Cambridge is sweltering, during an unusually hot summer. To Jackson Brodie, former police inspector turned private investigator, the world consists of one accounting sheet – Lost on the left, Found on the right – and the two never seem to balance.
Surrounded by death, intrigue and misfortune, his own life haunted by a family tragedy, Jackson attempts to unravel three disparate case histories and begins to realise that in spite of apparent diversity, everything is connected…
Dive into the captivating world of Kate Atkinson's *Case Histories*, a critically acclaimed novel that masterfully blends crime fiction with literary finesse. This gripping paperback, published in 2005 by Transworld Digital, introduces us to Jackson Brodie, a former police inspector turned private investigator, navigating the scorching summer heat of Cambridge. Brodie, haunted by his own family tragedy, views the world through a pragmatic lens: a balance sheet of Lost and Found, a reckoning where the scales rarely tip in favor. As he grapples with the lingering echoes of personal loss, he becomes entangled in three seemingly unrelated case histories that weave a complex tapestry of human experience. Atkinson's narrative prowess shines as she interweaves these diverse threads. We meet a young woman searching for answers about her sister's disappearance years prior, a family seeking closure for the brutal murder of their daughter, and a man haunted by a past he cannot escape. Each case, initially disparate, gradually reveals intricate connections, exposing the delicate threads that bind lives together in unexpected ways. *Case Histories* is more than just a crime novel; it's a profound exploration of loss, memory, and the enduring power of human connection. Atkinson's richly drawn characters, evocative prose, and masterful plotting create a reading experience that is both thrilling and deeply moving. Readers consistently praise Atkinson's wit, her ability to create believable and relatable characters, and the surprising twists and turns that keep them engaged until the very last page. Expect sharp observations, poignant moments, and a satisfying resolution that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page. This book is perfect for fans of literary crime fiction, those who enjoy complex and character-driven narratives, and anyone seeking a truly immersive and thought-provoking read. Weighing in at 293g and spanning 432 pages, this edition offers a substantial and satisfying reading experience. Discover why *Case Histories* launched the Jackson Brodie series and solidified Kate Atkinson's place as one of Britain's most beloved and respected authors.