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The Mapping of Love and Death,
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Susan in Perthshire
Personally, I think it is better to read them in sequence as Maisie and the other characters do develop over the series of books and a fair bit of time does pass. You could read them out of sequence - but I think it is much better to start at number 1 and progress through them all.
Linda
I have been reading the series in order. If you can, go back and read them in order, as they do build on previous information, and different characters emotional development.
Betty
"The Mapping of Love and Death" was the first Maisie Dobbs book I had ever read and I quite enjoyed it. Although by the time I was finished I was in a real hurry to get my hands on the #1 "Maisy Dobbs" which then explained everything I hadn't understood.
Mike
Think of "Maisie Dobbs" as one long book and you'll have your answer.
Barry Martin Vass
Funny you should ask. I personally read the last novel, A Dangerous Place, first, and liked it so much that I started reading the other books. This is a great series of Historical mysteries, and all are standalone novels, but eventually you will have to read the first self-titled book, and then the second, and then the third... BTW, I've reviewed most of this series on Goodreads if you're interested in a quick, thumbnail sketch of each.
Chicory
They are meant to be read in order because each novel is built on the previous events. But you can read them anywhichway if you must. In each book, the author fills you in a bit on what happened before.
Best is in order. You will understand the character better as events shape her character, and you will be more able to empathize with her. Also some of the odd things won't seem so odd if you know what preceeded them. You will better able to understand her methods, which are unconventional, and develop over time. So, get a library card and start with the first one. They are worth it.
Best is in order. You will understand the character better as events shape her character, and you will be more able to empathize with her. Also some of the odd things won't seem so odd if you know what preceeded them. You will better able to understand her methods, which are unconventional, and develop over time. So, get a library card and start with the first one. They are worth it.
Emily
I'm usually strict about reading series in order. This one I read whichever book I could find next. No problem, they are still wonderful. It's like reading one long book, jumping around. I'm glad I read them this way.
Ramona
I've read all of the books in the series, and enjoyed them so much. Every time Massie put on the Kettle for a "cuppa", I felt as though I was there. I've often wished for another publication in the series.
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