Does Alexander McCall Smith write anything that isn't witty, wise, and can make you smile? Another delightful installment in the Scotland Street series. Full of charm and laughs like every book he has written. This one is a winner. I am so thankful for this author and how his insights always put a smile on my face.

Absolutely wonderful!  This is a book to treasure on a quiet evening cuddled up with your loved ones by the fire with a hot drink and freshly baked cookies.  I really enjoyed reading about the continuing adventures of Bertie and Ranald and the interfering Olive, the saga of Stuart and Irene's marriage and his new love interest Katie, Matthew and Elspeth and their triplets, Big Lou and her coffee bar, and the intellectual musings of Dominica, Angus and Cyril, who loves the taste of ankles!  Alexander McCall Smith has such a way with words it feels like you are just absorbing a lovely and heartwarming story, but I also learned lots of new things and words along the way: havering, circumlocution and akrasia, putting cayenne pepper in cheese scones, some interesting history about Neanderthals, and so many lovely things about Scottish culture!

Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Random House Canada for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review.

Two words - pure pleasure.  The next in the 44 Scotland Street Series, A Promise of Ankles is delightful and heartwarming, written in the beautiful unique prose of Alexander McCall Smith.  No cliches here!  Wit and humour envelop each story and character.  The title is fetching (what a fun angle!) and a fascinating mystery is woven beautifully into the book.  It feels like home, warm and comfy.

Dominica continues her research and editing and Angus continues his painting (can envision his attire!) while Cyril, the intelligent and curious dog, enjoys digging and contemplating; new neighbours move in; Stuart finds himself in an interesting position, while his mother is a...mother.  Several other characters appear as well, new and those we know and love.  I have many favourites but this time it was Bertie, Raynard and Cyril who captured my heart.  The tie and "impossible" analyses are funny and brilliant!   But oh, the honeymoon story!  Quite relatable (I can laugh now, years later).  Readers will also enjoy the mystery, pondering the perils of raising young triplets, relationship changes, kindness and love.

The author's way with words is magic.  If you enjoy Alexander McCall Smith's other books, do read this.  And for those of you who haven't yet, you're in for a sweet treat!  My mom introduced me to the Number One Detective Agency books and I was hooked!

My sincere thank you to Penguin Random House Canada and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this lovely book in exchange for an honest review.  Much appreciated.