The Exquisite Art of Getting Even

The characters in this delicious book are pushed to the point of no return and seek retribution. But how we get even is not always the best road to redemption. On the island of Mull, it takes an incomer to make the locals realise that they need to take matters into their own hands to maintain the community’s reputation. In ‘The Principles of Soap’ the value of friendship overcomes adversity and opportunistic nepotism. In suburban Edinburgh opposing neighbours find out the hard way that the best method of dealing with a canine disturbance is not to bury one’s head in the sand. And in the final tale we meet an author on the brink of public ruin who sees the error of his ways after an act of kindness saves the day.These four tales show that the exquisite art of getting even is a skill that sees kindness win over malice. Tantalising and amusing, these stories show off a darker side but carry with them the author’s trademark warmth and humour.

Reviews of The Exquisite Art of Getting Even

'The stories all have McCall Smith's characteristic charm, and make for easy and very pleasant reading… as in all McCall Smith's work, we are reminded that the necessary quality in social life is kindness' — Allan Massie * The Scotsman * 'The final story provides a sweet coda to previous acts of comeuppance as kindness prevails' * Daily Mail * 'McCall Smith's writing is incredibly captivating and though the stories are frequently filled with feelings of sadness and guilt, the collection is bound to induce laughs' * Glasgow University Scottish Literature Society * 'Charming tales of friendship, revenge and retribution' — Jenny Itzcovtiz * Sixtyplussurfers *