Alistair McCall Smith shows Bertie start to show his independence in Love in the Time of Bertie. Bertie's parents are separated by cities and personalities ; Irene insists he spend three months with her. His female nemesis Olive and her friends are harassing him. In addition the other characters are discovering new relationships. Gentle adventures and humor top up this effervescent look at Scottish character.

I just adore this series, it is so heartfelt and funny! I look forward to finding out how each character will grow and change in every book, and in this new installment a lot of my favourite people have exciting news and adventures. Bertie is growing up and ventures out on his own to visit his mother, Irene, in Aberdeen, a trip he is really not looking forward to. Big Lou has a new romantic interest, and the handsome and narcissistic Bruce Anderson gets in over his head with some business ventures. I don't know how Alexander McCall Smith does it, but just when I think things are truly hopeless, his characters find solutions that are both witty and hilarious, and even Bruce seems to have some redeeming qualities. Then they wrap it all up with a heartwarming poem by Angus Lordie, and my heart is full!

Alexander McCall Smith has an incomparable way with words, nostalgically evocative and witty. His original descriptions make me chuckle (Accountants and Clients, shopping trolley, Maria parcel) and his insight into human nature always astonishes me. Love in the Time of Bertie is an exemplary book which is a snapshot into the ordinary daily lives of a handful of residents in Edinburgh. Through conversations over tea and coffee we are fortunately privy to their gossip, analyses of others, doling out advice, doing crosswords and philosophizing.

Big Lou (I crave bacon rolls!) and Fat Bob's new relationship is delightfully open and honest. Young Bertie's friends are up to their usual antics (and tell poor Bertie how dreadfully cold Aberdeen is, way up "north with its polar bears). Stuart, his father, adores his son and is worried about allowing Bertie to live with his out-of-town (and out-of-life) mother for three months. Bertie's grandparents have their own views. There are vignettes of other characters, too.

There is so much to adore about these gentle books. In my opinion they are treasures. Not only are they homey but also refreshing and written with great beauty. Fans of this author ought to find this required reading. If you have not read any of his works, do not miss this and his other series.

My sincere thank you to Penguin Random House Canada and NetGalley for the absolute privilege of reading this most charming series. Pure joy!

Another book to savor in the delightful 44 Scotland Street series. Get comfortable in a cozy chair with a hot beverage and enjoy! Alexander McCall Smith doles out more wit, wisdom, and humor in this charming, easy-to-read installment. Thank you so much to the publisher and to NetGalley for this ARC. I often recommend this series to my library patrons. I personally purchase the books for my private collection because the covers really are fantastic!