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Maisie Dobbs #17
A Sunlit Weapon
In the latest installment of the New York Times bestselling series, a series of possible attacks on British pilots leads Jacqueline Winspear's beloved heroine Maisie Dobbs into a mystery involving First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt.
Late September, 1942. Jo Hardy, a 22-year-old ferry pilot, is delivering a Spitfire to Biggin Hill Aerodrome when she realizes someone is shooting at her aircraft. When she returns to the location on foot, she finds an American serviceman in a barn, tied up and gagged. Jo hurries away, but can’t shake the image of the serviceman from her mind.
Several days later, when Jo recounts the story to several other women, she receives the news that Erica, another ferry pilot—flying the same route she had—has been killed in a crash near Kent. Erica’s death is attributed to “pilot error,” but Jo is convinced there is a link between her own experience and Erica’s—and that of Jo’s dead fiancé, who was killed over a year earlier under inexplicable circumstances in the same area.
At the suggestion of an Australian colleague, Jo takes her suspicions to Maisie Dobbs, along with two pages of coded notes she found in the barn. If someone is trying to take down much-needed pilots, Maisie wants to find out why—and what happened to the bound American serviceman. But before she can even begin to investigate, her new husband, Mark Scott, finds the documents and demands to know how they came to be in her possession: The papers pertain to an upcoming diplomatic mission by Eleanor Roosevelt on behalf of the United States’ president—and now the First Lady’s safety has been compromised. To protect Eleanor’s life—and possibly the safety of all of London—Maisie must quickly uncover the connection between the pilot deaths, the mysterious American soldier, and the top-secret documents.
Late September, 1942. Jo Hardy, a 22-year-old ferry pilot, is delivering a Spitfire to Biggin Hill Aerodrome when she realizes someone is shooting at her aircraft. When she returns to the location on foot, she finds an American serviceman in a barn, tied up and gagged. Jo hurries away, but can’t shake the image of the serviceman from her mind.
Several days later, when Jo recounts the story to several other women, she receives the news that Erica, another ferry pilot—flying the same route she had—has been killed in a crash near Kent. Erica’s death is attributed to “pilot error,” but Jo is convinced there is a link between her own experience and Erica’s—and that of Jo’s dead fiancé, who was killed over a year earlier under inexplicable circumstances in the same area.
At the suggestion of an Australian colleague, Jo takes her suspicions to Maisie Dobbs, along with two pages of coded notes she found in the barn. If someone is trying to take down much-needed pilots, Maisie wants to find out why—and what happened to the bound American serviceman. But before she can even begin to investigate, her new husband, Mark Scott, finds the documents and demands to know how they came to be in her possession: The papers pertain to an upcoming diplomatic mission by Eleanor Roosevelt on behalf of the United States’ president—and now the First Lady’s safety has been compromised. To protect Eleanor’s life—and possibly the safety of all of London—Maisie must quickly uncover the connection between the pilot deaths, the mysterious American soldier, and the top-secret documents.
352 pages, ebook
First published March 22, 2022
1156 people are currently reading
10720 people want to read
About the author
Jacqueline Winspear
61 books8,328 followersJacqueline Winspear was born and raised in the county of Kent, England. Following higher education at the University of London’s Institute of Education, Jacqueline worked in academic publishing, in higher education and in marketing communications in the UK.
She emigrated to the United States in 1990, and while working in business and as a personal / professional coach, Jacqueline embarked upon a life-long dream to be a writer.
A regular contributor to journals covering international education, Jacqueline has published articles in women's magazines and has also recorded her essays for KQED radio in San Francisco. She currently divides her time between Ojai and the San Francisco Bay Area and is a regular visitor to the United Kingdom and Europe.
Jacqueline is the author of the New York Times bestsellers A Lesson in Secrets, The Mapping of Love and Death, Among the Mad, and An Incomplete Revenge, and other nationally bestselling Maisie Dobbs novels. She has won numerous awards for her work, including the Agatha, Alex,
and Macavity awards for the first book in the series, Maisie Dobbs, which was also nominated for the Edgar Award for best novel and was a New York Times
Notable Book.
Series:
* Maisie Dobbs
http://us.macmillan.com/author/jacque...
She emigrated to the United States in 1990, and while working in business and as a personal / professional coach, Jacqueline embarked upon a life-long dream to be a writer.
A regular contributor to journals covering international education, Jacqueline has published articles in women's magazines and has also recorded her essays for KQED radio in San Francisco. She currently divides her time between Ojai and the San Francisco Bay Area and is a regular visitor to the United Kingdom and Europe.
Jacqueline is the author of the New York Times bestsellers A Lesson in Secrets, The Mapping of Love and Death, Among the Mad, and An Incomplete Revenge, and other nationally bestselling Maisie Dobbs novels. She has won numerous awards for her work, including the Agatha, Alex,
and Macavity awards for the first book in the series, Maisie Dobbs, which was also nominated for the Edgar Award for best novel and was a New York Times
Notable Book.
Series:
* Maisie Dobbs
http://us.macmillan.com/author/jacque...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,590 reviews
April 21, 2022
I really look forward to each Maisie Dobbs book as it is published and this one did not disappoint. We are still in the throes of WW2. Maisie is still deeply engaged in her private investigative work, hampered a little by petrol rationing, blackouts and road signs being removed from junctions. This last is to make life harder for any German spies but I think it must have been tricky for the natives as well.
There were a lot of plot lines to follow in this story and it was occasionally difficult to follow everything. Luckily Maisie excels at this kind of thing so I sat back, followed her leads, and enjoyed the story. It was all beautifully resolved by the end and there was a lovely family party to round it all off happily.
I have to admit to a personal reservation about Mark. I feel that his attitude towards Maisie and her work is occasionally patronising. I hope that this improves because as he is I am finding it hard to believe that Maisie would even like him let alone love him. I have seen several reviews mention the same thing so perhaps the author will make a few small adjustments to Mark's attitude.
Still a good book though and well worth reading.
There were a lot of plot lines to follow in this story and it was occasionally difficult to follow everything. Luckily Maisie excels at this kind of thing so I sat back, followed her leads, and enjoyed the story. It was all beautifully resolved by the end and there was a lovely family party to round it all off happily.
I have to admit to a personal reservation about Mark. I feel that his attitude towards Maisie and her work is occasionally patronising. I hope that this improves because as he is I am finding it hard to believe that Maisie would even like him let alone love him. I have seen several reviews mention the same thing so perhaps the author will make a few small adjustments to Mark's attitude.
Still a good book though and well worth reading.
October 28, 2022
It’s 1942 and Maisie is living a full life with her daughter, Anna, her new husband, Mark, as well as managing a thriving business with her partner Mr Beale and secretary, Sandra.
A new case presents itself when a pilot with Britain’s ATA comes to Maisie Dobbs’ office in search of an investigator to find a missing person and assist with proving the innocence of the man being blamed for the murder of the missing person. Both subjects of the investigation are American Army soldiers. Things could get tricky. Will Maisie be able to sidestep possible international landmines? Everyone will have a vested interest in the outcome(s).
This is a strong addition to the Maisie Dobbs series. I learned some interesting history tidbits and was simultaneously entertained with a wonderful mystery.
Very much recommended to fans of the Maisie Dobbs series as well as those who love historical fiction.
A new case presents itself when a pilot with Britain’s ATA comes to Maisie Dobbs’ office in search of an investigator to find a missing person and assist with proving the innocence of the man being blamed for the murder of the missing person. Both subjects of the investigation are American Army soldiers. Things could get tricky. Will Maisie be able to sidestep possible international landmines? Everyone will have a vested interest in the outcome(s).
This is a strong addition to the Maisie Dobbs series. I learned some interesting history tidbits and was simultaneously entertained with a wonderful mystery.
Very much recommended to fans of the Maisie Dobbs series as well as those who love historical fiction.
July 10, 2022
I have read all the books in the Maisie Dobbs series. I think it is important to read this series in order as each episode builds on the other. Winspear is a master of the historical novel.
Winspear pays tribute to the women ferry pilots of WWII. This story has two components: one about a women ferry pilot; the other about the visit of Eleanor Roosevelt to England. Also, included in the story was information on how the British and Americans treated black American soldiers. Maisie and Billie make a great team investigating crimes. I started this series because it was about WWI, and I hated to see the story advance from that period of history.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is eleven hours and eleven minutes. Orlagh Cassidy does an excellent job narrating this series.
Winspear pays tribute to the women ferry pilots of WWII. This story has two components: one about a women ferry pilot; the other about the visit of Eleanor Roosevelt to England. Also, included in the story was information on how the British and Americans treated black American soldiers. Maisie and Billie make a great team investigating crimes. I started this series because it was about WWI, and I hated to see the story advance from that period of history.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is eleven hours and eleven minutes. Orlagh Cassidy does an excellent job narrating this series.
April 1, 2022
This is my favorite series and despite all the changes that have happened in Maisie’s life and the other characters’ lives the books not only have held up but overall the series books are getting more and more enjoyable. I thoroughly enjoyed this one. It was one of my favorites thus far.
I loved this book from the start. It was comforting to be back with Maisie and everyone. I’ve been struggling to read but not with every book. I’ve read a few books during this period that flew and this one confirmed that I just need the right books at the right times, and that some books will almost always work. I wish that books in this series came out more frequently than once a year.
We’re still in WWII but some new issues & things do come up, as they do in each book. I appreciated how race relations in the U.S. at the time was addressed. I could maybe have done without inserting a famous person. Or, I should say, I could have done without one of the book’s characters being inserted into the story of a famous person. It ended up working well enough though, I suppose. There are lots of interesting new characters in this one and I think some of them will make appearances in future books. (Oh no re the Tuskegee Airmen though.)
I do feel like an idiot though. For the first time I don’t understand the meaning of the title of this 17th book. I do miss reading these books with my friend and being able to discuss the book while reading and after reading. Can anyone help?! I will probably read more of what the author and others have to say about this book because even after reading the title still perplexes me. It probably didn’t help that I had a couple of incorrect preconceived ideas.
I read a Kindle e-edition from the library but also sometimes simultaneously read a borrowed Overdrive audio edition. In general, the narration is great but I absolutely loathe the way American characters and children are done, particularly one specific one of each that are main characters. I’m likely to read paper or e-editions without audio added for the rest of the books in this series, unless the narrator changes.
4-1/2 stars
I loved this book from the start. It was comforting to be back with Maisie and everyone. I’ve been struggling to read but not with every book. I’ve read a few books during this period that flew and this one confirmed that I just need the right books at the right times, and that some books will almost always work. I wish that books in this series came out more frequently than once a year.
We’re still in WWII but some new issues & things do come up, as they do in each book. I appreciated how race relations in the U.S. at the time was addressed. I could maybe have done without inserting a famous person. Or, I should say, I could have done without one of the book’s characters being inserted into the story of a famous person. It ended up working well enough though, I suppose. There are lots of interesting new characters in this one and I think some of them will make appearances in future books. (Oh no re the Tuskegee Airmen though.)
I do feel like an idiot though. For the first time I don’t understand the meaning of the title of this 17th book. I do miss reading these books with my friend and being able to discuss the book while reading and after reading. Can anyone help?! I will probably read more of what the author and others have to say about this book because even after reading the title still perplexes me. It probably didn’t help that I had a couple of incorrect preconceived ideas.
I read a Kindle e-edition from the library but also sometimes simultaneously read a borrowed Overdrive audio edition. In general, the narration is great but I absolutely loathe the way American characters and children are done, particularly one specific one of each that are main characters. I’m likely to read paper or e-editions without audio added for the rest of the books in this series, unless the narrator changes.
4-1/2 stars
April 27, 2022
3.5 It's been several years since I've read a book in this series that I once avidly read. Not sure why I stopped, too many books in my queue more than likely. Much has changed in Maisie's life, since my last read. What hasn't changed and served as a reminder, is how well this series is written and how slow is the pacing. Slow, necessarily because this isn't your typical fast paced who done it, but rather a historical with a mystery wrapped around it featuring an interesting character set during a pivotal time.
Set during WWII this book showcases women and the German blitz in England. The land girls, the women pilots who ferried various aircrafts go different bases and the visit of Eleanor Roosevelt who was always strong minded and not one to take advice even if it put her in danger. It also features race and a possible racial injustice. A good mix of history, mystery and the happenings in Maisie's personal life. Will try to remember to read next in series and not wait so long next time.
Set during WWII this book showcases women and the German blitz in England. The land girls, the women pilots who ferried various aircrafts go different bases and the visit of Eleanor Roosevelt who was always strong minded and not one to take advice even if it put her in danger. It also features race and a possible racial injustice. A good mix of history, mystery and the happenings in Maisie's personal life. Will try to remember to read next in series and not wait so long next time.
December 13, 2021
Not sure whether I’ve changed or Winspear’s writing has, but the unnaturally expository dialogue, Mark and Maisie using endearments in every other line of dialogue, and Mark’s subtle but continual patronizing of his wife’s work and abilities grated on me. Otherwise this was the usual enjoyable Maisie Dobbs fare.
March 29, 2022
A fine addition to the Maisie Dobbs series, but not my favourite.
A female ATA pilot engages Maisie to investigate when she suspects she has been shot at when flying over British soil. When she goes to the area to check it out she finds a coloured US soldier bound and gagged in a barn.
Maisie is now married to American Mark Scott, a prominent attaché at the US Embassy.
Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt is on her way to England to see for herself what’s happening on the ground and security is tight.
Not an ideal situation as Maisie is trying to figure out why a US soldier was found bound and gagged on British soil.
There are plots and sub-plots involving British and US servicemen in 1942. There is mention of racism in the armed forces and also as Maisie’s adopted daughter is being bullied at school because of her dark olive complexion.
Maisie must put her psychology to work to sort out the several muddles that came out of one single investigation request.
I have rounded up from 2-1/2 to 3 stars because I have enjoyed the series from the start.
I would not recommend anyone starting the series with this one.
A female ATA pilot engages Maisie to investigate when she suspects she has been shot at when flying over British soil. When she goes to the area to check it out she finds a coloured US soldier bound and gagged in a barn.
Maisie is now married to American Mark Scott, a prominent attaché at the US Embassy.
Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt is on her way to England to see for herself what’s happening on the ground and security is tight.
Not an ideal situation as Maisie is trying to figure out why a US soldier was found bound and gagged on British soil.
There are plots and sub-plots involving British and US servicemen in 1942. There is mention of racism in the armed forces and also as Maisie’s adopted daughter is being bullied at school because of her dark olive complexion.
Maisie must put her psychology to work to sort out the several muddles that came out of one single investigation request.
I have rounded up from 2-1/2 to 3 stars because I have enjoyed the series from the start.
I would not recommend anyone starting the series with this one.
April 6, 2022
Another great entry in this series. I particularly enjoyed learning about the Female ATA Ferry Pilots. Funnily enough, I have a book, A Spitfire Girl, on my to-read shelf by Mary Ellis who is mentioned in the epilogue.
Here are my favorite quotes:
Billy referring to his two strong sons who have character and endurance: “They’re both mouthy and blood-minded, but no two ways about it they’re cloth that’s been woven heavy.”
As always, I have antennae for quotes about my favorite genial beverage: “There’s tea in the canteen, straight from the urn." "Come on, my shout. It’s the ultimate truth drug, as far as I’m concerned you can get a full confession based on the threat of a second cup […] there we go two cups of char fit for a docker complete with spoons welded into the brew.” Sounds like this tea was well and truly stewed!
Crittenden to Anna: “My momma says people call us names because they don’t have minds big enough to see the insides of our hearts.” Mine just melted.
Here are my favorite quotes:
Billy referring to his two strong sons who have character and endurance: “They’re both mouthy and blood-minded, but no two ways about it they’re cloth that’s been woven heavy.”
As always, I have antennae for quotes about my favorite genial beverage: “There’s tea in the canteen, straight from the urn." "Come on, my shout. It’s the ultimate truth drug, as far as I’m concerned you can get a full confession based on the threat of a second cup […] there we go two cups of char fit for a docker complete with spoons welded into the brew.” Sounds like this tea was well and truly stewed!
Crittenden to Anna: “My momma says people call us names because they don’t have minds big enough to see the insides of our hearts.” Mine just melted.
May 15, 2024
”Men take ownership of war and talk endlessly of their duty. I can’t imagine why they don’t think women feel such things too.”——Mary Ellis, nee Wilkins, 1917-2018.
And this is the quotation that the author Jacqueline Winspear cites in the Author’s Note because Mary Ellis Wilkins words seemed to underline the commitment of thousands of women during both World Wars. She joined the British Air Transport Auxillary in 1941, having already learned to fly at age sixteen. This book was the fictional tale of some of the pilots part of the ATA in World War II. The author noted that while the women ferry pilots of the ATA garnered a lot of attention, they were outnumbered almost ten to one by the male pilots, many veterans of World War I or commercial pilots. The stories of several of these pilots are vividly told in A Sunlit Weapon.
I found this book to be bittersweet on many levels. There will be one more book in the Maisie Dobbs series that has just been published, The Comfort of Ghosts. And then we must say goodbye to a series that has been loved by so many of us over the years. A lot of this book was reflections on the teaching of her beloved mentor, Maurice, and the lessons that she learned as she reviews many of his notes trying to refresh her memories of what she was certain would help to shed light on her current dilemmas. In this narrative there are a few storylines, one being several ATA pilots being shot down by an unknown person as the planes were being ferried to another destination to enter into the war. There is also a looming issue of the possible abuse at school of her adopted daughter about her questionable heritage and the worrisome conversations Maisie was having with the school headmistress. And there are the stresses on her assistant Billy and his wife with their sons’ well-being as they serve, and Maisie’s wish to give Billy a greater role in their partnership commensurate with his abilities. And of course, the three sons of Priscilla, all growing up and playing important roles in the war effort and their love interests are piquing interest. But lastly, she finds that there is an overlap in what her American husband is working on with the CIA and her involvement with Scotland Yard which comes to a dramatic climax when Eleanor Roosevelt has scheduled a trip to London and Kent to visit the Canterbury Cathedral. There were many issues examined in this narrative as the author is clearly bringing a lot of the series to a close. Alas, all good things must come to an end. I have the last book in the series on hold at the library so there is time before I must say goodbye.
March 15, 2022
A SUNLIT WEAPON
by Jacqueline Winspear
Allison & Busby
Pub Date: March 22
Maisie Dobbs is my favorite histfic character, and I've read all 17 now in this gripping series. I loved the newest, A Sunlit Weapon, set in England in 1942, as British pilots are being attacked from the ground. Maisie is called in to investigate, and also is drawn into an effort to protect America's First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt, on her visit to England.
I adore the characters the author has created, which feel like old friends now: Maisie, new husband Mark, her adopted daughter Anna, her parents, her investigative team, her many close friends, and as they gather for dinner at her home in the country, I can see myself there, feeling very much part of this loving clan -- a sort of safe haven from the war more evident in London.
Winspear also crafts such a compelling narrative showing the importance of women pilots, the impact of racism imposed by the American military, and the efforts of everyday Brits trying to survive the deadly conflagration.
I can't speak highly enough about A SUNLIT WEAPON and the entire series. This can be read as a stand-alone, and you're in for a treat if you've not read Winspear before. I promise you'll want to go back and read the whole series! Highly recommended for histfic fans, those intrigued by Britain during WWII, and anyone who loves beautifully written character-driven tales.
Thanks to the author, Allison & Busby, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
#ASunlitWeapon #JacquelineWinspear #AllisonBusby #NetGalley
by Jacqueline Winspear
Allison & Busby
Pub Date: March 22
Maisie Dobbs is my favorite histfic character, and I've read all 17 now in this gripping series. I loved the newest, A Sunlit Weapon, set in England in 1942, as British pilots are being attacked from the ground. Maisie is called in to investigate, and also is drawn into an effort to protect America's First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt, on her visit to England.
I adore the characters the author has created, which feel like old friends now: Maisie, new husband Mark, her adopted daughter Anna, her parents, her investigative team, her many close friends, and as they gather for dinner at her home in the country, I can see myself there, feeling very much part of this loving clan -- a sort of safe haven from the war more evident in London.
Winspear also crafts such a compelling narrative showing the importance of women pilots, the impact of racism imposed by the American military, and the efforts of everyday Brits trying to survive the deadly conflagration.
I can't speak highly enough about A SUNLIT WEAPON and the entire series. This can be read as a stand-alone, and you're in for a treat if you've not read Winspear before. I promise you'll want to go back and read the whole series! Highly recommended for histfic fans, those intrigued by Britain during WWII, and anyone who loves beautifully written character-driven tales.
Thanks to the author, Allison & Busby, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
#ASunlitWeapon #JacquelineWinspear #AllisonBusby #NetGalley
March 15, 2022
A SUNLIT WEAPON
by Jacqueline Winspear
Allison & Busby
Pub Date: March 22
Maisie Dobbs is my favorite histfic character, and I've read all 17 now in this gripping series. I loved the newest, A Sunlit Weapon, set in England in 1942, as British pilots are being attacked from the ground. Maisie is called in to investigate, and also is drawn into an effort to protect America's First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt, on her visit to England.
I adore the characters the author has created, which feel like old friends now: Maisie, new husband Mark, her adopted daughter Anna, her parents, her investigative team, her many close friends, and as they gather for dinner at her home in the country, I can see myself there, feeling very much part of this loving clan -- a sort of safe haven from the war more evident in London.
Winspear also crafts such a compelling narrative showing the importance of women pilots, the impact of racism imposed by the American military, and the efforts of everyday Brits trying to survive the deadly conflagration.
I can't speak highly enough about A SUNLIT WEAPON and the entire series. This can be read as a stand-alone, and you're in for a treat if you've not read Winspear before. I promise you'll want to go back and read the whole series! Highly recommended for histfic fans, those intrigued by Britain during WWII, and anyone who loves beautifully written character-driven tales.
Thanks to the author, Allison & Busby, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
#ASunlitWeapon #JacquelineWinspear #AllisonBusby #NetGalley
by Jacqueline Winspear
Allison & Busby
Pub Date: March 22
Maisie Dobbs is my favorite histfic character, and I've read all 17 now in this gripping series. I loved the newest, A Sunlit Weapon, set in England in 1942, as British pilots are being attacked from the ground. Maisie is called in to investigate, and also is drawn into an effort to protect America's First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt, on her visit to England.
I adore the characters the author has created, which feel like old friends now: Maisie, new husband Mark, her adopted daughter Anna, her parents, her investigative team, her many close friends, and as they gather for dinner at her home in the country, I can see myself there, feeling very much part of this loving clan -- a sort of safe haven from the war more evident in London.
Winspear also crafts such a compelling narrative showing the importance of women pilots, the impact of racism imposed by the American military, and the efforts of everyday Brits trying to survive the deadly conflagration.
I can't speak highly enough about A SUNLIT WEAPON and the entire series. This can be read as a stand-alone, and you're in for a treat if you've not read Winspear before. I promise you'll want to go back and read the whole series! Highly recommended for histfic fans, those intrigued by Britain during WWII, and anyone who loves beautifully written character-driven tales.
Thanks to the author, Allison & Busby, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
#ASunlitWeapon #JacquelineWinspear #AllisonBusby #NetGalley
December 27, 2021
It's 1942, and Britain is at war. Maisie is hired by a female pilot to find out how some of her colleagues were unexpectedly shot down locally. There are several subplots regarding Maisie's daughter Anna being bullied at school, a missing American soldier and an unfairly treated one, and several locals recruited by a subversive group to plot the assassination of Mrs. Roosevelt when she visits England. There was a lot going on--perhaps my least favorite Maisie Dobbs novel, although Winspear is still a favorite author. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC.
April 3, 2022
I'm giving this a generous 3 stars due to series loyalty and because there was nothing wrong with the story. It was as good as all the books in this series, and Maisie Dobbs is my favorite of all the series I follow. I really felt like it was a 1 or 2 star experience because of the awfulness of Maisie Dobbs' new husband character, Mark Scott, who practically ruined this book with his whiny, overbearing, over-solicitous, patronizing attitude towards Maisie—and her meek acceptance. At one point he requests and she promises him she will not put herself in danger out of consideration for him and her daughter. Their constant saccharine endearments are grating, and the author has not convinced me that Mark Scott is a worthy partner for brilliant, independent Maisie. One tiny ray of hope was Maisie's initial hesitation in proceeding with allowing Mark Scott to adopt her daughter, though I think she acquiesced finally. I wasn't really clear on that. To be revealed, perhaps, in the next installment.
March 25, 2022
A Sunlit Weapon is the seventeenth book in Jacqueline Winspear’s historical crime series featuring psychologist/private investigator Maisie Dobbs. I only discovered the series with the publication of The American Agent (book fifteen) but reading that, and the book that followed it, The Consequences of Fear, was enough to make me a firm fan.
For those new to the series, I believe A Sunlit Weapon can easily be enjoyed as a standalone. And, although there are references to events in previous books, I don’t think that would preclude going back to read earlier books in the series (as I hope to do one day) in order to learn more about Maisie’s past. However, at this point we find her married to former US Department of Justice agent, Mark Scott, and dividing her time between her London office and the family home in Kent where she lives with her adopted daughter, Anna, her father and stepmother.
Fans of the series will be familiar with Maisie’s methodical approach to investigating the cases that come her way, often recalling the advice of her former mentor, Maurice Blanche, and carefully constructing her elaborate case maps. She possesses a keen eye for detail, has perfected the art of getting information through seemingly casual conversations, is not averse to telling a few white lies to elicit facts and is no stranger to intrepid exploration. Her background as a psychologist gives her an instinct for whether someone is telling the truth and often points her in the direction of a motive that might not be obvious to others.
Her current case sees Maisie searching for a connection between a series of rather disparate events. As she delves further, the picture becomes increasingly complex with new avenues of enquiry opening up all the time. Whenever faced with an obstacle, what motivates Maisie is a sense of responsibility towards her client and her innate sense of justice.
The war is a constant backdrop to events in which few families have been left unaffected whether that’s because of loved ones injured or killed, forced relocation or just the sheer mental strain of not knowing what tomorrow will bring. Will today be the day that dreaded telephone call or telegram arrives? As Maisie observes, ‘We’re all told we can take it, but I’m not sure we can’, wondering if in fact people have become used to death, used to absorbing the shock of loss.
One particularly interesting element of the book for me was the focus on women’s contribution to the war effort, whether as Air Transport Auxilliary ferry pilots or members of the Land Army. As Maisie discovers not everyone approves of women taking up these roles, believing that it is not ‘women’s work’. Prejudice of another kind also runs through the book, some very close to home for Maisie, and other more institutional in nature.
As you’d expect, Maisie – with the help of her trusty assistant Billy and some string-pulling by her husband – is eventually able to put together the pieces of what turns out to be a very complicated picture. What she discovers is a chain of events which is the product of ‘manipulated minds’. Throw in some dramatic scenes, a portion of woolton pie and lashings of tea and you have another very entertaining addition to the series.
For those new to the series, I believe A Sunlit Weapon can easily be enjoyed as a standalone. And, although there are references to events in previous books, I don’t think that would preclude going back to read earlier books in the series (as I hope to do one day) in order to learn more about Maisie’s past. However, at this point we find her married to former US Department of Justice agent, Mark Scott, and dividing her time between her London office and the family home in Kent where she lives with her adopted daughter, Anna, her father and stepmother.
Fans of the series will be familiar with Maisie’s methodical approach to investigating the cases that come her way, often recalling the advice of her former mentor, Maurice Blanche, and carefully constructing her elaborate case maps. She possesses a keen eye for detail, has perfected the art of getting information through seemingly casual conversations, is not averse to telling a few white lies to elicit facts and is no stranger to intrepid exploration. Her background as a psychologist gives her an instinct for whether someone is telling the truth and often points her in the direction of a motive that might not be obvious to others.
Her current case sees Maisie searching for a connection between a series of rather disparate events. As she delves further, the picture becomes increasingly complex with new avenues of enquiry opening up all the time. Whenever faced with an obstacle, what motivates Maisie is a sense of responsibility towards her client and her innate sense of justice.
The war is a constant backdrop to events in which few families have been left unaffected whether that’s because of loved ones injured or killed, forced relocation or just the sheer mental strain of not knowing what tomorrow will bring. Will today be the day that dreaded telephone call or telegram arrives? As Maisie observes, ‘We’re all told we can take it, but I’m not sure we can’, wondering if in fact people have become used to death, used to absorbing the shock of loss.
One particularly interesting element of the book for me was the focus on women’s contribution to the war effort, whether as Air Transport Auxilliary ferry pilots or members of the Land Army. As Maisie discovers not everyone approves of women taking up these roles, believing that it is not ‘women’s work’. Prejudice of another kind also runs through the book, some very close to home for Maisie, and other more institutional in nature.
As you’d expect, Maisie – with the help of her trusty assistant Billy and some string-pulling by her husband – is eventually able to put together the pieces of what turns out to be a very complicated picture. What she discovers is a chain of events which is the product of ‘manipulated minds’. Throw in some dramatic scenes, a portion of woolton pie and lashings of tea and you have another very entertaining addition to the series.
April 10, 2022
I really wanted to like this. It details the ATA pilots especially the women who became the first women to achieve pay equity and who flew whatever planes they were given no matter the size or condition. Anyway this book had too much going on. It started simple enough someone is shooting at British planes as they head for Biggin Hill base. Two pilots are killed and blamed for pilot error as the weather was perfect and there was no other reason for the crashes. If the story had stayed here it would've been a lot better. But now we have the visit of Eleanor Roosevelt and a plot to kill her and also Maisie's daughter Anna being bullied at school. It was a confusing convoluted mess to me. It wasn't helped by Maisie's new husband. I said it about the last book but her relationship feels forced. There is no chemistry at all between Maisie and her husband. Despite their constant saying darling and love to tell us they love each other. In fact it feels like most of Maisie's romances throughout the series are forced because it seems like the author decided she needed a partner. Instead of making Maisie a true woman of her time as a strong single female instead is like oh she needs a man because all fictional detectives have someone. Miss Marple who is probably Maisie's cohort didn't do so badly or even Anne Perry's Miriam Fford Croft is a highly skilled professional without a man. Its obvious that Winspear just doesn't know how to write romance. Most long running series that have couples usually have a slow burn romance that builds until the reader is excited to see them finally marry. All I could think was who the hell is this guy? As I said no chemistry at all between them. The story itself was too much and too confusing in a way that it was obvious they wanted to make Maisie and her husband work together to show just how little chemistry they had. Of course all three plotlines end up connected somehow. I want to keep reading this series. I was hoping she'd turned a corner after the last slump but sadly with the introduction of Maisie's American husband confusingly called Mark, Mark Scott or Scott throughout the book is kind of off putting and it seems she's back into that slump yet again. Oh Maisie I had such high hopes for you and I hope they can be raised again but I'm not so sure any more.
April 13, 2022
2 1/2 stars
I can't believe I'm giving a Maisie Dobbs book 2 1/2 stars, rounded up to 3 . . . because Maisie! This is a book with about 100pp of a story expanded with filler, repetitive filler at that, into 351pp. So disappointed in Winspear!
Why I'm reading this: I'm a Maisie Dobbs completist! We'll see how this goes - fatigue from chemotherapy isn't compatible with reading in print, but this series doesn't work for me in audio. Eager to get started, perhaps a page or two at a time. :)
I can't believe I'm giving a Maisie Dobbs book 2 1/2 stars, rounded up to 3 . . . because Maisie! This is a book with about 100pp of a story expanded with filler, repetitive filler at that, into 351pp. So disappointed in Winspear!
Why I'm reading this: I'm a Maisie Dobbs completist! We'll see how this goes - fatigue from chemotherapy isn't compatible with reading in print, but this series doesn't work for me in audio. Eager to get started, perhaps a page or two at a time. :)
February 23, 2022
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
It seems the Nazis are trying to sabotage the new Spitfire airplanes. Someone shoots at a ferry pilot conveying some. An American soldier is found bound and gagged. He just happens to be a primary suspect in a murder.
Maisie Dobbs investigates. It was interesting reading about the WASP Corps, but one Mary Sue a book is plenty, and this one has at least four.
It seems the Nazis are trying to sabotage the new Spitfire airplanes. Someone shoots at a ferry pilot conveying some. An American soldier is found bound and gagged. He just happens to be a primary suspect in a murder.
Maisie Dobbs investigates. It was interesting reading about the WASP Corps, but one Mary Sue a book is plenty, and this one has at least four.
March 30, 2022
This was an outstanding historical fiction mystery! It’s the 17th book in the Maisie Dobbs series, but it can be read as a standalone. I predict that you want to read them all once you finish this one!
This book is set during WWII in Britain, and focuses on the women who flew planes between bases etc. They were in the the ATA (Air Transport Auxiliary), and their jobs were very dangerous because the planes had not been fitted with weapons yet. Women couldn’t be fighter pilots but the RAF couldn’t have won without them.
The writing is excellent, and the story shows a little of what domestic life was like, with rationing and families living with fear for their loved ones. The mystery is really interesting, especially considering the involvement of American soldiers in England during wartime.
All in all, an outstanding read, 5 stars.
Synopsis:
“In the latest installment of the New York Times bestselling series, a series of possible attacks on British pilots leads Jacqueline Winspear's beloved heroine Maisie Dobbs into a mystery involving First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt.
October 1942. Jo Hardy, a 22-year-old ferry pilot, is delivering a Supermarine Spitfire--the fastest fighter aircraft in the world--to Biggin Hill Aerodrome, when she realizes someone is shooting at her aircraft from the ground. Returning to the location on foot, she finds an American serviceman in a barn, bound and gagged. She rescues the man, who is handed over to the American military police; it quickly emerges that he is considered a suspect in the disappearance of a fellow soldier who is missing.”
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This book is set during WWII in Britain, and focuses on the women who flew planes between bases etc. They were in the the ATA (Air Transport Auxiliary), and their jobs were very dangerous because the planes had not been fitted with weapons yet. Women couldn’t be fighter pilots but the RAF couldn’t have won without them.
The writing is excellent, and the story shows a little of what domestic life was like, with rationing and families living with fear for their loved ones. The mystery is really interesting, especially considering the involvement of American soldiers in England during wartime.
All in all, an outstanding read, 5 stars.
Synopsis:
“In the latest installment of the New York Times bestselling series, a series of possible attacks on British pilots leads Jacqueline Winspear's beloved heroine Maisie Dobbs into a mystery involving First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt.
October 1942. Jo Hardy, a 22-year-old ferry pilot, is delivering a Supermarine Spitfire--the fastest fighter aircraft in the world--to Biggin Hill Aerodrome, when she realizes someone is shooting at her aircraft from the ground. Returning to the location on foot, she finds an American serviceman in a barn, bound and gagged. She rescues the man, who is handed over to the American military police; it quickly emerges that he is considered a suspect in the disappearance of a fellow soldier who is missing.”
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 8, 2022
My bookclub introduced me to Maisie Dobbs over 14 years ago. Now with the 17th installment the series gets better and better. It is 1942 and a female ferry pilot hires Maisie to investigate after rescuing a black American serviceman she finds tied up in a barn. Because of his race he is a suspect for the disappearance of a fellow soldier who is missing. Maisie uses her American husband’s connections with the US Embassy and her connections to Scotland Yard as the investigation takes on larger implications.
This adventure had me learning about programs that allowed American soldiers to help harvest to increase favorable relations. I learned more about woman aviators and their work during the war effort (a passion of the author). And sadly some of the realities of segregation by the US military. Other subplots about adopted daughter Anna dealing with a bully at her school and a potential attack on First Lady Elenor Roosevelt are also interwoven. The storylines are entertaining and engaging. Masie gets to showcase her talents of interviewing, observation and allowing the universe to lead her to clues. It also includes old and new friends. I especially love her recognizing the contributions of her long time employee Billy. I usually give this series 3s and 4s but this adventure gets a solid five for bringing all of is storylines together in a logical and complete way. Thank you to NetGalley and Harper for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
This adventure had me learning about programs that allowed American soldiers to help harvest to increase favorable relations. I learned more about woman aviators and their work during the war effort (a passion of the author). And sadly some of the realities of segregation by the US military. Other subplots about adopted daughter Anna dealing with a bully at her school and a potential attack on First Lady Elenor Roosevelt are also interwoven. The storylines are entertaining and engaging. Masie gets to showcase her talents of interviewing, observation and allowing the universe to lead her to clues. It also includes old and new friends. I especially love her recognizing the contributions of her long time employee Billy. I usually give this series 3s and 4s but this adventure gets a solid five for bringing all of is storylines together in a logical and complete way. Thank you to NetGalley and Harper for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 25, 2022
Characters I love & am always glad to spend time with! . . . The only downside is waiting for book #18 :)
April 27, 2022
I have loved this series, but it really seems to have run it’s course. The earlier books were so much better and more insightful. Some parts are getting annoyingly repetitive. I certainly can not believe that Billy would need to have the “Final accounting” process explained to him yet again. It would have made much more sense to have Maisie explain it o Mark Scott, for example.
March 26, 2022
Aviatrices, Investigators and VIP’s!
England 1942. Amongst the many challenges she faces, investigator Maisie Dobbs comes face to face with some American problems—Racism, US Army regulations, a dead American serviceman, and assassins. On the more personal front her daughter Anna is having problems at school, and Billy’s family have fresh heartache. Maisie and her husband Mark Scott have to thread a careful path between their respective jobs. Especially as it seems Maisie’s investigative work will cross over into Mark’s work with the American Embassy.
Three spitfires have mysteriously crashed near a landing field in Biggin Hill, Kent.
One being flown by the fiancé of aviatrix Jo Harvey, who is with the Air Transport Auxiliary who ferry different planes to where they’re needed. Jo feels that something’s not quite right about these accidents and she employs Maisie to investigate.
Along with this a colored soldier has been accused of killing a white soldier, although mysteriously there’s no body. Alongside this is a security nightmare trip to England by a highly placed American, and the unexplained death of one of the aviatrix.
International and personal problems challenge Maisie’s thought structures. She finds herself returning to some of the basics inculcated from Maurice.
Although engaging I found that this phase of Maisie’s life becoming just too complicated. On the other hand, when has that not been the case?
A Harper ARC via NetGalley
England 1942. Amongst the many challenges she faces, investigator Maisie Dobbs comes face to face with some American problems—Racism, US Army regulations, a dead American serviceman, and assassins. On the more personal front her daughter Anna is having problems at school, and Billy’s family have fresh heartache. Maisie and her husband Mark Scott have to thread a careful path between their respective jobs. Especially as it seems Maisie’s investigative work will cross over into Mark’s work with the American Embassy.
Three spitfires have mysteriously crashed near a landing field in Biggin Hill, Kent.
One being flown by the fiancé of aviatrix Jo Harvey, who is with the Air Transport Auxiliary who ferry different planes to where they’re needed. Jo feels that something’s not quite right about these accidents and she employs Maisie to investigate.
Along with this a colored soldier has been accused of killing a white soldier, although mysteriously there’s no body. Alongside this is a security nightmare trip to England by a highly placed American, and the unexplained death of one of the aviatrix.
International and personal problems challenge Maisie’s thought structures. She finds herself returning to some of the basics inculcated from Maurice.
Although engaging I found that this phase of Maisie’s life becoming just too complicated. On the other hand, when has that not been the case?
A Harper ARC via NetGalley
April 9, 2022
I wish the author would do a little less pontificating through Maisie's thoughts / dialog. Sometimes I need to remind myself that I'm reading a fiction book and not Miss Manners.
March 23, 2022
This 17th book featuring Maisie Dobbs might be the very best of the series. She is a mature mother and wife successfully juggling her work as psychologist/investigator during challenging times of war and succeeding on all fronts.
The female pilots of WWII are featured; a visit from Eleanor Roosevelt causes challenges but also a special privilege for Maisie's daughter; Maisie's challenging case is successfully concluded and the family learns to live with wartime restrictions.
It is good to visit all these endearing characters.
Spitfire Fans should put this on their reading list.
The female pilots of WWII are featured; a visit from Eleanor Roosevelt causes challenges but also a special privilege for Maisie's daughter; Maisie's challenging case is successfully concluded and the family learns to live with wartime restrictions.
It is good to visit all these endearing characters.
Spitfire Fans should put this on their reading list.
April 5, 2022
It is a shame. I loved the first few books in this series and it is impressive that there are 17 books but this one required some serious editing. It was repetitive in some points and plain dull in others. Ms. Winspear was tackling serious subjects such as race in the US Army during WW II as well as racial issues in England during that time however even though it was the core of the mystery it didn't receive the proper "due."
I will officially resign from the series at this point.
I will officially resign from the series at this point.
May 2, 2022
A hundred pages too long. And I think giving her Mark Scott as a husband was a mistake. Maisie has lost her edge.
April 10, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed being back with one of my favorite characters. Maisie is so intuitive and meditative in her investigations, and somehow these mysteries seem to be calming, though they're not cozy mysteries at all. Some different elements in this volume brought new layers to the story , while others were handled fairly well but did not have the ring of truth . The way the mystery resolved just didn't seem realistic to me, but again with that suspension of disbelief thing. I did not know about the female ferry pilots, and it was quite exciting to learn that women like Winspear's mother-in-law flew dozens of different kinds of aircraft during the war (not in battle). Overall, a fun spin with Maisie in a Spitfire, always a good time!
April 21, 2022
Wonderful addition to a wonderful series. The WWII aspects, and stressing the importance of women both as land girls and airplane ferry pilots was excellent. There was much emphasis on the psychological teachings Maisie received from her mentor Maurice when she was just starting out. Winspear's heroine is deep, intuitive, reflective, honest about her faults, caring about her co-workers, and is just overall someone you wish you could meet in real life or go and tell all your troubles to. The surrounding cast of family and friends are very human, and their lives all evolve in very realistic ways.
An excellent read.
An excellent read.
April 16, 2023
3.5 Maisie is back to her intuitive roots in this installment, which was enjoyable. Unfortunately she is still married to Mark Scott, which was an annoyance.
June 19, 2022
October 1942. Maisie Dobbs is spending time in her country home near London with her daughter, Anna, and her husband, Mark Scott. Masie has been approached by Jo Hardy following the arrest by Americans of a colored man found bound and gagged in a barn on British soil. The barn was near the same location of a plane shot down a year ago (the pilot was killed); and recently two ATA female pilots reported shots fired at them. This is serious and raises multiple potential problems. Maisie must investigate the man and what he is doing in the area PDQ.
Upon investigating, Maisie finds pages of code in the barn. Before she is able to hide the documents, her husband sees them and questions Maisie regarding how she came into possession of them. Mark Scott feels this is a security breach since Eleanor Roosevelt is on the way and her life is now in danger.
At the same time bullying problems occur in Anna's school. Maisie must deal with that.
Land Girls and GI's work the fields between flights and are also the eyes and ears of the Resistance.
The MP's make rounds of the bars and pubs to ensure the color ds and the whites do not mix. Race relations are forbidden.
And in the United States news of race relations is becoming an increasing problem.
Maisie pursues.
Jacqueline Winspear has written a timely novel with similar political and social problems. The first part is often chaotic and difficult to read due to many characters and subjects, but stay with the storyline. This is a good book and worth getting through the difficult part! It's tied up nicely by the end of the book unlike our political and social mores of today.
Upon investigating, Maisie finds pages of code in the barn. Before she is able to hide the documents, her husband sees them and questions Maisie regarding how she came into possession of them. Mark Scott feels this is a security breach since Eleanor Roosevelt is on the way and her life is now in danger.
At the same time bullying problems occur in Anna's school. Maisie must deal with that.
Land Girls and GI's work the fields between flights and are also the eyes and ears of the Resistance.
The MP's make rounds of the bars and pubs to ensure the color ds and the whites do not mix. Race relations are forbidden.
And in the United States news of race relations is becoming an increasing problem.
Maisie pursues.
Jacqueline Winspear has written a timely novel with similar political and social problems. The first part is often chaotic and difficult to read due to many characters and subjects, but stay with the storyline. This is a good book and worth getting through the difficult part! It's tied up nicely by the end of the book unlike our political and social mores of today.
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