The Private Life of Spies

Alexander McCall Smith

Feb 2023 · Bolinda · Narrated by Saul Reichlin

Audiobook

5 hr 57 min

Unabridged

Eligible

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About this audiobook

In this collection of short stories, Alexander McCall Smith brings his trademark humour and warmth to inventive tales of spying and vengeance. In one story, a spy dropped deep into enemy territory manages to disguise himself – quite convincingly – as a nun. In another, an invitation to join the Vatican Secret Service sends a prospective operative down a rabbit hole of controversy and confusion. A third story finds an author, on the brink of public ruin, seeing the error of his ways after an act of kindness saves the day. A keen observer of humanity imbued with a sparkling imagination, Alexander McCall Smith illustrates throughout that transparency is paramount and forgiveness is restorative. With surprising insight and a healthy helping of humour, these stories remind us that, in the end, the high road is often the better one for all involved.

About the author

Alexander McCall Smith is one of the world's most prolific and popular authors. His career has been a varied one: for many years he was a professor of medical law and worked in universities in the United Kingdom and abroad. After the publication of his highly successful No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, which has sold over 20 million copies, he devoted his time to writing fiction and has seen his various series translated into over 40 languages and become bestsellers through the world. McCall Smith won the prestigious The Dagger in the Library Award in 2004, an award bestowed by the Crime Writers' Association.

South African born, London resident of 50 years, Saul is a multi award-winning audiobook narrator (including ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’ by Stieg Larsson) He has narrated over 50 TV documentaries for Sky History Channel, is a former National Theatre player, and was nominated Best Actor for his performance in ‘Old Wicked Songs’ by Jon Marans. Saul has also toured 35 cities around the world with his one-man storytelling show, ‘Now You’re Talking!’, including seasons in Chicago. off-Broadway and off-West End, London.

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