Maisie Dobbs

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.

"A poignant and compelling story that explores war's lingering and insidious impact on it survivors . . . Highly recommended." 

– Library Journal (Starred Review) 

"A satisfying debut . . . We look forward to many more return visits to the world of Maisie Dobbs."

– Denver Post

"Deft . . . Prepare to be astonished at the sensitivity and wisdom with which Maisie resolves her first professional assignment."

– Marilyn Stasio, The New York Times Book Review

"Rich with period atmosphere . . . Dobbs' progression from domestic staff to college student to wartime nurse to private investigator is both believable and compelling.

– San Francisco Chronicle