The Maisie Dobbs novels are mystery thrillers set in post-World War I England, featuring private investigator and former wartime nurse Maisie Dobbs. Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing society recovering from the trauma of war, the series is a blend of mystery, espionage, and historical fiction that expertly captures the essence of the interwar years.

Readers are enthusiastic about how much they love Maisie. They love the character for her courage, integrity, exceptional intelligence, and heart. Maisie’s drive to improve herself also resonates strongly with Jacqueline Winspear’s many fans, who enjoy seeing Maisie gain wisdom and empathy as she navigates personal hardships while solving crimes. Jacqueline herself says that many people have told her how much Maisie has helped them get through difficult periods in their lives. She thinks Maisie’s strongest traits are her compassion, resilience, and endurance.

Jacqueline’s writing is consistently praised for vividly evoking the lives of people in the tumultuous period and its ability to touch readers’ hearts as well as their minds.

As the series progresses chronologically through history and Maisie’s character develops significantly from book to book, the majority of readers say it is best to start the series from the first book, Maisie Dobbs. There are eighteen books in total, as Jacqueline has announced that The Comfort of Ghosts is the final book in the series.