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.

Maisie Dobbs Collector’s Edition

The bestselling crime classic that launched the iconic Maisie Dobbs series, reissued in this gorgeous twentieth-anniversary collector’s edition to celebrate the conclusion of the series. This Collector’s Edition hardcover features an elegant paper-over-board cover with copper foil, matching printed endpapers, and an afterword from the author.

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

Maisie Dobbs: A Mysterious Profile

The historical mystery Maisie Dobbs was first published in 2003, introducing readers to an inquisitive, young, English, working-class woman as she opens her own London detective agency following World War I. Jacqueline Winspear’s debut won her the Agatha Award for Best First Novel and led to a New York Times–bestselling series. But just who exactly is Miss Maisie Dobbs?

In this profile, four characters very close to Maisie shed light on the beloved psychologist and investigator. Her father, Francis Dobbs looks back on her childhood and proclaims the pride she instills in him. Her first employer, Lady Rowan Compton, recounts finding a young Maisie studying late one night in her library. Dr. Maurice Blanche, her mentor, discusses her studies and their detective work. And Billy Beale, her assistant, talks about their first meeting during the Great War, as well as what it’s like to work for her. It’s an enlightening read that fans are sure to love.

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