Promise of Ankles

Book 14 in the 44 Scotland Street series follows new residents at number 44 Scotland Street, including Sister Maria-Fiore, Stuart, Bertie, and the Duke of Johannesburg, who encounter various mysteries and adventures in Edinburgh. The book is praised for its vivid surreal cast of characters and McCall Smith's wry delivery.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 03 June 2021
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Book 14 in the delightful 44 Scotland Street series, by worldwide bestselling author Alexander McCall Smith, continues the adventures of the eccentric residents of the iconic Georgian New Town building in Edinburgh. As new tenants move in at number 44, curiosity arises about their identities and the secrets they hold. Meanwhile, the romantic lives of Stuart, Bertie, and the Duke of Johannesburg take unexpected turns, adding to the hilarity and intrigue of the story.

Sister Maria-Fiore, the socialite nun with a penchant for aphorisms, embarks on a peculiar journey aboard the No. 23 bus, where she uncovers a mysterious object that could potentially reveal the existence of a hitherto unknown Neanderthal species, homo Watsoniensis.

On the romantic front, Stuart's hopes of starting a new relationship are dashed when he encounters the self-absorbed Bruce, a chino-wearing narcissist who effortlessly charms everyone around him. Meanwhile, Bertie embarks on a school exchange to Glasgow, where he discovers the joys of the Scottish countryside and the challenges of learning a new language, Gaelic, with his Gaelic-speaking driver, Padruig.

Back in Edinburgh, the Duke of Johannesburg's attempt to learn a new language, involving his driver Padruig, takes a hilarious turn when he accidentally immerses himself in a language he doesn't fully understand. The patrons of Big Lou's café are in for a gastronomic treat as the chef prepares a special dish that promises to tantalize their taste buds.

In essence, everything in Edinburgh remains perfectly normal, yet the characters' quirks, eccentricities, and misadventures make for a captivating and entertaining read. The series has gained a loyal following for its witty dialogue, vivid descriptions, and outlandish cast of characters, providing a perfect escapism from the everyday world.

The Sunday Times, South Africa, praised the book for its "vividly surreal cast of outlandish characters" and McCall Smith's "wonderfully wry delivery." Scottish Field also commended the author's "masterful storytelling," describing the book as "a joy to read from beginning to end."

With each installment in the 44 Scotland Street series, Alexander McCall Smith continues to delight readers with his witty and charming storytelling, transporting them to the heart of Edinburgh and its unforgettable inhabitants. Whether you're a fan of the series or new to the world of McCall Smith's writing, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking a delightful and entertaining escape.

Weight: 272g
Dimension: 128 x 197 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780349144719