reaches out to Isabel with an unusual request--he would like her to become the executor of his large Highland estate. Though Isabel initially demurs, he presses on. He has only a short time to live, and, without any direct heirs, is struggling to determine which of his three cousins would be the best caretaker. Should it go to the bohemian artist, the savvy city property developer, or the quiet, unassuming bachelor?
As if this weren't enough to keep Isabel occupied, she's also spending more time helping her niece Cat at the deli. Cat, perennially unlucky in love, seems to have finally found her match in the leonine Leo. But Isabel is beginning to suspect that Leo might be interested in more than Cat's charms, namely her access to the family trust. Isabel will need to rely upon remarkable reserves of intelligence and compassion in order to give all parties exactly what they want and deserve--no more, and no less.
MY THOUGHTS: The Geometry of Holding Hands is #13 in the Isabel Dalhousie series, and the first that I have read. In spite of having no idea of Elizabeth's back story, I have become quite enamoured with her. It was not an instantaneous attraction, but she grew on me as the book progressed after a bit of a wobble early on where there were a lot of references to characters from Greek Mythology, the Classics, and philosophers. But I soon recovered my equilibrium and became enmeshed in Isabel's story.
Isabel's thoughts have a tendency to run away with her, a trait that is both a blessing and a curse. She has trouble saying 'no' to anyone, and consequently tends to overburden herself with commitments and responsibilities. She is a working mother with two young children, lucky enough to have a wonderful husband in Jamie, and Grace, a gem of a housekeeper/nanny.
Isabel cares very much about doing 'the right thing', something that becomes obvious as The Geometry of Holding Hands progresses. But she is not a paragon of virtue. She can be quick to judge, before she has all the facts. She doesn't seem to spend a great deal of time with her children. But she is a caring and generous person who does not like to see others taken advantage of, although she frequently allows others to take advantage of her.
I loved the supporting characters too: Gordon MacGregor and Hamish MacGeorge, the sherry and soda drinking, shortbread eating, golf playing, Scottish dancing pair who administer Isabel's trust; Cat, Isabel's self-absorbed niece and her fiance Leo about whom, I must admit, felt somewhat uneasy, particularly after the scene where Isabel visits them unannounced at Cat's flat; and Eddie, Cat's employee at the deli who has suffered some great trauma leaving him rather vulnerable. And there are many more wonderful characters, real people all of them.
This is a quietly encompassing read, one that absorbed me and left me with a smile on my face, knowing that I will be meeting up with Isabel again.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#TheGeometryofHoldingHands #NetGalley
I: @alexandermccallsmith @knopfdoubleday
T: @McCallSmith #KnopfDoubleday
#contemporaryfiction #familydrama #sliceoflife
THE AUTHOR: Alexander McCall Smith 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.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group, Pantheon, for providing a digital ARC of The Geometry of Holding Hands by Alexander McCall Smith for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
He picked up the book of poetry. 'Have you seen this?' he said to Isabel. 'Scottish poetry. There are woodcuts. Look at this one. Celtic.'
He opened the book at random and found what he was looking for. Three figures, in a typical Celtic circle, held hands with one another, arms in a complicated pattern of intermingling. 'I love that,' he said. 'I think it says everything there is to be said about helping one another and loving one another and being part of . . . well, I suppose of being part of something bigger than oneself.'
Isabel looked. 'The geometry of holding hands,' she said.
ABOUT 'THE GEOMETRY OF HOLDING HANDS': Just when Isabel and Jamie finally seem to have some time to connect and unwind, a wealthy Edinburgh resident reaches out to Isabel with an unusual request--he would like her to become the executor of his large Highland estate. Though Isabel initially demurs, he presses on. He has only a short time to live, and, without any direct heirs, is struggling to determine which of his three cousins would be the best caretaker. Should it go to the bohemian artist, the savvy city property developer, or the quiet, unassuming bachelor?
As if this weren't enough to keep Isabel occupied, she's also spending more time helping her niece Cat at the deli. Cat, perennially unlucky in love, seems to have finally found her match in the leonine Leo. But Isabel is beginning to suspect that Leo might be interested in more than Cat's charms, namely her access to the family trust. Isabel will need to rely upon remarkable reserves of intelligence and compassion in order to give all parties exactly what they want and deserve--no more, and no less.
MY THOUGHTS: The Geometry of Holding Hands is #13 in the Isabel Dalhousie series, and the first that I have read. In spite of having no idea of Elizabeth's back story, I have become quite enamoured with her. It was not an instantaneous attraction, but she grew on me as the book progressed after a bit of a wobble early on where there were a lot of references to characters from Greek Mythology, the Classics, and philosophers. But I soon recovered my equilibrium and became enmeshed in Isabel's story.
Isabel's thoughts have a tendency to run away with her, a trait that is both a blessing and a curse. She has trouble saying 'no' to anyone, and consequently tends to overburden herself with commitments and responsibilities. She is a working mother with two young children, lucky enough to have a wonderful husband in Jamie, and Grace, a gem of a housekeeper/nanny.
Isabel cares very much about doing 'the right thing', something that becomes obvious as The Geometry of Holding Hands progresses. But she is not a paragon of virtue. She can be quick to judge, before she has all the facts. She doesn't seem to spend a great deal of time with her children. But she is a caring and generous person who does not like to see others taken advantage of, although she frequently allows others to take advantage of her.
I loved the supporting characters too: Gordon MacGregor and Hamish MacGeorge, the sherry and soda drinking, shortbread eating, golf playing, Scottish dancing pair who administer Isabel's trust; Cat, Isabel's self-absorbed niece and her fiance Leo about whom, I must admit, felt somewhat uneasy, particularly after the scene where Isabel visits them unannounced at Cat's flat; and Eddie, Cat's employee at the deli who has suffered some great trauma leaving him rather vulnerable. And there are many more wonderful characters, real people all of them.
This is a quietly encompassing read, one that absorbed me and left me with a smile on my face, knowing that I will be meeting up with Isabel again.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#TheGeometryofHoldingHands #NetGalley
I: @alexandermccallsmith @knopfdoubleday
T: @McCallSmith #KnopfDoubleday
#contemporaryfiction #familydrama #sliceoflife
THE AUTHOR: Alexander McCall Smith 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.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group, Pantheon, for providing a digital ARC of The Geometry of Holding Hands by Alexander McCall Smith for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
June 28, 2020
Reading a new Isabel Dalhousie novel is like sitting down for a long and cosy chat with a dear friend over a perfect cup of tea and a plate of rich buttery Scottish shortbread. Isabel's philosopher's brain is always going off on a tangent pondering fascinating angles to everyday topics.
Since her two children arrived, Isabel's life has got somewhat busy. As editor of the quarterly 'Review of Applied Ethics', she must find reviewers for books and articles and correspond with the authors and publishers. Then she is often called upon by her niece Cat to help out in her delicatessen at short notice and her willingness to help people also means she often agrees to undertake tasks she doesn't have time for.
In this installment she is grappling with a request to be the executor of an estate for someone she doesn't know and worrying about Cat's latest love interest in a string of unsuitable men. Fortunately, she has her lovely husband Jamie to share her burdens and offer her comfort and advice. This is another delightful chapter in Isabel's life with the promise of more to come as changes are in the air.
With many thanks to Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group and Netgalley for a copy to read
Since her two children arrived, Isabel's life has got somewhat busy. As editor of the quarterly 'Review of Applied Ethics', she must find reviewers for books and articles and correspond with the authors and publishers. Then she is often called upon by her niece Cat to help out in her delicatessen at short notice and her willingness to help people also means she often agrees to undertake tasks she doesn't have time for.
In this installment she is grappling with a request to be the executor of an estate for someone she doesn't know and worrying about Cat's latest love interest in a string of unsuitable men. Fortunately, she has her lovely husband Jamie to share her burdens and offer her comfort and advice. This is another delightful chapter in Isabel's life with the promise of more to come as changes are in the air.
With many thanks to Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group and Netgalley for a copy to read
May 3, 2020
To my mind Alexander McCall Smith is some kind of genius. He writes so well and he knows so much about everything. He has so many series running at the same time that I have a great deal of trouble keeping up with them all. I am sure he has never heard of writer's block and definitely never suffers from it. In fact I imagine his head must buzz all day just like his words do when he writes an Isabel Dalhousie novel.
Isabel is a philosopher and consequently she philosophises on anything and everything. She has the world's most perfect husband who understands her (luckily) and who can even enter into debates with her on occasion. She also gets herself involved in all sorts of issues which would be better left alone and sometimes misjudges events rather badly.
I have loved this series since book one and am always excited when another one comes out. Thank you so much to Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy - I will still go and buy a copy for my shelves after publication date!
Isabel is a philosopher and consequently she philosophises on anything and everything. She has the world's most perfect husband who understands her (luckily) and who can even enter into debates with her on occasion. She also gets herself involved in all sorts of issues which would be better left alone and sometimes misjudges events rather badly.
I have loved this series since book one and am always excited when another one comes out. Thank you so much to Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy - I will still go and buy a copy for my shelves after publication date!
August 17, 2020
This is book thirteen in the Sunday Philosopher Club Series. I have noted this is a series that either you love it or hate it. There is no middle ground. I happen to love it.
It is great to visit with Isabel Dalhousie again. Isabel is an ethicist and is busy musing over various ethical problems that she sees in everyday life. Isabel’s life has been getting busier with each edition. She is the editor/publisher of the “Journal of Applied Ethics” as well as a wife and mother of two small boys. In this issue she has been asked to be an executor of an estate of a stranger as a favor to a friend; and, Cat is getting married to someone Isabel does not approve of. Cat is going to sell the Deli and move onto a boat. It is fun to watch how Isabel navigates these problems. Isabel is pondering: “Where were the boundaries of your moral responsibility for others?” I enjoy Isabel’s musings and the tour of Edinburgh.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is six hours and fifty-nine minutes. Davina Porter does an excellent job narrating the book. Porter is one of my favorite narrators. She has been narratoring for many years and won many awards.
It is great to visit with Isabel Dalhousie again. Isabel is an ethicist and is busy musing over various ethical problems that she sees in everyday life. Isabel’s life has been getting busier with each edition. She is the editor/publisher of the “Journal of Applied Ethics” as well as a wife and mother of two small boys. In this issue she has been asked to be an executor of an estate of a stranger as a favor to a friend; and, Cat is getting married to someone Isabel does not approve of. Cat is going to sell the Deli and move onto a boat. It is fun to watch how Isabel navigates these problems. Isabel is pondering: “Where were the boundaries of your moral responsibility for others?” I enjoy Isabel’s musings and the tour of Edinburgh.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is six hours and fifty-nine minutes. Davina Porter does an excellent job narrating the book. Porter is one of my favorite narrators. She has been narratoring for many years and won many awards.
May 11, 2020
Isabel recalled the debate. “I think I remember her now. She doesn’t mince her words.”
“No,” said Jamie. “She sautés them and they come out pretty hot.”
The Geometry of Holding Hands is the thirteenth book in the Isabel Dalhousie series by Scottish author, Alexander McCall Smith. As a philosopher, Isabel Dalhousie always carefully considers what she says and does, be it a comment, a favour or an investment: the minutiae of everyday life are ripe for philosophical contemplation. Thus topics as diverse as boys in dresses, making fun of unfortunate names, stewardship of land vs profit-based approach, and the morality of inherited assets (investing ethically and using it well are key), are up for deliberation and discussion.
In this instalment of our favourite philosopher’s life: a certain incident in a restaurant results in Isabel being asked by a stranger to be the executor for his estate, which turns out to be much more complicated than she initially had anticipated; a champagne cork accident sees Isabel taking Eddie to the A&E.
Isabel’s niece, Cat, true to form, takes Isabel’s generous nature for granted. Then, Cat’s announcement about her relationship with the self-satisfied Leo leads Jamie to later congratulate Isabel on her breathtaking insincerity. Isabel thinks: “Surely there must be a category of justifiable insincerity, covering those social anodynes that people exchange simply to oil the wheels of daily life.” This is followed by yet more disturbing developments that threaten a major upheaval to the status quo.
Isabel’s thoughts regularly veer off on tangents: “Hers was a particular form of consciousness, she thought: not a stream of consciousness but a meandering, deltoid consciousness, in which memories and speculations—fantasies, even—rubbed shoulders with awareness of the present.”
As usual, Isabel agrees to help when she really should not get involved; as usual, she leaps to conclusions based on the flimsiest of evidence; as usual, Jamie is supportive and understanding and gives good advice; and as usual, there are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments both in dialogue and deed. Another delightfully entertaining dose of Alexander McCall Smith.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Knopf Doubleday
“No,” said Jamie. “She sautés them and they come out pretty hot.”
The Geometry of Holding Hands is the thirteenth book in the Isabel Dalhousie series by Scottish author, Alexander McCall Smith. As a philosopher, Isabel Dalhousie always carefully considers what she says and does, be it a comment, a favour or an investment: the minutiae of everyday life are ripe for philosophical contemplation. Thus topics as diverse as boys in dresses, making fun of unfortunate names, stewardship of land vs profit-based approach, and the morality of inherited assets (investing ethically and using it well are key), are up for deliberation and discussion.
In this instalment of our favourite philosopher’s life: a certain incident in a restaurant results in Isabel being asked by a stranger to be the executor for his estate, which turns out to be much more complicated than she initially had anticipated; a champagne cork accident sees Isabel taking Eddie to the A&E.
Isabel’s niece, Cat, true to form, takes Isabel’s generous nature for granted. Then, Cat’s announcement about her relationship with the self-satisfied Leo leads Jamie to later congratulate Isabel on her breathtaking insincerity. Isabel thinks: “Surely there must be a category of justifiable insincerity, covering those social anodynes that people exchange simply to oil the wheels of daily life.” This is followed by yet more disturbing developments that threaten a major upheaval to the status quo.
Isabel’s thoughts regularly veer off on tangents: “Hers was a particular form of consciousness, she thought: not a stream of consciousness but a meandering, deltoid consciousness, in which memories and speculations—fantasies, even—rubbed shoulders with awareness of the present.”
As usual, Isabel agrees to help when she really should not get involved; as usual, she leaps to conclusions based on the flimsiest of evidence; as usual, Jamie is supportive and understanding and gives good advice; and as usual, there are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments both in dialogue and deed. Another delightfully entertaining dose of Alexander McCall Smith.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Knopf Doubleday
July 27, 2020
Few hours spent in Alexander McCall Smith's world was just amazing, I don't know how quickly time passed by. I made a grave mistake by jumping right into this latest installment after having read only the first book in this series. What I remember from the first book is the lovely conversations between Isabel and Grace. Now, I would have to go back to book No.2 to read the series chronologically.
This book was absolutely delightful. Her and her tangent thoughts are what I love the most about this book. If I ever get to meet Isabel in real life, I'm sure I'll come across as a dumb-chick to her. I could relate to almost all the philosophies she talks about.
There are not a lot of things happening but Isabel's musings makes it feel like a lot is happening. In this book, Isabel is asked to be an executor for someone who she has a moral obligation towards. And definitely Cat with her unsuitable suitor was also on Isabel's mind. The conversations between Isabel and Jamie at the end of the day are just so heart-warming. Hoping to see more involvement of Charlie and Magnus in the later books.
My thanks to Netgalley for an opportunity to review this book.
This book was absolutely delightful. Her and her tangent thoughts are what I love the most about this book. If I ever get to meet Isabel in real life, I'm sure I'll come across as a dumb-chick to her. I could relate to almost all the philosophies she talks about.
There are not a lot of things happening but Isabel's musings makes it feel like a lot is happening. In this book, Isabel is asked to be an executor for someone who she has a moral obligation towards. And definitely Cat with her unsuitable suitor was also on Isabel's mind. The conversations between Isabel and Jamie at the end of the day are just so heart-warming. Hoping to see more involvement of Charlie and Magnus in the later books.
My thanks to Netgalley for an opportunity to review this book.
July 27, 2020
This is the thirteenth book in the Isabel Dalhousie series by Alexander McCall Smith. At the beginning of this series, Isabel was a single young woman and she has not progressed to being married and having two children. To the extent that earlier books help the reader understand Isabel’s moral compass, having read the earlier books is helpful. Beyond that, although there are a couple of recurring characters, it isn’t a requirement for the reader to understand this novel, and the book is complete within itself.
Although it is advertised as a mystery, it isn’t a mystery in the classic sense of a dead body, multiple suspects, and a detective who eventually solves the case. Rather the emphasis should be on the word philosophical, as that is the way the mystery is defined. In the novel, Isabel is confronted with one overarching philosophical challenge and numerous others to which she brings her particular focus on doing the right thing, the honorable thing as is judged by her vast study of philosophy.
The book moves along at a steady pace, with a warmth and pleasant atmosphere that is typical of Smith’s writing. His ability with prose is unique, and the purposeful way Isobel responds to situations is encouraging to anyone who may be hoping to find a more ethical answer to situations that occur. Isobel is a charming companion with whom to spend some time, and might even be someone the reader would enjoy knowing in real life if that were possible.
I found this a welcome and refreshing change in contrast to current headlines which seem to feature a great deal of strife, from medical to political. It was relaxing to drift into the world of Isobel and Scotland and be inspired by a character who participates in what might be called purposeful living.
There are no major reveals in this book, and nothing that will set the heart racing. Rather it is the type of book that is easily read and at the same time can be easily interrupted. For anyone who likes delightful prose and the gentle style that Alexander McCall Smith is known for, this is the perfect read. My thanks to Knopf Doubleday Publishing Publishing, Pantheon Group and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Although it is advertised as a mystery, it isn’t a mystery in the classic sense of a dead body, multiple suspects, and a detective who eventually solves the case. Rather the emphasis should be on the word philosophical, as that is the way the mystery is defined. In the novel, Isabel is confronted with one overarching philosophical challenge and numerous others to which she brings her particular focus on doing the right thing, the honorable thing as is judged by her vast study of philosophy.
The book moves along at a steady pace, with a warmth and pleasant atmosphere that is typical of Smith’s writing. His ability with prose is unique, and the purposeful way Isobel responds to situations is encouraging to anyone who may be hoping to find a more ethical answer to situations that occur. Isobel is a charming companion with whom to spend some time, and might even be someone the reader would enjoy knowing in real life if that were possible.
I found this a welcome and refreshing change in contrast to current headlines which seem to feature a great deal of strife, from medical to political. It was relaxing to drift into the world of Isobel and Scotland and be inspired by a character who participates in what might be called purposeful living.
There are no major reveals in this book, and nothing that will set the heart racing. Rather it is the type of book that is easily read and at the same time can be easily interrupted. For anyone who likes delightful prose and the gentle style that Alexander McCall Smith is known for, this is the perfect read. My thanks to Knopf Doubleday Publishing Publishing, Pantheon Group and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 10, 2020
This is the thirteenth volume in the Isabel Dalhousie series. I buy each volume as it is published in hardcover. I love this series because of its Edinburgh setting, and because the main character is a philosopher and deeply concerned with ethics. She is also a person who (almost) never turns down a request for help.
In this volume, the author, Alexander McCall Smith, includes some Scots vocabulary that was new to me. He also discusses several Scottish landscape painters, and includes two of Edinburgh’s art museums in the story – the Scottish National Portrait Gallery and the Scottish National Gallery. I am grateful for these museums' free entry which is also a feature of pubic museums in Washington, DC. There small details are exactly why I continue to go back to this series.
The book features the usual cast of characters who keep Isabel on her toes. I won’t say more because through the course of the series, Isabel’s life has changed. I don’t want to share anything that would spoil things for those who haven’t started the books. It is a series that should be started at the beginning and read in order.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
In this volume, the author, Alexander McCall Smith, includes some Scots vocabulary that was new to me. He also discusses several Scottish landscape painters, and includes two of Edinburgh’s art museums in the story – the Scottish National Portrait Gallery and the Scottish National Gallery. I am grateful for these museums' free entry which is also a feature of pubic museums in Washington, DC. There small details are exactly why I continue to go back to this series.
The book features the usual cast of characters who keep Isabel on her toes. I won’t say more because through the course of the series, Isabel’s life has changed. I don’t want to share anything that would spoil things for those who haven’t started the books. It is a series that should be started at the beginning and read in order.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
May 16, 2020
Isabel is a resident of Edinburgh who edits a philosophy journal, married to Jamie, and mother of two. She has a difficult niece named Cat, recently engaged to a rather repugnant man who Isabel and Jamie think is after her money. Isabel agrees to be executor of the estate of a terminally ill man whom she just met, then has second thoughts about it. I like following these characters, and McCall Smith continues their stories capably in this newest installment. Thanks to the publisher and to Netgalley for this ARC.
October 23, 2025
3.5 stars.
This is mostly a quiet, introspective read, as most of the books in this series are, with a bit of family drama. The main character’s niece becomes less and less likable with each volume. Otherwise I’d have given this four stars.
Isabel and Jamie are an interesting couple and Isabel is always looking out for the good, she wants to help ppl she cares about, sometimes at significant personal expense, much like Mma Ramotswe in AMS’s more well-known series.
Kat, Isabel’s niece, has linked up with a man everyone else recognizes is no good and in it for her money, but she is blind to it as women often are. Hopefully it won’t take too long for her to realize this but maybe her story will be off-screen in the next book, which I plan to read soon.
If you have any interest in moral philosophy, which is much more interesting than it sounds, then this might be a good series to try, particularly if you’re in the mood for a gentle read that moves slowly. I love this series for insomnia listening, as it’s interesting without being too exciting or suspenseful.
Davina Porter narrates every book in this series and does a terrific job imo.
This is mostly a quiet, introspective read, as most of the books in this series are, with a bit of family drama. The main character’s niece becomes less and less likable with each volume. Otherwise I’d have given this four stars.
Isabel and Jamie are an interesting couple and Isabel is always looking out for the good, she wants to help ppl she cares about, sometimes at significant personal expense, much like Mma Ramotswe in AMS’s more well-known series.
Kat, Isabel’s niece, has linked up with a man everyone else recognizes is no good and in it for her money, but she is blind to it as women often are. Hopefully it won’t take too long for her to realize this but maybe her story will be off-screen in the next book, which I plan to read soon.
If you have any interest in moral philosophy, which is much more interesting than it sounds, then this might be a good series to try, particularly if you’re in the mood for a gentle read that moves slowly. I love this series for insomnia listening, as it’s interesting without being too exciting or suspenseful.
Davina Porter narrates every book in this series and does a terrific job imo.
July 21, 2023
I wanted to do a cozy and this novel was recommended. Cozy it was, and Scotland on the horison was a bonus.
A Character-driven and philosophical journey came next.
I am a devoted fan of The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series and extremely grateful to Alexander McCall Smith for his perpetual celebration of the goodness of our world, despite all the challenges since humankind arrived on this planet. Five stars for that.
Why three stars then? I did not find the protagonist exciting or likable at all.
Overall a relaxing read.
Recommended? I'm not sure. Be your own guide.
A Character-driven and philosophical journey came next.
I am a devoted fan of The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series and extremely grateful to Alexander McCall Smith for his perpetual celebration of the goodness of our world, despite all the challenges since humankind arrived on this planet. Five stars for that.
Why three stars then? I did not find the protagonist exciting or likable at all.
Overall a relaxing read.
Recommended? I'm not sure. Be your own guide.
October 23, 2020
Isabel recalled the debate. “I think I remember her now. She doesn’t mince her words.”
“No,” said Jamie. “She sautés them and they come out pretty hot.”
The Geometry of Holding Hands is the thirteenth book in the Isabel Dalhousie series by Scottish author, Alexander McCall Smith. The audio version is narrated by Stephanie Moore. As a philosopher, Isabel Dalhousie always carefully considers what she says and does, be it a comment, a favour or an investment: the minutiae of everyday life are ripe for philosophical contemplation. Thus topics as diverse as boys in dresses, making fun of unfortunate names, stewardship of land vs profit-based approach, and the morality of inherited assets (investing ethically and using it well are key), are up for deliberation and discussion.
In this instalment of our favourite philosopher’s life: a certain incident in a restaurant results in Isabel being asked by a stranger to be the executor for his estate, which turns out to be much more complicated than she initially had anticipated; a champagne cork accident sees Isabel taking Eddie to the A&E.
Isabel’s niece, Cat, true to form, takes Isabel’s generous nature for granted. Then, Cat’s announcement about her relationship with the self-satisfied Leo leads Jamie to later congratulate Isabel on her breathtaking insincerity. Isabel thinks: “Surely there must be a category of justifiable insincerity, covering those social anodynes that people exchange simply to oil the wheels of daily life.” This is followed by yet more disturbing developments that threaten a major upheaval to the status quo.
Isabel’s thoughts regularly veer off on tangents: “Hers was a particular form of consciousness, she thought: not a stream of consciousness but a meandering, deltoid consciousness, in which memories and speculations—fantasies, even—rubbed shoulders with awareness of the present.”
As usual, Isabel agrees to help when she really should not get involved; as usual, she leaps to conclusions based on the flimsiest of evidence; as usual, Jamie is supportive and understanding and gives good advice; and as usual, there are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments both in dialogue and deed. Another delightfully entertaining dose of Alexander McCall Smith.
“No,” said Jamie. “She sautés them and they come out pretty hot.”
The Geometry of Holding Hands is the thirteenth book in the Isabel Dalhousie series by Scottish author, Alexander McCall Smith. The audio version is narrated by Stephanie Moore. As a philosopher, Isabel Dalhousie always carefully considers what she says and does, be it a comment, a favour or an investment: the minutiae of everyday life are ripe for philosophical contemplation. Thus topics as diverse as boys in dresses, making fun of unfortunate names, stewardship of land vs profit-based approach, and the morality of inherited assets (investing ethically and using it well are key), are up for deliberation and discussion.
In this instalment of our favourite philosopher’s life: a certain incident in a restaurant results in Isabel being asked by a stranger to be the executor for his estate, which turns out to be much more complicated than she initially had anticipated; a champagne cork accident sees Isabel taking Eddie to the A&E.
Isabel’s niece, Cat, true to form, takes Isabel’s generous nature for granted. Then, Cat’s announcement about her relationship with the self-satisfied Leo leads Jamie to later congratulate Isabel on her breathtaking insincerity. Isabel thinks: “Surely there must be a category of justifiable insincerity, covering those social anodynes that people exchange simply to oil the wheels of daily life.” This is followed by yet more disturbing developments that threaten a major upheaval to the status quo.
Isabel’s thoughts regularly veer off on tangents: “Hers was a particular form of consciousness, she thought: not a stream of consciousness but a meandering, deltoid consciousness, in which memories and speculations—fantasies, even—rubbed shoulders with awareness of the present.”
As usual, Isabel agrees to help when she really should not get involved; as usual, she leaps to conclusions based on the flimsiest of evidence; as usual, Jamie is supportive and understanding and gives good advice; and as usual, there are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments both in dialogue and deed. Another delightfully entertaining dose of Alexander McCall Smith.
September 17, 2020
3.5
I'm not sure why this novel dragged so much for me until about the 2/3 mark - I guess it must be a pacing issue even though I usually enjoy the quirky, meandering pace of this series. For quite a while reading it felt almost tedious, and my usual reservations about the perfection of Isabel and Jamie's marriage and their life in general felt stronger than ever. It seemed to me, also, that Isabel's responses to people and events veered into judgmentalism more often than usual. All the same, I'll certainly read the next one, not least because I want to find out , but also because I do still enjoy Isabel's musings.
I'm not sure why this novel dragged so much for me until about the 2/3 mark - I guess it must be a pacing issue even though I usually enjoy the quirky, meandering pace of this series. For quite a while reading it felt almost tedious, and my usual reservations about the perfection of Isabel and Jamie's marriage and their life in general felt stronger than ever. It seemed to me, also, that Isabel's responses to people and events veered into judgmentalism more often than usual. All the same, I'll certainly read the next one, not least because I want to find out , but also because I do still enjoy Isabel's musings.
April 28, 2021
Meh. An acceptable diversion for the evening of November 3, 2020 - like hot chocolate with marshmallows and a bag of Oreo cookies. You don't even really feel better after you've finished, but it's better than leftover boiled cabbage. Isabel Dalhouse is a nice person. She has a perfect house in a splendid city, a beyond-perfect husband, perfectly unmessy and painless pregnancies that produce charming children, a totally devoted and utterly reliable babysitter on call at all times, and more money than God. She muses - in the abstract - about ethical questions. People have problems, she whips out her checkbook, and problem solved, in a sweet, harmonious way. The end.
It was an escape that served its purpose. but - like Land of Long Lost Friends - I think I'm done with McCall Smith. Too treacly, too insubstantial, too... patronizing? Privileged? Just unserious, pretty stuff - depends on your tolerance for cotton candy.
juliestielstra.com
It was an escape that served its purpose. but - like Land of Long Lost Friends - I think I'm done with McCall Smith. Too treacly, too insubstantial, too... patronizing? Privileged? Just unserious, pretty stuff - depends on your tolerance for cotton candy.
juliestielstra.com
July 5, 2020
Although I am a fan of and have read all of McCall Smith’s The No. 1 Ladies’Detective Agency series, this is my first Isabel Dalhousie novel. A rather privileged woman as the result of a family trust with a loving husband and two small children as well as full time help, Isabel is a philosopher who edits the quarterly “Review of Applied Ethics” and helps out in her niece’s delicatessen when needed. In this installment we are invited to observe a slice of her life as she deals with this niece as well as a stranger who asks her to be executor of his will.
This is a quick, charming read. Isabel is wise and kind, but a somewhat insecure woman. I did enjoy her observations of life and how her mind wandered from one thought to another when encountering other people.
This is a quick, charming read. Isabel is wise and kind, but a somewhat insecure woman. I did enjoy her observations of life and how her mind wandered from one thought to another when encountering other people.
August 31, 2020
I really enjoy escaping into this series and into Isabel's life . . . she is such an appealing character, living in Edinburgh, editing her philosophy journal, enjoying life with her musician husband, Jamie, and their little boys, Charley and Magnus. There's drama (but nothing shattering) and humor, a welcome relief from this moment in time.
This may be the best one yet in the series. 4.5!
This may be the best one yet in the series. 4.5!
August 13, 2020
It's a good summer when you get to spend time in Edinburgh with Isabel.
July 4, 2020
I loved the The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency and its sequels — until I didn’t. However, I still adore another of Alexander McCall Smith’s series, this one set in Edinburgh. I still anticipate my annual meeting with philosopher Isabel Dalhousie — that’s literal, not metaphorical, as she is the editor of the Review of Applied Ethics. Does the charitable Isabel overthink things? Of course she does. But she’s so fair, so generous that I cannot help trying to emulate her.
In this, the 13th novel in the series, Isabel faces several dilemmas arising from the same moral quandary: What do we owe strangers? How much do we meddle in the lives of those we love?
Meeting again Isabel’s much-younger husband Jamie, Isabel’s self-absorbed niece Cat, beloved housekeeper Grace and Isabel’s two young children, year after year, proved as delightful as always. Isabel’s moral predicaments are ordinary ones, which is why they’re such an invitation for us to examine our own lives. Dr. McCall Smith, I’ll read you again at same time next year!
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley, Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group and Pantheon in exchange for an honest review.
In this, the 13th novel in the series, Isabel faces several dilemmas arising from the same moral quandary: What do we owe strangers? How much do we meddle in the lives of those we love?
Meeting again Isabel’s much-younger husband Jamie, Isabel’s self-absorbed niece Cat, beloved housekeeper Grace and Isabel’s two young children, year after year, proved as delightful as always. Isabel’s moral predicaments are ordinary ones, which is why they’re such an invitation for us to examine our own lives. Dr. McCall Smith, I’ll read you again at same time next year!
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley, Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group and Pantheon in exchange for an honest review.
August 9, 2020
Why have I not read Alexander McCall Smith’s Isabel Dalhousie series? That’s a great question to ask myself because I’ve thoroughly enjoyed his Precious Ramotswe series. While searching for something to read that was absorbing but not intense I happened to pick up “The Geometry of Holding Hands” and I’m happy I did. Like the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series, the “The Geometry of Holding Hands” contains quirky characters and plenty of charm. This whimsical and entertaining book turned out to be just what I needed in these strange and troubling times, and even better, there are 12 previous books to read!
Thank you to Knopf Doubleday and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Knopf Doubleday and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
September 8, 2020
I read a negative review of The Geometry of Holding Hands that said something like "Nothing happens!" After reading it, I have to agree: nothing happens in this book in kind of the same way nothing happens in a poem.
Life can seem lackadaisical, it just goes along with a little something here and another little something there. When you get to my age, however, you may start to realize that all those little somethings add up. That's the thing about Isabel Dalhousie - she adds things up, and she shows the sum. I really love these books....
Life can seem lackadaisical, it just goes along with a little something here and another little something there. When you get to my age, however, you may start to realize that all those little somethings add up. That's the thing about Isabel Dalhousie - she adds things up, and she shows the sum. I really love these books....
June 21, 2022
Another good installment of the Isabel Dalhousie series; number thirteen with the latest book The Sweet Remnants of Summer being released July of this year. Each book can be read as a stand alone but enjoyed so much better reading them in order. Not to everyone’s taste; just a simple series of Isabel and her family life in Edinburg, Scotland.
May 20, 2020
Thank you to Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. The book will be published on July 28th, 2020.
An Isabel Dalhousie book. For those unfamiliar with McCall Smith’s less well-known protagonist (Mma Ramotswe of Number One Ladies Detective Agency is far more popular), Isabel is a philosopher of independent means. She serves as the publisher and editor of the Review of Applied Ethics. What an unusual character on which to base a series! These books center around questions of morality, and amidst the light plots that loosely guide each episode, we are treated to a constant stream of philosophical musings and epiphanies. I love the fact that rather than read the (probably) dry research papers that populate Isabel’s Review, we instead get to hear the intriguing summaries.
In this installment, Isabel is asked to serve as executor of a dying man’s trust while simultaneously coming to terms with her niece’s engagement to an (to Isabel) unsuitable man. These situations give rise to musings about the accidents of love, moral obligations, moral strangers, the sphere of moral proximity, and what it means to act graciously. Populated by the educational elite of Edinburgh, this series also gives rise to discussions on a wide variety of topics — this time including Himalayan languages and Scottish Country dancing.
I have a very good vocabulary and have read most of McCall Smith’s books and yet he *still* surprises me with new words. This time: Gluckschmerz and commensality. Gluckschmerz is feeling pain in the face of another’s success — the opposite of Schadenfreude. Commensality refers to the positive social interactions that are associated with people eating together.
My favorite phrase in the book: “the suppurating corruption of greed.”
An Isabel Dalhousie book. For those unfamiliar with McCall Smith’s less well-known protagonist (Mma Ramotswe of Number One Ladies Detective Agency is far more popular), Isabel is a philosopher of independent means. She serves as the publisher and editor of the Review of Applied Ethics. What an unusual character on which to base a series! These books center around questions of morality, and amidst the light plots that loosely guide each episode, we are treated to a constant stream of philosophical musings and epiphanies. I love the fact that rather than read the (probably) dry research papers that populate Isabel’s Review, we instead get to hear the intriguing summaries.
In this installment, Isabel is asked to serve as executor of a dying man’s trust while simultaneously coming to terms with her niece’s engagement to an (to Isabel) unsuitable man. These situations give rise to musings about the accidents of love, moral obligations, moral strangers, the sphere of moral proximity, and what it means to act graciously. Populated by the educational elite of Edinburgh, this series also gives rise to discussions on a wide variety of topics — this time including Himalayan languages and Scottish Country dancing.
I have a very good vocabulary and have read most of McCall Smith’s books and yet he *still* surprises me with new words. This time: Gluckschmerz and commensality. Gluckschmerz is feeling pain in the face of another’s success — the opposite of Schadenfreude. Commensality refers to the positive social interactions that are associated with people eating together.
My favorite phrase in the book: “the suppurating corruption of greed.”
March 13, 2021
Another sweet story in this series. All of the usual characters are present: Isabel, Jamie, Charlie and Magnus (their sons), Grace (their housekeeper/nanny), Cat (Isabel's cousin and Jamie's former girlfriend), Eddy (works at Cat's deli). Cat's boyfriend Leo is back, and there is quite an interesting subplot development with Cat and Leo. The story centers around Isabel's willingness to help, this time taking on the obligation of being an executor for a man she's just met.
As always, Alexander McCall Smith writes with gentle and wry humor. It's clear how much he loves Scotland and Edinburgh in particular, and how much he loves these characters. If you liked previous books in this series, you're bound to like this one as well.
As always, Alexander McCall Smith writes with gentle and wry humor. It's clear how much he loves Scotland and Edinburgh in particular, and how much he loves these characters. If you liked previous books in this series, you're bound to like this one as well.
June 5, 2020
I'd like to thank NetGalley, Alexander McCall Smith, and Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group, Pantheon Books, for the advanced reader's copy in exchange for my unbiased review.
The Geometry of Holding Hands is the 13th book in the Isabel Dalhousie series and it certainly satisfies. The reader is updated on Isabel and her family: her husband, Jamie, and her two little boys, Charlie and Magnus, as well as their housekeeper, Grace.
As usual, Isabel gets in over her head with her commitments. A distant acquaintance asks her to be the executor of his estate – how can she say no? Cat asks her to work at the deli more – how can she say no?
But when Cat makes some life changes that affect Isabel, co-worker Eddie, and the family trust, Isabel becomes concerned. How can she make everything come out right?
After some thinking, she involves Jamie, and together they make honest, ethical decisions that seem to satisfy everyone – even the reader!
Even after 13 books, Isabel and her crew still feel like family members that the reader wants to keep up with and know that they are all OK. Another relaxing, satisfying visit to Edinburgh!
The Geometry of Holding Hands is the 13th book in the Isabel Dalhousie series and it certainly satisfies. The reader is updated on Isabel and her family: her husband, Jamie, and her two little boys, Charlie and Magnus, as well as their housekeeper, Grace.
As usual, Isabel gets in over her head with her commitments. A distant acquaintance asks her to be the executor of his estate – how can she say no? Cat asks her to work at the deli more – how can she say no?
But when Cat makes some life changes that affect Isabel, co-worker Eddie, and the family trust, Isabel becomes concerned. How can she make everything come out right?
After some thinking, she involves Jamie, and together they make honest, ethical decisions that seem to satisfy everyone – even the reader!
Even after 13 books, Isabel and her crew still feel like family members that the reader wants to keep up with and know that they are all OK. Another relaxing, satisfying visit to Edinburgh!
September 4, 2020
3.5*
‘The happiness of others was often inexplicable. People got by; people sought different things; they felt their way through the accidental circumstances of their lives. They snatched at small scraps of happiness which, sometimes to the surprise of others, were enough.’
Alexander McCall Smith could write on a serviette and I would pay to read it - it’s pure and it’s simple. I have read some but not all the 'Isabel Dalhousie' series (this volume is number 13) but luckily they can be read as a standalone. These are quick and easy reads that satiate my wish for Alexander’s writing - a quiet, reflective escape to consider life with a cup of tea in hand. For you see, Isabel being the philosopher she is, often finds herself contemplating various everyday ethical issues that, in turn, encourage the reader to do likewise.
“Things happen,” he said. “We don’t like all of them.” Isabel reflected that sometimes she liked very little of what was happening in the world. “But you have to accept things,” Jamie insisted. He remembered Isabel saying something about the Stoics and acceptance. “Didn’t the Stoics say, ‘Accept what you can’t influence or change’?”
On this occasion her life is increasingly getting busier with two small children and still editor of an Ethics Journal. There are always a couple of issues in each book and it is Isabel’s rumination on each of them that I find so appealing. This is why I love Alexander’s writing - he can take something so simple and ponder the case from all sides - he gives voice, through Isabel’s musings, of wider world issues. Add to this a delightful few days in the celebrated city of Edinburgh and there is much to endear these books.
‘Perhaps it was only a prolonged education, coupled with the security it brought, that encouraged nuanced thinking. Isabel sometimes wondered whether liberalism was most enthusiastically practised by those who could afford it: you could be generous to others if the likelihood of your ever wanting for anything was remote; you could be kind to asylum seekers if they would never take up resources you would need yourself; you could be tolerant of crime if there was not much of it in your neighbourhood. And so on...’
Much like the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series which I simply adore, The Geometry of Holding Hands has some quirky characters, everyday angst and deliberations to reflect upon over a cup of tea. It’s whimsical and fun, light and easy. Not a bad thing in these uncertain days to lose yourself for a short while.
‘Three figures, in a typical Celtic circle, held hands with one another, arms in a complicated pattern of intermingling. “I love that,” he said. “I think it says everything there is to be said about helping one another and loving one another and being part of . . . well, I suppose being part of something bigger than oneself.” Isabel looked. “The geometry of holding hands,” she said.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
‘The happiness of others was often inexplicable. People got by; people sought different things; they felt their way through the accidental circumstances of their lives. They snatched at small scraps of happiness which, sometimes to the surprise of others, were enough.’
Alexander McCall Smith could write on a serviette and I would pay to read it - it’s pure and it’s simple. I have read some but not all the 'Isabel Dalhousie' series (this volume is number 13) but luckily they can be read as a standalone. These are quick and easy reads that satiate my wish for Alexander’s writing - a quiet, reflective escape to consider life with a cup of tea in hand. For you see, Isabel being the philosopher she is, often finds herself contemplating various everyday ethical issues that, in turn, encourage the reader to do likewise.
“Things happen,” he said. “We don’t like all of them.” Isabel reflected that sometimes she liked very little of what was happening in the world. “But you have to accept things,” Jamie insisted. He remembered Isabel saying something about the Stoics and acceptance. “Didn’t the Stoics say, ‘Accept what you can’t influence or change’?”
On this occasion her life is increasingly getting busier with two small children and still editor of an Ethics Journal. There are always a couple of issues in each book and it is Isabel’s rumination on each of them that I find so appealing. This is why I love Alexander’s writing - he can take something so simple and ponder the case from all sides - he gives voice, through Isabel’s musings, of wider world issues. Add to this a delightful few days in the celebrated city of Edinburgh and there is much to endear these books.
‘Perhaps it was only a prolonged education, coupled with the security it brought, that encouraged nuanced thinking. Isabel sometimes wondered whether liberalism was most enthusiastically practised by those who could afford it: you could be generous to others if the likelihood of your ever wanting for anything was remote; you could be kind to asylum seekers if they would never take up resources you would need yourself; you could be tolerant of crime if there was not much of it in your neighbourhood. And so on...’
Much like the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series which I simply adore, The Geometry of Holding Hands has some quirky characters, everyday angst and deliberations to reflect upon over a cup of tea. It’s whimsical and fun, light and easy. Not a bad thing in these uncertain days to lose yourself for a short while.
‘Three figures, in a typical Celtic circle, held hands with one another, arms in a complicated pattern of intermingling. “I love that,” he said. “I think it says everything there is to be said about helping one another and loving one another and being part of . . . well, I suppose being part of something bigger than oneself.” Isabel looked. “The geometry of holding hands,” she said.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
August 12, 2020
I love to spend some happy hours immersed in the thoughts of Isabel Dalhousie, philosopher extraordinaire. Her quiet Edinburgh life hums along as she responds to friends' (and strangers') requests for advice in her usual selfless way. In this book her niece becomes engaged, which has a strong ripple effect in Isabel's world.
October 18, 2020
A charming new addition to Alexander McCall Smith’s saga about Isabel Dalhousie, the intrepid Scottish philosopher. She once again looks at life differently than the average person, weighing things morally.
“You never know how brave you are going to be—until the occasion arises.” So one can never assume that he or she is not brave. They often meet the challenge to step up and do the right thing.
Isabel had “a theory of moral proximity that governed her decisions as to when she was obliged to act.” This made her duty bound to assist someone, even one with only a tenuous connection to her. And it kept her quite busy.
“It’s better to have good intentions that you don’t act on than not have any good intentions at all.” (Like the gym membership bought but not used.) Even though her foray into other people’s business is occasionally misguided, things usually turn out for the best. And who can wish for more.
“You never know how brave you are going to be—until the occasion arises.” So one can never assume that he or she is not brave. They often meet the challenge to step up and do the right thing.
Isabel had “a theory of moral proximity that governed her decisions as to when she was obliged to act.” This made her duty bound to assist someone, even one with only a tenuous connection to her. And it kept her quite busy.
“It’s better to have good intentions that you don’t act on than not have any good intentions at all.” (Like the gym membership bought but not used.) Even though her foray into other people’s business is occasionally misguided, things usually turn out for the best. And who can wish for more.
June 26, 2021
Starting out a bit stodgy, my first thought was "here we go again." Smith has become even more philosophical than before as he ages, and his books are a vehicle to demonstrate his thoughts. But, I was relieved that he pulled out of that mode and got into his prior delightful style of writing. I find that I am sometimes feeling critical of Isabel's "superwoman" persona. She's not a dynamo, but somehow effortlessly raises two young boys, runs her philosophy journal, helps at her niece's deli, and maintains what seems to be a flawless relationship with her younger and very handsome husband. OK! It is fiction!
I am such a fan of Smith that it is easy to overlook the flaws and simply enjoy this quirky series.
I am such a fan of Smith that it is easy to overlook the flaws and simply enjoy this quirky series.
March 3, 2021
Ethicist Isabelle Dalhousie is asked to act as executor for a terminally ill man's estate. She doesn't know him but they have many mutual friends, a fact that makes it impossible for her to refuse his request. At the same time, her niece, Cat, is in the process of making a decision that will affect the deli and its employee, Eddie. Isabel is convinced that Leo, Cat's fiance, is pushing Cat but is not sure how she can let her know her worries about him.
The Geometry of Holding Hands is the 13th book in the Isabel Dalhousie series by Alexander McCall Smith but it is the first I have read. The story's charm and satisfying end to both Isabel's predicaments make for a very enjoyable read and I recommend it highly to anyone looking for a sweet comfort read to help get them through these trying times.
Thanks to Netgalley and Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group for the opportunity to read tis book in exchange for an honest review
The Geometry of Holding Hands is the 13th book in the Isabel Dalhousie series by Alexander McCall Smith but it is the first I have read. The story's charm and satisfying end to both Isabel's predicaments make for a very enjoyable read and I recommend it highly to anyone looking for a sweet comfort read to help get them through these trying times.
Thanks to Netgalley and Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group for the opportunity to read tis book in exchange for an honest review
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