#ramotswe

[boldlymagnificentperson]

12esima: A. McCall Smith, Le lacrime della giraffa, Tea

Da Rosa Ghislandi riceviamo Le lacrime della giraffa di Alexander McCall Smith. A questo proposito Rosa ci scrive: “Un thriller etnico arguto e divertente. <<Con le avventure di Precious Romotswe la prima e unica detective del Botswana, terra di pace e di minimi reati, Alexander McCall Smith ha portato nella sterminata galassia del giallo un tocco delicato come una tazza di tè rosso sorteggiato…

[twofoursixohjuan]

tagged by @george-the-pumpkin

Rules: make a poll with five of your all time favourite characters and then tag five people to do the same. See which character is everyone's favourite.

most of my mutuals/followers are for Brotherband so this is hard mode: no BB characters whatsoever

and I'm tagging @mostlyonthefloor @canofhappy @shrikeseams @isilee and @sickfreaksirkay

[life-in-marigold]

Fictional women to aspire to #2

Precious Ramotswe

From The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith

Puts people in their place without being unkind or unfair.

Gives Mma Makutsi a promotion even when the Agency isn’t doing well.

Gives people a second chance.

Accepts people who are different, like Puso.

Marries the kindest man in Gaborone.

Doesn’t blame Mr J. L. B Matekoni when he adopts the children without telling her.

Stands up for people who can’t stand up for themselves.

Is proud of her traditional build.

Prioritises tea time.

[linguini17]

Mma Ramotswe

Source: It is known among the wise

[witchee1014]

Blogging A to Z: Day 6 - Female Sleuths: Cozy mysteries featuring female detectives

Discover the top female sleuths in cozy mysteries and why they make great role models. Learn about the elements that make cozy mysteries featuring female detectives so appealing and why you should read them.

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com Buckle up, y’all, because we’re about to dive into the world of cozy mysteries featuring female detectives. Now, you might be wondering what in the world a cozy mystery is. Is it a mystery that you snuggle up with on a cold winter’s night? Is it a mystery that’s not very scary, so you won’t have nightmares? Well, my dear reader, it’s both of those things…

[docgold13]

This list reflects just one individual’s personal opinion...  that said, let’s get started:

1). Sherlock Holmes created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle 

2). Batman created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane

3). Auguste Dupin created by Edgar Allan Poe

4). Hercule Poirot created by Agatha Christie

5). Philip Marlowe created by Raymond Chandler

6). Jane Marple created by Agatha Christie

7). Frank Columbo created by Peter Falk, Patrick McGoohan and Steven Bochco

8). Sam Spade created by Dashiell Hammett

9). Virgil Tibbs created by John Ball

10). Nancy Drew created by Carolyn Keene

11). Alex Cross created by James Patterson

12). Dirk Gently created by Douglas Adams

13). Byomkesh Bakshi created by Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay

14). Jessica Fletcher created by Peter S. Fischer and Richard Levinson

15). Mma Precious Ramotswe created by Alexander McCall Smith 

16). Velma Dinkley and Fred Jones created by Joe Ruby and Ken Spears

17). Jim Rockford created by Stephen J. Cannell and Roy Huggins

18). Shawn Spencer created by Steve Franks

19). Leroy ‘Encyclopedia’ Brown created by Donald J. Sobol

20). Harry Bosch created by Michael Connelly

21). Adrian Monk created by Andy Breckman

22). Nero Wolfe created by Rex Stout 

23). Shinichi Kudo created by Gosho Aoyama

24). Benoit Blanc created by Rian Johnson

[saintship]

“That is the problem with governments these days.

They want to do things all the time; they are always

very busy thinking of what things they can do next.

That is not what people want. People want to be left

alone to look after their cattle.”

-Obed Ramotswe,

‘The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency’

[skyprowler]

In best tumblr fashion I want to say “They are married!!!” but then they are Noir detectives and we now how allergic those are to healthy relationships - so I guess it’s “They are quietly standing next to each other in the gloomy rain and show their devotion by A lighting B’s cigar!!!!!!” instead.

equal rights for women will never truly be achieved until we have more female noir detectives

[medlilove]

cassaloopa

Tag Game

15 questions, 15 tags

Thank you @cassaloopa for tagging me!

Nickname: Kath (unfortunately! Call me by my full name, even if it’s hard to spell 🥲)

Height: 5'6 hell yeah long leg

Last thing I googled (that won’t fox me lol): Tokyo Tower of Babel (seriously, look it up!)

Song stuck in my head: Right now? Pain by Dio

# followers: 964???? Mostly bots or poor souls who followed me for one specific fandom (sorry)

Amount of sleep: usually the same 11 ish to 6.45 thanks to my sun alarm and bbc radio 2

Dream job: mostly in a quiet museum archive that occasionally involves front of house, that would be sweet.

Wearing: black slacks, denim t shirt, puffer coat, Poundland socks and Dr Martens, and my ouroboros ring

Book/movie that summarizes you: Oh fuck I dunno, but Whisper of the Heart had a profound affect on me

Fav song: I think my Spotify wrapped would say the song Black Sabbath, by the band Black Sabbath from their first album called, Black Sabbath. There’s something about they way young Ozzy Osborne cries out in despair in after the line “Found out I’m the chosen one”, honestly breathtaking.

Aesthetic: try to keep things quite minimalist, but with a bit of metal mixed in. I do love cute shit too though.

Fav authors: Oh god I dunno again. I like they way Redmond O’Hanlon talked about the Congo. And the way Alexander McCall Smith wrote Mma Ramotswe, but I haven’t read much of anything lately

Random fact: So my mum is fashiony right? So, when my parents were clearing their house preparing to move, the people who they hired to take away and recycle all the junk that they were leaving behind also accidentally threw away my mum’s little suitcase that had all her Prada stuff in 🫣🤭 Rip

I tag the following friends and anyone who sees this post and fancies doing it! @jamdoughnutmagician @freyastrider @just-my-latest-hyperfixation @pizzaqueen @wynnyfryd @kasseivor @nordic-ravens @yomi-renascitur @cursedfoxteeth @nerkierantsagain

👾

[darklingichor]

The Minor Adjustment Beauty Salon, by Alexander McCall Smith

In this one, Mma Ramotswe has a few things to contend with. First is that Mma Makutsi is pregnant, but not wanting to discuss it, even down to taking maternity leave.

And then two cases, one in which a lawyer suspects that the person set to inherit a client's farm isn't who he says he is, and the other a the owner of The Minor Adjustment Beauty Salon is getting threats and is being smeared about town.

With our other characters, Mma Makutsi and her husband Phuti have to put up with Phuti's traditional and overbearing aunt trying to dictate how the new baby is handled. Mma Ramotswe's husband, Mr. JLB Matekoni is doing his best to be a more modern husband.

The main theme of this book is the pull between traditional values and more modern ideas and it is mostly determined that a mix of both is best.

I... didn't like this one much. It started off promising, I liked all the stuff with Mma Makutsi having her baby and how excited everyone was. The Solon mystery was interesting an honestly finished up well, the lawyer's case started off sort of dull and then got weird.

I did like Mr. JLB Matekoni's plot line, the bit with the potatoes was so cute!

I'm not sure what the problem was here. It just sort of felt... washed out, if that makes any kind of sense. Compared to the other books, this one just wasn't as rich as feeling. Still, 14 books and only two so-so ones is a pretty good track record!

[pagebypagereviews]

Top Cozy Mystery Book Reviews Cozy mysteries, a subgenre of crime fiction, have captivated readers worldwide with their unique blend of suspense, humor, and engaging characters. Often set in small towns or close-knit communities, these books offer a comforting escape into a world where justice is always served, albeit with a side of tea and scones. This article delves into some of the top cozy mystery books, providing insights and reviews to guide readers in their next literary adventure. The Charm of Cozy Mysteries Before diving into the reviews, it's essential to understand what sets cozy mysteries apart from other crime fiction. Characterized by their lack of graphic violence, sex, and profanity, these books focus more on puzzle-solving and the dynamics of small community life. The protagonists are typically amateur sleuths with a personal stake in the investigation, and the narrative often weaves in themes of friendship, family, and love. This blend of elements creates a 'cozy' atmosphere, making these mysteries a comforting read despite the central crime plot. Top Cozy Mystery Book Reviews Now, let's explore some of the top cozy mysteries that have captured the hearts of readers around the globe. 1. "A Murder for the Books" by Victoria Gilbert Set in the fictional town of Blue Ridge, this book introduces us to librarian Amy Webber, who finds herself embroiled in a murder investigation. Gilbert masterfully combines historical intrigue with modern-day mystery, creating a multi-layered story that's both engaging and enlightening. The small-town setting and well-developed characters add to the charm, making it a must-read for cozy mystery lovers. 2. "The Cracked Spine" by Paige Shelton Shelton transports readers to Edinburgh, Scotland, with this delightful series opener. Featuring a bookshop with hidden treasures and a cast of quirky characters, "The Cracked Spine" is a testament to the genre's ability to blend mystery with the allure of new locales. The Scottish setting adds a unique flavor, offering readers a taste of local culture alongside a compelling mystery. 3. "Murder in G Major" by Alexia Gordon In this intriguing twist on the genre, Gordon introduces us to Gethsemane Brown, an African American classical musician stranded in Ireland. When she becomes involved in solving a murder to clear her name, readers are treated to a blend of ghostly hauntings and musical mystery. The novel's exploration of race and identity, set against the backdrop of a cozy mystery, makes it a standout in the genre. 4. "The Quiche of Death" by M.C. Beaton This book marks the debut of Agatha Raisin, a character who has become a beloved figure in cozy mysteries. After retiring to a quiet village, Agatha's attempt to ingratiate herself with the locals leads to unexpected murder and mayhem. Beaton's wit and the picturesque Cotswolds setting make "The Quiche of Death" a delightful introduction to a series that balances humor with intrigue. 5. "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency" by Alexander McCall Smith Though not a traditional cozy mystery, McCall Smith's series set in Botswana captures the essence of the genre with its focus on community and character-driven storytelling. Precious Ramotswe, the protagonist, uses intuition and understanding of human nature to solve cases. The African setting and emphasis on positive resolutions to conflicts offer a refreshing take on the mystery genre. Why These Books Stand Out Unique Settings: From the Scottish Highlands to a small town in Virginia, these books transport readers to diverse locales, adding depth and character to the mysteries. Engaging Characters: The protagonists of these stories are not just detectives; they're librarians, musicians, and retirees, offering fresh perspectives on crime-solving. Complex Plots: These mysteries go beyond simple whodunits, incorporating elements of history, culture, and personal growth into the narrative. Community Focus: The emphasis on community and interpersonal relationships adds a layer of warmth and relatability to the stories.

Conclusion Cozy mysteries offer a unique blend of suspense, humor, and warmth, making them a beloved choice for readers seeking both intrigue and comfort. The books reviewed here represent some of the best the genre has to offer, with their engaging plots, rich settings, and memorable characters. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to cozy mysteries, these titles are sure to provide hours of enjoyable reading. So, grab a cup of tea, find a comfortable nook, and dive into the charming world of cozy mysteries.

[uzumaki-rebellion]

Precious Ramotswe.

OTHER THAN BATMAN AND SHERLOCK

[divasgonedeadly]

The Cozy Mystery Revolution: Celebrating Diversity and Inclusivity

In the world of cozy mysteries, we've seen a transformation like no other. Traditionally, these stories were confined to familiar settings, catering to a readership that often skewed towards older white women. However, the winds of change are blowing, and it's time to explore the cozy mystery genre's exciting new horizon.

🔍 Reimagining Tradition 🔍 While cozy mysteries were once synonymous with a traditional, homogenous backgrounds, we now see stories unfolding in a wider array of settings. Authors are breathing new life into the genre, introducing diverse characters from all walks of life. "The Widows of Malabar Hill" by Sujata Massey. In this series, the traditional mystery scene is reimagined against the backdrop of 1920s Bombay, featuring the pioneering female lawyer Perveen Mistry. It's a fresh take on tradition, embracing diverse cultures and perspectives.

📚 A Genre on the Rise 📚 Mystery enthusiasts still crave the thrill of solving a puzzle, but not everyone yearns for the dark and gritty themes. Enter cozy mysteries – the genre that wraps you in a warm, literary embrace. It's a nod to the classics but with a contemporary twist, offering readers the comfort of a good puzzle to unravel. "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency" by Alexander McCall Smith. This beloved series transports readers to the heart of Botswana, embracing a cozy setting while introducing Mma Precious Ramotswe as a strong, independent female detective. It's proof that the genre is evolving and capturing a diverse readership.

✨ The Essence of Cozy Mysteries ✨ What sets cozy mysteries apart? They're the 'light' side of mystery and murder, driven by meticulous attention to detail. These stories are akin to curling up with a cup of tea in your favorite armchair, but instead of sipping, you're sleuthing. It's an invitation to enjoy the thrill of discovery in the coziest of settings. "Murder, She Wrote." This incredible and iconic series, featuring the incomparable Jessica Fletcher, epitomizes the essence of cozy mysteries. With intricate plots set in the cozy town of Cabot Cove, it highlights the delight of solving mysteries in a familiar, inviting environment (Fun Fact, I almost named my cat JB Fletcher, but my sister overruled it).

📣 A Call to Writers 📣 To all budding authors out there, hear this: cozy mysteries are not bound by convention. It's time to bring your unique voice and experiences into this welcoming literary realm. Don't shy away from weaving your interests, habits, and quirks – even if they aren't traditionally associated with the cozy mystery scene. Be brave, be different, and be you!

The cozy mystery revolution is in full swing, and the world is waiting to unravel your captivating tales. Let's encourage more diverse characters, settings, and stories that reflect the rich tapestry of our society. As cozy mystery enthusiasts embrace this new era, I can't wait to see the genre flourish with imagination and inclusivity.

[quoteoftheweekblog]

…

2/10/23 - ALEXANDER MCCALL SMITH

' "My name is Precious Ramotswe and I run the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency on the Tlokweng Road." ' (McCall Smith, 2017, p.142).

REFERENCE

McCall Smith, A. (2017) 'The house of unexpected sisters'. Amazon.com [E-book]. Available at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unexpected-Sisters-Ladies-Detective-Agency-ebook/dp/B01NAYO451/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= (Accessed 1 October 2023.

*****

SEE ALSO

‘ “The British brought chairs … They took chairs with them wherever they went in the world. And they left the chairs behind when they went home.” ‘ (McCall Smith. 2017, pp.214-5).

BLACK/BAME HISTORY MONTH 2023

AKA AS GLOBAL MAJORITY HISTORY MONTH

WHICH I NEVER USED TO DO BECAUSE EVERY MONTH SHOULD BE BLACK/BAME/GLOBAL MAJORITY HISTORY MONTH …

BUT SO FAR THIS YEAR I ONLY HAVE

3/4/23

*****

GLOBAL MAJORITY HISTORY MONTH

*****

PLUS

‘ “It is one of the very great books of our times.” ‘ (McCall Smith, 2017, p.96).

FOR BOOK GROUP

LAST MONTH ONE OF OUR MEMBERS WAS READING AHEAD

…

SELECTION DAY

‘ … NO COMMENT YET!’

&

…

AGENT ZIGZAG

‘ … ABOUT A REAL DOUBLE AGENT IN WW2. A MIX OF FACT AND FICTION - AN EASY READ AND EXCITING.’

WHILST THE OTHER HALF

…

THE INK BLACK HEART

‘THE TV’S BETTER.’

…

ANOTHER MEMBER IS CONTINUING WITH

…

THE WHITE ROAD

‘I AM READING THE NEXT MORLAND DYNASTY BOOK, THE WHITE ROAD, WHICH IS TAKING PLACE DURING WW1.’

&

…

THE SONG OF HIAWATHA

‘I HAVE ALSO READ “THE SONG OF HIAWATHA” WHICH I ENJOYED BUT IT WAS MOST DEFINITELY NOT INCLUSIVE OF THE BITS I HAVE HEARD BEFORE. HE AND RUNNING WATER MARRY AND REMAIN MARRIED UNTIL HER DEATH. MY MEMORY TELLS ME THEY CAST THEMSELVES INTO THE WATER IN DESPAIR AT NOT BEING ALLOWED TO BE TOGETHER. THIS VERSION WAS A MARRIAGE THAT BROUGHT 2 TRIBES TOGETHER. SOMEWHERE ALONG THE WAY THERE MUST BE ANOTHER VERSION OF IT - ANY SUGGESTIONS?’

…

OUR LEADER (WHO WILL DO SOME RESEARCH RE ‘HIAWATHA’)

…

MILKMAN

‘SET IN NORTHERN IRELAND DURING THE TROUBLES - GRIM AND DIFFICULT TO READ.’

&

…

ALL THE LIGHT WE CANNOT SEE

’A WAR NOVEL SET IN 1914 AND AN EARLIER BOOK GROUP BOOK.’

…

MEANWHILE MY READING IS STILL NOT BACK ON TRACK DUE TO

DIRE TIMES

…

THE WORLD OF POOH

‘ “WINNIE THE POOH” WAS EXCELLENT BUT “THE HOUSE AT POOH CORNER” GOT ON MY NERVES.’

*****

ALEXANDER MCCALL SMITH

*****

BOOK GROUP

****

QUOTE OF THE WEEK 2011 - 2023

…

12 EPIC YEARS

FROM THE ARCHIVE

…

25/1/21

*****

[billlockyer]

Unlocking the Enigma: Dive into the World of Favorite Mystery Novels

Introduction:

Mystery novels have always captivated readers with their intriguing plots, suspenseful narratives, and enigmatic characters. From classic detective stories to modern thrillers, the genre has left an indelible mark on the literary world. In this article, we explore a selection of favourite mystery novels that have stood the test of time, drawing readers into a labyrinth of suspense, puzzle-solving, and unexpected twists.

I. The Golden Age Mysteries: Unraveling Classic Whodunits

The Golden Age of mystery novels, roughly spanning the 1920s to 1940s, marked the emergence of iconic detective characters and intricate plotlines. Agatha Christie's "Murder on the Orient Express" (1934) introduced readers to the brilliant Hercule Poirot, who faces a perplexing murder aboard a luxurious train. Similarly, Arthur Conan Doyle's "The Hound of the Baskervilles" (1902) sees Sherlock Holmes untangling a web of supernatural occurrences in the eerie moors of Devonshire. These timeless classics continue to bewitch readers with their meticulous detective work and unexpected denouements.

II. Psychological Thrillers: Unsettling the Mind

In the realm of psychological mysteries, Gillian Flynn's "Gone Girl" (2012) reigns supreme. This modern masterpiece delves into the dark complexities of a troubled marriage, weaving a tale of manipulation, deceit, and shifting perspectives. Flynn's intricate plotting and unreliable narrators keep readers on edge, questioning the truth until the final pages. Another notable entry is Dennis Lehane's "Shutter Island" (2003), where a U.S. Marshal investigates a disappearance on a secluded asylum island, only to confront his own sanity. These gripping psychological thrillers probe the depths of the human psyche, leaving readers enthralled and haunted.

III. International Intrigue: Uncovering Global Secrets

Transporting readers across continents, international mysteries offer a taste of different cultures and a global perspective. Steig Larsson's "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" (2005) introduces Lisbeth Salander, a brilliant hacker embroiled in a complex investigation that unravels dark family secrets. Set against the backdrop of Sweden, this novel combines suspense, social commentary, and unforgettable characters. In Umberto Eco's "The Name of the Rose" (1980), a Franciscan friar investigates a series of murders in a medieval Italian abbey, revealing political and religious conspiracies. These international mysteries offer readers a passport to thrilling adventures in unfamiliar territories.

IV. Cozy Mysteries: Embracing Quaint Whodunits

For readers seeking a lighter and more charming mystery experience, cozy mysteries provide the perfect escape. Agatha Christie's "Miss Marple" series, featuring the sharp-witted elderly sleuth, delights readers with quaint English village settings and clever observations. Titles such as "The Murder at the Vicarage" (1930) showcase Christie's knack for intricate plots wrapped in a cozy atmosphere. In Alexander McCall Smith's "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency" (1998), readers are transported to Botswana, where the delightful protagonist, Precious Ramotswe, solves crimes with wit and compassion. These cozy mysteries offer a comforting and engaging reading experience.

Conclusion:

Mystery novels have a unique ability to enthrall readers, offering them the chance to become detectives themselves, piecing together clues and solving puzzles. From the classic whodunits of the Golden Age to the mind-bending psychological thrillers of the present day, the mystery genre continues to evolve and captivate. Whether you enjoy intricate unravelling plots with iconic detectives, delving into the depths of the human mind, exploring international intrigue, or embracing cozy and charming tales, the world of mystery novels holds a treasure trove of captivating stories waiting to be discovered. So, grab a magnifying glass, turn the pages, and embark on an unforgettable journey into the realm of mystery.

[thesunshinesanctuary]

You might enjoy Alexander McCall Smith’s The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency. They’re very warm and human, but also touch on some very dark subjects without being callous about them. Precious Ramotswe is a treasure of a character. The resolution often includes some merciful poetic justice.

The stratification (in marketing at least) between "grimdark" crime fiction (inc books) and "cosy" crime fiction grates on me sometimes, because I like nothing that's at either extreme. I don't want relentless pain (and I find both organised crime and serial killer plots pretty boring unless they're really well-handled), and I don't want cheerfully callous "ooh, the bodies are piling up! how inconvenient! have another slice of Victoria sponge!".

I want humanity and compassion and humour and treating deaths like they do actually matter even when they're of awful people, thank-you-so-very-much. I want the satisfaction of a puzzle solved. I want an awareness by the author that yes the human fascination with murder mysteries (going right right back to Oedipus Tyrannus etc.) is kind of odd, while also not apologising for it. I want characters I warm to and care about, even if I sometimes want to throw things at them. I want a predictable structure to some extent, because it helps my autistic brain when I'm having a rough time (see also romances!). If at all possible I like at least some awareness that there is structural oppression in the world and that capital punishment is Not Great even if by the very nature of the genre (especially in police procedurals) I never expect murder mysteries to have the same politics or morality as me[1].

Some of the murder mysteries/crime fiction I do really love: the Cadfael books, Endeavour, the Lord Peter Wimsey books, the Ruth Galloway mysteries, the Discworld Watch books, the Ian Rutledge mysteries, and every time KJ Charles or T Kingfisher get a bit murder mystery on us. And so on and so forth. There are a good number! And a fair variety in tone in all of these they just... still all operate in that blessed middle space between grimdark and cosy, and involve Caring About People, and I just wish there were even more. <3

(Do recommend your own favourites if you wish!) [1] In real life, I am very much of the opinion that ACAB, that prison is a horror, that capital punishment is one of the greatest evils there is, and that retributive justice in general is wrong and unhelpful; those views affect which murder mysteries I like and how I read/watch/listen to them to some extent but, well, fiction is not reality. And being aware of that gap helps me to keep true to my views while still enjoying stories that go very much the other way!