‘An Incomplete Revenge’ by Jacqueline Winspear

Published by Henry Holt & Co. February 2008

ISBN: 978-0-8050-8215-9

Accepting an assignment to vet a business deal in which the Compton Corp, is to acquire most of an estate and a brick factory in rural Kent, Maisie Dobbs, in this the fifth in the series, encounters a strange series of crimes while conducting the investigation.  Over the preceding decade, there appear to have been many minor thefts and burglaries, as well as a fire at about the same time and date each year.

The story takes place during the early 1930’s, about a decade after the end of World War I, which always plays a part in the series, since Maisie served as a nurse in France and her fiancé was mortally wounded there.  Also, the Depression weighs heavily on her mind, as she worries about her investigations business.  Maisie runs into a wall of silence, as the villagers exhibit prejudice against outsiders, Londoners who come there once a year to harvest hops, Gypsies, as well.  They also seem to be possessed by the legacy of a wartime bombing by a German  Zeppelin.

As in the previous entries, the protagonist remains human and charming, as well as capable, while exhibiting self-doubt.  But she continues to grow in her efforts as well as a person.  The historical setting provides a different milieu for a mystery, while not intruding on the plot. The writing is cogent and the story revealing.  Certainly another good read, and recommended.    

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Theodore Feit