The first book was the worst book I've ever read

[Brady]

But maybe if I read this it could be even worse. I mean, typically, series go downhill with sequels. It's hard to imagine a more trite and empty tome than that first one, but maybe it just gets more painful the more often Smith reiterates his tediously transparent formula.

As I said in my review of the first book on here: I've read books with unicorns in them that said more about real life than THE NUMBER ONE LADIES DETECTIVE AGENCY did.

[Brady]

I should add - I am reluctant to say bad things about writers. It's so hard, and as a writer myself - it's probably self-destructive. But every time that first book crosses my mind I get seriously, seriously angry. I just want it to stop existing. I can't help it.

[Michael]

Just goes to show that this is all a matter of taste.

Look up your all-time favorite novels on Goodreads or Amazon and you will be sure to find numerous 1-star reviews.

I find this series delightful and never fail to enjoy each new episode. Yes, it's a sort of fairy tale for adults, and clearly idealizes Botswana. Still, I love Smith's writing style and his dry sense of humor. His characters are well drawn and highly memorable. The "mysteries" tend to be fairly easy to solve, but that does not detract from my enjoyment of the world this author has lovingly crafted.

[Mary]

Everyone has their own opinion, formed by their very own unique experiences. I loved every book in this series. I don't know how to describe them except to say I found them "peaceful". I loved the title character's way of seeing the world and her interactions with the other characters. Not every book is liked by everyone, but I certainly loved this series.

[Marianne]

Brady wrote: "I should add - I am reluctant to say bad things about writers. It's so hard, and as a writer myself - it's probably self-destructive. But every time that first book crosses my mind I get seriously,..."

Brady, you obviously wanted something from these books that the author was not offering, but wishing it didn't exist and getting "seriously, seriously angry" is quite pointless. Millions of readers love every book in the series, so you won't get a lot of sympathy there. That you couldn't enjoy these books for what they are (certainly not detective stories!!), I'm sad for you.

[Jane(Pixie)]

I've read most of them. My favorite is the 'The Tears of the Giraff'. The writing is refreshing. It is not a page turner but each chapter is to be relished. The series delivers a different kind of romance and mystery. I guess it is a mirror into a different style of life. I've experienced the charm of local people as I travel. The series makes sense to me. People of simpler means are this. It is charming and a privilege to have the experience. posting from Guam

[Wendy]

I personally love all these books. Yes they are perhaps a little naive and unsophisticated but they are a pleasure to read. As someone who grew up in Africa and has had the pleasure of visiting beautiful Botswana, most of the inhabitants are very much like the characters in the book with just the same old fashioned sense of values towards their fellow humans.

[Nancy]

I love this series of books. Its like visiting good friends, and sitting to chat. Reading them brings a peaceful feeling. Problems are solved in a kind thoughtful way. We know the faults and talents of the characters.

[Judy]

If you have a chance to listen to these books on tape, you may feel completely different. The reader's voice if amazing! The musicality of her voice was so wonderful!

[Brady]

Judy wrote: "If you have a chance to listen to these books on tape, you may feel completely different. The reader's voice if amazing! The musicality of her voice was so wonderful!"

I am pretty sure that's how I did it, to be honest. 85% sure. I used to drive a lot.

[Mary]

I agree Judy. I read the first few books, but I loved listening to them in tape. The woman's voice added so much to story

[Nancy]

I agree, I love listening to these books. When I read other books in the series, I hear the narrators voice in my head.

[Karen]

Lisette LeCat is the narrator for the U.S. versions and she is fabulous. I tried reading the first book but just couldn't seem to get into it. Once I got the audio version, it was like a different story. I have listened to all of them and agree with others here, it is a simpler culture and so refreshing to escape there.

[Sher]

I can read each of these books in a few hours - and they don't weigh me down. They are funny and cute and basic and I love that McCall-Smith can write from a female character's mind and I love all the little things and ways of greeting people and interacting with them that are oh so African. These books delight me and entertain me.

[Orinoco Womble (tidy bag and all)]

No one's asking you to read this book, Brady, or any other if you really don't want to read it. I enjoyed this series of novels for what it is: a light read, with no violence or blood. Simple entertainment. The emphasis is on the people and their interactions.

However I have tried to read some of McCall Smith's other novel series without much interest or success, the dullest being the "Sunday Philosophy Club" novels. It just seemed that the author was trying to turn all his ideas into money-spinning book series.

But then that's just me. As others have said, to each his own. I'm sure my favourite authors leave many thousands (not to say millions) of readers stone-cold.