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Jackson Brodie #6
Death at the Sign of the Rook
The stage is set. Marooned overnight by a snowstorm in a grand country house are a cast of characters and a setting that even Agatha Christie might recognize – a vicar, an Army major, a Dowager, a sleuth and his sidekick - except that the sleuth is Jackson Brodie, and the ‘sidekick’ is DC Reggie Chase.
The crumbling house - Burton Makepeace and its chatelaine the Dowager Lady Milton - suffered the loss of their last remaining painting of any value, a Turner, some years ago. The housekeeper, Sophie, who disappeared the same night, is suspected of stealing it.
Jackson, a reluctant hostage to the snowstorm, has been investigating the theft of another The Woman with a Weasel, a portrait, taken from the house of an elderly widow, on the morning she died. The suspect this time is the widow’s carer, Melanie. Is this a coincidence or is there a connection? And what secrets does The Woman with a Weasel hold? The puzzle is Jackson’s to solve. And let’s not forget that a convicted murderer is on the run on the moors around Burton Makepeace.
All the while, in a bid to make money, Burton Makepeace is determined to keep hosting a shambolic Murder Mystery that acts as a backdrop while the real drama is being played out in the house.
A brilliantly plotted, supremely entertaining, and utterly compulsive tour de force from a great writer at the height of her powers.
The crumbling house - Burton Makepeace and its chatelaine the Dowager Lady Milton - suffered the loss of their last remaining painting of any value, a Turner, some years ago. The housekeeper, Sophie, who disappeared the same night, is suspected of stealing it.
Jackson, a reluctant hostage to the snowstorm, has been investigating the theft of another The Woman with a Weasel, a portrait, taken from the house of an elderly widow, on the morning she died. The suspect this time is the widow’s carer, Melanie. Is this a coincidence or is there a connection? And what secrets does The Woman with a Weasel hold? The puzzle is Jackson’s to solve. And let’s not forget that a convicted murderer is on the run on the moors around Burton Makepeace.
All the while, in a bid to make money, Burton Makepeace is determined to keep hosting a shambolic Murder Mystery that acts as a backdrop while the real drama is being played out in the house.
A brilliantly plotted, supremely entertaining, and utterly compulsive tour de force from a great writer at the height of her powers.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published August 17, 2024
About the author
Kate Atkinson
58 books11.2k followersKate Atkinson was born in York and now lives in Edinburgh. Her first novel, Behind the Scenes at the Museum, won the Whitbread Book of the Year Award and she has been a critically acclaimed international bestselling author ever since.
She is the author of a collection of short stories, Not the End of the World, and of the critically acclaimed novels Human Croquet, Emotionally Weird, Case Histories, and One Good Turn.
Case Histories introduced her readers to Jackson Brodie, former police inspector turned private investigator, and won the Saltire Book of the Year Award and the Prix Westminster.
When Will There Be Good News? was voted Richard & Judy Book Best Read of the Year. After Case Histories and One Good Turn, it was her third novel to feature the former private detective Jackson Brodie, who makes a welcome return in Started Early, Took My Dog.
She is the author of a collection of short stories, Not the End of the World, and of the critically acclaimed novels Human Croquet, Emotionally Weird, Case Histories, and One Good Turn.
Case Histories introduced her readers to Jackson Brodie, former police inspector turned private investigator, and won the Saltire Book of the Year Award and the Prix Westminster.
When Will There Be Good News? was voted Richard & Judy Book Best Read of the Year. After Case Histories and One Good Turn, it was her third novel to feature the former private detective Jackson Brodie, who makes a welcome return in Started Early, Took My Dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 217 reviews
March 25, 2024
Jackson Brodie #6
A coincidence is just an explanation waiting to happen.
You are cordially invited to enjoy a lavish murder mystery weekend at Rook Hall, the east wing of Burton Makepeace, one of England’s finest stately homes, though it has to be said, it’s a tad down at heel. Only £1250 per person, including a sumptuous breakfast. The guests duly arrive, including Jackson and Reggie (DC Reggie Chase) . Wait, what? Our hero, at a murder mystery weekend with a vicar, an army major, a Countess, and the Dowager Lady Milton, and assembled crew which would have the Queen of Crime nodding with approval. Why are Jackson and Reggie there? Well, in a nutshell, theft of paintings. The first, a rather good Turner belonging to the cash-strapped owners of Burton Makepeace, the Dowager being the aforementioned Lady Milton. The suspect is the missing housekeeper, Sophie, of whom Lady Milton is rather fond, more so than her offsprings in all probability. The latest is one from the home of a recently deceased widow, a Renaissance painting entitled “The Woman with the Weasel” and the suspected weasel thief is Melanie, the old ladies carer. Jackson is on that case and Reggie is one of the detectives on the Turner investigation. Forces joined as it were, it’s not unusual. Oh and by the way, a convicted murderer is on the run, thought to be on Burton Makepeace’s surrounding moors. This could get messy so Jackson needs to stay sharp. It’s also worth mentioning that it’s snowing and there will soon be a white out.
Woo hoo, a new Kate Atkinson and a Jackson Brodie at that! It’s everything that I hope it will be, clever, lively, funny, colourful fast paced, and totally engaging. I love it! Full of wit, verve, and joi de vie - ok, maybe that’s pushing it considering the nature of some of the characters, not Jackson or Reggie obviously!
All the characters are exceptionally well portrayed with a few apt, well chosen phrases they spring to life in glorious technicolour. There’s accompanying terrific dialogue, that bats back-and-forth, some great in head thoughts from Jackson, with plenty of irony thrown in for good measure. Absolutely oodles of plot features from art theft, to insurance fraud, to characters questioning their place and purpose. Chuck in the dynamics of the owners of a crumbling stately home, a travelling band of murder mystery actors, the prisoner on the run and a few characters who succumb to the call of the Grim Reaper. The end result of what could be chaos (well, there is but in the best possible comedic way) is some fantastical and vivid scenes that put you in mind of murder farce if there is such a thing or a snowy Bedlam. It’s highly entertaining in its outlandishness. Towards the end, there’s quite a dastardly rampage as all the plot elements come together in a Hollywood worthy climax, with plenty of nods to the Queen of Crime. Maybe in this case I should say the ”doyen” of cosy crime “ Nancy Styles” who pops up appropriately on numerous occasions.
It’s fantastic. What a hilarious romp through the Yorkshire countryside, which entertains from beginning to end.
PS Has Cupid drawn his bow for Reggie?? I do hope so.
Five stars all the way.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to. Random House UK, Transworld for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Expected publication in the U.K. 29/8/24
A coincidence is just an explanation waiting to happen.
You are cordially invited to enjoy a lavish murder mystery weekend at Rook Hall, the east wing of Burton Makepeace, one of England’s finest stately homes, though it has to be said, it’s a tad down at heel. Only £1250 per person, including a sumptuous breakfast. The guests duly arrive, including Jackson and Reggie (DC Reggie Chase) . Wait, what? Our hero, at a murder mystery weekend with a vicar, an army major, a Countess, and the Dowager Lady Milton, and assembled crew which would have the Queen of Crime nodding with approval. Why are Jackson and Reggie there? Well, in a nutshell, theft of paintings. The first, a rather good Turner belonging to the cash-strapped owners of Burton Makepeace, the Dowager being the aforementioned Lady Milton. The suspect is the missing housekeeper, Sophie, of whom Lady Milton is rather fond, more so than her offsprings in all probability. The latest is one from the home of a recently deceased widow, a Renaissance painting entitled “The Woman with the Weasel” and the suspected weasel thief is Melanie, the old ladies carer. Jackson is on that case and Reggie is one of the detectives on the Turner investigation. Forces joined as it were, it’s not unusual. Oh and by the way, a convicted murderer is on the run, thought to be on Burton Makepeace’s surrounding moors. This could get messy so Jackson needs to stay sharp. It’s also worth mentioning that it’s snowing and there will soon be a white out.
Woo hoo, a new Kate Atkinson and a Jackson Brodie at that! It’s everything that I hope it will be, clever, lively, funny, colourful fast paced, and totally engaging. I love it! Full of wit, verve, and joi de vie - ok, maybe that’s pushing it considering the nature of some of the characters, not Jackson or Reggie obviously!
All the characters are exceptionally well portrayed with a few apt, well chosen phrases they spring to life in glorious technicolour. There’s accompanying terrific dialogue, that bats back-and-forth, some great in head thoughts from Jackson, with plenty of irony thrown in for good measure. Absolutely oodles of plot features from art theft, to insurance fraud, to characters questioning their place and purpose. Chuck in the dynamics of the owners of a crumbling stately home, a travelling band of murder mystery actors, the prisoner on the run and a few characters who succumb to the call of the Grim Reaper. The end result of what could be chaos (well, there is but in the best possible comedic way) is some fantastical and vivid scenes that put you in mind of murder farce if there is such a thing or a snowy Bedlam. It’s highly entertaining in its outlandishness. Towards the end, there’s quite a dastardly rampage as all the plot elements come together in a Hollywood worthy climax, with plenty of nods to the Queen of Crime. Maybe in this case I should say the ”doyen” of cosy crime “ Nancy Styles” who pops up appropriately on numerous occasions.
It’s fantastic. What a hilarious romp through the Yorkshire countryside, which entertains from beginning to end.
PS Has Cupid drawn his bow for Reggie?? I do hope so.
Five stars all the way.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to. Random House UK, Transworld for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Expected publication in the U.K. 29/8/24
April 8, 2024
I’m torn on this one, and it gets an extra half star for the humor alone. There are lots of laugh-out-loud moments to be found here. However, I just could not get into this. It dragged on and on, and there was zero action for much of the book. There were so many characters that it was difficult to keep them straight. I’m sure that if you’re into meandering cozy mysteries, you’ll enjoy this, but I’m afraid it just wasn’t for me.
I did laugh a fair amount, though, at the thought processes of various characters. I wouldn’t mind hanging out with Ms. Atkinson every once in a while, as I’m sure my stomach would hurt from laughing so hard. I just wished I’d liked the book more!
My thanks to NetGalley and Doubleday Books for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I did laugh a fair amount, though, at the thought processes of various characters. I wouldn’t mind hanging out with Ms. Atkinson every once in a while, as I’m sure my stomach would hurt from laughing so hard. I just wished I’d liked the book more!
My thanks to NetGalley and Doubleday Books for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 3, 2024
A couple Jackson Brodie books ago, I wrote in my review, "Is it selfish of me to want Kate Atkinson to go in a different direction? I think I know a bit too well what to expect from the Jackson Brodie books." Did she read my mind? Because she's certainly done that with our 6th entry in the series.
This book is part Jackson Brodie novel (often plodding, contemplative), part golden age mystery, part Downton Abbey-style British estate comedy of manners, and ultimately part farce with characters bumbling in and out of rooms and is that actually a prop gun gags. I know it sounds like these things wouldn't necessarily go together. And it is a bit jarring when the novel opens on a little murder mystery weekend then cuts to our usual Jackson slowly considering one small crime in a larger, bleaker world and his own place in it as he ages. But somehow, I don't know, it works.
It works, in part, because this book is so funny. Even when we are just hanging out in Jackson's head, Kate Atkinson's got jokes. I was being one of those very annoying readers who keeps chuckling at her book, I recommend not reading this with other people in the room. Lady Milton in particular is hilarious, every time we cut to her chapters I was delighted. There are a few perspectives that are less funny. The vicar who's lost his faith and his ability to speak, the veteran who's lost his leg and his interest in life, but somehow Jackson himself is able to bring it all together, as we look at the world through his eyes with both humor and philosophical musings.
While this wraps up much more neatly than the usual Jackson Brodie novel, it does have the usual untied strings, the unexplained motives, the whole things that must have been happening behind the scenes that we'll never be quite sure of.
My only complaint, really, is that I struggle to believe that men still exist in the world who are as gentle, thoughtful, and good as the men in this book. But then again, Jackson Brodie novels do like to balance in some hope with their customary despair.
The book feels kind of like a lark, a response to a challenge. I would love to hear Atkinson explain how she ended up with this. This is not a complaint! It's just such a weird little book, so determined to mashup things that don't particularly belong toegether.
This book is part Jackson Brodie novel (often plodding, contemplative), part golden age mystery, part Downton Abbey-style British estate comedy of manners, and ultimately part farce with characters bumbling in and out of rooms and is that actually a prop gun gags. I know it sounds like these things wouldn't necessarily go together. And it is a bit jarring when the novel opens on a little murder mystery weekend then cuts to our usual Jackson slowly considering one small crime in a larger, bleaker world and his own place in it as he ages. But somehow, I don't know, it works.
It works, in part, because this book is so funny. Even when we are just hanging out in Jackson's head, Kate Atkinson's got jokes. I was being one of those very annoying readers who keeps chuckling at her book, I recommend not reading this with other people in the room. Lady Milton in particular is hilarious, every time we cut to her chapters I was delighted. There are a few perspectives that are less funny. The vicar who's lost his faith and his ability to speak, the veteran who's lost his leg and his interest in life, but somehow Jackson himself is able to bring it all together, as we look at the world through his eyes with both humor and philosophical musings.
While this wraps up much more neatly than the usual Jackson Brodie novel, it does have the usual untied strings, the unexplained motives, the whole things that must have been happening behind the scenes that we'll never be quite sure of.
My only complaint, really, is that I struggle to believe that men still exist in the world who are as gentle, thoughtful, and good as the men in this book. But then again, Jackson Brodie novels do like to balance in some hope with their customary despair.
The book feels kind of like a lark, a response to a challenge. I would love to hear Atkinson explain how she ended up with this. This is not a complaint! It's just such a weird little book, so determined to mashup things that don't particularly belong toegether.
June 16, 2024
Thank heavens. When Kate Atkinson was asked if there were going to be any more novels featuring Jackson Brodie, she said that she was quitting at the four she'd written to that point. Saying she'd followed his story as much as she felt necessary. Since then, she has written two more, this being the latest. Something about writing with Brodie brings out the best in Atkinson including her wicked sense of humor that caused me to laugh out loud in places. Also, her character development. This one, with art theft as its theme, probes many of her favorite subjects.
August 9, 2024
Death At The Sign Of The Rook is the sixth book in the popular Jackson Brodie series by award-winning best-selling British author, Kate Atkinson. When Dorothy Padgett dies, Jackson is asked by her twins, Hazel and Ian, to look for a painting missing from her bedroom.
It’s a Renaissance-era portrait and they claim not to know if it’s worth anything, but want it back for sentimental reasons. They believe that Dorothy’s carer, Melanie Hope took it when she left but they don’t want to involve the police, and Jackson feels there’s something decidedly shifty about the pair.
He quickly deduces Melanie’s phone is a burner, checks out the address (fake), chases the painting’s provenance (something dodgy there too) and then does a little research into art theft. A couple of interesting items online have him wondering if the same woman is posing in roles that virtually guarantee her invisibility (cleaner, carer, housekeeper) and then making off with valuable artwork.
One of the thefts was from Burton Makepeace House, the home of the Marquess and Marchioness Milton, and DC Reggie Chase investigated without success. A call from Jackson Brodie, about this, or anything, isn’t really welcome: “Jackson Brodie’s MO was disruption. His attitude to the law was like that of a Wild West sheriff. All that coincidence-being-an-explanation-waiting-to-happen baloney was just a cover for not following procedure.”
“She was reluctant to let him back into her life. He constituted part of the mess out there on the mean streets. Whenever she saw him, he brought a tsunami of it in his wake that would have defeated Marie Kondo.” But what he tells her is certainly intriguing…
Atkinson’s plot is interesting and topical, and before Reggie and Jackson find themselves in the midst of a Murder Mystery Weekend where not all the corpses are actors, and not all the guns are props, there is a visit to a funeral parlour and a crusty old neighbour, and Nancy Styles novels left behind. Atkinson throws a snowstorm and a murderous prison escapee into the mix just to add a bit more excitement. By the time DCS Louise Monroe and her team turn up, Reggie has been reminded that Jackson “was always making the distinction between justice and the law. She was always trying not to.”
But Atkinson’s strength is her characters and some of their inner monologues are an absolute joy, filled with dry British (and often very black) humour and understatement. Jackson’s narrative is peppered with Julia’s (previously delivered or else anticipated, but inevitably critical) comments, or those of what he calls his “pop-up Court of Women” any time female issues come up, while Reggie is often plagued by Jackson Brodie comments.
Atkinson carefully builds up her characters until the reader is invested in them and really cares about their fate. Of those characters, Honoria Milton delights while Ben and Simon pull at the heartstrings. There is humour, too, in certain situations and the snappy dialogue, with its tangents and asides, including many laugh-out-loud moments.
Atkinson has a wonderful way with words and some of her passages are superbly evocative and vividly descriptive. While it is not essential to have read the earlier books of this series, denying yourself that pleasure is surely cruel. This is another Atkinson masterpiece.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Random House UK Transworld.
It’s a Renaissance-era portrait and they claim not to know if it’s worth anything, but want it back for sentimental reasons. They believe that Dorothy’s carer, Melanie Hope took it when she left but they don’t want to involve the police, and Jackson feels there’s something decidedly shifty about the pair.
He quickly deduces Melanie’s phone is a burner, checks out the address (fake), chases the painting’s provenance (something dodgy there too) and then does a little research into art theft. A couple of interesting items online have him wondering if the same woman is posing in roles that virtually guarantee her invisibility (cleaner, carer, housekeeper) and then making off with valuable artwork.
One of the thefts was from Burton Makepeace House, the home of the Marquess and Marchioness Milton, and DC Reggie Chase investigated without success. A call from Jackson Brodie, about this, or anything, isn’t really welcome: “Jackson Brodie’s MO was disruption. His attitude to the law was like that of a Wild West sheriff. All that coincidence-being-an-explanation-waiting-to-happen baloney was just a cover for not following procedure.”
“She was reluctant to let him back into her life. He constituted part of the mess out there on the mean streets. Whenever she saw him, he brought a tsunami of it in his wake that would have defeated Marie Kondo.” But what he tells her is certainly intriguing…
Atkinson’s plot is interesting and topical, and before Reggie and Jackson find themselves in the midst of a Murder Mystery Weekend where not all the corpses are actors, and not all the guns are props, there is a visit to a funeral parlour and a crusty old neighbour, and Nancy Styles novels left behind. Atkinson throws a snowstorm and a murderous prison escapee into the mix just to add a bit more excitement. By the time DCS Louise Monroe and her team turn up, Reggie has been reminded that Jackson “was always making the distinction between justice and the law. She was always trying not to.”
But Atkinson’s strength is her characters and some of their inner monologues are an absolute joy, filled with dry British (and often very black) humour and understatement. Jackson’s narrative is peppered with Julia’s (previously delivered or else anticipated, but inevitably critical) comments, or those of what he calls his “pop-up Court of Women” any time female issues come up, while Reggie is often plagued by Jackson Brodie comments.
Atkinson carefully builds up her characters until the reader is invested in them and really cares about their fate. Of those characters, Honoria Milton delights while Ben and Simon pull at the heartstrings. There is humour, too, in certain situations and the snappy dialogue, with its tangents and asides, including many laugh-out-loud moments.
Atkinson has a wonderful way with words and some of her passages are superbly evocative and vividly descriptive. While it is not essential to have read the earlier books of this series, denying yourself that pleasure is surely cruel. This is another Atkinson masterpiece.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Random House UK Transworld.
June 29, 2024
A new Kate Atkinson book is always an event- the last two years we've had the Shrines of Gaiety ( Period 1920s Drama) and Normal Rule Don't Apply ( Short Stories) - both superb.
Now is the return of Jackson Brodie- the sixth in the private investigator/crime series - Death at the Sign of the Rook- always a delight!
From start to finish, this is a wonderfully fast paced, comedic, thought-provoking, eclectic crime read.
Jackson Brodie- "a mess, a tsunami that would have defeated Marie Kondo" - returns in his own inimitable style - his world weary cynicism as sharp as a knife and humour that is so, so wry. This is crime fiction but not in the traditional sense- this is a literary novel that just happens to feature a crime/s within the plot. Jackson is reunited with DC Reggie Chase - the counterplay between them is wonderful but done with a hidden respect.
Kate Atkinson's fantastical imagination is second to none and the descriptions of the minutiae within people's lives is what makes her books pure joy. Every foible or eccentricity is laid bare ( from prayer groups, to the world of white sofas,, undertakers, confused vicars, a truly quirky Lady of the manor and drama groups- nothing is safe from her exacting eye for details) The inner thoughts of characters- major and minor- are exposed with such vividness that it's impossible not to laugh out loud on occasions.
The plot evolves around the theft of two stolen works of art and the inhabitants and locals of the Burton make peace estate. the dying aristocracy is lampooned beautifully. There is also a clear nod to the cosy crime world of fiction and this also comes under the microscope/dissection of Kate Atkinson with a clear sense of irony.
A cast of unforgettable characters and the actions/interactions of Brodie and Chase make for Death at he Sign of the Rook an unforgettable read.
A triumph from start to finish-once started I couldn't put it down - thank you Kate Atkinson- an absolute winner .
Now is the return of Jackson Brodie- the sixth in the private investigator/crime series - Death at the Sign of the Rook- always a delight!
From start to finish, this is a wonderfully fast paced, comedic, thought-provoking, eclectic crime read.
Jackson Brodie- "a mess, a tsunami that would have defeated Marie Kondo" - returns in his own inimitable style - his world weary cynicism as sharp as a knife and humour that is so, so wry. This is crime fiction but not in the traditional sense- this is a literary novel that just happens to feature a crime/s within the plot. Jackson is reunited with DC Reggie Chase - the counterplay between them is wonderful but done with a hidden respect.
Kate Atkinson's fantastical imagination is second to none and the descriptions of the minutiae within people's lives is what makes her books pure joy. Every foible or eccentricity is laid bare ( from prayer groups, to the world of white sofas,, undertakers, confused vicars, a truly quirky Lady of the manor and drama groups- nothing is safe from her exacting eye for details) The inner thoughts of characters- major and minor- are exposed with such vividness that it's impossible not to laugh out loud on occasions.
The plot evolves around the theft of two stolen works of art and the inhabitants and locals of the Burton make peace estate. the dying aristocracy is lampooned beautifully. There is also a clear nod to the cosy crime world of fiction and this also comes under the microscope/dissection of Kate Atkinson with a clear sense of irony.
A cast of unforgettable characters and the actions/interactions of Brodie and Chase make for Death at he Sign of the Rook an unforgettable read.
A triumph from start to finish-once started I couldn't put it down - thank you Kate Atkinson- an absolute winner .
February 27, 2024
From The Cover📖
The stage is set. Marooned overnight by a snowstorm in a grand country house are a cast of characters and a setting that even Agatha Christie might recognize – a vicar, an Army major, a Dowager, a sleuth and his sidekick - except that the sleuth is Jackson Brodie, and the ‘sidekick’ is DC Reggie Chase.
The crumbling house - Burton Makepeace and its chatelaine the Dowager Lady Milton - suffered the loss of their last remaining painting of any value, a Turner, some years ago. The housekeeper, Sophie, who disappeared the same night, is suspected of stealing it.
Jackson, a reluctant hostage to the snowstorm, has been investigating the theft of another painting: The Woman with a Weasel, a portrait, taken from the house of an elderly widow, on the morning she died. The suspect this time is the widow’s carer, Melanie. Is this a coincidence or is there a connection? And what secrets does the Woman with a Weasel hold? The puzzle is Jackson’s to solve. And let’s not forget that a convicted murderer is on the run on the moors around Burton Makepeace.
All the while, in a bid to make money, Burton Makepeace is determined to keep hosting a shambolic Murder Mystery that acts as a backdrop while the real drama is being played out in the house.
REVIEW⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Full disclosure Kate Atkinson is one of all time favourite writers and her character Jackson Brodie is one of all time favourite characters so this review was never going be unbiased it was always going be at least four stars. Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley so much for the ARC, I don't think I could have waited till the publication date to read this. I have already pre ordered the audiobook I can't wait to be read this book( despite having read the ARC) by the wonderful Jason Issacs.
For those who’ve yet to read Atkinson’s crime series or watch Jason Isacc’s brilliant portrayal of Jackson Brodie in the BBC’s adaptations, he’s an ex-policeman turned private investigator with a fondness for dogs, a deep suspicion of the middle classes and a sense of justice. And I suggest you read all five of the previous Jackson Brodie books before this one. It will not only enhance your enjoyment of this book but will give you another five quite frankly outstanding books to read...Do yourself a big favour and get reading!!! You will not be sorry.
As a massive golden age of crime writing fan the opening gambits had me hooked, the invite and opening chapter set the tone of the full novel perfectly. The first chapter could be straight out of a crime novel from the ‘golden age’ of detective fiction, I realized the author was gently poking fun at the genre, which she continues to do throughout the book with the portrayal of the eccentric family at Burton Makepiece House, headed by Lady Milton, whom I loved,the cast of other characters, the setting even the crime itself. Atkinson clearly is a fan of these books she pokes fun but showcases the magic of the genre. Her writing masterfully uses the classic golden age themes and laces them in a modern setting, showcasing not only her quick smart wit but also what a talented clever storyteller she is. It feels rather like a Agatha Christie flippant, darkly fun with sinister humour in terms of the cast of characters.
Following the first chapter we head back to lead up to the murder mystery party we find Jackson attending in chapter one.
Jackson Brodie is hired to find a missing painting with a suspect provenance that disappeared along with a carer. This leads to other similar cases of vanishing masterpieces. Is there a connection? Of course there is it's a Brodie novel that's the magic of the books. From here we get to know the backgrounds of the rich cast of main characters interspersed with the actions of our kind hearted private investigator Jackson , who has been thrust headlong into this murky world of stolen art, reluctantly assisted by his old friend DC Reggie Chase, who some might remember from the earlier novels. - the counterplay between the two is funny and heart warming. Their inner thoughts and comments on the people they meet, and particularly on each other, are so much fun. Reggie has a constant nagging voice in her head, that of ‘know-it-all’ Brodie, and Brodie has his ‘Court of Women, Judge Julia, his ex, presiding’ commenting on his every word and deed. I loved the little titbits and updates on characters from the previous novels , which are just little nods but full of information and interest. Kate Atkinson is the master (mistress?) of the inner dialogue, the inner thoughts of characters- major and minor- are exposed with such vividness that it's impossible not to laugh and connect to the characters. The author’s sly wit and observation shine throughout which makes this so much more than crime novel, it feels more like a character lead novel that just happens to be set within a very well written well paced, well structured crime novel.
The plot itself is as ever twisty and surprising, the pace of the story is just right. The plot thoroughly enjoyable with several strands, which all culminate in a country house murder mystery event. Just when you think you can see where the plot’s going it goes whizzing off in another direction in this case aided by a severe snowstorm that cuts off Burton Makepiece and an escaped convict resulting in what can only be described as massive big game of cludeo meets The Mousetrap. The resulting conclusion is classic for the Brodie series of books satisfying but leaves room for more, of which I really hope there is.
From start to finish, this is a wonderfully fast paced, comedic, thought-provoking, eclectic read, it is always good to re-acquaint with previously loved characters and it is nice to see Jackson Brodie hasn't mellowed with age if anything he has more grumpy which I loved, he reminds of my Dad. There’s lots of farcical humour to enjoy, and the bracketed wry asides in characters’ inner monologues are as amusing as ever. The plot plays out nicely with nods to Agatha Christie. What can I say pure perfection.
The stage is set. Marooned overnight by a snowstorm in a grand country house are a cast of characters and a setting that even Agatha Christie might recognize – a vicar, an Army major, a Dowager, a sleuth and his sidekick - except that the sleuth is Jackson Brodie, and the ‘sidekick’ is DC Reggie Chase.
The crumbling house - Burton Makepeace and its chatelaine the Dowager Lady Milton - suffered the loss of their last remaining painting of any value, a Turner, some years ago. The housekeeper, Sophie, who disappeared the same night, is suspected of stealing it.
Jackson, a reluctant hostage to the snowstorm, has been investigating the theft of another painting: The Woman with a Weasel, a portrait, taken from the house of an elderly widow, on the morning she died. The suspect this time is the widow’s carer, Melanie. Is this a coincidence or is there a connection? And what secrets does the Woman with a Weasel hold? The puzzle is Jackson’s to solve. And let’s not forget that a convicted murderer is on the run on the moors around Burton Makepeace.
All the while, in a bid to make money, Burton Makepeace is determined to keep hosting a shambolic Murder Mystery that acts as a backdrop while the real drama is being played out in the house.
REVIEW⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Full disclosure Kate Atkinson is one of all time favourite writers and her character Jackson Brodie is one of all time favourite characters so this review was never going be unbiased it was always going be at least four stars. Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley so much for the ARC, I don't think I could have waited till the publication date to read this. I have already pre ordered the audiobook I can't wait to be read this book( despite having read the ARC) by the wonderful Jason Issacs.
For those who’ve yet to read Atkinson’s crime series or watch Jason Isacc’s brilliant portrayal of Jackson Brodie in the BBC’s adaptations, he’s an ex-policeman turned private investigator with a fondness for dogs, a deep suspicion of the middle classes and a sense of justice. And I suggest you read all five of the previous Jackson Brodie books before this one. It will not only enhance your enjoyment of this book but will give you another five quite frankly outstanding books to read...Do yourself a big favour and get reading!!! You will not be sorry.
As a massive golden age of crime writing fan the opening gambits had me hooked, the invite and opening chapter set the tone of the full novel perfectly. The first chapter could be straight out of a crime novel from the ‘golden age’ of detective fiction, I realized the author was gently poking fun at the genre, which she continues to do throughout the book with the portrayal of the eccentric family at Burton Makepiece House, headed by Lady Milton, whom I loved,the cast of other characters, the setting even the crime itself. Atkinson clearly is a fan of these books she pokes fun but showcases the magic of the genre. Her writing masterfully uses the classic golden age themes and laces them in a modern setting, showcasing not only her quick smart wit but also what a talented clever storyteller she is. It feels rather like a Agatha Christie flippant, darkly fun with sinister humour in terms of the cast of characters.
Following the first chapter we head back to lead up to the murder mystery party we find Jackson attending in chapter one.
Jackson Brodie is hired to find a missing painting with a suspect provenance that disappeared along with a carer. This leads to other similar cases of vanishing masterpieces. Is there a connection? Of course there is it's a Brodie novel that's the magic of the books. From here we get to know the backgrounds of the rich cast of main characters interspersed with the actions of our kind hearted private investigator Jackson , who has been thrust headlong into this murky world of stolen art, reluctantly assisted by his old friend DC Reggie Chase, who some might remember from the earlier novels. - the counterplay between the two is funny and heart warming. Their inner thoughts and comments on the people they meet, and particularly on each other, are so much fun. Reggie has a constant nagging voice in her head, that of ‘know-it-all’ Brodie, and Brodie has his ‘Court of Women, Judge Julia, his ex, presiding’ commenting on his every word and deed. I loved the little titbits and updates on characters from the previous novels , which are just little nods but full of information and interest. Kate Atkinson is the master (mistress?) of the inner dialogue, the inner thoughts of characters- major and minor- are exposed with such vividness that it's impossible not to laugh and connect to the characters. The author’s sly wit and observation shine throughout which makes this so much more than crime novel, it feels more like a character lead novel that just happens to be set within a very well written well paced, well structured crime novel.
The plot itself is as ever twisty and surprising, the pace of the story is just right. The plot thoroughly enjoyable with several strands, which all culminate in a country house murder mystery event. Just when you think you can see where the plot’s going it goes whizzing off in another direction in this case aided by a severe snowstorm that cuts off Burton Makepiece and an escaped convict resulting in what can only be described as massive big game of cludeo meets The Mousetrap. The resulting conclusion is classic for the Brodie series of books satisfying but leaves room for more, of which I really hope there is.
From start to finish, this is a wonderfully fast paced, comedic, thought-provoking, eclectic read, it is always good to re-acquaint with previously loved characters and it is nice to see Jackson Brodie hasn't mellowed with age if anything he has more grumpy which I loved, he reminds of my Dad. There’s lots of farcical humour to enjoy, and the bracketed wry asides in characters’ inner monologues are as amusing as ever. The plot plays out nicely with nods to Agatha Christie. What can I say pure perfection.
July 3, 2024
Private investigator Jackson Brodie has been hired by a brother and sister to find a painting stolen from the home of their recently deceased mother.
DC Reggie Chase has been looking into an earlier theft of an another painting. Could the thefts be related? A murder mystery weekend has been planned at Rook Hall, a wing of the once majestic now a bit downtrodden Burton Makepeace. When a snowstorm ensues, these two detectives as well as others including the local vicar, a former major who has lost his leg in battle, an acting troupe and other invited and uninvited guests converge for a rollicking evening of mystery and crime.
This story is fast paced, entertaining, humorous, a bit farcical. I really enjoy Atkinson’s sharp wit and amusing characters. There are a few different storylines that come together and a large cast of players. This is a cozy mystery joyride with kind of a Knives Out vibe to it.
The sixth of the Jackson Brodie series, it is the second I have read. It works well as a standalone.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #DoubledayBooks for the DRC.
DC Reggie Chase has been looking into an earlier theft of an another painting. Could the thefts be related? A murder mystery weekend has been planned at Rook Hall, a wing of the once majestic now a bit downtrodden Burton Makepeace. When a snowstorm ensues, these two detectives as well as others including the local vicar, a former major who has lost his leg in battle, an acting troupe and other invited and uninvited guests converge for a rollicking evening of mystery and crime.
This story is fast paced, entertaining, humorous, a bit farcical. I really enjoy Atkinson’s sharp wit and amusing characters. There are a few different storylines that come together and a large cast of players. This is a cozy mystery joyride with kind of a Knives Out vibe to it.
The sixth of the Jackson Brodie series, it is the second I have read. It works well as a standalone.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #DoubledayBooks for the DRC.
June 16, 2024
Like any cozy mystery, Kate Atkinson’s Death at the Sign of the Rook contains a surfeit of idiosyncratic characters, a puzzling crime or two, an aging rural manor house, a blizzard, and too many characters for all but the most orderly and committed readers to remember.
All in all, Death at the Sign of the Rook feels like a whole new Kate Atkinson revealing both herself and new sides of Jackson Browne and Reggie Chase. With a lesser author than Atkinson, another volume in the annals of Jackson and Reggie might feel shopworn. But Kate Atkinson remains top drawer and in Death at the Sign of the Rook she’s at the top of her formidable and often hilarious form. Ms. Atkinson, more Jackson and Reggie, please!
Thank you to NetGalley and Doubleday for providing me with an advanced reader’s copy of this novel.
All in all, Death at the Sign of the Rook feels like a whole new Kate Atkinson revealing both herself and new sides of Jackson Browne and Reggie Chase. With a lesser author than Atkinson, another volume in the annals of Jackson and Reggie might feel shopworn. But Kate Atkinson remains top drawer and in Death at the Sign of the Rook she’s at the top of her formidable and often hilarious form. Ms. Atkinson, more Jackson and Reggie, please!
Thank you to NetGalley and Doubleday for providing me with an advanced reader’s copy of this novel.
July 23, 2024
Jackson Brody is back in Death At The Sign of the Rook. This one is less murder/mystery and more general/humorous fiction. Lady Milton is one of my favorite characters ever, she needs to make an appearance in a future book and Simon was cluelessly sweet. Kate Atkinson's sense of humor must be just diabolical. There were some screwball comedy moments that didn't go well for me and Ben feeling sorry for himself got old very quick but overall it was a lighthearted quick read.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
April 25, 2024
OMG so snazzy, so hilarious. Every single paragraph has something snarky to make me laugh aloud.
In Death at the Sign of The Rook, Jackson Brodie returns to solving mysteries. In fact, Brodie finds himself in a actual murder mystery, both a theatrical production at a hotel as well as mystery and possible murder related to valuable art. Rook Hall is part of Burton Makepeace, a sprawling estate that is deteriorating with age. The incredibly tone death inhabitants are trying to stay financially afloat and have sanctioned off a wing of the estate for a hotel. On the night in question, a murder mystery is scheduled to take place. Due to the inclement weather only a few of the actors actually turn up. This makes for a confusing series of events and bring even more levels of hilarity to the story.
It's not long before Brodie needs to use his wits to catch the killer and solve the crime. This perfect story is filled with laughs in every paragraph, ironic sometimes blatant hilarity as well as utterly beautiful phrases. This is a novel that you can read again, and you will as you wait for the next installment in the Jackson Brodie series! #deathatthesignoftherook #kateatikinson #doubleday
In Death at the Sign of The Rook, Jackson Brodie returns to solving mysteries. In fact, Brodie finds himself in a actual murder mystery, both a theatrical production at a hotel as well as mystery and possible murder related to valuable art. Rook Hall is part of Burton Makepeace, a sprawling estate that is deteriorating with age. The incredibly tone death inhabitants are trying to stay financially afloat and have sanctioned off a wing of the estate for a hotel. On the night in question, a murder mystery is scheduled to take place. Due to the inclement weather only a few of the actors actually turn up. This makes for a confusing series of events and bring even more levels of hilarity to the story.
It's not long before Brodie needs to use his wits to catch the killer and solve the crime. This perfect story is filled with laughs in every paragraph, ironic sometimes blatant hilarity as well as utterly beautiful phrases. This is a novel that you can read again, and you will as you wait for the next installment in the Jackson Brodie series! #deathatthesignoftherook #kateatikinson #doubleday
August 21, 2024
Death at the Sign of The Rook is Kate Atkinson at her best! I loved this book which had a really playful feel about it. There is more than a hint of Agatha Christie about it with a crumbling stately home, eccentric aristocrats, missing art-works, a crazed criminal on the loose, a vicar who has lost the power of speech and a group of actors putting on a murder mystery weekend. Of course, there’s a snow storm whirling around too so everyone is snowed in and there’s a real closed room feel to the book.
Although there are many serious themes tackled in the book such as grief, loss and post-traumatic stress disorder, there’s always that lightness of touch which I feel is a trademark of Atkinson’s writing. She has achieved that balance of dark and light so well in this novel.
I loved meeting Reggie again who first appeared in Big Sky with her side-kick Ronnie. I said at the time I’d love to read more about these two and although Ronnie gets a brief mention, this is Reggie’s time to shine. I hope that she features in any future Jackson Brodie novels and Kate Atkinson does hint that she has more plans for Jackson.
This a very clever book with many different characters and storylines which are all intricately linked together. It did take me a wee while to get the various characters straight in my head but once I did, I really appreciated what a cleverly constructed book this is. I realise that I have barely mentioned Jackson but he is of course, integral to the book and reading about him feels like catching up with an old friend again.
Death at the Sign of the Rook is fast-paced, fun and hugely entertaining. It feels like an affectionate nod to the Golden Age of crime writing and is an excellent addition to the Jackson Brodie series and indeed to Kate Atkinson’s body of work.
Although there are many serious themes tackled in the book such as grief, loss and post-traumatic stress disorder, there’s always that lightness of touch which I feel is a trademark of Atkinson’s writing. She has achieved that balance of dark and light so well in this novel.
I loved meeting Reggie again who first appeared in Big Sky with her side-kick Ronnie. I said at the time I’d love to read more about these two and although Ronnie gets a brief mention, this is Reggie’s time to shine. I hope that she features in any future Jackson Brodie novels and Kate Atkinson does hint that she has more plans for Jackson.
This a very clever book with many different characters and storylines which are all intricately linked together. It did take me a wee while to get the various characters straight in my head but once I did, I really appreciated what a cleverly constructed book this is. I realise that I have barely mentioned Jackson but he is of course, integral to the book and reading about him feels like catching up with an old friend again.
Death at the Sign of the Rook is fast-paced, fun and hugely entertaining. It feels like an affectionate nod to the Golden Age of crime writing and is an excellent addition to the Jackson Brodie series and indeed to Kate Atkinson’s body of work.
August 24, 2024
I thought Kate Atkinson retired her Jackson Brodie character, so I was delighted to see this book featuring him. He's older, more tired, and funnier than ever.
Business isn't booming at Jackson Brodie's detective agency, so he readily takes the assignment to find a stolen painting. It isn't long before he finds two other art thefts and an elusive woman who may be behind them. One of the thefts, at Burton Makepeace manor house, whose owners have been selling off valuables and now are hosting murder mystery weekends to keep up with repairs, has also caught the attention of the police. Much to her chagrin, Brodie tries to partner with Detective Constable Reggie Chase- an uneasy partnership, but one proving fruitful. When a snowstorm isolates many of the characters at Burton Makepeace, can murder be far behind?
I love Atkinson's humor. The back-and-forth between Brodie and Reggie is laugh-out-loud funny. The characters and situations are similar to an Agatha Christie book, only humorously written. Atkinson is at the top of her game with this book. 5/5 stars.
Thank you, NetGalley and Doubleday, for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The publication date is September 3, 2024.
Business isn't booming at Jackson Brodie's detective agency, so he readily takes the assignment to find a stolen painting. It isn't long before he finds two other art thefts and an elusive woman who may be behind them. One of the thefts, at Burton Makepeace manor house, whose owners have been selling off valuables and now are hosting murder mystery weekends to keep up with repairs, has also caught the attention of the police. Much to her chagrin, Brodie tries to partner with Detective Constable Reggie Chase- an uneasy partnership, but one proving fruitful. When a snowstorm isolates many of the characters at Burton Makepeace, can murder be far behind?
I love Atkinson's humor. The back-and-forth between Brodie and Reggie is laugh-out-loud funny. The characters and situations are similar to an Agatha Christie book, only humorously written. Atkinson is at the top of her game with this book. 5/5 stars.
Thank you, NetGalley and Doubleday, for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The publication date is September 3, 2024.
July 22, 2024
A new Jackson Brodie mystery is always welcome. Here there's a large cast of characters whose lives we learn about - failing aristocrats, a vicar without faith, a war hero, a mysterious care-giver - and there are several mysteries - stolen works of fine art, murders, a murder weekend, and more. It did seem to slide into farce towards the end, hurrying along like one of those sitting-room drama/comedies where people are going in and out of doors at a tremendous pace, and, for me, Brodie lacked a little ummph, but it's still a fun read. This is definitely a series to start with the first book, because Brodie is better in those.
Thanks to Doubleday Books and Netgalley for the ARC.
Thanks to Doubleday Books and Netgalley for the ARC.
July 10, 2024
Not to be taken as a serious who-done-it, this novel instead delivers lots of funny moments, great one-liners, and way too many characters, none of which are memorable. The plot does drag and, by the end, I was still somewhat confused by who did what to whom and why some characters were even in the story.
Thanks to NetGalley and Doubleday for the ARC to read and review.
Thanks to NetGalley and Doubleday for the ARC to read and review.
April 29, 2024
Quite the romp…
With thanks to Penguin Random House via Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of book 6 in the Jackson Brodie series. I couldn't wait to drive in.
I have to admit that Kate is one of my all time favourite authors since reading Behind the Scenes at the Museum nearly 20 years ago - have read EVERYTHING since then. And, this is very much in the style of that first read of mine. Absolutely loved the quirky eccentricity of the characters & enjoyed that Brodie teams up with DC Reggie Chase whom we met in previous books; they are a great double-act !
Death at the Sign of the Rook is a romp from start to finish; full of fabulous observations, witty repertoires, flippant humour & smart, almost farcical writing. I felt like I was in an Upstairs, Downstairs meets Geeves & Wooster mix, but could also see elements of Agatha Christie, but much better.
I felt that Brodie was very much in the periphery and the other characters led the book quite nicely.
With thanks to Penguin Random House via Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of book 6 in the Jackson Brodie series. I couldn't wait to drive in.
I have to admit that Kate is one of my all time favourite authors since reading Behind the Scenes at the Museum nearly 20 years ago - have read EVERYTHING since then. And, this is very much in the style of that first read of mine. Absolutely loved the quirky eccentricity of the characters & enjoyed that Brodie teams up with DC Reggie Chase whom we met in previous books; they are a great double-act !
Death at the Sign of the Rook is a romp from start to finish; full of fabulous observations, witty repertoires, flippant humour & smart, almost farcical writing. I felt like I was in an Upstairs, Downstairs meets Geeves & Wooster mix, but could also see elements of Agatha Christie, but much better.
I felt that Brodie was very much in the periphery and the other characters led the book quite nicely.
March 19, 2024
The thing about the Jackson Brodie books is that as mysteries I don’t think they’re very good — too many coincidences, too convoluted — but they somehow manage to be sublime nevertheless, because really these are portraits of people, with often bizarre and sometimes violent crimes sprinkled for seasoning. The assortment of characters here was wild, with geriatrics stealing the show, especially neighbor Bob (still waters run deep) and Lady Milton, who is an absolute gem of a character, she’s both utterly absurd and completely scene stealing, a parody that kind of stole the show. And the relationship between Jackson and Reggie is lovely (although I definitely am missing some context from never having read Big Sky, so a full series reread might be needed). I enjoyed everyone else, and Atkinson’s writing style has been doing it for me pretty much since I was in HS; this was smart, sly, witty, weird, and fun.
July 28, 2024
I have read two novels by Kate Atkinson and when I was offered one of her Jackson Brodie novels I was eager to read it. I knew she had a series of these books and was concerned about jumping in late to the game, but I enjoyed Death at the Sign of the Rook as a stand alone novel.
Jackson Brodie is asked to investigate a Renaissance painting that went missing after its owner died. The children who hired him note that their mother’s hired companion also disappeared at the same time.
When he looks at the dining room he recalls his own formica kitchen table, thinking of his family and how “one by one, his family members had disappeared, lost to murder, suicide, cancer, a trifecta of bereavement…”. The scene suggests a legacy of loss, and I don’t have to know the details to understand Brodie. (It DOES make me want to read the rest of the series!)
Brodie connects the theft with other cases where hired help went missing at the same time as valuable paintings. Some years back, at Burton Makepeace, a Turner had gone missing.
Brodie makes a visit to Burton Makepeace. He finds that the Lady Milton has been reduced to selling off art, renting rooms, and is presently hosting a Mystery Murder Weekend.
A snowstorm traps the characters at Burton Makepeace, including Brodie and Reggie, the police woman he enlisted to help with the case. They have a history from before Brodie left the police force.
Stragglers come in from the storm, including a vicar and a stranger. People die–of natural and unnatural causes. In the end, the mystery is solved, but without a full closure.
What I most loved about the novel is the dry humor. A character has lost his leg in a war, and asked “what will you do with only one leg,” he replies, “Limp, I expect.” Lady Milton did not marry for love. She only saw her husband at meals. “Absence was the foundation of a good marriage,” she believes. When the vicar tells the bishop that he has lost his faith, he is told to just carry on–it doesn’t make much difference, in the end. I could quote dozens of such scenes.
I look forward to reading more in this series.
Thanks to the publisher for a free book through NetGalley.
Jackson Brodie is asked to investigate a Renaissance painting that went missing after its owner died. The children who hired him note that their mother’s hired companion also disappeared at the same time.
When he looks at the dining room he recalls his own formica kitchen table, thinking of his family and how “one by one, his family members had disappeared, lost to murder, suicide, cancer, a trifecta of bereavement…”. The scene suggests a legacy of loss, and I don’t have to know the details to understand Brodie. (It DOES make me want to read the rest of the series!)
Brodie connects the theft with other cases where hired help went missing at the same time as valuable paintings. Some years back, at Burton Makepeace, a Turner had gone missing.
Brodie makes a visit to Burton Makepeace. He finds that the Lady Milton has been reduced to selling off art, renting rooms, and is presently hosting a Mystery Murder Weekend.
A snowstorm traps the characters at Burton Makepeace, including Brodie and Reggie, the police woman he enlisted to help with the case. They have a history from before Brodie left the police force.
Stragglers come in from the storm, including a vicar and a stranger. People die–of natural and unnatural causes. In the end, the mystery is solved, but without a full closure.
What I most loved about the novel is the dry humor. A character has lost his leg in a war, and asked “what will you do with only one leg,” he replies, “Limp, I expect.” Lady Milton did not marry for love. She only saw her husband at meals. “Absence was the foundation of a good marriage,” she believes. When the vicar tells the bishop that he has lost his faith, he is told to just carry on–it doesn’t make much difference, in the end. I could quote dozens of such scenes.
I look forward to reading more in this series.
Thanks to the publisher for a free book through NetGalley.
August 4, 2024
Kate Atkinson's Death at the Sign of the Rook is the sort of steadily paced mystery that gradually builds in complexity and cleverly develops characters, making it a hard-to-put-down read, even if the pace never rally races (and who says a pace has to race?).
This novel is part of a series, and there were moments when I had to suss out ongoing relationshipst. Several of the central characters are not who they first appear to be, which makes issues of character—whether or not one is new to the series—interesting throughout.
This plot revolves around the disappearance of two art works—probably stolen, but not necessarily by those suspected and not necessarily for the reasons assumed. We also get a decaying manor house whose owners are rather ineptly trying to make ends meet by offering mystery weekends, so there's an element of comedy that works well with the more mysterious elements.
If you like "golden age" mysteries with limited bloodshed and generous complications, you'll enjoy this title—and may find yourself wanting to go back and read previous volumes. I'm thinking I'm headed in that direction.
I received a free electronic review cpy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
This novel is part of a series, and there were moments when I had to suss out ongoing relationshipst. Several of the central characters are not who they first appear to be, which makes issues of character—whether or not one is new to the series—interesting throughout.
This plot revolves around the disappearance of two art works—probably stolen, but not necessarily by those suspected and not necessarily for the reasons assumed. We also get a decaying manor house whose owners are rather ineptly trying to make ends meet by offering mystery weekends, so there's an element of comedy that works well with the more mysterious elements.
If you like "golden age" mysteries with limited bloodshed and generous complications, you'll enjoy this title—and may find yourself wanting to go back and read previous volumes. I'm thinking I'm headed in that direction.
I received a free electronic review cpy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
July 29, 2024
This was a bit disappointing. I used to read everything Atkinson published, generally pre-publication, but my attention started to wane. I was super excited to see a new Jackson Brodie - alas, maybe we spent a little bit too long away from him?
The first two thirds of the book felt like a lot of ancillary character's back stories - people who were in the story - but their histories weren't really relevant or particularly interesting. It felt like space filler. Jackson was hardly there at all.
The last third was good - and sorta fun - kind of a Noise's Off murder mystery farce thing with a lot going on and still just a sprinkle of Brodie. I don't know - it was not Atkinson's best for sure, but it's readable.
The first two thirds of the book felt like a lot of ancillary character's back stories - people who were in the story - but their histories weren't really relevant or particularly interesting. It felt like space filler. Jackson was hardly there at all.
The last third was good - and sorta fun - kind of a Noise's Off murder mystery farce thing with a lot going on and still just a sprinkle of Brodie. I don't know - it was not Atkinson's best for sure, but it's readable.
June 9, 2024
Kate Atkinson is a great writer ofhigh quality literary fiction.
Jackson Brodie is a wonderful sleuth.
But...sadly, this book just didn't work for me and I was really disappointed.
I think it was just too much detail and too little plot. I was over half-way through before I'd actually got my head around the unnecessarily complex set of characters, none of whom I really cared about. Too many characters with too little character, if you see what I mean.
And when things finally started to hot up, she throws in some bad weather to force these disparate characters into the same place, and then adds in a man with a shotgun who didn't seem to have actually had much to do with all that went before.
I'm still not sure why 'Nanny' was dead at the bottom of the stairs.
But, I don't care enough to try to re-read and work it out.
So, much to my amazement as I didn't think Atkinson was capable of a bad book, this one might just have proved me wrong.
A big thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for my copy.
Jackson Brodie is a wonderful sleuth.
But...sadly, this book just didn't work for me and I was really disappointed.
I think it was just too much detail and too little plot. I was over half-way through before I'd actually got my head around the unnecessarily complex set of characters, none of whom I really cared about. Too many characters with too little character, if you see what I mean.
And when things finally started to hot up, she throws in some bad weather to force these disparate characters into the same place, and then adds in a man with a shotgun who didn't seem to have actually had much to do with all that went before.
I'm still not sure why 'Nanny' was dead at the bottom of the stairs.
But, I don't care enough to try to re-read and work it out.
So, much to my amazement as I didn't think Atkinson was capable of a bad book, this one might just have proved me wrong.
A big thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for my copy.
July 7, 2024
I was delighted to be selected to read an advance copy of Kate Atkinson's latest Jackson Brodie novel.
Yes, this book very much feels like a Christie novel. Yes, there are lots of hilarious moments. Yes, I thought I knew "who did it" about midway (I was delightfully wrong!) and Yes, it is a page turner.
But.... I wanted more Jackson. So much more Jackson! (Although the ending has some curious threads that are making me wonder!!)
The cast of characters are really brilliant. (I loved many, and loved to dislike some as well!) The setting was equally genius. If you are a Brodie fan, you will likely want more Brodie! But come for the hopes of Brodie, stay for Atkinson's brilliant writing!
This novel could be a stand alone, but really you'll thank me if you go back and read the Jackson Brodie series (starting with Case Histories) ... Jackson is so lovable with all his insights and quirks!
I would like to thank Netgalley and Doubleday Books | Doubleday for this advanced digital copy. Death at the Sign of the Rook will be published September 3, 2024.
Yes, this book very much feels like a Christie novel. Yes, there are lots of hilarious moments. Yes, I thought I knew "who did it" about midway (I was delightfully wrong!) and Yes, it is a page turner.
But.... I wanted more Jackson. So much more Jackson! (Although the ending has some curious threads that are making me wonder!!)
The cast of characters are really brilliant. (I loved many, and loved to dislike some as well!) The setting was equally genius. If you are a Brodie fan, you will likely want more Brodie! But come for the hopes of Brodie, stay for Atkinson's brilliant writing!
This novel could be a stand alone, but really you'll thank me if you go back and read the Jackson Brodie series (starting with Case Histories) ... Jackson is so lovable with all his insights and quirks!
I would like to thank Netgalley and Doubleday Books | Doubleday for this advanced digital copy. Death at the Sign of the Rook will be published September 3, 2024.
April 26, 2024
2.5 stars.
At the start of this book, you get the inkling that it’s going to be a tongue-in-cheek homage to Agatha Christie. But it seems to be trying to include as many Agatha Christie plot lines as possible, with a generous sprinkling of Cluedo and farce.
It started quite interestingly, setting the scene - old Manor House, a Cleudo-esque cast of characters- there’s surely about to be a body discovered any second now….then it jumps to Jackson Brodie, now a Private Investigator, being asked to track down a missing item for a brother and sister….then jumps to character after character, introduced and in some cases frequently revisited. They are meant to be quirky, possibly amusing; but were so very stereotyped.
And for more than half the book this goes on. And on. Mystery woman. Disillusioned vicar ( oh boy, did we hear a lot about him). A Dowager duchess who had been plucked straight from Downton Abbey. And so on. And for about 70% of the book nothing happens. I was sorely tempted to give up a couple of times.
There’s some decent banter between Brodie and Reggie, a young detective, and some fairly amusing descriptive writing but it just went on and on (bit like myself, I know! I’ll get to the point).
When things finally start to happen it descends completely into farce. Intentionally, but for me it was just too silly. And messy. But at least the pace picked up.
At the start of this book, you get the inkling that it’s going to be a tongue-in-cheek homage to Agatha Christie. But it seems to be trying to include as many Agatha Christie plot lines as possible, with a generous sprinkling of Cluedo and farce.
It started quite interestingly, setting the scene - old Manor House, a Cleudo-esque cast of characters- there’s surely about to be a body discovered any second now….then it jumps to Jackson Brodie, now a Private Investigator, being asked to track down a missing item for a brother and sister….then jumps to character after character, introduced and in some cases frequently revisited. They are meant to be quirky, possibly amusing; but were so very stereotyped.
And for more than half the book this goes on. And on. Mystery woman. Disillusioned vicar ( oh boy, did we hear a lot about him). A Dowager duchess who had been plucked straight from Downton Abbey. And so on. And for about 70% of the book nothing happens. I was sorely tempted to give up a couple of times.
There’s some decent banter between Brodie and Reggie, a young detective, and some fairly amusing descriptive writing but it just went on and on (bit like myself, I know! I’ll get to the point).
When things finally start to happen it descends completely into farce. Intentionally, but for me it was just too silly. And messy. But at least the pace picked up.
March 28, 2024
The return of Jackson Brodie is always cause for celebration and this is no exception. It’s a crime story, a real whodunnit but with witty dialogue, literary references, eccentric characters (with many from previous Brodie novels) and loads of plot twists and turns. It’s a little bit Agatha Christieesque though nobody is really a baddie and some are much more good than anyone has a right to be.
Simply glorious -humorous, kind and loving.
But now I’ve read everything she’s written, how long until the next?
Simply glorious -humorous, kind and loving.
But now I’ve read everything she’s written, how long until the next?
May 1, 2024
Be still my beating heart, Jackson Brodie is back and how good it is to see him. He's still a lost soul, bemused by the world and by growing older. In a professional down moment he finds himself investigating a minor art theft and by one twist and another he lands in the midst of a murder mystery weekend at a once great family's manor house. A delicious confection of farce, satire of golden age mysteries, and heartbreakingly human moments. Kate Atkinson adds another of hers to my stack of desert island books.
May 15, 2024
This cozy mystery had a charming cast of characters, and the overall tone felt very inviting. However, the pacing was a bit slower than I typically prefer, and with so many introductions, it took a while for me to fully connect with the story. If you enjoy relaxed mysteries with a focus on character development, this could be a great choice! Unfortunately, for me, it wasn't quite the perfect fit. Thanks to Netgalley for sending an advance e-ARC!
September 1, 2024
The plays the thing!
I found this title hard to follow in the beginning. It was a complete mystery as to where it was going. It slowly wound around to a being a complicated, well populated novel, with some great lines. “Hugh Grant has a lot to answer for.” The dwindling upper class is benignly pillaged.
Brodie Jackson ex cop turned Private Investigator is unusual and marches to the beat of his own drum. Reggie Chase, policewoman, obviously gets sucked in by Brodie, constantly.
Brodie has roped Reggie into some investigative work around two stolen paintings. The thief’s modus operandi seems to have similarities.
Their investigation reads like a play that melds into a real murder mystery play.
Strong secondary characters Simon Cate the unbelieving vicar, Sophie the carer, Ben Jennings ex army who’d lost a leg in Afghanistan (him I really liked), are a great support and well rounded adding to the mystery and the enjoyment.
A Doubleday ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Please note: Quotes taken from an advanced reading copy maybe subject to change
I found this title hard to follow in the beginning. It was a complete mystery as to where it was going. It slowly wound around to a being a complicated, well populated novel, with some great lines. “Hugh Grant has a lot to answer for.” The dwindling upper class is benignly pillaged.
Brodie Jackson ex cop turned Private Investigator is unusual and marches to the beat of his own drum. Reggie Chase, policewoman, obviously gets sucked in by Brodie, constantly.
Brodie has roped Reggie into some investigative work around two stolen paintings. The thief’s modus operandi seems to have similarities.
Their investigation reads like a play that melds into a real murder mystery play.
Strong secondary characters Simon Cate the unbelieving vicar, Sophie the carer, Ben Jennings ex army who’d lost a leg in Afghanistan (him I really liked), are a great support and well rounded adding to the mystery and the enjoyment.
A Doubleday ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Please note: Quotes taken from an advanced reading copy maybe subject to change
July 14, 2024
I really wish there had been more dialogue, so much exposition! More Jackson too.
(NG from L)
(NG from L)
June 28, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy of this book. I was also lucky enough to get a physical proof copy of the book as well, so thank you for both!
Really great read, even if (like me) you aren't familiar with the previous works in this series. Atkinson is an artist with her settings, and can truly make the reader descend into the story, a hilarious writer who weaves the humour into her story fantastically. Had me laughing out loud multiple times.
I can't wait to delve into more works based on detective Jackson Brodie, and plan to catch up on the rest of the series.
Really great read, even if (like me) you aren't familiar with the previous works in this series. Atkinson is an artist with her settings, and can truly make the reader descend into the story, a hilarious writer who weaves the humour into her story fantastically. Had me laughing out loud multiple times.
I can't wait to delve into more works based on detective Jackson Brodie, and plan to catch up on the rest of the series.
August 30, 2024
I’m a big fan of Kate Atkinson and a huge fan of her Jackson Brodie character, so I was eager to read an ARC copy of her upcoming novel (#6 in the Jackson Brodie series) Death At the Sign of the Rook, to be published in early September 2024.
I enjoyed reading this newest entry in the Jackson Brodie canon. I always love spending time with Jackson as he sleuths his way into explanations for all those coincidences (!), and all the supporting characters were interesting, quirky, and quite funny. (Lots of laughs in this one.) That said, I found this to be the weakest entry in the Jackson Brodie series. There was just . . . too little Jackson! And a rather convoluted storyline that did quite a bit of (maybe too much?) meandering. It did, of course, come together in the end (we are talking about Kate Atkinson, after all).
I recommend this novel for fans of the author – and for all the Jackson Brodie fans out there. (Even a “weaker” entry in the series is a blessing for Jackson’s fans). For readers who aren’t familiar with Jackson Brodie, I recommend starting back at the beginning (with Case Histories) and reading each installment before picking up this one, as it will help you understand Jackson’s character and operational style. While Death At the Sign of the Rook can certainly stand on its own, Atkinson is really depending on her earlier work for Jackson’s character development and backstory.
Thank you to Doubleday Books and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. The book will be published on September 10, 2024.
3.5 stars, but not rounding up…
I enjoyed reading this newest entry in the Jackson Brodie canon. I always love spending time with Jackson as he sleuths his way into explanations for all those coincidences (!), and all the supporting characters were interesting, quirky, and quite funny. (Lots of laughs in this one.) That said, I found this to be the weakest entry in the Jackson Brodie series. There was just . . . too little Jackson! And a rather convoluted storyline that did quite a bit of (maybe too much?) meandering. It did, of course, come together in the end (we are talking about Kate Atkinson, after all).
I recommend this novel for fans of the author – and for all the Jackson Brodie fans out there. (Even a “weaker” entry in the series is a blessing for Jackson’s fans). For readers who aren’t familiar with Jackson Brodie, I recommend starting back at the beginning (with Case Histories) and reading each installment before picking up this one, as it will help you understand Jackson’s character and operational style. While Death At the Sign of the Rook can certainly stand on its own, Atkinson is really depending on her earlier work for Jackson’s character development and backstory.
Thank you to Doubleday Books and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. The book will be published on September 10, 2024.
3.5 stars, but not rounding up…
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