Looking for You has all the charm and beauty one can expect from McCall Smith (even if the setting and stakes for searching are quite different from The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency). The writing is occasionally heavy-handed in its messaging or pretentious in its allusions. The characters, though, feel drawn directly from the earth: real, flawed, complex, lovable. I wasn’t expecting it, but Ness’ story became just as compelling to me as Katie’s and William’s. I adored all three of them - and Herb most of all! - and hope to read more about them in a future installment. While this is the second book in a series, I read it as a standalone with no problem. Reading this book was as cozy as curling up with a hot tea and soft blanket, and while the ending felt just right, it left me eager to read more! Five stars!

Thank you to NetGalley and Vintage for the free eARC. I post this review with my honest opinions. This review is cross-posted on Goodreads and will be posted on Amazon and Instagram upon the book’s publication.

A truly enjoyable read, blending sweetness with a heartfelt storyline. While some of the dialogue may feel lengthy, it’s well worth the investment, offering valuable insight into the characters and enriching the overall experience.