Review: Elegy for Eddie

In this latest entry in the acclaimed, bestselling mystery series, Maisie Dobbs takes on her most personal case yet, a twisting investigation that will take her across London, from her childhood neighborhood to the highest echelons of power.

My Rating:

My Review: Acquaintances from Maisie's earlier days come to Maisie with news that Eddie, a kind man known both for his mental deficiencies and his gift with horses, has died in a seemingly freak accident. Uncomfortable with the circumstances they come to Maisie for her help. Maisie begins to investigate and she discovers that more men have died over this matter. Maisie soon realizes that Eddie had stumbled into a problem that might be over even Maisie's head. Maisie also struggles with her own changed circumstances and reflects on her intrusions in the lives of others. She questions how she still give back to her friends and loved ones. Not sure if she understands her own wants, her romance adds questions to the mix. And the rest of the world continues in their struggle to recover from the Great War. Hints of unrest in Germany and questions about Hitler's intentions serve as a backdrop to everyday problems.
This is my third Maisie Dobbs novel and I've successfully skipped around to read the titles that interest me with little to no confusion. I enjoyed this installment. I loved getting to know a character through the stories and conversations of the other characters. I found myself attached to Eddie even though he was gone at the book's start. I enjoyed seeing the beginning of some very troubling events and am curious to see Maisie's role when things really start to happen. Reoccurring characters were present and consistent and there was even some growth here are there. But this one is mostly focused on Maisie and her life changes and indecision. Less focus is on the secondary characters.
I like this particular series because it involves old-fashioned detective work. It reminds me of my Nancy Drew days. Set before WWII (at this point), technology is mostly absent. I think it is better at integrating the historical backdrop than any other book I've read. The lives and conversations are true to the time and are peppered with events and information that the reader knows will lead to bigger events, and ultimately, WWII. It isn't in your face so it seems especially real. These books are well-researched but it doesn't feel like I am reading research. This series is consistent and the mysteries are very involved but I find that they would be one of my favorites if I liked Maisie more. Maisie is perfectly imperfect. Even when she does something wrong, it's still right. She has to have the most unromantic romances ever. Her way of reflecting on her feelings as they relate to romance is so technical and dry. Even though she has problems and fears they just don't help connect me to her.
Overall, another unpredictable mystery with a well-developed historical backdrop.