charity1313 's review for:

A Lesson in Secrets by Jacqueline Winspear

3.5

adventurous emotional informative mysterious reflective medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: No

Flaws of characters a main focus: No

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I'm always impressed by the research and emotional depth of the Maisie Dobbs series. It's a "cozy mystery" but Winspear digs deep. She's building us toward the inevitable, WWII, and setting us up for Maisie to transition into new roles for the war in a very clever way. I always have to go digging for more information after reading one and this book was no exception. Winspear highlights the darker aspects of war and its aftermath without being too heavy-handed, imho. Building into WWII there are so many issues to be explored at each level of society. She also has been sneaking in various portraits of women's roles and treatment at that time. Thoroughly enjoyable - a "cozy" mystery series that's more depth than fluff!

"Corridors of power are littered with Fascist leanings; anything to save the upper classes through disenfranchisement of the common man while allowing the common man to think you’re on his side."