Maisie Dobbs, a private investigator in 1930s London, is somewhat unique among London women of that era. She's not married (or even "seeing" anyone); she doesn't have any children; and she supports herself as a private investigator. In fact, she works closely with London's police and sometimes even Scotland Yard.
In "Among the Mad," Miss Dobbs (there was no "Ms." in 1931), witnesses a homeless man on the street commit suicide by blowing himself up. This happens just moments before Maisie would reach the man in an attempt to help him. She's rewarded with a concussion during the explosion.
Several days later, on Christmas Eve, Maisie is summoned from her holiday dinner to Scotland Yard. It seems that she has been mentioned by name in a threatening letter that talks of killing the Prime Minister and several government heads.
Forgotten Men
Maisie's quest for the letter writer leads her to explore the millions of British WWI veterans who were exposed to and whose health was damaged by the chemical weapons used by the Germans in France and Belgium. Some of the unfortunates are housed in psychiatric hospitals (still very archaic in 1931); more are left to their own devises, to beg on the street or to find what work and food they can.
Before the letter writer is found, he has let loose some terrifying chemicals of his own--on dogs, then birds, and finally a human. Will he be located before more creatures die?
"Among the Mad" is more political than the other Maisie Dobbs mysteries and I think the story is better for it. In this novel, the reader learns about the less glamorous side of post-WWI England and the government's struggle with what to do--and how to pay--its millions of war veterans.
Maisie Dobbs continues to be a likeable and very empathetic character. It's easy to see oneself in many of the situations she finds herself. Again, the writing is solid and easy to read. "Among the Mad" is an enjoyable combination of murder mystery and history.
About Jacqueline Winspear
Jacqueline Winspear is the author of five previous Maisie Dobbs mystery novels, including the 2005 release, Pardonable Lies; Messenger of Truth , released in 2007; and An Incomplete Revenge, released in 2008. Winspear has won two Agatha awards and been nominated for an Edgar Award, among other honors. A native of Kent, Ms. Winspear now lives in California.
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Sandy Mitchell - Sandy Mitchell is a fulltime freelance writer, based in Cleveland Ohio. Her passion for reading began as early as she could hold a book ...
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