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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
64 books11.5k 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 1,293 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.
October 23, 2024
I love Kate Atkinson’s sense of humor. And Death at the Sign of the Rook is full of it. I spent the entire time I listened to this book chuckling. It’s a good thing there’s so much humor, because Atkinson takes her own sweet time setting up the premise of this book. This is a book much more devoted to humor and characters than a strong plot.
A diverse group have gathered at Burton Makepeace, a crumbling manor house, for a murder mystery weekend. We are introduced one at a time to those that eventually will be trapped together. Atkinson excels at crafting characters that come to life.
Jackson Brodie is investigating the theft of a renaissance painting from the home of a recently deceased old woman. During that investigation, he discovers similar thefts. In each case, the housekeeper/caregiver was the primary suspect but neither woman or art was ever found.
Don’t go into this expecting a straightforward mystery. It has a farcical feel to it.
I listened to this and Jason Isaacs did a great job.
A diverse group have gathered at Burton Makepeace, a crumbling manor house, for a murder mystery weekend. We are introduced one at a time to those that eventually will be trapped together. Atkinson excels at crafting characters that come to life.
Jackson Brodie is investigating the theft of a renaissance painting from the home of a recently deceased old woman. During that investigation, he discovers similar thefts. In each case, the housekeeper/caregiver was the primary suspect but neither woman or art was ever found.
Don’t go into this expecting a straightforward mystery. It has a farcical feel to it.
I listened to this and Jason Isaacs did a great job.
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 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.
September 24, 2024
This is the sixth book in the Jackson Brodie series. I have been reading this series for many years now, and Kate Atkinson and Jackson Brodie have never let me down!
In Death at the Sign of the Rook the author gives us an Agatha Christie type murder mystery complete with a country house, a snowstorm, and a mixed bag of characters marooned in the house along with a corpse. Chapters are devoted to different characters and there is more than one theme and lots of backstory. Readers need to concentrate but it is all interesting and very good fun.
As usual in a series it is good to have been in it since book one. Many major players from previous books pop up somewhere, even Louise Monro. DC Reggie Chase has a very big role and actually manages to steal all the glory away from Jackson. I loved it all. Atkinson is a very talented writer and a pleasure to read, both with this series and her standalones. An easy five stars from me.
In Death at the Sign of the Rook the author gives us an Agatha Christie type murder mystery complete with a country house, a snowstorm, and a mixed bag of characters marooned in the house along with a corpse. Chapters are devoted to different characters and there is more than one theme and lots of backstory. Readers need to concentrate but it is all interesting and very good fun.
As usual in a series it is good to have been in it since book one. Many major players from previous books pop up somewhere, even Louise Monro. DC Reggie Chase has a very big role and actually manages to steal all the glory away from Jackson. I loved it all. Atkinson is a very talented writer and a pleasure to read, both with this series and her standalones. An easy five stars from me.
September 26, 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 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.
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.
September 3, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC Of
Death at the Sign of the Rook.
I've been reading this series for years and since I can't remember the last book Jackson Brodie was in, I know it was quite a while ago.
I also can't believe the character is 70! Wow, time flies when you're having fun.
I really like Jackson Brodie and the author is such a talented writer so I was eager to dive into Death at the Sign of the Rook.
Also, great title!
I had forgotten how funny and sarcastic Brodie is and it was fun being back in his world.
Sadly, the narrative was disappointing because there wasn't enough Brodie and too much exposition on minor and supporting characters.
I quickly lost track of who was who and doing what and what their place in the narrative was.
The mystery wasn't that compelling or interesting and the narrative was slow and bogged down with the filler details on the numerous characters.
Was this mystery series always this cozy or is it just because it's been a long gap between Jackson Brodie's adventures?
I love Jackson and his small social circle but I wished the narrative had focused more on him.
In the novel, Jackson's trying to keep busy and use his skills and talents, doing what he does best.
He's bored with the case.
I sympathized with him. I felt the same way reading this.
I've been reading this series for years and since I can't remember the last book Jackson Brodie was in, I know it was quite a while ago.
I also can't believe the character is 70! Wow, time flies when you're having fun.
I really like Jackson Brodie and the author is such a talented writer so I was eager to dive into Death at the Sign of the Rook.
Also, great title!
I had forgotten how funny and sarcastic Brodie is and it was fun being back in his world.
Sadly, the narrative was disappointing because there wasn't enough Brodie and too much exposition on minor and supporting characters.
I quickly lost track of who was who and doing what and what their place in the narrative was.
The mystery wasn't that compelling or interesting and the narrative was slow and bogged down with the filler details on the numerous characters.
Was this mystery series always this cozy or is it just because it's been a long gap between Jackson Brodie's adventures?
I love Jackson and his small social circle but I wished the narrative had focused more on him.
In the novel, Jackson's trying to keep busy and use his skills and talents, doing what he does best.
He's bored with the case.
I sympathized with him. I felt the same way reading this.
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.
September 24, 2024
Halloween Bingo 2024
I usually try not to start with the sixth volume of a series, but the rook on the cover of this novel overrode my good sense. As it turned out, I had no trouble figuring out what was going on. There were probably details that I didn't fully appreciate, but they weren't integral to this plot.
I do feel that reading the earlier books would have given me more perspective on Jackson Brodie, who seems to be rather a pain in the arse. Despite that, I couldn't help liking him. I also very much liked Reggie Chase and would like to know how Brodie made her acquaintance. Perhaps I will backtrack.
The book was complex enough to keep the little grey cells firing. It was like a Venn diagram, with three (four?) plots overlapping and interacting in interesting ways. Atkinson leads the reader on a merry chase, trying to keep up with her as she strews clues in her wake. The many characters are well realized, amusing, and varied. Two stolen paintings, two investigations, a soldier with PTSD, a vicar who has lost his faith, an upper-class family trying to hold their estate together, it all comes together. Really intricate, fast moving, and very well done.
I read this book to fill the Genre: Mystery square on my Bingo card.
I usually try not to start with the sixth volume of a series, but the rook on the cover of this novel overrode my good sense. As it turned out, I had no trouble figuring out what was going on. There were probably details that I didn't fully appreciate, but they weren't integral to this plot.
I do feel that reading the earlier books would have given me more perspective on Jackson Brodie, who seems to be rather a pain in the arse. Despite that, I couldn't help liking him. I also very much liked Reggie Chase and would like to know how Brodie made her acquaintance. Perhaps I will backtrack.
The book was complex enough to keep the little grey cells firing. It was like a Venn diagram, with three (four?) plots overlapping and interacting in interesting ways. Atkinson leads the reader on a merry chase, trying to keep up with her as she strews clues in her wake. The many characters are well realized, amusing, and varied. Two stolen paintings, two investigations, a soldier with PTSD, a vicar who has lost his faith, an upper-class family trying to hold their estate together, it all comes together. Really intricate, fast moving, and very well done.
I read this book to fill the Genre: Mystery square on my Bingo card.
November 2, 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 .
November 6, 2024
The story starts with an invitation to a Murder Mystery Weekend at Rook Hall. How engaging is this beginning for readers? Does it give us a hint of what we might be in for as we peruse the pages? Well, off we go as readers bearing witness to a curious amount of eccentric characters (should we start our list now to keep track?) and another Jackson Brodie story.
It has been forever since I read a Jackson Brodie centered story from this author, having enjoyed some of the made-for-television versions of her books. But I felt with this one, why not dive in again?
For those not familiar with the Jackson Brodie series by this author, he is a private investigator, originally from Yorkshire. As a former policeman he brings his own set of skills to his job as a P.I.
With this story, after receiving that wonderful invitation, we now go back one week in time to see Brodie accepting a case from twin adults to look for their recently deceased mother’s missing Renaissance painting. What is it about these clients that has Brodie concerned? And how, will this case relate to his appearance at a Murder Mystery Weekend?
Moving on…
Guests at the Murder Mystery Weekend engage in a game clearly reminiscent of the actual board game, Clue. Will a fake murder game end up in a real murder? And, how will this all relate to the missing painting? Could the painting be at Rook Hall? And, why? As readers are we suddenly participating in a golden-age cozy mystery sans Agatha Christie?
Is the author having fun making fun of the classic murder mystery here with a crazy plot and neat solution? And, will it be enough to keep us satisfied up to the very end when readers hope the mystery will be solved?
“Why couldn’t they have a different ending? Perhaps one day someone else would be the murderer, but they were powerless to change anything. They were trapped in their own drama. There was no way out. The curtain fell.”
It has been forever since I read a Jackson Brodie centered story from this author, having enjoyed some of the made-for-television versions of her books. But I felt with this one, why not dive in again?
For those not familiar with the Jackson Brodie series by this author, he is a private investigator, originally from Yorkshire. As a former policeman he brings his own set of skills to his job as a P.I.
With this story, after receiving that wonderful invitation, we now go back one week in time to see Brodie accepting a case from twin adults to look for their recently deceased mother’s missing Renaissance painting. What is it about these clients that has Brodie concerned? And how, will this case relate to his appearance at a Murder Mystery Weekend?
Moving on…
Guests at the Murder Mystery Weekend engage in a game clearly reminiscent of the actual board game, Clue. Will a fake murder game end up in a real murder? And, how will this all relate to the missing painting? Could the painting be at Rook Hall? And, why? As readers are we suddenly participating in a golden-age cozy mystery sans Agatha Christie?
Is the author having fun making fun of the classic murder mystery here with a crazy plot and neat solution? And, will it be enough to keep us satisfied up to the very end when readers hope the mystery will be solved?
“Why couldn’t they have a different ending? Perhaps one day someone else would be the murderer, but they were powerless to change anything. They were trapped in their own drama. There was no way out. The curtain fell.”
September 24, 2024
I am always wildly excited when a new Jackson Brodie is published, as he is probably my favourite PI. Witty and deeply human, I love spending some time with him and the other interesting characters that fill these novels. This works especially well as the author allows us to live in the minds of these unique people. No-one writes like Kate Atkinson and I especially adore her wordplay and humour.
This should have received a 5 star rating, but unfortunately things have been hectic at work, so I read this in 5 minute intervals, which meant that by the end I felt a bit lost with the big cast of characters.
The Story: Once a magnificent country house, Burton Makepeace has now partially been converted into a hotel, hosting Murder Mystery weekends. The stage is set. The players are ready. By night’s end, a murderer will be revealed. Ex-detective Jackson Brodie is staving off a bad case of midlife malaise when he is called to a sleepy Yorkshire town, and the matter of a stolen painting.
This should have received a 5 star rating, but unfortunately things have been hectic at work, so I read this in 5 minute intervals, which meant that by the end I felt a bit lost with the big cast of characters.
The Story: Once a magnificent country house, Burton Makepeace has now partially been converted into a hotel, hosting Murder Mystery weekends. The stage is set. The players are ready. By night’s end, a murderer will be revealed. Ex-detective Jackson Brodie is staving off a bad case of midlife malaise when he is called to a sleepy Yorkshire town, and the matter of a stolen painting.
November 5, 2024
If something lost might be something that is just waiting to be found
than
A mystery is a puzzle just waiting to be solved.
In Jackson Brodie's world it's figuring out what the mystery is first and that can take 50% of the story.
Brodie mystery by Kate Atkinson I think #6 and one of her better. Stolen art, dead bodies and so many great characters. Some returning, some not. Could be read as a stand alone or part of the Brodie series that starts with Case Histories. It is Atkinson's best humor writing. I listened to the audio narrated by Jason Isaacs who does a fabulous job.
I'm sure the people in my neighborhood though I lost a few of my marbles as I laughed out loud repeatedly during my daily walks. Dry humor at its best.
A heist of treasured art. A missing maid and a dead body or two. That's all you need to know going in, and its Jackson Brody.
4.5 stars
than
A mystery is a puzzle just waiting to be solved.
In Jackson Brodie's world it's figuring out what the mystery is first and that can take 50% of the story.
Brodie mystery by Kate Atkinson I think #6 and one of her better. Stolen art, dead bodies and so many great characters. Some returning, some not. Could be read as a stand alone or part of the Brodie series that starts with Case Histories. It is Atkinson's best humor writing. I listened to the audio narrated by Jason Isaacs who does a fabulous job.
I'm sure the people in my neighborhood though I lost a few of my marbles as I laughed out loud repeatedly during my daily walks. Dry humor at its best.
A heist of treasured art. A missing maid and a dead body or two. That's all you need to know going in, and its Jackson Brody.
4.5 stars
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.
September 15, 2024
Kate Atkinson can do no wrong as far as I'm concerned so I forgive her for making me begin the book three times before I got a firm grasp of the many goings-on.
I love her clear-eyed, wry, touching, scathing, amusing novels - so full of allusions and, in this case, of encounters with old friends.
I love her clear-eyed, wry, touching, scathing, amusing novels - so full of allusions and, in this case, of encounters with old friends.
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.
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.
October 14, 2024
This novel finds a now 60 year-old grandfather Jackson Brodie working part time as a private investigator. His latest case is a theft of a painting called “Woman With A Weasel” from an upper-middle class home in a small Yorkshire town. The main suspect is the former carer of the late owner.
Meanwhile Reggie Chase is called to investigate the theft of another painting, a Turner from the stately home of Burton Makepeace. It seems possible this was stolen by the same person who stole the Weasel painting, using a different alias. An annexe of Burton Makepeace, called Rook Hall has now been converted into a hotel which hosts Murder Mystery weekends.
There seems to be a current trend for modern crime writers to co-opt, parody and pastiche those of the “Golden Age”. Chris Brookmyre did this very successfully earlier this year. It’s hardly any surprise that Kate Atkinson would be drawn to a similar theme as most of her standalone novels are set in the interbellum period. Here she manages to include all the best known cliches associated with the likes of Agatha Christie, Margery Allingham and Ngaio Marsh: the vicar, the dowager, the retired army major, the family doctor, the mysterious foreigner, the maid and that perennial culprit, the butler. Add to that a torrential snowstorm which leaves the house stranded and a dangerous escaped criminal on the loose and all the ingredients are in place. Yet she does so skillfully enough for it to feel fresh and original.
Meanwhile Reggie Chase is called to investigate the theft of another painting, a Turner from the stately home of Burton Makepeace. It seems possible this was stolen by the same person who stole the Weasel painting, using a different alias. An annexe of Burton Makepeace, called Rook Hall has now been converted into a hotel which hosts Murder Mystery weekends.
There seems to be a current trend for modern crime writers to co-opt, parody and pastiche those of the “Golden Age”. Chris Brookmyre did this very successfully earlier this year. It’s hardly any surprise that Kate Atkinson would be drawn to a similar theme as most of her standalone novels are set in the interbellum period. Here she manages to include all the best known cliches associated with the likes of Agatha Christie, Margery Allingham and Ngaio Marsh: the vicar, the dowager, the retired army major, the family doctor, the mysterious foreigner, the maid and that perennial culprit, the butler. Add to that a torrential snowstorm which leaves the house stranded and a dangerous escaped criminal on the loose and all the ingredients are in place. Yet she does so skillfully enough for it to feel fresh and original.
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
September 2, 2024
Really didn’t like this book, but I feel it could be how the it was marketed. Its advertised as crime fiction, being the latest instalment in the authors private investigator series and the blurb on the book itself markets it as a country house murder mystery taking place on a murder mystery weekend.
However the murder mystery weekend doesn’t begin until 80% through and there isn’t even a murder which is investigated. This book is the equivalent of a Miss Marple novel in which the plot is just her eating a bowl full of crisps and knitting a jumper.
It does have positives, the characters are well developed, it’s very funny and can be moving at times, I’m just perplexed that it’s advertised as crime fiction, especially a murder mystery when it doesn’t contain anything you’d expect from that type of book, like a murder.
So I was very disappointed, I have read a lot of reviews in which it mentions the mystery portion of the book, so there must be something other people are getting out of this which constitutes as a mystery, It may just be because I read solidly crime fiction it doesn’t fulfil anything that I would expect in the genre.
However the murder mystery weekend doesn’t begin until 80% through and there isn’t even a murder which is investigated. This book is the equivalent of a Miss Marple novel in which the plot is just her eating a bowl full of crisps and knitting a jumper.
It does have positives, the characters are well developed, it’s very funny and can be moving at times, I’m just perplexed that it’s advertised as crime fiction, especially a murder mystery when it doesn’t contain anything you’d expect from that type of book, like a murder.
So I was very disappointed, I have read a lot of reviews in which it mentions the mystery portion of the book, so there must be something other people are getting out of this which constitutes as a mystery, It may just be because I read solidly crime fiction it doesn’t fulfil anything that I would expect in the genre.
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.
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.
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.
September 8, 2024
3.5 stars
Was a very cromulent murder mystery
Was a very cromulent murder mystery
September 28, 2024
I have enjoyed this whole series of Jackson Brodie stories and was so pleased to return to the familiar character.
Somehow this seemed like a complete spoof/French farce. It was set amongst crumbling piles, "lost" art, a murder mystery weekend, an escaped violent criminal and a blizzard. Whilst I feel sure the intent was to create slapstick from classic crime, I found it was taken to such an extreme that it began to feel wearing. With the entitlement of fading aristocracy set alongside an Aghan war veteran, a mute vicar, staff/servants changing identity I quickly moved from smiles to furrowed brow.
I finished the book without the satisfaction that normally accompanies a slice of Jackson Brodie's life. I enjoyed to a degree but recoommend? Not sure
Somehow this seemed like a complete spoof/French farce. It was set amongst crumbling piles, "lost" art, a murder mystery weekend, an escaped violent criminal and a blizzard. Whilst I feel sure the intent was to create slapstick from classic crime, I found it was taken to such an extreme that it began to feel wearing. With the entitlement of fading aristocracy set alongside an Aghan war veteran, a mute vicar, staff/servants changing identity I quickly moved from smiles to furrowed brow.
I finished the book without the satisfaction that normally accompanies a slice of Jackson Brodie's life. I enjoyed to a degree but recoommend? Not sure
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.
September 21, 2024
Full disclosure, I’m in love with everything Kate Atkinson writes, and her Jackson Brodie novels are certainly no exception. I’ve been counting the days with happy anticipation looking forward to this 6th in the series: “Death at the Sign of the Rook”, and of course it’s delightful!
The character of Jackson Brodie is quite unique, and he has evolved extensively over the years (which isn’t always the case with other detective series) as he’s aged and mellowed (just a bit). And while one can certainly classify these books as detective stories, that description just covers the surface. They are always so much more than that. All of Atkinson’s novels are intricate, witty, quirky, and unique character studies.
And what lends itself better to a cast of disparate and diverse characters than a locked room, Murder Mystery Weekend, in a formerly illustrious royal estate in the English countryside during a blizzard? If you don’t picture Lady Milton as Maggie Smith, then you just aren’t trying!
Enjoy the ride as Brodie unravels not one, but TWO, art thefts, and brings his own brand of justice in the end.
The character of Jackson Brodie is quite unique, and he has evolved extensively over the years (which isn’t always the case with other detective series) as he’s aged and mellowed (just a bit). And while one can certainly classify these books as detective stories, that description just covers the surface. They are always so much more than that. All of Atkinson’s novels are intricate, witty, quirky, and unique character studies.
And what lends itself better to a cast of disparate and diverse characters than a locked room, Murder Mystery Weekend, in a formerly illustrious royal estate in the English countryside during a blizzard? If you don’t picture Lady Milton as Maggie Smith, then you just aren’t trying!
Enjoy the ride as Brodie unravels not one, but TWO, art thefts, and brings his own brand of justice in the end.
September 5, 2024
Kate Atkinson never disappoints me. After an interval of five years, Jackson Brodie--ex-serviceman, ex-policeman, and once-in-awhile private detective--is back. It’s been twenty years since we first met, and in the interim, we have aged, mellowed, succumbed to aches and pains, and become grandparents. Now in our sixties, I can tell you that if anything ever happens to him, I will be devastated.
Atkinson’s novels are rich in diverse characters that circle around several plots, and each other. In Death at the Sign of the Rook, our hero, Jackson Brodie, is contacted by Ian and Hazel, the middle-aged children of the recently departed Dorothy Pagett. As they pillage their mother’s estate, they find a painting has been cut out of its frame. Has it been stolen, and is Dorothy’s missing caretaker, Melanie Hope, responsible? Meanwhile, DC Reggie Chase is investigating a similar case at Burton Makepeace, the crumbling manor of Lady Milton. A painting and Lady Milton’s personal assistant, Sophie, have disappeared. Is Sophie responsible, or is it one of her greedy children pilfering her possessions? Are the missing paintings our plot? Is there a connection between the two sets of rapacious offspring? Or is it something else? Like the escaped murderer on the loose?
You can’t help being pulled into the lives of the characters. There is Simon, the atheistic vicar of a dying church. Realizing he has nothing left to say, and no one to say it to, he loses his voice. Then there is Ben, an ex-serviceman living with his sister and her wife in a converted dairy cottage at the Burton Makepeace estate. Suffering from PTSD and depression, he finds he connects best with the bees in his apiary (people suck). Lady Milton is a snobbish relic of the landed gentry who must sell off parts of her estate (Burton Makepeace) to stay afloat.
And then, there are DC Reggie Chase and Jackson Brodie. Reggie—despite referring to Brodie as her “bête noire” (a person that one particularly dreads)--who never ignores Brodie’s call. However, when he pretends to be her dad, she finds herself deeply moved. This is a complex relationship that started when, as a teen, she saved his life (book three). Brodie is a magnet to people who are grieving or lost (Reggie being one). He is eternally optimistic and empathetic, where justice overrides law: a canon that often puts him—and Reggie—at odds (and in danger).
I have learned that I don’t care that much about finding the plot because I know that it will all coalesce...eventually. I want the very, human characters. I want them to get what they deserve. That could be love, comeuppance, a blind-eye, murder, or the arm-of-the-law. In this latest of the Jackson Brodie series, we get it all.
Like any worthy mystery, the dénouement occurs on a dark, and stormy night (Snoopy) when...
I would like to thank Doubleday and NetGalley for the opportunity to read, enjoy, and review this novel.
Atkinson’s novels are rich in diverse characters that circle around several plots, and each other. In Death at the Sign of the Rook, our hero, Jackson Brodie, is contacted by Ian and Hazel, the middle-aged children of the recently departed Dorothy Pagett. As they pillage their mother’s estate, they find a painting has been cut out of its frame. Has it been stolen, and is Dorothy’s missing caretaker, Melanie Hope, responsible? Meanwhile, DC Reggie Chase is investigating a similar case at Burton Makepeace, the crumbling manor of Lady Milton. A painting and Lady Milton’s personal assistant, Sophie, have disappeared. Is Sophie responsible, or is it one of her greedy children pilfering her possessions? Are the missing paintings our plot? Is there a connection between the two sets of rapacious offspring? Or is it something else? Like the escaped murderer on the loose?
You can’t help being pulled into the lives of the characters. There is Simon, the atheistic vicar of a dying church. Realizing he has nothing left to say, and no one to say it to, he loses his voice. Then there is Ben, an ex-serviceman living with his sister and her wife in a converted dairy cottage at the Burton Makepeace estate. Suffering from PTSD and depression, he finds he connects best with the bees in his apiary (people suck). Lady Milton is a snobbish relic of the landed gentry who must sell off parts of her estate (Burton Makepeace) to stay afloat.
And then, there are DC Reggie Chase and Jackson Brodie. Reggie—despite referring to Brodie as her “bête noire” (a person that one particularly dreads)--who never ignores Brodie’s call. However, when he pretends to be her dad, she finds herself deeply moved. This is a complex relationship that started when, as a teen, she saved his life (book three). Brodie is a magnet to people who are grieving or lost (Reggie being one). He is eternally optimistic and empathetic, where justice overrides law: a canon that often puts him—and Reggie—at odds (and in danger).
I have learned that I don’t care that much about finding the plot because I know that it will all coalesce...eventually. I want the very, human characters. I want them to get what they deserve. That could be love, comeuppance, a blind-eye, murder, or the arm-of-the-law. In this latest of the Jackson Brodie series, we get it all.
Like any worthy mystery, the dénouement occurs on a dark, and stormy night (Snoopy) when...
I would like to thank Doubleday and NetGalley for the opportunity to read, enjoy, and review this novel.
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