Maisie Dobbs

by Jacqueline Winspear

I bought this a long time ago at the library’s book sale, and I’ve finally gotten around to reading it. What took me so long?

When our story begins, Maisie Dobbs is setting up a private investigations office in post-World War I London. From the start, this novel reminds me of two series: The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith (tone) and Her Royal Spyness by Rhys Bowen (setting). I love both of these series. Maisie’s first case involves a suspicious husband who wants to check on the whereabouts of his wife.

We then take a break and flash back to Maisie’s history. She was in service for a most beneficent woman, who recognized Maisie’s talents and intellect. Maisie was specially tutored and sent to Cambridge to study. Maisie then chucked it all to become a battlefield nurse during the Great War.

Returning to the here and now, readers witness the intersection of Maisie’s past and present. Her history definitely helps her to solve the case at hand.

I loved this novel. I love the gentle tone, the smart and thoughtful sleuth, and the setting. This is a gentle and enjoyable read. I cannot wait to read the next entry in the series.

12/23/12