Preview
  • The Great Hippopotamus Hotel

  • No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, Book 25
  • By: Alexander McCall Smith
  • Narrated by: Bianca Amato
  • Length: 8 hrs and 5 mins
  • 4.8 out of 5 stars (79 ratings)

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The Great Hippopotamus Hotel

By: Alexander McCall Smith
Narrated by: Bianca Amato
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Publisher's summary

In this latest installment of Alexander McCall Smith’s beloved No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series, Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi take on an intriguing new case and uncover surprising truths.

In the rolling hills just outside Gaborone, surrounded by a grove of acacia trees, lies the Great Hippopotamus Hotel. With spacious rooms overlooking the Botswanan countryside and a fine and loyal staff, the hotel has served as a refuge to weary travelers for many years. But a sudden string of misfortunes threatens to ruin the hotel’s reputation. Food poisoning befalls an unlucky diner, laundry mysteriously disappears from the drying line, and a scorpion stings one of the guests. Mishap after mishap occurs, until it becomes apparent that these incidents are more than simple coincidences—something foul is afoot.

Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi are on the case to find out who could be responsible for these unfortunate events. Meanwhile, one of Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni’s most important clients has asked him to source a sports car, putting him in a ticklish position, as the man’s wife seems to be unaware of the purchase, and the client is taking great pains to keep it that way.

With a healthy dose of good humor and kindness, Mma Ramotswe and her associates must help restore the reputation of the hotel and prove that even the most difficult situations can be remedied with honesty and compassion.

©2024 Alexander McCall Smith (P)2024 Recorded Books
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What listeners say about The Great Hippopotamus Hotel

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Hippo Hotel’s

Sweet & simple story set in Botswana. The narrator did an excellent job. Love the Ladies Detective series.

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    5 out of 5 stars
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A simple story about life lessons found in the rich culture of Botswana

A great addition to the Number One Ladies Detective Series. As usual there is a mystery and a plentiful dash of Botswana warmth.

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Wholly satisfying

I love all the installments of this series, but this was a particular favorite. I love the new narrator and did not go into this believing anyone could rival Lisette Lecat but before the end of the first chapter I was embraced in Mma Ramostswe’s sweet voice.

I really like that Mma Makutsi gets to play a starring roll in this book. The misdirection, the talking shoes and the delightful little boy that speaks to almost no one except her all kept me interested.

I was happy with the ending and as always the lesson of forgiveness. I look forward to adding this to my relisten library.

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My favorite Series

I have listened to every book in the series!!! Love love, waiting for the next one

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I love this series.

I love the sound of all the characters’ voices— their laughter and all their observations about their fellow men and women—their strengths and foibles. But most of all, I love the way they make me laugh out loud.

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A well-paced mystery!

Alexander McCall Smith does it again with our favorite characters. His books are pleasant visit to Botswana each and every time. Though I miss hearing Lisette Lecat as the reader, Bianca Amati does quite a fine job.

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Misunderstood and biases

The narrator makes this book immensely enjoyable, and the depth of character development is impressive. It reinforces the idea that you should never judge a book by its cover. The narrative flow and the characters' journeys showcase their maturation and personal growth, emphasizing themes of forgiveness and change. Overall, it's a great listen.

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Story is heartwarming.

The narrator did a beautiful job- lovely voice and diction. Suspenseful story with kind humor.

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Sweet little books

I’m very happy with the new narrator, I’d almost quit listening because of past readers.

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The charm.

So relieved that the new narrator is as wonderful as Lisette Lacat!
Excellent in every way. She has a very soothing delivery.

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1 person found this helpful