The Private Life of Spies & The Exquisite Art of Getting Even: Stories

Summary

From the beloved author of the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series comes a new collection of lighthearted stories of espionage and revenge that are as surprising as they are entertaining.

Alexander McCall Smith brings his trademark wit and warmth to nine twisty tales of spycraft and vengeance. In “Nuns and Spies,” a spy dropped deep into enemy territory manages to disguise himself—quite convincingly—as a nun. In “Filioque,” an invitation to join the Vatican secret service sends a prospective operative down a rabbit hole of controversy and confusion. In “Dignity & Decency,” an author on the brink of public ruin sees the error of his ways after an act of kindness saves the day.

A keen observer of humanity and imbued with a sparkling imagination, Alexander McCall Smith illustrates in these stories that honesty and forthrightness are paramount and that forgiveness is restorative. With surprising insight and a healthy helping of humor, this collection reminds us that, in the end, the high road is often the better one for all involved.