I won the fifth book in the Maisie Dobbs series, An Incomplete Revenge, from Iliana, ages ago and I've just finally read it. The only reason I put it off is because I wanted to save it for just the moment and I finally found the right one.
I really, really liked this episode in the story of Maisie, in fact, I think this might be my second favorite after the original, Maisie Dobbs. It feels like going back to the basics in many ways. The romantic story lines from the recent books are completely absent here and Maisie is forced to come to terms with issues in her past that go back to the first back. We as readers also get to know Maisie better through this tale, making this a really great read.
So what is it about? Well, Billy Beale is off on vacation, a rather sad vacation actually, that involves traveling with the family out to the countryside to live in huts and pick hops. I suppose this was the only way the working class could afford a little time outside the city. Maisie has been hired by an old friend to seek out information about some property he wants to purchase and learn about some oddities in the town where it is situated. Naturally this town happens to be located just where Billy is. Gypsies have come to pick hops as well; the townspeople are suspicious of them while Maisie gains their trust and we learn about their unique ways. As is often the case, the secrets this town protects go back to the War and Maisie finds herself investigating suspicious yearly fires, crimes of theft, and a deadly Zeppelin raid that killed an entire family. It is truly a tale of tragedy, but as always, Maisie wraps up the case nicely and all secrets are revealed.
Naturally, I recommend this book and the entire series. I can hardly keep my hands off the sixth book, but I am going to make myself wait. It will be interesting to see if Winspear brings the element of romance back (do you think people didn't like it?) as well as the fate of Billy. It seems eventually he will move on - it won't be easy to find someone to take his place as Maisie's right hand man.
11 comments:
I haven't read any of this series but I've read wonderful things about it. It needs to go on my wish list.
I've only just read the first Maisie Dobbs this year but like you, I want to go through them slowly and enjoy the series for as long as possible! I will probably read the second some time this summer but now I want to skip to this one!
I remember purchasing the first in this series and then I lent it to my mum and then completely forgot about it! I can't believe there are six in the series already - way behind as usual!
I haven't read this series either but the author is fabulous. She was at an author talk some years back and I really enjoyed her.
I skimmed this review because I have the first one waiting for me to read and don't want to spoil anything!!! I can't wait to jump on the Maisie train!!
I think the most recent one is my favorite so far. I won't say anything about it,as I don't want to give anything away, but I think Winspear is really moving forward with the story!
I read the first Maisie Dobbs book and quite enjoyed it so I moved on to the second book but I just couldn't get into it for some reason. I might have to go back to them some day.
I'm the same as 'Karen'. I read the first one and quite liked it but couldn't get into book 2. I should try again as even my daughter loves them. And don't you just love that cover?
When I read this one I had the same thoughts, it was my favorite after the first one. There was something so sad about it that I just really felt for Maisie. Of course now I've read the latest one and it was wonderful so all I'll say is that you've got another great read ahead of you :)
I've never read anything by Winspear, but I know others who like her. Sorry you did not like Plague of Doves :(
bermudaonion, Maisie is great - give her a try!
Kristen M, they are all enjoyable for sure - you have some great reading ahead of you.
Samantha, they have multiplied since the first, haven't they!
Carrie K, I would love to go hear this author - lucky you!
Staci, fun! I just loved the first one, hope you do as well.
Danielle, well that is good to know! I can't wait!
Karen, I can appreciate why some people have reservations about this series, but no bother, there are load of books out there to enjoy!
Cath, maybe they're just not for you, I don't enjoy everything the masses likes either.
Iliana, it's very bittersweet, this book. I can't wait for the next!
Diane, Maisie Dobbs is a great character, but yes, Plague of Doves was not. for. me. That's okay!
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