The Quiet Side of Passion is the twelfth book in the Isabel Dalhousie Series written by Alexander McCall Smith. The series follows the life of Isabel Dalhousie, a philosopher and amateur detective living in Edinburgh, Scotland. In this installment, Isabel finds herself facing new challenges and dilemmas as she navigates through her personal and professional life.

The story begins with Isabel reflecting on her role as the editor of the Review of Applied Ethics. She takes her job seriously and is dedicated to ensuring that the articles published in the journal are of high quality and contribute to ethical discussions. However, she becomes increasingly frustrated with the lack of submissions and the difficulty in finding suitable material for publication.

Meanwhile, Isabel’s personal life is also undergoing some changes. Her relationship with Jamie, her younger lover and father of their son Charlie, has hit a rough patch. Jamie is feeling restless and unsure about their future together, which puts a strain on their relationship. Isabel finds herself questioning whether they are truly compatible and if their relationship can withstand these challenges.

In addition to her romantic troubles, Isabel also becomes involved in a case of potential infidelity. She receives an anonymous letter accusing her niece Cat’s husband, Stuart, of having an affair. Isabel is torn between her loyalty to Cat and her desire to uncover the truth. As she delves deeper into the matter, she discovers that things are not always as they seem and that appearances can be deceiving.

As Isabel investigates Stuart’s alleged affair, she also finds herself drawn into other ethical dilemmas. She becomes involved in a dispute between two neighbors over a shared garden space and must navigate conflicting interests and emotions. Additionally, she encounters a young woman who claims to be in possession of a valuable painting that rightfully belongs to someone else. Isabel must decide whether to intervene or let the situation unfold on its own.

Throughout the book, McCall Smith explores themes of morality, ethics, and the complexities of human relationships. Isabel’s philosophical musings and introspections add depth to the story, as she contemplates the nature of love, trust, and forgiveness. The Quiet Side of Passion offers readers a glimpse into Isabel’s world as she grapples with the challenges of balancing her personal and professional life.

• The Quiet Side of Passion

• Isabel Dalhousie, Book 12
• By: Alexander McCall Smith
• Narrated by: Karlyn Stephen

Isabel becomes entangled in a delicate paternity case in the 12th installment of the beloved Isabel Dalhousie Series.

It was summer in Edinburgh, and Isabel Dalhousie was once again caught between ‘rumor’ and important gossip. It was none of her business that Patricia, Basil’s mother, little friend of Charlie’s son, was estranged from Basil’s father or that this woman had a somewhat brazen childcare attitude. However, it is curious.

However, Isabel has many other things in mind as editor of the Journal of Applied Ethical Review. With work on the next issue coming her way, she really needs to rearrange her house and address the demands of her niece, Cat. Thankfully, the arrival of Antonia, the pompous Italian au pair, will take on the urgent work. And the hiring of Claire, a diligent but unsettlingly beautiful new assistant at Review, certainly means that Isabel can breathe, at least a little.

But her keen observation and guaranteed confidant role soon make Isabel suspicious of all her recent decisions. Furthermore, her instinct to help others may have put her in real danger. With her desire to run both a smooth family and a work life, is she simply creating more chaos?

Love it, nice read. A few unexpected turns and a small twist in the tail. I enjoyed this great sequel to Alexander McCall Smith’s Isobel Dalhousie series. I recommend reading the books in order.

A novel that is very suitable for the modern family. A great ending…smart, witty and sensitive. The narrator is amazing… her tone and intonation enhance the literary experience.

I have read most of them. Slightly tired of Mme Ramotswe and disappointed in the ending book of 44 Scotland St. leaves Pat and the others unfinished. This book, however, is a gem. Philosopher Isabel receives some harsh real-life lessons due to her constant tendency to interfere in other people’s lives. Isabel is a very human character in this book. More than simply an academic thinker, her human flaws are exposed and she suffers the consequences. Spoiler alert: she was even assaulted while stalking an unhappy acquaintance. Love Jamie – the absolute good husband – he is a great contrast to the imperfect men in so many novels. Such men exist! Also liked Grace, Claire, the ridiculously pompous Lettuce and the hypersexual Antonia. The incredibly talented and prolific McCall Smith writes with great moral sensitivity and compassion. This is a great book – his best, in my opinion.

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