The private life of spies ; and The exquisite art of getting even
(Book)

Originally published in hardcover in two volumes in Great Britain as The Exquisite Art of Getting Even in 2022, and The Private Life of Shadows in 2023.

In this collection of short stories, Alexander McCall Smith brings his trademark humor 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. With surprising insight and a healthy helping of humor, these stories remind us that, in the end, the high road is often the better one for all involved.