Rated of 5
by Fran Tessmer- formerly at San Diego Public Library Reflection at Cambridge
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, the latest in the Maisie Dobbs series. More than some of the preceding novels, this one is quiet and reflective in tone, perhaps to accompany the more introspective tone of a university. Maisie, of course, is the central character and it is her intelligence, her temperament, and her insights which the author focuses us on. All of the other characters, while adding interest, and in most cases, being necessary to the plot's development, are secondary to Maisie. So it is that we see Maisie fully confident in her new professional duties, while still not ready to make important personal commitments.
I would strongly recommend this book to anyone who likes character driven, historical mysteries set in England, particularly those set between World War I and World War II. In addition, this book, or the series as a whole, could easily be used for discussion by a book club.
Rated of 5
by Judy B. (Santa Fe,, NM) Maisie Dobbs--Intrepid Spy
A satisfying read as always! Jacqueline Winspear's new Maisie Dobbs mystery finds Maisie working for the British Secret Service on a matter concerning the Queen's best interest. The story takes place in the early 1930's as Adolph Hitler and his Nazi party are coming to power in Germany and beginning to raise the interest of Her Majesty's Secret Service. There are several subplots; in fact, almost too many--as Maisie drives her little MG between London and Cambridge and Ipswich and Eltham and Chelstone and back to London. However, by the end of the story, answers are found to some secrets, but leaving others unanswered and, thus, a new story.
Rated of 5
by Janet Schneider, Great Neck Library, NY Pacifists and the Gathering Storm
In this moderately good between-the-wars series installment, it's now the summer of 1932, and intrepid psychologist and investigator Maisie Dobbs has just been recruited by the British Secret Service. On assignment at Cambridge University, Maisie continues to filter and consider the enormous sociological changes happening in England and in the world at that time, while solving a serviceable mystery involving the questionable loyalties of eccentric academia. Her career now flourishing and headed in a new direction, loyal readers may wonder where Maisie's personal relationships are headed.
Rated of 5
by Grace S. (Harrison Township, MI) Another Engaging Maisie Dobbs Novel!
In A Lesson in Secrets, Maisie Dobbs continues to evolve both professionally and personally. Within the backdrop of World Wars I and II, Maisie skillfully unravels a tangle of multi-layered, intriguing, and puzzling events and in the process, thoroughly engages and satisfies the reader.
Rated of 5
by Vy A. (Phoenix, AZ) A Lesson in Secrets
A Lesson is Secrets, Jacqueline Winspear’s eighth novel featuring psychologist-investigator Maise Dobbs will not disappoint her fans who have come to expect a story that is rich in historical details (England, 1932), as well as a study of human nature as seen through Maise’s astute observations of peoples’ actions and behaviors. What appeals to me in the Maise Dobbs’ series is not only how she solves crimes but how she struggles with aspects of everyday life and the people she loves—her employees, her aging father, her romantic interest, James. My favorite quote from this book is “Secrets and lies always go together” and as the title implies, there are many secrets to explore. I also like that the Maise series moves forward in time and she too changes with the times and events in her life. If you are new to the series, you can still appreciate this story on its own. I can almost guarantee, however, you’ll want to read books one through seven while waiting for number nine.
Rated of 5
by Betty B. (Irving, TX) A Lesson in Secrets
It's 1932 and the British Secret Service enlists Maisie Dobbs for her first undercover assignment. She is sent to a small university in Cambridge to teach psychology. And she soon encounters a murder. This is the 8th in a series featuring Maisie Dobbs as she struggles to establish herself as a professional woman in the period between the two world wars. This book can stand alone and will appeal to all readers of English mysteries of this period. But after an introduction to Maisie you will want to learn more about her and will probably seek out the first book in the series. Along the way you will also learn a great deal about the history of the period.
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Although heavy on the scientific details, which slowed down the story for me (OK, I admit, I was one of those liberal arts majors who skipped out on...
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British Parliament asks Amazon to clarify why it pays $9 million in income tax on $23 billion of UK sales.(May 20 2013) Amazon will be called back to give further evidence to members of the British Parliament "to clarify how its activities in the U.K. justify its low corporate...
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of 5
by Fran Tessmer- formerly at San Diego Public Library 
of 5
by Judy B. (Santa Fe,, NM) 
