Book Summary and Reviews of The Geometry of Holding Hands by Alexander McCall Smith

Book Summary

Isabel finds herself entangled in some tricky familial and financial situations that will require all of her kindness, charm, and philosophical expertise to navigate.

Just when Isabel and Jamie finally seem to have some time to connect and unwind, a wealthy Edinburgh resident reaches out to Isabel with an unusual request—he would like her to become the executor of his large Highland estate. Though Isabel initially demurs, he presses on. He has only a short time to live, and, without any direct heirs, is struggling to determine which of his three cousins would be the best caretaker. Should it go to the bohemian artist, the savvy city property developer, or the quiet, unassuming bachelor?

As if this weren't enough to keep Isabel occupied, she's also spending more time helping her niece Cat at the deli. Cat, perennially unlucky in love, seems to have finally found her match in the leonine Leo. But Isabel is beginning to suspect that Leo might be interested in more than Cat's charms, namely her access to the family trust. Isabel will need to rely upon remarkable reserves of intelligence and compassion in order to give all parties exactly what they want and deserve—no more, and no less.

Please be aware that this discussion guide will contain spoilers!

1. This is the thirteenth Isabel Dalhousie novel. What keeps you interested in the series?
2. If you read other books by Alexander McCall Smith, what parallels can you draw between recurring characters in the different series?
3. Which character in the Isabel Dalhousie is your favorite and why? Who has changed the most? Who would you like to read more about? Who is funny, or serious, or unique?
4. Isabel and Jamie go to an upscale restaurant for dinner. After Isabel sees a local politician get admonished by another patron, she approaches him to speak her mind. What does Isabel say, and do you agree with her actions? Would you behave similarly? Why or why not?
5. Isabel's reaction at the restaurant is noticed by a man named ...