Love in the Time of Bertie: A 44 Scotland Street Novel

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Matthew and Elspeth remark on their good fortune at having James: efficient au-pair, talented cook (a fact that prompts a discussion about food so good you want to lick the plate, socially unacceptable private habits and food waste) and part-time barista at Big Lou’s.

This was a matter of regret, Angus felt, even if he himself was doing nothing to stem that particular tide of fashion. This was the very opposite of Angus Lordie’s wardrobe, as gloriously over-engineered, in its way, as the Forth Railway Bridge, and of similar vintage. Written with wit and wisdom and containing a gentle, thought-provoking philosophy about life, the ability to change, love, friendship, community, art, admitting one's defects, and taking control. Alexander is also the author of collections of short stories, academic works, and over thirty books for children.Sister Maria-Flore dei Flori de Montagna, the social-climbing nun, plays a more prominent role by dispensing her type of advice and wisdom to Bertie's father, Angus and Bruce. There’s Domenica, whose anthropological training has honed her observations of her neighbors; Matthew, whose growing triplets are more than a handful; Bruce, whose challenge as ever is thinking of anything but himself; and Big Lou, who may just have found her shot at romance. In the microcosm of 44 Scotland Street, all of life’s richness is found in the glorious goings-on of its residents.

All the threads are tied up in a neat bow as the neighbors stage their own version of the highland games in Drummond Park. Meanwhile, Angus Lordie expresses his appreciation of the bespoke Lobb brogues he inherited from his father, while Domenica comments on Belgian indoor shoes and the fashion for knee-ripped jeans and low-slung trousers that expose underwear. Warm hearted, humorous and wonderfully wise, Love in the Time of Bertie offers philosophical insight as well as sartorial elegance.Nobody, apparently, wanted brown furniture any longer, as it was considered too cumbersome, not to say too dull, for contemporary tastes. They may not be as elegant as Italian footwear, but Italian shoes would never stand the rigours of Scottish conditions.