The Good Pilot Peter Woodhouse

Alexander McCall Smith, Birlinn, £8.99 It’s the Second World War. Hitler is trying to starve Britain into defeat. People are scared. There seems to be no end in sight to this dreadful war. Now the men are away, it’s fallen to the women to step up and do their bit for the country – women like Val Eliot, one of many thousands of Land Girls who are rolling up their sleeves and digging in, literally, up and down the country. Except Val Eliot isn’t just one of many. She’s the strong yet endearing protagonist of Alexander McCall Smith’s latest novel, The Good Pilot Peter Woodhouse.

In this lovely tale, Val’s work as a Land Girl introduces her to Mike, an American aviator. It tells the story of their blossoming romance against the backdrop of the war. Ultimately, it is a story about relationships and serves as a powerful reminder of their strength and the salvation they offer in the face of tragedy.

Having read some of McCall Smith’s work, I think it is fair to say that when you pick up one of his books, you are guaranteed to enjoy it. It’s always a smooth ride when embarking upon one of his tales. There are never any detours down dead-end roads and while there are sometimes a few bumps, they soon give way to smooth terrain as you finish the last leg of the journey. This book is no exception, as you are left satisfied that the story is complete with no loose ends in danger of unravelling. It is a poignant story that has lingered with me long after I have turned the last page, always the sign of a good book.

It may not be a literary masterpiece but it is a strong, charming story in its own right. Indulge yourself in this book. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

9/10