Title: Maisie Dobbs
Author: Jacqueline Winspear
Narrator: Rita Barrington
Genre: Mystery; Fiction
Pages: 294
Audio: 10 hours
Year: 2004
Publisher: Sound Library
Source: Library
Rating: 4.5/5
Summary:
Maisie Dobbs is a “psychologist and investigator” in post-WWI London. Trained for years by her mentor, Maurice, she’s hanging up her own shingle and ready for her first case: a simple suspected adultery turned into something much more. In the midst of this story, we learn about Maisie – from housemaid to WWI nurse – and how she came to be the Maisie we see today.
My Thoughts:
I am only one book in and I totally understand why the world is in love with Maisie. I’ve never been much of a mystery reader, but I’m sold on Maisie. She’s a charming character, surrounded by wonderful family and friends, and I can’t imagine many readers fail to fall under her spell.
I had heard that the first Maisie Dobbs was not the strongest, mostly because of the large amount of backstory squeezed in the middle. While I’m not sure that devoting such a big chunk of the book to the back story (maybe it deserved a book of its own?) was the best story-telling decision, I actually really enjoyed learning about young Maisie. If this is the weakest book in the series, I can’t wait to keep reading.
Audiobook Thoughts:
I was able to get completely lost in the story and I believe much of this was due to the narration. Rita Barrington has this wonderfully lyrical voice. I definitely recommend reading (or revisiting) this one in audio.
my books. my life. 
I have the first two of these sitting on my shelf right now… I need to get to them soon! Everyone keeps talking about how great these are. Since you enjoyed the audio so much, maybe I’ll take that route instead of print.
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I liked the back story so much, and felt the historical bits were amazing, but I was less enchanted with the mystery, and eventually decided that I wouldn’t go further in this series because of that. I have been reconsidering as of late though, because I have been hearing some amazing things about the way the books progress. I am glad you loved this one. Are you thinking of going further with the series?
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Yes, I plan on reading the rest of the series so stay tuned. 🙂
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I’ve been interested to read this series…I’ve been hearing a lot of buzz lately. I’m glad to know the first book will draw the reader in!
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That’s a creative answer to a diffciult question
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