My Personal Author Recommendation----from the Shepherdess, Caryn Miller

November 26, 2010

I now have a new favorite author—Jacqueline Winspear. Historical fiction has never appealed to me. I am a mystery, peppered with lots of psychological and mental suspense, lover. I have discovered an author that meets all this criteria, plus tosses in life in England and the rest of Europe between WWI and WWII.

This period of time was very hard for England. Their economy spiraled down, and disease and poverty was rampant. Every family had lived a horror story thanks to the war, psychological losses, as well as the death and maiming of those who fought in the war.

The main character is a young woman, a spinster, by the name of Maisie Dobbs. She was educated as a nurse, and during the war, she served in battle hospitals. After the war, she pursued the care of the mentally disabled. Her present, chosen career is that of private investigator.

Ms. Winspear’s stories are vivid and mental, filled with the thoughts of Miss Dobbs, her discussions and feelings, and the value of all this in the solving of crimes. Miss Dobbs believes there is no such thing as a coincidence, and I tend to harbor the same belief. Look very carefully at life around you without passing any judgments—try to see all through unclouded eyes. Not always easy, but always fulfilling.

Also, I heartily recommend her audiobooks if your hands are busy with the spinning of fleece, cooking, or brushing your dogs. They are read by a woman with a British accent ,and I could listen to that accent forever. I recommend you give this author a try.

Caryn M.
Smithville Branch