I read this book when it was first published in 2003 and suggested it to my book group a few months ago when they wanted to read a mystery. This is a mystery with some heft to it in terms of setting, character, plot.
It opens with Miss Maisie Dobbs setting up shop in England in 1929. She's not exactly the typical PI, but instead specializes in helping people solve psychological issues, especially problems related to the war. She has been a nurse in France and seen many of the issues confronting people even years later. She has also experienced some herself.
Most of the book is devoted to her background, how she became a servant in a rich household, and how her intelligence and ambition won her the freedom to acquire an education. This is a delightful book, which manages to portray almost every character with sympathy. Highly recommended. A slew of books have followed the first.
More reviews are at Barrie Summy's blog.
11 comments:
Maisie Dobbs really is a good 'un, Patti. I liked the way her character is portrayed, and I think the wartime/post-war context is done really well.
Diane has read all of the MAISIE DOBBS books. She's enjoying the new one, THE AMERICAN AGENT, now.
Haven't read any of these, but they are getting a ton of buzz. Barbara read it, didn't finish, said "not for me". Don't know why. She just finished an Elizabeth George novel she loved.
This mystery sounds different and great! And I haven't read any Maisie Dobbs mysteries...yet (Sometimes I wonder if I'm living life under a rock!) Thank you for reviewing!
As I said, Rick, there is not so much mystery in this one, which may be why Barbara didn't like it. I think the rest of the series is more mystery than this oen.
That does sound like a good mystery, with lots of layers.
I like your review!
We need to read about strong women.
Rick, I'm with Barbara. It wasn't for me either.
Sounds like an interesting book (and series). Thanks for reviewing!
Sounds interesting. Thanks for suggesting May Sarton's memoirs. I'm looking her up. - Margy
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