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The Cuckoo's Calling
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August Monthly Read 2013: The Cuckoo's Calling
I'm over half way through and it's good. Rowling is always good on names and the Kanye West (in my mind) is named Deeby Mac? Who else writes some delicious phrases like "detritus of their interrupted lives"?
Looking forward to reading this, I liked the casual vacancy so hoping this is just as good.
Here's hoping. It's a while since I've read a crime novel, Jo Nesbø's The Snowman, but the group always selects them well. I've had bad experiences of this genre in the past, but never with group reads.
I-like-to-read wrote: "Looking forward to reading this, I liked the casual vacancy so hoping this is just as good."I think it's much better than Casual Vacancy.
I'll be picking up mine on Thursday. I'll open up a spoiler thread when more people get started, Susan.
I will start listening to this on audiobook tomorrow, I had some credits left on my Audible account!This will be my first JK Rowling book, so looking forward to it :)
Allan wrote: "I think I might go down the audiobook route too, Emma-I was going to buy the hardback later this evening in Tesco for £9, which is the cheapest I've seen it anywhere, aside from Amazon. However, I ..."And I thought I was the only one left on the planet who hadn't read anything by J.K. Rowling. Not for any lack of interest, it's just been the perennial "TBR" problem I seem to have.
I'm looking forward to it.
I just finished it and it was excellent from beginning to end. I found it to be like a PD James or Ruth Rendell and not like Lee Child. As for all you Rowling virgins, this is a good one to start with. I am excited to hear what you all think.
Susan wrote: "I just finished it and it was excellent from beginning to end. I found it to be like a PD James or Ruth Rendell and not like Lee Child. As for all you Rowling virgins, this is a good one to start ..."
If it's anything like P.D. James or Ruth Rendell, it'll be a great read, indeed. I really enjoy both of those authors. I just picked up my copy tonight, and I think I got a really good deal on it. It was on sale at Barnes & Noble (new best seller) and with that discount and a coupon mailed to me, the book only cost 12. 50. That's less expensive than a trade paperback. Now I think I' know what I'll be reading on the plane in a few days. Thanks for the recommendation, Susan.
To me it was like James and Rendell. A literate mystery is just so engrossing. I think you got a great deal on the book. That's about what I paid for the Kindle edition. Now, I'm kicking myself. I should have bought a printed version so I could pass it on.
I thought about the audiobook but it's 15 hours! The book though is 464 pages. Still trying to decide what will work best for me - the audiobook or the e-book which is only $9.99 on Kobo.
as i'm the one who nominated this ( ya my nomination won ),I already have bought the book but i don't think i will be able to start it till 15th of august off to london next week for a week and i'm currently rereading the Harry Potter series :)
I bought my copy today. It was reduced from €19 to €15 and I traded my copy of TransAtlantic for another €3 off .
@Gavin. Take your time, mate. By the time you get started the spoiler thread won't be long open. You won't be far behind in the discussion.
@Gavin. Take your time, mate. By the time you get started the spoiler thread won't be long open. You won't be far behind in the discussion.
I still believe it's a marketing ploy...
I just don't think Rowling is responsible for it.
I just don't think Rowling is responsible for it.
Great article, Allan. I really feel for her. She just wanted to write a book that stood on it's own merits. Before her authorship came out, the book had great ratings. Once people found it was her all these one star ratings popped up on Amazon.It does sound like a marketing ploy. Why would the lawyer tell his wife's best friend? It doesn't make any sense.
I don't think it was a marketing ploy if it was the publishers would have had copies ready to ship the next working day ( the Monday ) not the following Friday
Mod
Well, Allan,that would certainly spoil the book if anyone hasn't read it. You are also right that it's tongue in cheek and irreverant but also funny.
I must remember to read that review when I've finished the book.
Re: The leak. My suspicion was that it was for the promotion of the Galbraith work. There's a huge potential for this to earn a lot of money for a lot of people. Especially as this book us subtitled Cormorab Strike #1, so we can safely assume there's at least one other Galbraith book in the bag. The book was already a success, and with Rowling's name attached it would only be more successful. And speaking of the delay in store copies; two days doesn't make a whole lot of difference. People weren't going to queue overnight a la Harry Potter. And pre-ordering extra copies would have been suspiciou.
I feel a little sorry for Rowling. Not too sorry as her wealth would make Midas blush. I think she can hold her head high, though. She's proven that she can be a reall success beyond the Potter books.
Re: The leak. My suspicion was that it was for the promotion of the Galbraith work. There's a huge potential for this to earn a lot of money for a lot of people. Especially as this book us subtitled Cormorab Strike #1, so we can safely assume there's at least one other Galbraith book in the bag. The book was already a success, and with Rowling's name attached it would only be more successful. And speaking of the delay in store copies; two days doesn't make a whole lot of difference. People weren't going to queue overnight a la Harry Potter. And pre-ordering extra copies would have been suspiciou.
I feel a little sorry for Rowling. Not too sorry as her wealth would make Midas blush. I think she can hold her head high, though. She's proven that she can be a reall success beyond the Potter books.
I've read a little of this this morning and it's been enjoyable, so far. I was expecting something darker thab this, I have to say. I'd imagined that the use of pseudonym was in part due to a desire to write more violent or bloodier novels without comparison to her other work. I may be jumping the gun, though.
It seems that Rowling can't leave folklore and mythology behind. Cormoran is the name of an English giant; supposedly the giant killed by Jack.
It seems that Rowling can't leave folklore and mythology behind. Cormoran is the name of an English giant; supposedly the giant killed by Jack.
Technically she's not richer than the queen anymore she's donated a lot to charity and lost her billionaire status a few years ago with it . There is a second book on the works slated for next year . Film rights are also going crazy though I think most would prefer a TV show like TCV
Declan wrote: "I've read a little of this this morning and it's been enjoyable, so far. I was expecting something darker thab this, I have to say. I'd imagined that the use of pseudonym was in part due to a desi..."I wondered where the name Cormoran came from. I like that it's a giant since he's a big man. I have no idea how to say it though.
And he's Cornish, which the Giant supposedly was, too. Or at least he used to attack the Cornish coast and steal the locals'sheep.
I had no idea that he was Cornish. Cornwall is on my bucket list.
Really? Do you surf, Susan? It never crossed my mind before, but a Cali girl with Cornwall on her bucket list might just be an avid surfer.
Hi all,Not going to take part in this months group read, stuck in a book currently and have my next read lined up.
Happy reading to all and enjoy the book x
Ran in today to look for the book and forgot the bloody title. Felt like an Ass. I have a massive fear of talking to shop people too so can't ask "what's the new J.K. book?"I'll try again in the morrow I suppose.
Rosanne wrote: "Hi all,
Not going to take part in this months group read, stuck in a book currently and have my next read lined up.
Happy reading to all and enjoy the book x"
If you eventually decide to read it, Roseanne, we'll still be here waiting to hear what you might have to say. We have a new QIR that you might want to try, too.
Not going to take part in this months group read, stuck in a book currently and have my next read lined up.
Happy reading to all and enjoy the book x"
If you eventually decide to read it, Roseanne, we'll still be here waiting to hear what you might have to say. We have a new QIR that you might want to try, too.
Niall wrote: "Ran in today to look for the book and forgot the bloody title. Felt like an Ass. I have a massive fear of talking to shop people too so can't ask "what's the new J.K. book?"
I'll try again in the ..."
Is there a certain reason you're reluctant to speak to shop staff, Niall?
I'll try again in the ..."
Is there a certain reason you're reluctant to speak to shop staff, Niall?
Hate them Declan. They panic me something crazy. I really am awful for it. I cannot speak to them at all, I need to get the thing myself and get out of the shop without any sort of chatter. The worst thing about it is I don't like internet buying because I like the idea of interactive purchasing...I just don't want to actually practice it. It is tragic when they ask me if they can help me. I just have to leave the shop. Even when I need help, I'll refuse to get it out of fear. I cannot explain it. The millions of items I've walked away from because somebody asked me if I needed assistance while I was beside them. Their aggressive sales tactics and customer support is actually losing my business :/
I think there's a novel in there, somewhere, Niall.
I used to be cripplingly shy when I was a kid. I was never intimidated by people, per se, but I had this irrational thought that when I opened my mouth I'd have little or no control over. I managed to shake that off before my teens, though.
I used to be cripplingly shy when I was a kid. I was never intimidated by people, per se, but I had this irrational thought that when I opened my mouth I'd have little or no control over. I managed to shake that off before my teens, though.
Declan wrote: "Really? Do you surf, Susan? It never crossed my mind before, but a Cali girl with Cornwall on her bucket list might just be an avid surfer."LOL. I am trying to picture myself as a 60 year old handicapped woman surfing. I have a trachea tube and am not allowed to be near water. As the tube goes directly to my lungs, I would drown almost immediately.
I had no idea that Cornwell is known for surfing until a lady in my English Mysteries Book Club mentioned she went there for a vacation to surf.
No, I want to go to the Daphne DuMaurier Festival they have there in May. I think it would be such fun. From there I could go to the book festival in Hay. When I was in England last, I went to the Cheltenham Book Festival and had such a great time. I have the Listowel one on my list.
Niall wrote: "Ran in today to look for the book and forgot the bloody title. Felt like an Ass. I have a massive fear of talking to shop people too so can't ask "what's the new J.K. book?"I'll try again in the ..."
It was sold out at my local independent bookstore. I was trying to decide between the e-book and the audiobook. As I had a credit on Audible I got the audiobook and have started listening to it. I'm already hooked. I love someof the descriptions.
Niall wrote: "Hate them Declan. They panic me something crazy. I really am awful for it. I cannot speak to them at all, I need to get the thing myself and get out of the shop without any sort of chatter. The wor..."I also feel immediately pressured when I am asked if I need help or what I am looking for. I would much rather know where to go to ask for something I am looking for.
I'm a little over half-way through this and I'm not sure quite what to make it, so far. I'm finding it quite uneventful, but I'm intrigued (and more than a little charmed,) by Cormoran and Robin's friendship.
As things stand it's a nice, pleasant little read, but I want, and I'm still hoping for, a little more.
As things stand it's a nice, pleasant little read, but I want, and I'm still hoping for, a little more.
Declan - I agree. I am about 5 hours into the 16 hours, and am getting a little weary of the endless interviews with unappealing characters. I do like Cormoran though, and am intrigued and want to find out more of his history.
Declan and Barbara, my feelings echo yours pretty closely. I'm halfway through. It's fine so far, but no great shakes. The characters are fine, the writing is fine, and the plot is fine, but honestly, if I put it down today and didn't finish it, I think I'd be ok with that. Coincidentally, I would consider myself a J.K. Rowling fan. My children and I read all of the Harry Potter books and absolutely loved them.
Agreed , Mo. It wouldn't kill me if I lost this book.
I'm just into the last 100 pages, and I'm hoping that it builds to a satisfying climax. I'm putting a lot of faith in Rowling's ability as storyteller, here. I could be a few day finish this, though, as studying is really getting down-and-dirty.
If I bought this as a pool-side, holiday read I'd be fairly happy. Very pleasant, nice characters and not too challenging. I think it's a better holiday read then Gone Girl, and I'd rate it more highly, too.
I'm just into the last 100 pages, and I'm hoping that it builds to a satisfying climax. I'm putting a lot of faith in Rowling's ability as storyteller, here. I could be a few day finish this, though, as studying is really getting down-and-dirty.
If I bought this as a pool-side, holiday read I'd be fairly happy. Very pleasant, nice characters and not too challenging. I think it's a better holiday read then Gone Girl, and I'd rate it more highly, too.
Allan wrote: "Perhaps a twist or two toward the end will change our minds about the book overall, eh? :)
..."
I think so, Allan. I just need a little something to raise it above the so-so category.
..."
I think so, Allan. I just need a little something to raise it above the so-so category.
I am so disappointed. I loved this book but then I am a big mystery fan. Have you guys read PD James and Ruth Rendell?
I don't think there's a lot for you to ge disappointed about, Susan. I've enjoyed this book, so far. I just haven't seen anything special. At least not yet.
I've enjoyed reading about Strike and how he copes with his strange circumstances.
I'll discuss it with you in more detail when the spoiler thread goes up.
I've enjoyed reading about Strike and how he copes with his strange circumstances.
I'll discuss it with you in more detail when the spoiler thread goes up.
The article was interesting, Allan. I am a fan of her Inspector Wexford series. Her other ones can get a little strange. I have not been a fan on her adapted work for TV although it's interesting that they're making another.Anne Perry is a historical mystery writer. She is quite interesting because in her youth she helped murder her friend's mother. She served time in NZ for murder and then moved to England and changed her name. They made a movie about it with Kate Winslet starring called "Heavenly Creatures."
By the way, I'm watching Craig Ferguson and he just brought up two girls from the audience and they're from Ireland. They're cute.
Susan wrote: "I am so disappointed. I loved this book but then I am a big mystery fan. Have you guys read PD James and Ruth Rendell?"I really like PD James and Ruth Rendall. I am listening to the audiobook of Cuckoo which may be why it seems to be dragging a bit. If I were reading, I could speed through some of the scenes. Though generally, I enjoy mysteries as audiobooks more than other genres. For me, the biggest problem is I want to know more about Lulu because without more about her, I am not inclined to care as much about what happened to her. I really like Stryke and Robin and want to see what happens there.
Barbara wrote: "I am not inclined to care as much about what happened to her..."
With the little experience I have in mystery books, movies and TV shows, there is often little to no info about the victim. Any recent mysteries I've read were exactly like this. It's particularly bad in serial killer novels where it would be a waste of time offering backgrounds on (most of) the victims.
Would it be typical to have much background on the victim in the mystery novels you read, Barbara?
With the little experience I have in mystery books, movies and TV shows, there is often little to no info about the victim. Any recent mysteries I've read were exactly like this. It's particularly bad in serial killer novels where it would be a waste of time offering backgrounds on (most of) the victims.
Would it be typical to have much background on the victim in the mystery novels you read, Barbara?
Wasn't there a discussion somewhere about people commenting on what one is reading in public? I was on the plane, before take off, when a man across the aisle saw that I had The Cuckoo's Calling and leaned over to ask if he could look at the back cover of the book. I said, "sure," and passed him the book. Then he said, "I wrote one of the blurbs on the back cover, but I never got to see how it looked." As it turns out, his name is Mike Cooper, and he's the author of several crime novels. It was a very brief conversation, but the woman behind me heard the topic then leaned around and asked how I liked the book, told me how much she enjoyed it, even though it wasn't Harry Potter, etc. No one ever comments on what I'm reading in public, so that was quite out of the ordinary for me. Now I'm tempted to look up Mike Cooper's books. It wasn't quite the brush with fame that Allan had with Ciaran Hinds, but not bad, huh? :)
That's a great story, Catleen. Out of interest, did you ask him to sign the book beside his blurv?
Declan wrote: "That's a great story, Catleen. Out of interest, did you ask him to sign the book beside his blurv?"I can't believe I didn't ask him to sign it! The conversation had to end b/c the pilot came on and started the rundown for take off. I wish I had.
Allan wrote: "That's a great tale, Cathleen-it's mad he still hadn't seen the cover that he'd contributed to! I had a wee delve for you-he has two books that I can find-the first is called 'Clawback'
http://w..."
Thank you, Allan! I'll definitely take a look at these. The holiday is going well. It's great to see family. But it's hot, hot, hot. 105 today. A little different from the Boston area.
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Books mentioned in this topic
The Cuckoo's Calling (other topics)The Cuckoo's Calling (other topics)
Authors mentioned in this topic
Robert Galbraith (other topics)J.K. Rowling (other topics)
I look forward to discussing this novel with you all and reading your views.
Declan. :)