A review by romonko
A Lesson in Secrets by Jacqueline Winspear

informative mysterious slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

This, the eighth the book in this long-running series, is a a little different than the previous books.  In this story Maisie finds herself working for Special Branch instead of for herself.  It is the summer of 1932, and England is still reeling from the War to End All Wars, and is trying to get itself ready for the future.  But Hitler is already rattling his sabre in Germany, and, although the powers that be in England do not think it's much to worry about, there is a lot of uncertainty In England at this time, especially among the young, idealistic students of colleges and universities in England.  Maisie is recruited by Special Branch to investigate a small college in Cambridge which is known for its peace and tranquitility dogma as an alternative to the upheaval and uncertainty of just a few years ago. She arrives at the St. Francis College as an interim lecturer and finds herself drawn into the the scholarly life and she enjoys herself with the students who are all eager to learn.  But the undercurrents at the College, and the history of the Principal, begin to cause an uproar within the ranks.  And while she's there a murder happens.  Maisie has to tread lightly in order to not reveal her real reason for being there, but she can't help herself from getting involved in the murder investigation.  It's been awhile since I revisited Maisie Dobbs, and I enjoyed getting back into her world.  I need to continue on with her story.