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October 11, 2005
Book #50 of 2005 finished
The Sunday Philosophy Club by Alexander McCall Smith. Yes, that Alexander McCall Smith--the one who writes the #1 Ladies' Detective Agency books. This is a new "mystery" series, with another woman protagonist--philosopher and sleuth Isabel Dalhousie. Set in Edinburgh, the pace is much like the #1 Ladies series. Slow. But the problem is that, at least to me, Isabel is not anywhere near as captivating a character as Precious Ramotswe.
I tried very hard to not compare the two, but the similarities are too marked, to my mind. Strong woman protagonist, with strong #2 woman as helper. Stories really about everything else but the so-called mystery. The story was OK, but not compelling.
So, it's a big recommendation for anyone wanting to read his #1 Ladies Detective series, but a big MEH to The Sunday Philosophy Club series. I won't even be looking for book #2.......
Posted by MamaT at October 11, 2005 10:26 PM
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Comments
I totally agree. I was very disappointed by this book. But I still haven't read the latest "Ladies #1" volume, so I still get to savor the anticipation before I savor the book.
Posted by: Roz at October 13, 2005 11:30 PM
I think he's a wee bit lazy with the Dalhousie books - everyone in Edinburgh reads them because we recognise all the streets and the occasional character, so we forgive the flaws of the book qua book!
Actually, I think the sequel is better - though the name-dropping quotient also rises to unprecedented levels!
Posted by: Boeciana at October 18, 2005 8:29 AM