The Cuckoo’s Calling

Monday, October 14, 2013



The Cuckoo’s Calling
by Robert Galbraith
★★★★

Before word got out that this noir novel was written by the beloved author of the Harry Potter books it was almost unknown. The few people who had read it seemed to be giving it pretty good reviews. I can't help but feel a bit sad for Rowling because she obviously wanted to see how her book would do without her name behind it. Granted this just means more money and sales, but I understand the desire for anonymity when you're already successful.

The novel tells the story of Cormoran Strike, an Afghanistan vet who became a private investigator after getting injured in the war. His love life is in shambles, his personal history is a complicated mess and nothing seems to be going his way. A temp agency assigns him a new secretary and an unexpected case comes his way all in the same day. The case is an investigation of a supermodel’s suicide. The secretary is a clever girl named Robin. I love the relationship they develop. He quickly learns not to underestimate her intelligence and to rely on her intuition.

I tend to love a good mystery though this one didn't move as fast as I would've hoped. It's a great character study and I really loved Cormoran and Robin. I think the author does a really great job revealing bits and pieces of the main characters past instead of giving it to us all at once. The mystery itself is interesting and like any good detective novel it introduces us to a half dozen interesting characters, all potential villains, along the way.

BOTTOM LINE: A solid P.I. novel from an author who creates memorable characters no matter where the book is set. A bit slow in parts, but worth it in the end. Do NOT go into this expecting Harry Potter. Read it if you like old school detective novels and aren’t stressed out if it runs a bit long.

I read this for the R.I.P. Challenge hosted by Stainless Steel Droppings.

5 comments:

Sarah said...

I'm definitely going to read this eventually, but I'm hesitant since I really couldn't even finish The Casual Vacancy... This sounds much more lively and engaging, at least.

Sandy Nawrot said...

I had heard it was slow, so I ordered it on audio from the library. I tend to do better with audio with those types of books. Of course I'm like number 254 in line...

Brooke said...

Glad that you enjoyed. I don't mind slow so I'm looking forward to it!

Anonymous said...

I just got this on audio from the library - looking forward to it!

Melissa (Avid Reader) said...

Sarah - I heard so many mixed things about The Casual Vacancy that I haven't even tried it yet. I have it on my shelf though.

Sandy - I was going to wait for the audio too, but it was the same thing. I was so far down on the list and I got impatient.

Brooke - I think that as long as people aren't expecting Harry Potter or The Da Vinci Code's break-neck pace then they will enjoy it.

Carrie - I hope you enjoy it!