"The Full Cupboard of LIfe," by Alexander McCall Smith

The Full Cupboard of Life is one of Alexander McCall Smith's No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency books, about a "traditionally built" and down-to-earth Botswanan detective who solves most of her cases through cleverness.  I loved the first book, a charming, warm-hearted, unusual bit of writing.

The Full Cupboard of Life retained much of that charming speech and quiet observation, but the plot unfortunately lacked a lot.  The central premise could have been quite interesting--Mma Ramotswe trying to decide if a rich lady's four suitors are sincere--but it gets very little screen time.  She doesn't even make it to the third and fourth suitors.  The other subplots aren't all that gripping either.

I still liked the descriptions of the land and the lifestyle, and would read more by Alexander McCall Smith.  

My rating:  3