The Quiet Side of Passion

Isabel Dalhousie finds herself drawn into the private troubles of those around her, from Patricia's estrangement to questions about parenting that aren't really her concern. As editor of the Review of Applied Ethics, Isabel juggles professional responsibilities with her tendency to become entangled in others' affairs, even when she knows better. The arrival of Antonia, an exuberant Italian au pair, promises some relief—but Isabel's role as confidante proves hard to set aside. Once again, the line between helpful involvement and unwelcome interference blurs in Alexander McCall Smith's latest exploration of ethics, family, and the complications of caring.