Play Book Tag discussion

Looking back at this month of reading, I realize that this book was one of the most pleasurable (and relaxing) to read. I don't know if it's the writing, the character, or simply that this book offered a welcome change in tone/pace. Maisie Dobbs is a psychologist and investigator, and she approaches every situation with intelligence and compassion. The mystery itself wasn't terribly compelling, but I enjoyed the ongoing story of Maisie's life.

Her books usually reveal something unusual or interesting about human nature. My favorite part of this book was the discovery that Maisie's grandmother was Roma (gypsy). She reflected on wonderful memories, and she revealed many aspects of the lifestyle that were new to me. I especially enjoyed the interactions between her and the other characters.

I read a lot more crime than usual this month, including books with female characters who were outrageously independent for their Victorian times. Those were fun to read, but I suppose Maisie was a calm in the storm.

NancyJ wrote: "Looking back at this month of reading, I realize that this book was one of the most pleasurable (and relaxing) to read. I don't know if it's the writing, the character, or simply that this book off....The mystery itself wasn't terribly compelling, but I enjoyed the ongoing story of Maisie's life... "

I often feel that way about my favorite series.

I haven't read a Maisie Dobbs book yet but they have long been on my radar. I do have the first one on my tbr.

Booknblues wrote: "NancyJ wrote: "Looking back at this month of reading, I realize that this book was one of the most pleasurable (and relaxing) to read. I don't know if it's the writing, the character, or simply tha..."

Which is your favorite?
I think you might like this series.

NancyJ wrote: "Booknblues wrote: "NancyJ wrote: "Looking back at this month of reading, I realize that this book was one of the most pleasurable (and relaxing) to read. I don't know if it's the writing, the chara..."

I keep thinking I would like it, but never manage to work it in.

I have many series which I enjoy, but here are some of my favorites:
Inspector Chen set in Shanghai by Qiu Xiaolong
Chief Inspector Bruno set in the Dordogne department in France by Martin Walker
The Lady Hardcastle Series set around Bristol, England in the early 20th century by T.E. Kinsey
Department Q set in Denmark by Jussi Adler-Olsen

My medieval favorites:
Stephen Attebrook series by Jason Vail
Crispin Guest Series by Jeri Westerson

Newly discovered Favorites:

Electra McDonnell Series set in WWII London by Ashley Weaver

Marlow Mysteries set in contemporary England by Robert Thorogood

Father Anselm set in a priory in England (Anselm had previously been a lawyer) by William Brodrick (who had joined Augustinian Order but left to become a barrister)

I have many others, but these are most of the ones I'm currently following.

Booknblues wrote: "NancyJ wrote: "Booknblues wrote: "NancyJ wrote: "Looking back at this month of reading, I realize that this book was one of the most pleasurable (and relaxing) to read. I don't know if it's the wri..."

Haha. I thought you were referring to your #1 favorite series, and I was surprised you could have just ONE favorite. (I guess the plural of series is still series.) Sorry, I know it's not easy for a heavy reader to come up with a definitive list of favorites. So thank you! It looks like a great list.

I love this series, but I'm sad that the one due to be published this summer (#18) is listed as being the last one. I'm just hoping that Winspear ties up all of the loose ends from the previous books.

Hannah wrote: "I love this series, but I'm sad that the one due to be published this summer (#18) is listed as being the last one. I'm just hoping that Winspear ties up all of the loose ends from the previous books."

18 books is a long run for any series. What year is she up to?

I usually stick with a series that long, though I read #18 in Louise Penny’s Gamache series. The next one has been delayed a long time, so she might be running out of steam.

NancyJ wrote: "Hannah wrote: "I love this series, but I'm sad that the one due to be published this summer (#18) is listed as being the last one. I'm just hoping that Winspear ties up all of the loose ends from t..."

Book 18 is set in 1945. Book 17 was set in 1942. The book jumps 4-5 years between I think books 10 and 11, based on the titles.