Pardonable Lies by Jacqueline Winspear is a British mystery with the added flair of attracting readers who also enjoy historical fiction as well as a touch of the paranormal.

Maisie Dobbs is an investigator with extraordinary powers of observation and a keen sense of humor that will immediately draw the reader into the story.  Although I have not read her other books, the author does an excellent job of informing the reader of Maisie's former triumphs in the field of detective work as well as introducing new readers to a string of characters who help Maisie solve the mystery.  This particular book deals with a son killed in the war and the quest of parents to find out the truth about his death.  It also involves a young girl accused of murder and a friend with a missing brother.  And, finally, Maisie's life is threatened as she attempts to find the truth of all these matters.

I cannot say that this is a blockbuster mystery, but certainly the fans of Agatha Christie and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle should give Ms. Winspear a chance to capture their fictional fancy with this likeable sleuth. 

REVIEWED BY VIVIAN WATTS

DO NOT REPRINT WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE REVIEWER, VIVIAN WATTS