Maisie Dobbs

Book 1

Maisie Dobbs, Psychologist and Investigator, began her working life at the age of thirteen as a servant in a Belgravia mansion, only to be discovered reading in the library by her employer, Lady Rowan Compton. Fearing dismissal, Maisie is shocked when she discovers that her thirst for education is to be supported by Lady Rowan and a family friend, Dr. Maurice Blanche. But The Great War intervenes in Maisie’s plans, and soon after commencement of her studies at Girton College, Cambridge, Maisie enlists for nursing service overseas.

Years later, in 1929, having apprenticed to the renowned Maurice Blanche, a man revered for his work with Scotland Yard, Maisie sets up her own business. Her first assignment, a seemingly tedious inquiry involving a case of suspected infidelity, takes her not only on the trail of a killer, but back to the war she had tried so hard to forget.

New York Times Notable Book of the Year
Agatha Award Best First Novel Winner
Macavity Award Winner for Best First Novel
Alex Award Winner for Adult Book that Appeals to Teens
Edgar® Award Finalist Best Mystery
Anthony Award Finalist for Best First Novel
Barry Award Finalist for Best First Novel
Dilys Award Finalist

A delightful mix of mystery, war story and romance set in WWI–era England… A refreshing heroine, appealing secondary characters and an absorbing plot [make Winspear a] writer to watch.
Publishers Weekly, Starred Review
A poignant and compelling story… [Winspear handles] human drama with compassionate sensitivity while skillfully avoiding cloying sentimentality.
Library Journal, Starred Review
[A] deft debut novel… be prepared to be astonished at the sensitivity and wisdom with which Maisie resolves her first professional assignment.
The New York Times
[Maisie Dobbs] catches the sorrow of a lost generation in the character of one exceptional woman.
Chicago Tribune

A female investigator every bit as brainy and battle-hardened as Lisbeth Salander.
—Maureen Corrigan, NPR’s Fresh Air

The Maisie Dobbs Series