The 25th book in the #1 Ladies Detective Agency series is not to be missed. My thanks go to NetGalley and Doubleday for the review copy; this book is available to the public now.

When life becomes stressful, what do you do? Some swear by yoga, herbal tea, walking or running, therapy, mindfulness, journaling, or a number of other remedies. Some of us dive into the chocolate; the short-term benefit is mitigated by the long term weight gain, but when we’re upset enough, we don’t care. And for some of us, this series is just what the doctor ordered.

Precious Ramotswe is our detective protagonist, assisted, and occasionally encumbered, by her headstrong but goodhearted colleague, Grace Makutsi, part time apprentice detective, Charlie, and occasionally, by her bestie, Mma Potokwane, who runs the local orphan home.

Our mystery revolves, as the title suggests, around a case of possible sabotage at The Great Hippopotamus Hotel. There’s another thread, too—as there usually is—involving Precious’s husband, Mr. J.L.B Matekoni, owner of the garage and technically, Precious’s landlord.

Those looking for an action packed thriller will always be disappointed here, because that’s not what this series is. Instead, it’s closer to being a Miss Marple-ish cozy mystery. The problem is nearly always solved, not by DNA or murder weapons or questioning baddies until they break, but by an examination of the circumstances and characters of those involved. It is here that Precious is at her finest. In addition, she must tread carefully around the feelings of her staff, primarily that of Grace Makutsi, whose insecurities tend to make her prickly. Grace is a bit threatened by Mma Potokwane, and when Precious explains gently that they will be accompanied by the orphan farm matron on an investigation, Grace says, in a serious case of look-who’s-talking:

“Mma Potokwane—yes, she is observant, but…But Mma, if Mma Potokwane has any faults—and we all have faults Mma, myself included—if she has any faults, one of them is taking over. I am not saying that she is bossy—that is not a word that I would use for Mma Potokwane—I would not say that, Mma, and I am not saying it now. No. But there are some people, I think, who might say that.”

And so, in addition to her detective work, Mma Ramotswe must navigate the small minefields that exist between these two women, both of whom are dear to her.

In some ways, the mystery aspect of these stories is almost superfluous. Every story has to have a problem and a resolution, and so it’s convenient, perhaps, to use a mystery as scaffolding for whatever problem Precious must confront. It’s certainly served Smith well. But the real benefit I see in these series is that the solutions to these problems are always dealt with as gently and as kindly as is possible. Nobody is getting thrown face down on the ground and handcuffed in these stories; every effort is made to turn the problem around while allowing the perpetrator to retain as much dignity as possible. The lyrical prose is so soothing that I love reading these stories at bedtime.

And one more word, for regular readers: the recurring character of Violet, who is the closest we have to a villain, pops up here right away, and I rolled my eyes and said, “Not this again. Smith needs new material.” But the way the character is used this time is different, and if I had a hat, I would tip it in appreciation of the author’s cleverness. He always seems to know when it’s time to break a pattern.

Highly recommended.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This was a great book. I enjoyed it as much as the others I've read by this author!

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

In "The Great Hippopotamus Hotel," the beloved Alexander McCall Smith welcomes us back to Botswana, where Mma Precious Ramotswe continues her heartwarming and insightful journey as the founder of the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency. This 25th installment effortlessly preserves the charm, wit, and gentle wisdom that have become hallmarks of the series, inviting both loyal fans and new readers to savor its unique narrative flavor.

As Mma Ramotswe tackles a new batch of intriguing cases, including a perplexing mystery at a hippopotamus hotel and personal dilemmas faced by her clients, McCall Smith's writing shines with warmth and subtle humor. The author's portrayal of Botswana's landscape and culture remains vivid and affectionate, painting a rich tapestry of life that is both familiar and refreshing.

Character development is a standout feature of this book. Mma Ramotswe's intuitive problem-solving skills and deep compassion are beautifully balanced by the pragmatic Grace Makutsi, whose sharp insights and endearing quirks add layers of complexity to their detective work. The interplay between these two main characters, along with the ensemble cast, creates a compelling dynamic that drives the story forward with grace and nuance.

McCall Smith's ability to weave life lessons and ethical reflections into everyday scenarios is particularly poignant in this volume. The narrative gently prompts readers to ponder themes of friendship, resilience, and the importance of community. Through Mma Ramotswe's eyes, we see the beauty in simplicity and the strength found in kindness.

"The Great Hippopotamus Hotel" may not boast high-octane action or dramatic twists, but its strength lies in its quiet, contemplative moments and the authenticity of its characters. The book is a testament to McCall Smith's storytelling prowess, offering a comforting escape into a world where problems, however small or large, are approached with care, patience, and a touch of humor.

This book is a delightful addition to the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, reaffirming why Mma Ramotswe and her companions continue to captivate readers around the globe.

Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, "The Great Hippopotamus Hotel" delivers a heartwarming and enriching read that lingers long after the final page is turned.

2 familiar cozy stars
I have enjoyed over a dozen books in this series since the original No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency twenty plus years ago. But at this point, the bush tea has gotten cold.

The characters and dialogue are familiar, there are no surprises in the book. It takes about a third of the book for the ‘mystery’/ dilemma to even be mentioned. Sometimes a book meets you at the right time and place and other times you need something fresh. Unfortunately, ‘The Hippo Hotel’ was stale for me. I waited in vain for something fun or interesting to happen. I like Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi, but I need some forward momentum.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

The Great Hippopotamus Hotel is the delightful, heartwarming 25th book in the No. 1 Ladies Detective series! It is full of the gentle wit and wisdom of Alexander McCall Smith, that shines through the characters he has created for this series. Mma Ramotswe has been approached by the manager of The Great Hippopotomus Hotel to investigate mysterious incidents that are plaguing the hotel, while her husband, Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni is dealing with a customer who wants him to procure for him an expensive sports car to purchase. As Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi work together on the mysterious happenings at the hotel, the two discover that all is not as it seems, as their investigation reveals some surprising information. As always, in this series, there is the mystery to be solved, as well as the characters (including the talking shoes!) I have come to love, their growth and continuing story, and the beauty of a country I have never visited, Botswana. Final words of wisdom from Mma Ramotswe - "As long as supplies of tea hold out, there is time to listen." Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for my advance copy. The opinions of this review are my own.

Another quietly enjoyable entry in the series. The characters all feel like old friends.

*Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an e-galley in exchange for an honest review.

3.5 stars

In this 25th book in the 'No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency' series - set in Gaborone, Botswana - the sleuths look into mischief at a popular hotel and a man having a midlife crisis. The book can be read as a standalone but familiarity with the characters is a bonus.

*****

Mma Precious Ramotswe is the founder of the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, and Mma Grace Makutski is the self-appointed joint managing director. The ladies acquired their sleuthing skills from a book called 'The Principles of Private Detection' by Clovis Anderson, whose wise counsel is sprinkled throughout the story.

One day, Mma Ramotswe is approached by a man called Quick Babusi, manager of the Great Hippopotamus Hotel. Babusi explains that the establishment was doing well until things started to go wrong. Misfortunes include food poisoning in the dining room; guests' laundry going missing from the drying line; a carpet ruined by a bathroom flood; a lodger being stung by a scorpion in his room; and more. Babusi confides, "There were bad reviews, and once that starts it's very difficult to stop it."

Babusi goes on to say that the hotel had been owned by Mr. Goodman Tsholofelo, who ran it successfully for many years. Now elderly, Mr. Tsholofelo has given the hostelry to his three relatives: two nephews - businessmen named H.J. Morapedi and Pardon Morapedi; and a niece called Diphimotswe - who owns a dress shop. Babusi manages the hotel for this trio, and fears the demise of the hotel will threaten his position and the jobs of his staff.

As it happens Mma Ramotswe falls ill, and the hotel case is taken over by Mma Makutsi, who's happy to be temporary head of the detective agency. When Mma Makutsi learns that Mr. H.J. Morapedi, who's married, has 'become friendly' with beautiful husband-stealing Violet Sephotho, the detective is appalled. Mma Makutsi detests Violet, and believes Violet and H.J. are sabotaging the Great Hippopotamus Hotel for their own nefarious purposes. Mma Makutsi sets out to prove it, and as sometimes happens, Mma Makutsi's shoes talk to her about the matter. And this time, a little boy hears the shoes as well!

Meanwhile, Mma Ramotswe helps her husband, mechanic J.L.B. Matekoni - owner of Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors - with a tricky problem. A Speedy Motors client, 60-year-old Mo Mo Molala, has asked J.L.B. to find him a red Italian sports car. Mr. Molala plans to purchase the car in secret, and not tell his wife. J.L.B feels he has to help Molala because Speedy Motors gets a big chunk of business from Molala's brother, who runs the biggest car rental firm in the country. Mma Ramotswe STRONGLY disapproves of the car purchase and the spouse deception. She recalls Clovis Andersen's principle: "Men do things to attract the attention of women. Once you understand that, you will begin to understand men." Thus Mma Ramtoswe feels she must set things right.

Things aren't always as they seem, and by the end of the book, Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi are satisfied with their work.

Much of this series' charm revolves around the insight and kindness of Mma Ramotswe, who loves Botswana and Botswanans, but acknowledges that people can go astray. In those cases, Mma Ramotswe feels wrongdoers should be guided back with a feather rather than a cudgel.

It's always a pleasure to visit with the series' recurring characters, including the mechanic Charlie, whose irreverent remarks (purposely) irritate Mma Makutsi; Mma Makutsi's husband, furniture store owner Phuti Radiphuti, who has good business sense; and Mma Potokwane, director of the Orphan Farm and baker of delicious fruit cakes.

As always, I enjoyed the book. My major grumble is that, with Mma Ramotswe sick and stuck at home, she and Mma Makutsi don't have their usual cups of tea and fun conversations.

Thanks to Netgalley, Alexander McCall Smith, and Pantheon for a copy of the book.

AMS has done it again. Nothing is as soothing as one of his easy-going novels that are a true love story to Botswana. It’s always a pleasure tocatch up with the characters and see how intuitive they are. Always a joy!

Alexander McCall Smith involves the No. I Ladies' Detective Agency in misfeasance at The Great Hippopotamus Hotel. The ladies are asked by the manager to look into people getting sick from food at the hotel and other strange goings on. Meanwhile Mr. Matekoni has arranged for a client of middle age to get a ritzy and fast car without this man telling his wife about the purchase. In this saga the lady detectives find out that all is not what it seems and that they have to be careful about judging in advance of facts.. Get this book and read about real life events. Heartwarming.

This was another soothing, insightful entry in the long running No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series. Calming, but never boring—and always with a satisfying ending. Precious Remotswe took a back seat in this story, with Mma Makutsi taking on the role of lead investigator. Enjoyable.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This was such an enjoyable mystery, filled with a diverse cast of characters that kept me turning pages! I loved getting a glimpse into Botswana’s rich culture and customs—it added such a unique layer to the story. Exploring how mysteries unfold in different parts of the world always brings something special to the experience. This was my first book by this author. It’s a well-crafted mystery without too many thrills, but that’s what made it such a satisfying read.

Another great mystery in the series. I must admit I have trouble with the names, but the story itself was great. I have read quite a few of the earlier books in the series but it has been awhile, so it was fun to see how the two main characters have progressed in their marriages and work. Love the common sense approach and discussion throughout, although the gentle put downs of men got a bit tiresome in the beginning. Still though, would highly recommend this book, series and author. Can be read alone, but recommend reading the early books to get a better understanding of the characters.

Loved this book. I look forward to each book in this series. They are always charming and a delight. Went to Botswana this past summer just because that is where the series takes place.

This was an easy going, light mystery that wasn’t quite was I expected since I had not read the other books but mistakingly thought I could jump right in’. I enjoyed the humor of the characters and learning about the culture of their country. I’d like to read other books in the series now.

Entering the world of Mma Ramotswe is such a comfort to me, and every autumn I look forward to my next visit to her . . .like my past visits with family you only "swooped" by once in awhile. Lucky for me I can pick up - and do! - walk into any one of the now 25 books which will reassure a reader that all is well with Mma R, and if it isn't it soon will be sorted - just sit back and watch it happen.

This read felt a little more gentle than some of the others - no trauma or stress. There is a moment where Mma Ramotswe must stay benched and Mma Makutsi steps up AND my favorite TWAAs (TangibleWithAnAgenda) in just about all of literature reasserted themselves. . .remember her shoes? the ones that talk?! well. . .they're back! So funny - ever since I read about the shoes, my own shoes have felt encouraged and empowered enough to speak up from time to time. . .and from time to time my sox also speak up.

The Great Hippopotamus Hotel is a tale about exploring ways to accept that first assumptions are often more about the truth you want than the reality that is. . .and ways to be gentle with yourself and others as you all change your minds. That's not losing power - it's gaining it. Another round of lessons gently but firmly applied (and Clovis Andersen Approv'd no less) by the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency.

*A sincere thank you to Alexander McCall Smith, Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.*

I am still amazed how the author manages to incorporate wisdom and humor into all of his stories. Both Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makuts applied the principles of Clovis Andersen with their understanding of what other people need and value to solving their cases.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Pantheon Books for providing an eARC to review.

A sweet hotel just outside of town is experiencing nasty tricks that are likely to drive away customers. The former owner has transferred his interest to his two nephews, who are brothers and a niece. But early on, Mma Ramotswe takes ill and the case must be pursued by Grace Makutsi who thoroughly enjoys the new important role. She has a firm belief, based on information that is only tangentially relevant, that her arch enemy Violet Sephoto is involved in the troubles at the hotel. This could have rendered the plot a thin and well-worn joke, but Mme Makutsi is actually quite capable in her interviews and strategies in the investigation. There's a really sweet character in the form of a little boy who is mute and has moved to the orphanage. There is a seemingly bombastic customer of the garage who had to have an expensive sports car and would hear no sound advice. There is... Botswana. So, as usual, this was a lovely entry into the series. Not my favorite but good. I was particularly happy to have the talking shoes return to torment Grace. Grab a cup of tea and read! You won'g go wrong.

This series is the perfect antidote for the anxiety of today’s world. When you finish any one of these books, it makes you want to be a better person. I confess, the beginning was basically a recycling of all the previous stories with frequently repeated observations practically word for word from earlier episodes, but halfway through Mma Ramotswe, the wise leader of the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, was struck down by a case of food poisoning which placed the current case in the hands of her colleague, Grace Makutsi. Mma Makutsi has always come across as a bit of a flake, clinging to the reputation she acquired in secretarial school for achieving a high score on her final exam. Her insecurity was never more apparent than in this story when an acquaintance referred to her as an assistant at the detective agency rather than a full colleague. And frankly, to this reader it has always seemed she required the firm but diplomatic direction of Precious Ramotswe to do her part.
In The Great Hippopotamus Hotel, however, Grace manages to use the experience she has acquired in previous cases to help reach a satisfactory conclusion in determining who was behind the sabotaging of the reputation of this boutique hotel. What is even more enjoyable is seeing Grave replace her rigid preconceptions with a more flexible approach.
A final note is the pleasure in reading the author’s final paean to the country of Botswana. It is hard to believe that Alexander McCall Smith lives in Scotland. He seems to be a true native of this South African country..

This is my first Alexander McCall Smith book, and unfortunately likely my last.

Cody mysteries need a strong sense of place and terrific atmosphere to keep my attention, and this one was disappointingly short on both, or at least those elements didn’t work for me here. Theoretically the setting for this sounded outstanding and different, but it takes a backseat to a lot of dialogue and daily life content that didn’t appeal.

The story and mystery are fine and certainly thoughtfully crafted, but the low stakes nature of what’s happening meant that I needed a more fleshed-out world or setting to enjoy this, and they just aren’t there.

The characters are likable enough but fairly one dimensional in a way that isn’t important if the rest of the book appeals, but also aren’t going to draw you in if the rest doesn’t hold your attention.

There’s no real issue of quality with this book, and if you like this style of cozy you’ll likely do fine with this one, but much to my disappointment, this was not for me.

Another great addition to the No 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency. Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi are the ladies of the detective agency. They live in a small village in Botswana, They are tasked to help solve various mysteries. This one focuses mostly on the problems that are happening at The Great Hippopotamus Hotel. The previous owner left the hotel to some of his relatives. They are struggling with it. Mma Ramotswe’s husband, Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni, runs the Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors. He needs her help with an issue there too.

This series is known for cozy mysteries, well developed characters, and interesting plot. McCall Smith did not disappoint with this newest addition to the series. I have read many of the books before so I appreciate the updates on the various village people. But if you have not, I still feel like it could be enjoyed as a stand alone title.

Thank you NetGalley and Pantheon Books for the advanced reader copy.