This is the fourth book of the series 44 Scotland Street and the characters struggle with their own personal dilemmas. Poor six year old Bertie wishes he had some freedom from his overbearing mother, Irene Pollock, and thought he would; now that his baby brother Ulysses has arrived. Bertie’s father, Stuart, is still henpecked and talked down to, which was disappointing because in the last book Stuart showed some backbone. I have come to the discovery that I really dislike the character Irene Pollock and her “holier- than - thou” personality. Bruce reappears in Edinburgh again and gets himself in hot water. I am looking forward to the next book and to seeing how he wiggles out of the position he put himself into. Matthew questions himself, does he truly love Pat? While Pat asks herself is a comfortable relationship all she wants, especially when seeing Bruce again sets her heart a pitter patter. The artist, Angus Lordie, copes with the threat of his dog Cyril possibly being put down after being accused of biting someone. Domenica observes the people around her and how they reflect the image of her beloved city of Edinburgh. Her opinions always make me smile. Big Lou is still looking for a kind man to love and may have found him. Yet again, Alexander McCall Smith writes a beautifully written story about people.

I really enjoy reading these gentle reads and because of this I find myself with a container of mixed olives in the fridge and some fancy coffees in the pantry…..you will have to read this series to find out why I have these items!