Winds from Further West by Alexander McCall Smith

From the world’s favourite author of The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, this novel is about chance encounters; it is richly atmospheric and packed with compassion and humour.

Often a small and seemingly insignificant event can change the course of our lives.

Not long after starting a new job, Neil meets Chrissie. Romance soon blossoms and together they move to a lavish flat in Edinburgh. Everything seems to be falling into place perfectly.

But an innocuous, throw-away comment unintentionally causes Neil’s career to collapse, and, at the same time, a cruel betrayal shatters the life he thought he knew.

His only option is to escape to the secluded, remote beauty of a breathtaking Hebridean island. Here, he finds a different way of life, and new friendships develop. But he can’t escape the past forever, and soon he must confront a life-changing decision once more.

‘… fans will find it rippling with gentle observational comedy.’ Sydney Morning Herald / The Age

‘His latest book is something of a departure. It encompasses very present issues in the UK: cancel culture, workplace bullying, and the changing world of academia…an exploration of character…a call to arms for better society.’ BBC Radio 4 Front Row

Praise for Alexander McCall Smith’s writing:

‘The author’s prose has the merits of simplicity, euphony and precision. This is art that conceals art.’Sunday Telegraph

‘Bags of warmth and wisdom and easy, accomplished writing that begs for a comfy chair.’The Times

‘Charming, delightful, feel-good stuff.’ Daily Express

After a throw-away comment lands him in a difficult situation, Dr Neil Anderson’s principles are put to the test. He ultimately leaves his job, his partner, and Edinburgh far behind for the seclusion and remote beauty of the Isle of Mull off the west coast of Scotland. There love once again blossoms, and Neil’s life is forever changed.

About the Author:

Alexander McCall Smithis the author of the highly successfulNo. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agencyseries, which has sold over twenty-five million copies. Since then he has devoted his time to the writing of fiction and has seen his various series of books translated into over forty-six languages and become bestsellers throughout the world. These include the44 Scotland Streetnovels, first published as a serial novel in theScotsman, theIsabel Dalhousienovels, theVon Igelfeldseries and theCorduroy Mansionsnovels.

01 May 2025
 

The Winds from Further West by Alexander McCall Smith ISBN 9781846977084