Although I did enjoy this, I think this story could have been told in half the number of pages. I got genuinely bored in the middle but carried on to find out who the murderer was (which is a good sign, I suppose). However, I recognise that a lot of the character-building was needed as the first novel in a series - I think the following books will be able to proceed at a faster pace now we know Strike and Robin, and I'd like to read them. Although this is set in present day London, this detective mystery calls to mind the type that were written in the 1940's. The detective is hired by the brother of a supermodel to investigate her death which has been ruled a suicide. The character development is very well done and the story held my interest. It wasn't until the last few pages that I suspected the outcome. It seems there will be more of this detective Cormoran Strike (I guess the title gives it away with the #1).This is written by J.K. Rowling (of the Harry Potter fame) although under a pseudonym. No secret, as it is stated on the book jacket.
What do You think about The Cuckoo's Calling (2013)?
It's a great introductory book, the author really uses all the elements to develop a great story
—emily
A real page turner, with one major flaw; too many inappropriately-placed semi-colons
—laney
