Books like The quiet side of passion by Alexander McCall Smith

In the twelfth Isabel Dalhousie mystery, Isabel becomes entangled in a delicate paternity case when a single mother named Patricia brings her struggles to Adelaide. Patricia's son, Basil Jr., is the product of an affair with a well‑known Edinburgh organist, also named Basil, who has been reluctant to make significant financial contributions. Despite her disdain for Patricia, Isabel remains civil and supportive. Complications arise when Patricia is seen with an unscrupulous antiques dealer, prompting Isabel to investigate the boy’s true lineage. When Isabel confronts Basil Sr., she learns that although the financial burden of child support is heavy, he is eager to take on a paternal role. At the same time, Isabel must consider her niece Cat, who has recently become involved with a tattoo artist, and decide how far she is willing to accept new influences. Using her characteristic kindness and keen investigative skills, Isabel works through the moral complexities of a woman who may wish for no help yet needs it.

First publish date: 2018