Case Histories by Kate Atkinson introduces us to private investigator Jackson Brodie. Through luck and serendipity, Brodie ends up with three cases to investigate that are quite unusual. Some might even say unsolvable. Following the death of their father, sisters Julia and Amelia press Jackson to try and find what happened to their sister Olivia, missing some thirty years. Theo Wyre’s daughter was murdered a decade in the past, the case long gone cold. Twenty years ago a young housewife unable to cope with a colicky child and an unsupportive husband snaps one day. The aftermath leaves a child orphaned for all intents and purposes. On top of this, Brodie is dealing with his precocious daughter Marlee, his ex- wife’s new beau, and one godsawful toothache.

Each of these cases are linked with delicious hints of synchronicity. I loved that! Jackson really seemed to stumble upon these things like providence (or a curse). He’s persistent and dedicated once he turns his mind to a case, though he tried many times to impress upon the ‘clients’ that the task is likely futile, especially since two are cold cases. 

I adored Brodie! He has a good heart, and wants to help people. Yet he’s gruff, standoffish at times, and clearly flawed. It hurt to see him going through the states of grief when it came to finding acceptance that his daughter was being moved to New Zealand. He might have some interesting parenting notions, but he’s a good da and doesn’t deserve to go through that! I know, things happen, but still…

Of the three cases, the most interesting to me was the missing little girl. The story behind that, the childhood four sisters shared, and the truth of Olivia’s fate was heart-breakingly believable. All of the cases felt so to me, as did the synchronicity leading to their being solved. Cold cases can be like that. It’s often luck, serendipity, and synchronicity that lead to them being resolved. I loved this book and I’m definitely going to continue the series!

****This book was purchased and read for my own enjoyment