Dive into the eighteenth installment of the beloved 44 Scotland Street series by worldwide bestselling author Alexander McCall Smith. This contemporary fiction novel follows the charming adventures and philosophical musings of Bertie, whose simple 'theory of ice cream'—sharing what you have before it melts—offers a timely reminder to cherish life's simple pleasures amidst global despair.

• Bertie navigates new challenges, including Irene's plans for Irish Culture lessons and being forced into Olive and Pansy's book group.
• A day out with Ranald Braveheart Macpherson leads to an unexpected wedding invitation.
• Subplots include Bruce's disastrous property venture involving moving a flat's front door, and Matthew and the triplets attempting to adopt a vegan dog at Nine Mile Burn.
• Sister Maria-Fiori dei Fiore Montagna makes a discovery regarding the missing part of the Stone of Scone in Drummond Place Gardens.
• Filled with Alexander McCall Smith's signature warmth and humour, this book continues the rich tapestry of life on Scotland Street.

This is Book 18 in the 44 Scotland Street series.

• Author: Alexander McCall Smith
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Print Length: 272 pages
• Publication Date: July 2, 2026
• ISBN-10: 0349147922
• ISBN-13: 978-0349147925
• Dimensions: 126 x 194 x 24mm
• Weight: 218 g

Fans of thoughtful, character-driven contemporary fiction will find this latest volume an essential and heartwarming read.