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jeffreyk's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
5.0
book_concierge's review against another edition
3.0
Book on CD narrated by Robert Ian Mackenzie
Book # 3 in the 44 Scotland Street series which follows a group of residents (current or former) of a particular apartment building in Edinburgh. Domenica Macdonald has left for the Malacca Straits to do some anthropological research on pirates. Angus Lordie’s dog, Cyril, has been stolen. Young precocious Bertie finds himself joining the Teenage Orchestra and taking a trip to Paris – without his Mum. Pat begins a new romance with a handsome man named Wolf. And Matthew tries to find happiness … and please Pat.
There’s not much plot to these books, but just as in everyday life, things DO happen. There are moments of joy, or heartache, of success, or failure. People form attachments, or break off relationships, start new careers or find new enthusiasm for established routines.
It’s a gentle read and a wonderful way to spend a few hours with old friends.
Robert Ian Mackenzie does a fine job narrating the audiobook. I love the many voices he uses to differentiate the characters, and particularly like the way he voices Bertie.
Book # 3 in the 44 Scotland Street series which follows a group of residents (current or former) of a particular apartment building in Edinburgh. Domenica Macdonald has left for the Malacca Straits to do some anthropological research on pirates. Angus Lordie’s dog, Cyril, has been stolen. Young precocious Bertie finds himself joining the Teenage Orchestra and taking a trip to Paris – without his Mum. Pat begins a new romance with a handsome man named Wolf. And Matthew tries to find happiness … and please Pat.
There’s not much plot to these books, but just as in everyday life, things DO happen. There are moments of joy, or heartache, of success, or failure. People form attachments, or break off relationships, start new careers or find new enthusiasm for established routines.
It’s a gentle read and a wonderful way to spend a few hours with old friends.
Robert Ian Mackenzie does a fine job narrating the audiobook. I love the many voices he uses to differentiate the characters, and particularly like the way he voices Bertie.
alidottie's review against another edition
4.0
I enjoyed this installment of 44 Scotland Street stories much more than the second (Espresso Tales). It was wonderful that Bruce moved away and we didn't follow him! And yet we got to follow Domenica to Malaaca and her stint among the pirates! There was less of Pat which I didn't mind either. I especially enjoy being able to hear Cyril, the dog's, thoughts. I am not going to wait too long to read the 4th book in this serial series from The Scotsman.
common_household_mom's review against another edition
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
soniapage's review against another edition
4.0
Further adventures of the folks in Edinburgh. I think my favorite character is little Bertie - he's got his head on straighter than anyone else!
jimmacsyr's review against another edition
1.0
I attempted to listen to this twice. Originally I gave up after the first CD, reread some of the reviews, and gave it another shot. 3CD's in and I am not sure what the story line is (if one exists). Maybe if I were reading this book it may be better appreciated, but as entertainment on a one hour commute, this is not the book for me.
lemonpudge's review against another edition
3.0
See my review for Espresso Tales--this pretty much recieves the same review. My only complaint for this third installment is that it left too much open for my comfort at the end of the book. He usually gives some closure, but leaves much open still to keep readers intrigued. This time I couldn't really find any satisfaction--I need a little to keep me sane! :) I am, however, ready to read the next one because he left me hanging on certain key plot points. Darn McCall Smith, his ploy has worked!
lizzina's review against another edition
4.0
I love Alexander McCall Smith books because I know I can find something really enjoyable in them, so I usually start one when I have been disappointed from another book.
The characters are always funny and get involved in everyday issue while life in Edinburgh flows quietly.
The characters are always funny and get involved in everyday issue while life in Edinburgh flows quietly.