Crime, Mysteries & Thrillers discussion

Our group read lead for is The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith, the discussion lead is supposed to be Chrystine (checking up with her). Look forward to an intro to the books and the author, and to a cracking discussion.

As usual please note we discuss all aspects of the books we read - the plots, the characters, the settings and so on - on our discussions threads. Hence the discussion threads will contain spoilers from the start. if you haven't finished the book yet be careful not to read others' posts until the end.
Feel free to use the spoiler tags, if you like.



Summary:

A brilliant debut mystery in a classic vein: Detective Cormoran Strike investigates a supermodel's suicide.

After losing his leg to a land mine in Afghanistan, Cormoran Strike is barely scraping by as a private investigator. Strike is down to one client, and creditors are calling. He has also just broken up with his longtime girlfriend and is living in his office.

Then John Bristow walks through his door with an amazing story: His sister, thelegendary supermodel Lula Landry, known to her friends as the Cuckoo, famously fell to her death a few months earlier. The police ruled it a suicide, but John refuses to believe that. The case plunges Strike into the world of multimillionaire beauties, rock-star boyfriends, and desperate designers, and it introduces him to every variety of pleasure, enticement, seduction, and delusion known to man.

You may think you know detectives, but you've never met one quite like Strike. You may think you know about the wealthy and famous, but you've never seen them under an investigation like this.

Introducing Cormoran Strike, this is the acclaimed first crime novel by J.K. Rowling, writing under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith.

I liked this book. I didn't love it. I will read the next one. I liked Strike and Robin. I figured out the who-dun-it early on but I enjoyed the story anyway.

I have to agree with Janet's review about the jumping of POV and Strike's age--I thought he was well into his forties.

Janet wrote: "Somehow Rowling seemed to have made him feel older, in his forties, a little younger than her own age. Strange, coming from a writer who has created superb younger characters of all ages from chil..."



Very true Janet. Maybe she was overcompensating, trying to find this new voice she was/is trying to create.

I loved the character of cormoran strike- I thought he was beautifully drawn and his physical size and awkwardness was endearing- the description of him as a 'mammoth trying to fit in with capuchin monkeys' was excellent in summing him up. I loved the dynamic between him and robin- it felt like there was a real bond beginning to bud that would develop across a series!
As for his age- I thought late 30's but that rowlings depiction of him as aged and jaded was more due to his life circs- we all know THAT person who seems to have suffered the hard knocks and it shows!

I enjoyed the story of cuckoo and found her story haunting and poignant. I didn't guess all the twists and turns and enjoyed Being along for the ride. At times I wanted to be robin- off doing all sorts of (not very important or exciting) jobs but with the feeling of importance- she flirted with the investigation in an infectious way.

I've read criticism of the language- too ornate and complicated eg: consulted watch instead of looked at watch but I disagree- I never felt that the writing was stilted with overly complex sentences.

Can't wait for a sequel

wow, such glowing reviews. I couldn't get into this book. It all seemed so fake to me, she tried too hard with this book in my opinion. I got half way through and then had to put it aside. It hasn't pulled me back yet.

So far, unable to get into this book either. Gotta say quite boring. I am at chapter 9. I had to start over a couple of times. Puts me to sleep. Sure hope it gets better. I am only continuing it because it is a group read. Gotta go slap some cold water on my face.

I generally wouldn't read a book I found that boring Christine so I admire your dedication!! I sometimes read books I don't like but there's usually redeeming features - it's so interesting to see the different views we all have :). I read it in the sun by a pool- over two days - maybe that helped!!! I wonder if is have been as captivated if it was over time and the book had to compete with everyday life for my time???

Chava wrote: "wow, such glowing reviews. I couldn't get into this book. It all seemed so fake to me, she tried too hard with this book in my opinion. I got half way through and then had to put it aside. It hasn'..."

I wouldn't call my review glowing--I gave a 3.5 but rounded up because it's J. K. Rowling. It did take me a while to get into it too. I remember feeling that it was a tad too long.

Leigh wrote: "Chava wrote: "wow, such glowing reviews. I couldn't get into this book. It all seemed so fake to me, she tried too hard with this book in my opinion. I got half way through and then had to put it a..."

I also thought it was alittle dragged out. I bought it in e-book format when it first came out because it got such good revews & started it several times. Now that it was our selection I picked it up again & I am 65% into it & still struggling to continue but I do like the story line just wanted alittle more action.

Lynsey wrote: "I generally wouldn't read a book I found that boring Christine so I admire your dedication!! I sometimes read books I don't like but there's usually redeeming features - it's so interesting to see ..."

Lynsey wrote: "I generally wouldn't read a book I found that boring Christine so I admire your dedication!! I sometimes read books I don't like but there's usually redeeming features - it's so interesting to see ..."

Lynsey I will keep trying to finish it. I sure hope something of interest happens soon. I was reading reviews of the book and wondering if higher reviews were given because it was J.K. Rowling. One reason I do not like movie or book reviews. Everyone likes something different. What I like may not be what you like. Generally, I go to all movies now if I think I might be interested. I find that many times I like the shows that get bad reviews by critics. I remember Avatar and the huge fuss that move got. I found nothing interesting about it at all.

I'm exactly the same- I read reviews as I find different opinions interesting whether that be film or book but never let them dictate whether I see or read. With cuckoo calling, I used to be very plot driven as a reader and so can see where people are coming from, but then I joined a book group which made me read a range of things I wouldn't have chosen and I've discovered I like to look for character which was what endeared me to this book- I just loved cormoran! I think I said in my review that lots of this book is building character and relationship- action wise I'm hoping the plot will be the focus of number two!

I do need someone to love tho- if a book has no likeable characters then I struggle much more with it. Isn't it nice to see how we all find the same thing so different??

As for ratings being high because it's JK Rowling- obviously I knew it was her but I'm not a harry potter fan so I don't think it affected my score personally - also I have up on casual vacancy :)

Janet wrote: "CL, I agree the book could have done with a little more action. I liked the way Strike and Robin outmaneuver the culprit towards the end. A bit more action like that towards in the middle of the b..."

I know I keep waiting for them to turn into a crime fighting duo because she so compliments his style. He's all braun & she's the brains. But I did like how he comes to realize she is a big assest the more the book progresses. And who amoung us who read Nancy Drew as a kid didn't want to be a detective just like Robin does.

I loved Nancy Drew! You brought back such great memories. My mom would buy me a book every time we went shopping. It was such a thrill. I think they were .99 cents back then. But, how I loved them.

I need to read Agatha Christie. I also hear that PD James is excellent.

I had a list but never kept it. Long before Goodreads.

Leigh wrote: "Our group read lead for is The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith, the discussion lead is supposed to be Chrystine (checking up with her). Look forward to an intro to the books a..."

Is this a JK Rowling book? Her first foray into adult fiction?

I read this in December and here's my review for anyone interested. We had a detailed book discussion in another group.

While J. K. Rowling intrigued me it didn't influence my decision to read the book or my assessment (never read the Harry Potter books). I enjoyed it even when the prose sometimes got in the way. It helped create my overall story impressions and readied me for the ending. I really liked Cormoran Strike and Robin and their interplay. That alone was worth the read.

I listened to it on audio and I think that helped tge pace of it a bit.

Now I must admit that Ive not read Rowling so I cant compare any of her previous books.

I read this last fall so Im a little grey on it but here is my review:

http://chorleychronicals.blogspot.com...

I loved this book. I thought the character of Cormoran Strike was brilliant and the other characters were true human beings.

I could never get on with her Harry Potter books (I know: Blasphemy!), but I look forward to reading more of Rowling's crime novels. And even though she's a very experienced writer, I thought this was a tremendous debut in a totally new genre.

Geraldine wrote: "I loved this book. I thought the character of Cormoran Strike was brilliant and the other characters were true human beings.

I could never get on with her Harry Potter books (I know: Blasphemy!), ..."

Completely agree (excepting Harry Potter...I never tried).

I really enjoyed this book, but more for the characters than the actual mystery. I will be reading any more in this series that come out.

The next book in this series is The Silkworm.

Jonetta wrote: "The next book in this series is The Silkworm.
"

thank you.

Although I have never read any Harry Potter books, I loved The Casual Vacancy. I started The Cuckoo's Calling some time ago and have to admit it's not as compelling as I assumed it would be.

As a crime fiction writer myself, I read other crime writers for entertainment but also to see what they did and how they did it.

My initial thoughts about Cuckoo are that it's too long (seems like we're going over the same ground a lot) and she's breaking rules about POV.

I will finish it and am eager to read other readers' opinions.

I must say the multiple POVs wasn't an issue for me. In fact, it sort of worked.

Christine wrote: "So far, unable to get into this book either. Gotta say quite boring. I am at chapter 9. I had to start over a couple of times. Puts me to sleep. Sure hope it gets better. I am only continuing..."

We all like different stuff. I'm reading Janet Evanovich's new series with Lee Goldberg at the same time. I find Rowling more interesting, Evanovich more stimulating. Always with at least two books going makes my reading life somehow easier. But then again, we're all different.

Janet wrote: "It is rather strange about the head hopping in the POV, Lynn. It cannot be from the lack of ability because she supposedly writes her Harry Potter series (which I have not read because I don't rea..."

I don't consider myself a YA reader yet have found some exciting stuff on that shelf, such as The Book Thief and tried a Harry Potter once and couldn't put it down. She is a good writer in, I think, new territory at the moment. She'll improve, I'm sure.

There is no question that Rowling is a skilled, experienced writer. That's why I'm so puzzled by the POV thing. I've edited, written novels, and taught writing, and this POV hopping within a section is a definite no-no. In fact, it's one of the more common amateur mistakes. So I have to believe that Rowling (and her editor or editors) are choosing to do this. But to what end? Maybe she's always thought it was a stupid rule and decided, yes, I'm famous enough to break it. Personally, it's so ingrained in me that I don't know if I could break the rule. And I have to admit that it's so jarring to me that it takes me out of the novel.

Lynn. I know what POV is but never taught or took a writing class so I really don t know much about writing. Would love to know more since it might help me understand why i disliked this book so much. I finally got to the end last night and I am happy I did. I actually did predict the killer and that bothers me. I like a book with twists and turns and excitement. I hope i am just not tired of crime novels. Anyway, this book will be getting a one star.

Many writers who use multiple POVs will devote an entire chapter to a specific character's POV, Christine. Within that chapter, ONLY one POV can be used. Within a chapter if a character POV shifts, you're supposed to show it by signaling some kind of break between the two sections. I've noticed Rowling using multiple POVs within a section (I specifically noticed it in a section with Strike and Robin). Again, since it seems a conscious choice, I'm puzzled as to why she'd choose this. If anyone knows or has a theory, I'd love to hear it.

I also like a book with twists and turns and excitement, and, unfortunately, this book has become tedious. I'm too aware that I'm reading a novel created by a writer. I should forget I'm reading and get carried away.

By the way, I'm 71% through, but I'm only mildly interested in the outcome.

I finally finished last night. I am happy i was able to get through. Normally I can get through a good book much quicker.

I just found the book dull, tedious and boring.

Thanks Lynn for the info.

Christine

this one is on my list...I am hoping to read it this month :)

Lynn

After hearing your explanation on POV that may be one of the reasons I disliked this book so much.

I found it difficult to follow all of the characters and felt that there was no clarity to things. I also felt as if there were things in the book unnecessary to the story.

Lynn and Christine,

I have been reading your discussion with great interest. I agree that a shifting POV can drive a reader (me) crazy. But there are some writers who can carry it off. Naturally, I can't think of one off the top of my head. I'd be interested in knowing if either of you has read anything by Hilary Mantel. I enjoyed both books but I've read that her style made a lot of readers really crazy.Wolf Hall / Bring Up the Bodies

I have not read Hilary Mantel, Portia. Which one do you think I should read first?

Christine, I, too, felt there were things that could have been cut. I can't help but read as an editor and writer, and I would have scrapped bit chunks. There are some writers (Stephen King comes to mind) who write as though they're being paid by the word. Of course, there are millions of readers who'd disagree with me. Or maybe some of the big-name authors have contracts with a number of words clause.

Another thing that's irritating me in Cuckoo's Calling is the chapter length. I don't like to stop in the middle of a chapter, but some of the chapters seem to go on and on. Anyone else feel this way?

I thought the book went on and on and on. Like I said before, I felt nothing happened in that book except the murder and getting to the end took forever. Plus, the endong was so lackluster.

I can t comment on S. king because I have no interest in the supernatural writing he does. Never liked any of the movies either. Even the Shining with Jack who is a fantastic actor. So, for me to comment on S. king would be unfair. To be honest, I don t think I ever read a single book he wrote.

What some consider verbose others appreciate as it subtly builds definition of character and place. I don't think you can or should define one that's better than the other as this world is complete with diverse readers who will appreciate either. You can see that diversity in the reviews of this book.

I've read many books in the past two years that use this "POV hopping," to use the term applied here. While some have failed miserably for me, others have seemed to be a stroke of writing brilliance as it kept me in a scene in real time without having to rely on dialogue. I didn't consider it wrong, per se, or breaking a rule (my ignorance of one). I only appreciated that it quickened the pace and made the passages flow more fluidly.

To each his own point of view.

Lynn wrote: "I have not read Hilary Mantel, Portia. Which one do you think I should read first?

Christine, I, too, felt there were things that could have been cut. I can't help but read as an editor and writer..."

Wolf Hall is the first in what is supposed to be a three-book special. If you are like me and MUST read books in order, then I suggest you start with that.

If I understand correctly, Charles Dickens was paid by the word. I've read that 19th Century Americans waited on the docks in New York for the boat from England carrying the latest installment of whatever he was writing to arrive. Sort of like waiting for the midnight release of the latest Harry Potter book, no?

And then Ernest Hemingway came along and cut writing to the bone.

Both of these writer are considered icons. So we are all right. Right? ;-)

Thanks, Portia. I will start with Wolf Hall.

Yes, we are all right. I now wonder if "POV hopping" will become more commonplace in literature. Jonetta, you have experienced it frequently in the last couple years, and sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't, probably depending on the skill of the writer. Based on what you wrote, I suspect the rule is gone.

Rowling, who often reminds me of Dickens, will never write like Hemingway, and who would want her to? One of my favorite sections in this book is the opening chapter. Every word and punctuation mark is perfect. Sentence construction is brilliant. Despite my issues with the book's pacing, I believe Rowling is one of this era's masters. No matter how I feel after finishing the book, I will read her future work because I'm curious what she'll do next.

I agree with most of your review. I liked it enough to read it through and liked some of the characters, but found it slow and there were parts that should have been cut to help the pacing of the story.

I've read all the Harry Potter books, which I loved, and can say that there isn't anything to compare in those books to this one. Loving her Potter series did carryover to this book at all.

Andrea wrote: "I listened to it on audio and I think that helped tge pace of it a bit.

Now I must admit that Ive not read Rowling so I cant compare any of her previous books.

I read this last fall so Im a l..."

it's great to not have preconceptions...but those who do have to also realise that this series is not Harry Potter...so one has to look at it differently! I tend to not look at peoples' reviews...because I like to form my own opinion of things. I, for one, can't wait to get further in to the book.

Hey DA! Long time no "chat" :)

This discussion has been very good for me.

I read history and mystery. I do not look at books the way writers do. I read purely for the enjoyment of the story. Inlove history and always did through high school and college. I love mysteries because they stimulate my mind.

I got away from reading because I worked and had three children. Now, I read as much as possible. I always have a book downloaded on Audible or Overdrive so I can keep a book on my iPod while cleaning or driving.

I am really enjoying this discussion.

Funny you mentioned Hemingway. Have been to Key West two times during the past year. Also, i was talking about this book with my daughter and telling her how much I disliked it. Hemingway came up. I for one never cared for him and when we were assigned one of his books to read I was very unhappy to say the least. He may have been a great writer but his stories were so depressing to me. I only read books or go to movies that will not make me sad or depressed. Funny eh?

Reading is my recreation.

I enjoy the fact that no one is attacking anyone for their opinion during this discussion.

Thanks folks!

Christine

I also didn't notice the p o v hopping whilst reading - and was never confused or unsure so I'm guessing as a reader I just wasn't affected. Like Christine, I read as a reader, I'm not an author in my own right or an editor and I'm glad that I can just ride the wave of a book without worrying about form or rules. It's really interesting to see the things which come in the way for a new author tho - obviously Rowling has much greater freedoms.

One thing that hasn't been mentionned (I don't think) is the relative lack of grimy, gory detail. I read lots of crime writers who have a great deal of gritty realism in their works and usually when a book doesn't go down that route I'm less keen (what that says about me I don't know!!!) but that wasn't the case here. Although it seemed quite sanitised I loved it. Do you think it's because strike is a pi? Usually I read from the main character as a detective

Good point Lynn. My favorite books are usually about serial killers. LOL!

I found The Cuckoo's calling a decent thriller. whenever something comes from J.K.Rowling there is too much hype. Whether it is her harry potter series or writing under pen name. But cuckoo's calling was a decent effort. I liked the character of Cormoran Strike. However, the story could have been shorter and more compact. I found some loose threads here and there.

I am eagerly waiting for the second story of Cormoran Strike though...

Nabanita wrote: "I found The Cuckoo's calling a decent thriller. whenever something comes from J.K.Rowling there is too much hype. Whether it is her harry potter series or writing under pen name. But cuckoo's calli..."

Me too!! He was a very relatable character & I agree I wanted more action less descriptions. But I will read the next book if she writes another one about Strike.

Nabanita wrote: "I found The Cuckoo's calling a decent thriller. whenever something comes from J.K.Rowling there is too much hype. Whether it is her harry potter series or writing under pen name. But cuckoo's calli..."

Couldn't have put it better myself Nabanita.

I thought that the ending had no last minute fact pop up that the reader had not told about. All the clues are there to nab the guilty culprit.
The ending was really the perfect payoff.

Janet wrote: "I know, Douglas, but I never got the right one till the end. After the reveal I was like Doh!"

Me too! Could not belive I did not see that one coming. They kept hinting but I was sure it was someone else & I didn't get it until the reveal either.

I have been bothered by POV hopping in some books, but it wasn't an issue (for me) in this one. I liked the mystery and the character building, and I felt like it moved along well enough that even though there wasn't a lot of action I was quite entertained. I also like the fact that all of the clues are present - she played fair with the readers.