Maisie Dobbs –- At thirteen, after losing her mother, the intuitive young Maisie began working as a housemaid. With diligence and determination, she enrolled at Girton College, but after her first year, left to serve her country as a nurse. Following the war, Maisie returned to school to get her degree. She has since established herself as a successful psychological investigator under Maurice Blanche’s rigorous guidance. With the help of an extraordinary intuitiveness about the workings of the human mind, Maisie now has a flourishing practice of her own.
Sir Cecil Lawton -– After promising his wife on her deathbed to continue her search for their son, Ralph, Sir Cecil Lawton reluctantly hires Maisie to find out if Ralph really did perish during the war. In return, Maisie engages Sir Cecil as legal counsel for Avril Jarvis. Maisie meets challenges, both professional and personal, as she nears the truth about Ralph.
Maurice Blanche -– With a self-designed career, Dr. Maurice Blanche proves to be invaluable to people searching for information. Maurice becomes Maisie’s mentor, teaching her everything he knows, and eventually turns his investigative practice over to her. However, even as close as they are, the strength of Maisie and Maurice’s relationship will be tested.
Priscilla Everndon -– Maisie’s roommate at Girton College and close friend, Priscilla Everndon served in France and lost three brothers to the war. However, her eldest brother’s remains were never recovered; Priscilla is seeking to put both her brother and her peace of mind to rest with Maisie’s help.
Avril Jarvis -– A young, helpless girl, Avril Jarvis has been accused of murdering her uncle. Though the evidence is highly incriminating, Maisie is certain of the girl’s innocence and sets out to prove it.
Billy Beale -– During the Great War, Maisie helped save Billy Beale’s leg, battered by shrapnel. The two were reunited when Maisie opened her office in the building where Billy served as caretaker. After helping Maisie with her first case, Billy now works as her assistant.
Lord Julian and Lady Rowan Compton -– Maisie’s former employers who sponsored her education at Girton College, the reserved Lord Julian and the passionate Lady Rowan are more than just Maisie’s patrons but her friends.
Andrew Dene -– A doctor in Hastings, Andrew Dene is a source of support and strength for Maisie, having also experienced the horrors of the war and knowing the struggle to gain professional success coming from humble beginnings. Though their careers keep them busy, Maisie and Dene are on the brink of a blossoming romance.
Simon Lynch -– Once a brilliant doctor during the Great War and Maisie’s first love, Captain Simon Lynch fell victim to the battlefield and was rendered incapacitated, both in body and mind. |
