To answer questions about
In This Grave Hour,
please sign up.
Elizabeth Siegel
Yes, and no...though each Maisie Dobbs book follows the story line of a discrete, standalone mystery, I really (really, really) recommend you read them from the beginning, if only to see Maisie's character development. There are also a lot of reoccurring characters, each with their own backstory with Maisie (13 books' worth of backstory, to be exact!). You might miss a lot of the subtext that makes these books so freaking great.
Pat
I read the 2nd years ago with my book group. But I liked it so much, I went back and started with number 1. I feel it is a great story and you can see how Maisie's life changes over the years. I am up to 11. I also really, (really really) also recommend that you start with #1. And if you like audio books, the accents are terrific to listen to. When you are further along, write to Elizabeth and myself, and tell us what you think!
Bryan Higgs
I agree with the other answers. While the book can be read stand alone, this is a series that really benefits from the reader reading them in chronological order, because, while each book has its own individual mystery, what's really interesting is how Maisie and the characters that surround her progress over time. It's like a family story and a historical perspective surrounding each mystery. In fact, I think the sense of place and time may be the best thing about these books.
Margaret Hollon
I would definitely start with the first book. There is a lot about Maisie's past that Winspear builds upon. You will fall in love with Maisie! So worth it!
Jan
No,no,no! Do not deny yourself the pleasure of knowing Maisie right from the start! This is one of the best series being written right now, along with Louise Penny's Gamache series, so you are in for a real treat. I hope I am not too late in getting this to you!
Jackie
Start with the first book. I LOVE this series, and can't imagine how it would read if you started with a later book. There is soooo much you would miss!
Pamela
I think this particular book could be read without having read the first 12 books. Winspear is very good at not assuming every one of her readers has read the entire series so she doesn't throw in characters that have appeared in the other books without giving some information on who they are in Maisie's life
The being said, however, this older, wiser Maisie Hobbs is very different from the young woman we met in book one. If you like this book, definitely go back and read the series from the beginning. It's been fun being with Maisie as she matures.
The being said, however, this older, wiser Maisie Hobbs is very different from the young woman we met in book one. If you like this book, definitely go back and read the series from the beginning. It's been fun being with Maisie as she matures.
Scott
You could read the book as a standalone and enjoy it, but reading at least Maisie Dobbs #1 would give you great understanding of who Maisie is. It has been many years now since I read #1, but when I finish #15 I am going to go back and reread #1 with a great appreciation.
I had no idea when I read #1 that there would be 14 more books and this last year I've been on a tear reading through the series.
I had no idea when I read #1 that there would be 14 more books and this last year I've been on a tear reading through the series.
About Goodreads Q&A
Ask and answer questions about books!
You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.
See Featured Authors Answering Questions
Learn more