The Cuckoo's Calling

by Robert Galbraith
The Cuckoo's Calling cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 8888
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9781408704042
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2013-04-18
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

When a troubled model falls to her death from a Mayfair balcony, her brother hires private investigator Cormoran Strike to uncover the truth. Strike, a war veteran struggling with both physical and psychological wounds, takes on the case for financial reasons but soon finds himself drawn into a dark and dangerous world. The novel is set against the backdrop of London, from the affluent streets of Mayfair to the gritty backstreets of the East End and the bustling energy of Soho. /n/n Written under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith, this debut novel introduces readers to the complex character of Cormoran Strike and sets the stage for a gripping series of mysteries. The Cuckoo's Calling has been praised for its atmospheric setting, compelling characters, and intricate plot, making it a standout in the crime fiction genre.

Reviews
Fictionophile · 2015-01-25
compelling 4.25

The book is a mystery novel which merits wide acclaim, written with a clever combination of humor, intelligence, and insider knowledge. The author's ability to blend these elements makes the novel a compelling read.

This mystery novel is a compelling read, written with a clever combination of humor, intelligence, and insider knowledge. The author's ability to blend these elements makes the novel stand out in the genre. The story is engaging and well-crafted, with a detective at its center who is both physically imposing and mentally sharp. The author's skill in creating a compelling mystery is evident throughout the novel, making it a must-read for fans of the genre. The book is a testament to the author's creativity and ability to captivate readers.

Quick quotes

    Written with a clever combination of humor, intelligence, and insider knowledge, “The Cuckoo's Calling” is a mystery novel which merits wide acclaim.

    The author's ability to blend these elements makes the novel a compelling read.

    The story is engaging and well-crafted, with a detective at its center who is both physically imposing and mentally sharp.

The Book Habit · 2013-07-21
brilliant 4.50

The book is a resounding success for JK Rowling and is a brilliant debut mystery in a classic vein. The crime genre is one of the hardest for an author to explore with true success.

This book is a brilliant debut mystery that stands out in the classic vein of crime fiction. The author has managed to capture the essence of the genre, making it a resounding success. The story is engaging and well-crafted, with a detective at its center who is both physically imposing and mentally sharp. The author's ability to blend humor, intelligence, and insider knowledge into a compelling mystery is evident throughout the novel. The book is a testament to the author's skill and creativity, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.

Quick quotes

    The Cuckoo's Calling is a resounding success for JK Rowling.

    I fully believe that the crime genre is one of the hardest for an author to explore with true success.

    The story is engaging and well-crafted, with a detective at its center who is both physically imposing and mentally sharp.

The Guardian · 2013-07-18
enjoyable 4.00

The book is an enjoyable, highly professional crime novel that has taken on a massive new significance for readers. The author's aim for the book was overshadowed by the massive new significance for readers.

This crime novel is a highly professional piece of work that has taken on a life of its own, separate from the author's original intentions. The story is engaging and well-crafted, with a detective at its center who is both physically imposing and mentally sharp. The novel's significance has been amplified by the revelation of the author's true identity, adding a layer of intrigue for readers. The book is a resounding success, showcasing the author's ability to blend humor, intelligence, and insider knowledge into a compelling mystery.

Quick quotes

    An enjoyable, highly professional crime novel that has escaped from the aim its author had for it but taken on a massive new significance for readers.

    The author's aim for the book was overshadowed by the massive new significance for readers.

    The story is engaging and well-crafted, with a detective at its center who is both physically imposing and mentally sharp.

Appears in Lists