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From the first words, you know you are now in Botswana among the friends you have made there in the previous books in the series. Mr J.L.B. Maketoni, husband to Mma Ramotswe renowned detective, is in the middle of a long inner monologue about what will become the first of the three cases his wife will face during this story. The second will involve her assistant Mma Makutsi whose fiancé Phuti Radiphuti is injured in an accident and undergoes major surgery and the third will come from far away in the USA. This last one is the most interesting in that it will send the detectives out of Gaborone to the more savage realm of the Okavanga Delta, perfect locale for nature safaris, thus allowing the reader to measure the differences between bush and city life, modern and traditional values of every day life while taking a peek at the beauty of the wilderness. Unlike most mysteries, the level of violence is very low in this series, especially in this entry where the contract from the USA involves finding a guide to give him an inheritance as a reward for having been nice to a client. A very refreshing approach to all the nasties we usually encounter. Through logic, observation, directness of approach, good sense, and the study of mankind, Mma Ramotswe manages to achieve a satisfying solution to all the problems put before her. Despite the fact that some readers may find the series wishy-washy, it is by no means simplistic. Dany Laferrière, a highly-regarded Québec author born in Haiti, once remarked on "an idea so natural that one might consider it simple." This applies perfectly to Mma Ramotswe's approach to life and the cases she handles. Simple, even superficial at first glance, but very profound in reality. I recommend this series heartily and this book in particular, to readers who seek enchantment. Be warned however that Mma Ramotswe and her cases can easily become quite addictive. § Nicole Leclerc is a native Montrealer, avid reader, long time reviewer and moderator of the 4MA online mystery discussion group.
Reviewed by Nicole Leclerc, June 2010
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