Status
Available
Call number
Series
Collection
Publication
Allison & Busby (2012), Paperback, 416 pages
Description
"Maisie Dobbs must unravel a case of wartime love and death--an investigation that leads her to a doomed affair between a young cartographer and a mysterious nurse"--Provided by publisher.
User reviews
LibraryThing member MusicMom41
This is one of my favorite series and Maisie Dobbs is one of my favorite characters. Her intuition and her concern for other people and their feelings make her a peron that I not only admire but would like to emulate. In this book she traces what happened to an American cartographer who perished in
At the end of the book we get an intimation Maisie's life is going to have some major changes in the up coming books. It seem as if Winspear plans to continue her story into the Second World War. One of the most fascinating aspects of this series is the her accurate portrayal of life in Britain following WWI. I look forward to the next installment, which I have on hand and will start soon.
Show More
WWI. The story is poignant and satisfying and in the end we feel that we know this and will remember this young man. At the end of the book we get an intimation Maisie's life is going to have some major changes in the up coming books. It seem as if Winspear plans to continue her story into the Second World War. One of the most fascinating aspects of this series is the her accurate portrayal of life in Britain following WWI. I look forward to the next installment, which I have on hand and will start soon.
Show Less
LibraryThing member cbl_tn
The latest case for psychologist and investigator Maisie Dobbs once again requires her to revisit the Great War. Her clients are wealthy Americans whose son, Michael, served with an English cartography unit during the war. His remains, and those of several companions, have recently been discovered
Typically for this series, Maisie's investigation unearths secrets in addition to the murder. Maisie's job isn't just to bring a murderer to justice. Maisie helps both clients and witnesses come to terms with unsettling events of the past so that they may find peace. The plot is carried by the psychological and emotional impact of past events, rather than by the details of the murder.
This book seemed less well-organized than is usual for this series. Even though past books have revealed that Maisie has some psychic qualities, she makes some deductive leaps that don't seem to be accounted for by either intuition or reason. However, this is the first book in the series that I've listened to rather than read, and I'm sure that has something to do with my perception of the structure. Even though I didn't like it quite as well as previous books in the series, it's still an above-average historical mystery. Recommended, especially for series fans.
Show More
in France. Evidence suggests that the missing son may have been murdered prior to the shelling that took the lives of his companions. Starting with the letters and journal discovered with the bodies, Maisie must piece together the events of Michael's last days in order to identify a murderer. Subplots include the continuing story of Masie's assistant Billy's family situation, Maisie's changing relationship with the Compton family, and the physical decline of Maisie's mentor, Maurice Blanche.Typically for this series, Maisie's investigation unearths secrets in addition to the murder. Maisie's job isn't just to bring a murderer to justice. Maisie helps both clients and witnesses come to terms with unsettling events of the past so that they may find peace. The plot is carried by the psychological and emotional impact of past events, rather than by the details of the murder.
This book seemed less well-organized than is usual for this series. Even though past books have revealed that Maisie has some psychic qualities, she makes some deductive leaps that don't seem to be accounted for by either intuition or reason. However, this is the first book in the series that I've listened to rather than read, and I'm sure that has something to do with my perception of the structure. Even though I didn't like it quite as well as previous books in the series, it's still an above-average historical mystery. Recommended, especially for series fans.
Show Less
LibraryThing member bremmd
I think I’ve been mourning the upcoming loss of any new Maisie for a whole year which is why I’ve put off writing this review. You know I’m trying to be good about this waiting stuff but really, I already have to wait until next year for more Downton Abbey-if you haven’t seen this
This episode in the Maisie series made me the saddest and the happiest of all the books so far. Maisie deals with a heartbreaking loss but also finds an unexpected love interest. I knew the loss was coming but still found it hard, it was a character I had really enjoyed and found very interesting. As for Maisie’s new love well, I never saw it coming though looking back maybe I should have. I’ve become so invested in Maisie by reading the books so close together that I found this turn of events completely wonderful.
The mystery portion of the story was completely fascinating as it revolved around the role of cartographers or mapmakers during WWI. I had never really thought about how one would go about planning a war but the idea mapmakers would be used never crossed my mind. Then having read this it all made perfect sense. We learn about Michael Clifton through his journal and letters written to him by the girl he loves. He is such a lovely, spirited young man I was really hoping there was some mistake. And while he was indeed killed during the war there is a twist that left me satisfied there would still be some joy for his family.
Though this story is still deeply entrenched in WWI by the end we start to see Maisie moving on to the next phase of history. Sadly, the specter another war is starting to loom. But, it seems to be leading Maisie’s professional life in a new and exciting direction.
I don’t think there’s a need to say I loved this book and I have no problem saying that this is just as good if not better than the past books. So, with one last book before my long dry Maisie spell I loving where the series is heading. And after listening to Ms. Winspear on Book Club Girl‘s show on Blog Talk Radio there is a hint at what’s coming and boy am I excited. I have to add it was a real thrill to actually have her answer my questions, now I know what “more caf than cafe” means.
Well, I’m off to finish A Lesson in Secrets and then pout about having to wait for more. I’ll let you know what I think when I’m done. Bet, you can’t guess which way I’m leaning (wink)?
So, is anyone doing anything fabulous this weekend? I’m planning on reading and getting my patio cleaned up now that all our rain seems to be over. Hope you all have a great weekend.
Thanks to Book Club Girl for my copy of The Mapping of Love and Death
Show More
Masterpiece Classics series you must. It’s absolutely wonderful, though you may want to wait until later in the year then you won’t have to wait as long for new episodes. And now, after the next Maisie, I’m done for a year or more. Boo hoo! I didn’t think ahead when I joined Book Club Girl’s I’m Mad for Maisie Read-along what I would do when I finished so quickly. Actually, I didn’t quite finish the read-along. I’m going slowly through the last book so my Maisie withdrawal won’t be as bad. But, I’m here to talk about book seven so-on with the review.This episode in the Maisie series made me the saddest and the happiest of all the books so far. Maisie deals with a heartbreaking loss but also finds an unexpected love interest. I knew the loss was coming but still found it hard, it was a character I had really enjoyed and found very interesting. As for Maisie’s new love well, I never saw it coming though looking back maybe I should have. I’ve become so invested in Maisie by reading the books so close together that I found this turn of events completely wonderful.
The mystery portion of the story was completely fascinating as it revolved around the role of cartographers or mapmakers during WWI. I had never really thought about how one would go about planning a war but the idea mapmakers would be used never crossed my mind. Then having read this it all made perfect sense. We learn about Michael Clifton through his journal and letters written to him by the girl he loves. He is such a lovely, spirited young man I was really hoping there was some mistake. And while he was indeed killed during the war there is a twist that left me satisfied there would still be some joy for his family.
Though this story is still deeply entrenched in WWI by the end we start to see Maisie moving on to the next phase of history. Sadly, the specter another war is starting to loom. But, it seems to be leading Maisie’s professional life in a new and exciting direction.
I don’t think there’s a need to say I loved this book and I have no problem saying that this is just as good if not better than the past books. So, with one last book before my long dry Maisie spell I loving where the series is heading. And after listening to Ms. Winspear on Book Club Girl‘s show on Blog Talk Radio there is a hint at what’s coming and boy am I excited. I have to add it was a real thrill to actually have her answer my questions, now I know what “more caf than cafe” means.
Well, I’m off to finish A Lesson in Secrets and then pout about having to wait for more. I’ll let you know what I think when I’m done. Bet, you can’t guess which way I’m leaning (wink)?
So, is anyone doing anything fabulous this weekend? I’m planning on reading and getting my patio cleaned up now that all our rain seems to be over. Hope you all have a great weekend.
Thanks to Book Club Girl for my copy of The Mapping of Love and Death
Show Less
LibraryThing member lit_chick
2011, Harper Collins, Read by Orlagh Cassidy
Publisher’s Summary: from Audible.com
August 1914. Michael Clifton is mapping the land he has just purchased in California’s beautiful Santa Ynez Valley, certain that oil lies beneath its surface. But as the young cartographer prepares to return home
April 1932. Maisie Dobbs is retained by Michael’s parents, who have recently learned that their son’s remains have been unearthed in France. They want Maisie to find the unnamed nurse whose love letters were among Michael’s belonging. Her inquiries, and the stunning discovery that Michael Clifton was murdered in his trench, unleash a web of intrigue and violence that threatens to engulf the soldier’s family and even Maisie herself. Over the course of her investigation, Maisie must cope with the approaching loss of her mentor, Maurice Blanche, and her growing awareness that she is once again falling in love.
My Review:
The Maisie Dobbs series does indeed just keep getting better! Winspear writes eloquently of Maisie’s personal experience as she investigates the matter of love and death in a time of war – naturally, the case takes her back to the years she herself spent abroad employed as a nurse during WWI – to the time she met and fell in love with Simon. The sense of family unity portrayed through the Cliftons is endearing, and also makes the loss of Michael the more sad. Billy and Doreen Beale are building a secure home life again, with Doreen getting back on her feet after her decline into depression following little Lizzie’s loss – and they have some wonderful news to share.
Dr Maurice Blanche, who took Maisie under his wing so many years ago and became her mentor, is about to leave this world. And here Winspear’s writing excels. Maisie’s final days with Maurice are so touching. Just as Blanche changed the course of Maisie’s life remarkably at the time she was but an adolescent – he will change her life again. This time, perhaps even more remarkably. And, on that note, I must now read the next in the series to see what immediate decisions, if any, Maisie will make given her new circumstances.
Recommended: Yes, the entire series! Particularly to those interested in the era of the WWI and WWII. The strength of the series is Winspear’s decision to write a strong female lead, particularly in a time when women were not employed as psychologists and certainly not as investigators.
Publisher’s Summary: from Audible.com
August 1914. Michael Clifton is mapping the land he has just purchased in California’s beautiful Santa Ynez Valley, certain that oil lies beneath its surface. But as the young cartographer prepares to return home
Show More
to Boston, war is declared in Europe. Michael—the youngest son of an expatriate Englishman—puts duty first and sails for his father’s native country to serve in the British army. Three years later, he is listed among those missing in action.April 1932. Maisie Dobbs is retained by Michael’s parents, who have recently learned that their son’s remains have been unearthed in France. They want Maisie to find the unnamed nurse whose love letters were among Michael’s belonging. Her inquiries, and the stunning discovery that Michael Clifton was murdered in his trench, unleash a web of intrigue and violence that threatens to engulf the soldier’s family and even Maisie herself. Over the course of her investigation, Maisie must cope with the approaching loss of her mentor, Maurice Blanche, and her growing awareness that she is once again falling in love.
My Review:
The Maisie Dobbs series does indeed just keep getting better! Winspear writes eloquently of Maisie’s personal experience as she investigates the matter of love and death in a time of war – naturally, the case takes her back to the years she herself spent abroad employed as a nurse during WWI – to the time she met and fell in love with Simon. The sense of family unity portrayed through the Cliftons is endearing, and also makes the loss of Michael the more sad. Billy and Doreen Beale are building a secure home life again, with Doreen getting back on her feet after her decline into depression following little Lizzie’s loss – and they have some wonderful news to share.
Dr Maurice Blanche, who took Maisie under his wing so many years ago and became her mentor, is about to leave this world. And here Winspear’s writing excels. Maisie’s final days with Maurice are so touching. Just as Blanche changed the course of Maisie’s life remarkably at the time she was but an adolescent – he will change her life again. This time, perhaps even more remarkably. And, on that note, I must now read the next in the series to see what immediate decisions, if any, Maisie will make given her new circumstances.
Recommended: Yes, the entire series! Particularly to those interested in the era of the WWI and WWII. The strength of the series is Winspear’s decision to write a strong female lead, particularly in a time when women were not employed as psychologists and certainly not as investigators.
Show Less
LibraryThing member bookczuk
I've been reading the Maisie Dobbs novels as I stumble across them, so I've read 1-3 and then found this one. I didn't realize that I'd missed 3 books and three years of Maisie's life in between, but apparently I had. However, much of what I missed was foreshadowed in the third book, and Winspear
Show More
did a credible job catching people up without overwhelming with back story. One of the first three annoyed me with melodrama, but this book, thankfully, lacked that and was a gentle mystery. Nice story, good detail about various subjects, and enough mystery/twists to keep interest without making me want to roll my eyes. Luckily Maisie, who just happens to stumble into so much that helps her with her cases, and who has a grand intuition. Show Less
LibraryThing member cathyskye
First Line: Michael Clifton stood on a hill burnished gold in the summer sun and, hands on hips, closed his eyes.
Try as I might not to play favorites, there are still mystery series that are near and dear to my heart-- ones that I will always recommend first whenever I'm asked "What's good?"
Maisie was born into the English lower class and became a maid for a wealthy family when she was a young girl. Fortunately her employers were liberal thinkers who recognized Maisie's intelligence and fed it. After serving as a nurse in France during World War I, Maisie completed her university education and with the help of her teacher and mentor, Maurice Blanche, she set up practice in London as a private investigator.
In this seventh installment of the series, Maisie is asked to help a wealthy American couple after their son's body is plowed up in a French field. Although the rest of the bodies in the bunker died when it collapsed, Michael Clifton did not. He had been murdered. His parents are not aware of that fact, but Maisie is. What his parents are concerned about are the love letters from an English nurse that were given to them with the rest of Michael's effects. When Maisie begins her investigation, the American couple is attacked in their hotel room and very seriously injured. Maisie knows she's going to have to be very careful working this case.
In each book, Winspear addresses an area of World War I that may not be familiar to most readers. The Mapping of Love and Death covers the importance of cartography in the conflict. The mystery was dangerous, but one of its threads was a bit easy to guess. What I enjoyed most about the book was the author's setting the stage for future events in her characters' lives.
She shows the utmost empathy when writing about World War I and its effects on people, but she never leaves her characters behind. Maisie's assistant, Billy Beale, has his own aspirations and problems to deal with, and they're a part of the story. Maisie's mentor, the elderly Maurice Blanche, plays a role in this book, as does James Compton, the son of the people whom Maisie worked for as a young girl.
In a way, the mystery in The Mapping of Love and Death took a backseat to the main characters, but I didn't mind at all since I got the distinct impression that Winspear was doing a bit of her own cartography with her characters' futures. I am definitely looking forward to the next books in this series!
Try as I might not to play favorites, there are still mystery series that are near and dear to my heart-- ones that I will always recommend first whenever I'm asked "What's good?"
Show More
Jacqueline Winspear's Maisie Dobbs series is on the shortlist of my favorite series. I know readers who do not like the time period about which it's written (1930s showing the aftereffects of World War I), but they love these books, and it's all due to the characters.Maisie was born into the English lower class and became a maid for a wealthy family when she was a young girl. Fortunately her employers were liberal thinkers who recognized Maisie's intelligence and fed it. After serving as a nurse in France during World War I, Maisie completed her university education and with the help of her teacher and mentor, Maurice Blanche, she set up practice in London as a private investigator.
In this seventh installment of the series, Maisie is asked to help a wealthy American couple after their son's body is plowed up in a French field. Although the rest of the bodies in the bunker died when it collapsed, Michael Clifton did not. He had been murdered. His parents are not aware of that fact, but Maisie is. What his parents are concerned about are the love letters from an English nurse that were given to them with the rest of Michael's effects. When Maisie begins her investigation, the American couple is attacked in their hotel room and very seriously injured. Maisie knows she's going to have to be very careful working this case.
In each book, Winspear addresses an area of World War I that may not be familiar to most readers. The Mapping of Love and Death covers the importance of cartography in the conflict. The mystery was dangerous, but one of its threads was a bit easy to guess. What I enjoyed most about the book was the author's setting the stage for future events in her characters' lives.
She shows the utmost empathy when writing about World War I and its effects on people, but she never leaves her characters behind. Maisie's assistant, Billy Beale, has his own aspirations and problems to deal with, and they're a part of the story. Maisie's mentor, the elderly Maurice Blanche, plays a role in this book, as does James Compton, the son of the people whom Maisie worked for as a young girl.
In a way, the mystery in The Mapping of Love and Death took a backseat to the main characters, but I didn't mind at all since I got the distinct impression that Winspear was doing a bit of her own cartography with her characters' futures. I am definitely looking forward to the next books in this series!
Show Less
LibraryThing member NarratorLady
This is the seventh in the Maisie Dobbs series which I began last summer. I found the first book (titled somewhat unimaginatively Maisie Dobbs) so interesting, that I dove into the other five, delighted that I had discovered Ms. Winspear so late. Normally I'm not a fan of series since I narrate so
This is the background story. The actual tales begin in the early 1930s when Maisie has finished her education and under the tutelage of Maurice Blanche, has become a top notch investigator and opens her own business. There is nothing flashy about Maisie. Her struggles with class, with memories of the war and her desire to do right by those who employ her make her a cut above most sleuths. Winspear's meticulous research assures that we immerse ourselves in Britain between the wars and that we understand the toll that war takes on those who survive it even years later. Best of all, Maisie herself develops as the books progress and this is the best reason to read them in order.
If I had any fault to find, it would be that Maisie's cases are too easily resolved and sometimes with very little drama. Winspear is sometimes distracted by the minutae of the characters she invents and this can sometimes sacrifice the plot.
The Mapping of Love and Death concerns a cartographer whose body is unearthed in the fields of France years after the end of the war. In her afterword, Winspear tells us that this is happening still, almost a hundred years later. It's this dediction to verisimilitude that makes me enjoy the books so much. And Maisie herself makes me eager for the next chapter in her story.
Show More
many of them and I like to have more freedom in my choices for personal reading. But Maisie has a lot going for her: an inquisitive child of a laborer, she finds herself as a young teenager forced to go into service in a grand house in Edwardian London. Her thirst for learning inspires her employers, the aristocratic Lord and Lady Compton, and especially their friend, Maurice Blanche, to sponsor her education. Maisie finds herself straddling two worlds at a time when Britain's class deliniations are firmly set. While a student at Girton, Oxford's college for women, World War I is declared and she interrupts her studies to serve as a nurse in France. There she falls in love with a doctor who is seriously wounded and winds up a vegetable.This is the background story. The actual tales begin in the early 1930s when Maisie has finished her education and under the tutelage of Maurice Blanche, has become a top notch investigator and opens her own business. There is nothing flashy about Maisie. Her struggles with class, with memories of the war and her desire to do right by those who employ her make her a cut above most sleuths. Winspear's meticulous research assures that we immerse ourselves in Britain between the wars and that we understand the toll that war takes on those who survive it even years later. Best of all, Maisie herself develops as the books progress and this is the best reason to read them in order.
If I had any fault to find, it would be that Maisie's cases are too easily resolved and sometimes with very little drama. Winspear is sometimes distracted by the minutae of the characters she invents and this can sometimes sacrifice the plot.
The Mapping of Love and Death concerns a cartographer whose body is unearthed in the fields of France years after the end of the war. In her afterword, Winspear tells us that this is happening still, almost a hundred years later. It's this dediction to verisimilitude that makes me enjoy the books so much. And Maisie herself makes me eager for the next chapter in her story.
Show Less
LibraryThing member byroade
I found this one of the most satisfying entries in this excellent series. Maisie is hired to look into the wartime relationships and death of an American who served in a British cartography unit he and his unit went missing in 1916. WInspear ends this novel with many possibilities before
Show More
Maisie--with clear intimations that Maisie will play a role in World War II--a conflict that lies over seven years in the future. What will happen next? Show Less
LibraryThing member cyderry
This book is the 7th installment of the Maisie Dobbs adventures. She is contacted by a couple from America, the Cliftons, who are trying to resolve the circumstances of their son's death during WWI. Michael Clifton had enlisted as a cartographer and been listed as missing until they received word
As the story progresses we see Maisie's processes working to determine who was involved in Michael Clifton's life and how at the same time as we see changes in her life and the people that she treasures.
The book is well-written, interjecting historical points as well as some historical jargon while not bogging down the plot and characters. Many readers are probably acquainted with Maisie Dobbs, I myself had started a book last year but had to return it to the library before it was finished so this really was my first Maisie Dobbs mystery. I can tell you it won't be my last. I'm going to be searching for the previous adventures of this character.
Show More
that his body had been found buried in a tunnel along with the cartographers that he had been working with. However, the autopsy showed that he was not killed in the line of duty but was murdered.As the story progresses we see Maisie's processes working to determine who was involved in Michael Clifton's life and how at the same time as we see changes in her life and the people that she treasures.
The book is well-written, interjecting historical points as well as some historical jargon while not bogging down the plot and characters. Many readers are probably acquainted with Maisie Dobbs, I myself had started a book last year but had to return it to the library before it was finished so this really was my first Maisie Dobbs mystery. I can tell you it won't be my last. I'm going to be searching for the previous adventures of this character.
Show Less
LibraryThing member bugs5
This is the 6th, I believe, in the series. As always I am pleased with the mystery, but really love to read about Maisie's life as well. I've gotten to know and really like the characters that appear in each book.
LibraryThing member BrianEWilliams
An excellent book. Another solid addition to the Maisie Dobbs series.
LibraryThing member delphimo
This is a Maisie Dobbs mystery set in England in 1932. Many interesting details are revealed in this installment, but Winspear leaves the reader wondering choices Maisie will make in regards to love and career. This story involves the discovery of English WWI soldiers in a buried bunker. This was a
Show More
special group of soldiers that were involved in mapping the land. One of the cartographers is the son of a wealthy family in the United States. Maisie must deal with the American cartographer's mystery, the illness of Dr Maurice Blanche, and the attentions of Viscount James Compton. All three issues are not fully resolved when the story ends. Jacqueline Winspear does a wonderful job relaying the horrors of WWI, the problems of a society after the war, and the plight of the common folk. I relish her stories and then feel remorse when the book has been read, and I must wait for the next story. Show Less
LibraryThing member pennykaplan
18 years after the fact Maisie must unravel the cause of death of an American cartographer serving with British forces in WWI. Maisie, always a sympathetic character, has matured personally and as a private detective with good intuition. Lovely series!
LibraryThing member Beth350
Another book in the Maisie Dobbs mystery series and again she uses her training in psychological investigation to pull together desparate threads of amystery. This one involved the death of an American cartographer who was working for the British dduring the early years of World War I.
This book is
Note: It probably requires reading the others in the series first in order to make sense of some of the plot twists.
This book is
Show More
in a similar vein to the preceding books in the series, but again is interesting and engaging enough to be a fun book to read. Note: It probably requires reading the others in the series first in order to make sense of some of the plot twists.
Show Less
LibraryThing member SignoraEdie
I want Maisie Dobbs to be my BFF! Her character continues to delight and inspire. Winspear's portrayal of post-war Britain is captivating.
LibraryThing member Kathy89
Love this series! Maisie's employed to find out what happened to an American soldier who was murdered during WWI. While dealing with Stratton's replacement, Chief Insp Caldwell, Maurice's failing health, and Billy's concern for his wife returning home after her breakdown, Maisie begins keeping
I've liked the depression era setting and Maisie worrying about making ends meet, her small apartment, wearing Priscilla's hand-me-downs, and one-pot meals. Not sure if I'm going to like the well-to-do Maisie.
Show More
company with a man from her past that she misjudged. Couldn't put this book down and think it's my favorite of the series after the first one.I've liked the depression era setting and Maisie worrying about making ends meet, her small apartment, wearing Priscilla's hand-me-downs, and one-pot meals. Not sure if I'm going to like the well-to-do Maisie.
Show Less
LibraryThing member turtlesleap
A satisfying book on all counts--intriguing story well presented, excellent character development, good background. As Maisie herself might say, "A thumping good read!"
LibraryThing member etxgardener
Intelligent mystery series are few and far between, and the Maisie Dobbs series of mysteries is one of the best. In this, the seventh volume, we find Maisie's life in transition. Her mentor, Maurice Blanche is seriously ill, her right-hand man Billy is considering emigration to Canada and a new man
The mapping metaphor is apt for this book as Maise not only solves the case, but also starts charting her way to a new and, hopefully, more confident and satisfying life.
I'm eagrly waiting colume eight in this seies.
Show More
has entered her romantic life. Plus, of course, she has a new mystery to solve, this time involving the murder of a cartographer in World War I.The mapping metaphor is apt for this book as Maise not only solves the case, but also starts charting her way to a new and, hopefully, more confident and satisfying life.
I'm eagrly waiting colume eight in this seies.
Show Less
LibraryThing member wkelly42
Book 7 of the Maisie Dobbs series finds our heroine tasked with finding the lost love of an American cartographer, Michael Clifton, who was killed during the war. There’s an estate to settle, and trouble back in the States trying to get things sorted out; it seems Mr. Clifton bought some property
Sounds simple, doesn’t it? Of course, if you’re familiar with Maisie Dobbs at all, you know that it’s never that simple. A cursory examination of Mr. Clifton’s autopsy shows Maisie (and the medical examiner) that Clifton was, in fact, murdered, and not killed in an artillery attack. Then, his parents are assaulted at their London hotel, and Maisie herself is attacked. Not just a simple case of find-the-lost-love at all.
Add to this the ever-worsening health of Maurice Blanche, Maisie’s mentor and friend, and a new love for Maisie (can’t say more about that without spoilers, unfortunately), and you’ve got Jacqueline Winspear’s typical formula for a Maisie Dobbs novel. Gripping plot with multiple twists (including one interesting addition that happens after the case is really closed), tremendous character development (looks like we’ll get to see how Maisie functions without Dr. Blanche in the next novel) — all of this is what I’ve come to expect whenever I crack open a Maisie Dobbs novel, and I certainly wasn’t disappointed with book 7.
And things look VERY interesting for book 8 and beyond ….
Show More
in California, and the deed cannot be found.Sounds simple, doesn’t it? Of course, if you’re familiar with Maisie Dobbs at all, you know that it’s never that simple. A cursory examination of Mr. Clifton’s autopsy shows Maisie (and the medical examiner) that Clifton was, in fact, murdered, and not killed in an artillery attack. Then, his parents are assaulted at their London hotel, and Maisie herself is attacked. Not just a simple case of find-the-lost-love at all.
Add to this the ever-worsening health of Maurice Blanche, Maisie’s mentor and friend, and a new love for Maisie (can’t say more about that without spoilers, unfortunately), and you’ve got Jacqueline Winspear’s typical formula for a Maisie Dobbs novel. Gripping plot with multiple twists (including one interesting addition that happens after the case is really closed), tremendous character development (looks like we’ll get to see how Maisie functions without Dr. Blanche in the next novel) — all of this is what I’ve come to expect whenever I crack open a Maisie Dobbs novel, and I certainly wasn’t disappointed with book 7.
And things look VERY interesting for book 8 and beyond ….
Show Less
LibraryThing member riverwillow
A fascinating addition to the series. The body of Michael Clifton, an American serving in the British Army as a cartographer, is discovered, along with those of the other men in his unit, at the beginning of 1932. But, unlike his comrades, Michael was not a victim of shell fire, he was murdered and
I love how from book to book Maisie's character develops as she and the other characters she encounters try to come to terms with the legacy of WWI - which overshadows every story. Maisie is an interesting character whose character drives the plot of every book and by the end of the book she is facing some significant changes to both her work and personal lives and I'm really looking forward to the next instalment in the series.
Show More
his parents hire Maisie to find the British nurse he fell in love with and the discover the truth about his death.I love how from book to book Maisie's character develops as she and the other characters she encounters try to come to terms with the legacy of WWI - which overshadows every story. Maisie is an interesting character whose character drives the plot of every book and by the end of the book she is facing some significant changes to both her work and personal lives and I'm really looking forward to the next instalment in the series.
Show Less
LibraryThing member Twink
The Mapping of Love and Death is the 7th book in Jacqueline Winspear's series featuring Maisie Dobbs.
This wonderful series is set in the past in England. The first novel began in the 1920's and this seventh offering is set in 1932. Maisie Dobbs is a unique creation. She began as a servant in a
"The path from there to here had been far from straight, had looped back and forth, yet always with an imagined place ahead - that she would be a woman of independent means would rise above her circumstances."This latest outing finds Maisie employed by the Clifton family. Their son Michael's body has just been recovered - he was killed during the war. With his body were unsigned letters from a nurse he seems to have fallen in love with. The family would like to connect with her. Maisie is hired to track her down. But examination of Michael Clifton's body reveals that he was murdered before his unit was bombed and killed. Could his mapping skills and land purchase just before the war have something to do with his death? The case involves much more than first thought.
The Maisie Dobbs series are such a comfortable, almost genteel read, if you will. The social customs, manners and mores of the times are all faithfully observed in Winspear's writing. I enjoy being transported to this time period. The Great War brought many changes to England. Class and gender lines are changing. It has been interesting to watch Maisie's growth as she acquires knowledge, confidence and skills over the last 6 books. Of course, detection methods during this time are greatly different from the modern day detective novel. It is refreshing to see crimes solved the 'old fashioned' way, with a lots of legwork, questions and thought. I admire Maisie's quiet intelligence and her calm demeanor.
Winspear also includes an ongoing secondary storyline in addition to the mystery of every book. Maisie's personal life - her search for love and happiness- is just as interesting.
The 8th book in this series - A Lesson in Secrets- releases this week.
Maisie Dobbs is perfect for curling up under a quilt with a pot of tea - just a great historical mystery series with an intriguing protagonist
This wonderful series is set in the past in England. The first novel began in the 1920's and this seventh offering is set in 1932. Maisie Dobbs is a unique creation. She began as a servant in a
Show More
mansion at age thirteen. When her employer took an interest in Maisie and her intelligent, inquisitive nature, she sponsored her education. Fast forward to 1932. Maisie has had psychological training, served as a nurse in the war and now owns and runs an Investigative Agency."The path from there to here had been far from straight, had looped back and forth, yet always with an imagined place ahead - that she would be a woman of independent means would rise above her circumstances."This latest outing finds Maisie employed by the Clifton family. Their son Michael's body has just been recovered - he was killed during the war. With his body were unsigned letters from a nurse he seems to have fallen in love with. The family would like to connect with her. Maisie is hired to track her down. But examination of Michael Clifton's body reveals that he was murdered before his unit was bombed and killed. Could his mapping skills and land purchase just before the war have something to do with his death? The case involves much more than first thought.
The Maisie Dobbs series are such a comfortable, almost genteel read, if you will. The social customs, manners and mores of the times are all faithfully observed in Winspear's writing. I enjoy being transported to this time period. The Great War brought many changes to England. Class and gender lines are changing. It has been interesting to watch Maisie's growth as she acquires knowledge, confidence and skills over the last 6 books. Of course, detection methods during this time are greatly different from the modern day detective novel. It is refreshing to see crimes solved the 'old fashioned' way, with a lots of legwork, questions and thought. I admire Maisie's quiet intelligence and her calm demeanor.
Winspear also includes an ongoing secondary storyline in addition to the mystery of every book. Maisie's personal life - her search for love and happiness- is just as interesting.
The 8th book in this series - A Lesson in Secrets- releases this week.
Maisie Dobbs is perfect for curling up under a quilt with a pot of tea - just a great historical mystery series with an intriguing protagonist
Show Less
LibraryThing member Condorena
Maisie Dobbs has been given an interesting new case. It is that of a dead cartographer who came from the USA to join in the war that was shaking Europe. Michael Clifton was of British ancestry and as a cartographer he new his skills would be needed. Like many young men he did not survive the war
Winspear does a great job of revealing history in such a way that the reader always learns something. In this case the role of the cartographer in wartime was detailed and she explains how important these young men were.
In the background of course there is a clever killer also waiting to be discovered.
Show More
and when his remains are finally found sixteen years after armistice, evidence suggests that he was not killed in combat but that he was murdered. The thing was he died before he could settle his affairs and there was a parcel of land that he bought in California that is presently in legal limbo.Winspear does a great job of revealing history in such a way that the reader always learns something. In this case the role of the cartographer in wartime was detailed and she explains how important these young men were.
In the background of course there is a clever killer also waiting to be discovered.
Show Less
LibraryThing member TheLostEntwife
The Mapping of Love and Death was a fantastic look into the lifestyle of early 20th century folks in England. Maisie Dobbs provided me with enough wit, strength of character and humor to make me a fan, even without knowing the back story of her character in the previous 6 books.
Mysteries tend to be
In this story, Maisie is attempting to solve the mystery involving the son of a prominent, American couple. Little clues and tidbits are dropped throughout the unfolding of the story - but what struck me most of all was the introduction to the son at the beginning of the book. It completely threw me off base, because I felt an initial attachment only to find it snatched away from me.
I highly recommend this book to mystery lovers and those who love to read stories of a time when things were more simple. It's nice to read about good, old-fashioned mystery solving without any of the technologyl devices we have today.
Mysteries tend to be
Show More
hit and miss for me. I don't enjoy mindless thrillers anymore and usually like to have more of a story happening to get into a book. This book has made a fan out of me and I intend to try to catch up by reading the previous books as soon as I can.In this story, Maisie is attempting to solve the mystery involving the son of a prominent, American couple. Little clues and tidbits are dropped throughout the unfolding of the story - but what struck me most of all was the introduction to the son at the beginning of the book. It completely threw me off base, because I felt an initial attachment only to find it snatched away from me.
I highly recommend this book to mystery lovers and those who love to read stories of a time when things were more simple. It's nice to read about good, old-fashioned mystery solving without any of the technologyl devices we have today.
Show Less
LibraryThing member KimJD
The whole Maisie Dobbs series is wonderful, and this latest was no exception. A lovely, thoughtful series perfect for summer vacation or winter break, when you have a little extra time to enjoy the savoring.
LibraryThing member arielfl
So glad to see Maisie's personal life taking a giant leap forward in this book. It's about time. It seems more effort was put in to developing the characters personal lives than in the mystery. This was for me the weakest mystery in the series so far. In this book Maisie is charged with determining
Show More
the death of an American cartographer named Michael Clifton during World War I. Was he killed by enemy fire as was the rest of his unit or was it murder? To complicate matters the parents of Clifton are attacked and left for dead in their motel room. A lot of themes in this mystery are rehashes from past books. The best parts of this book are more Priscilla and her toads and James Crompton. The saddest part is the final farewell to Maurice which left me in tears. I look forward to learning how Maisie's changed circumstances in both love and money affect her in the next book. Show Less
Awards
Lefty Award (Winner — 2011)
Language
Original publication date
2010-04-06
Physical description
416 p.
ISBN
0749040882 / 9780749040888
Local notes
Maisie Dobbs must unravel a case of wartime love and death—an investigation that leads her to a long-hidden affair between a young cartographer and a mysterious nurse.