Nothing But Reading Challenges discussion
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The Cuckoo's Calling
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Galbraith, Robert (J.K Rowling): The Cuckoo's Calling - Start Date October 2, 2013 (October 2013 Adult Anything Goes)
6. I think Lulu's rehab friend will be found and have a clue from information shared in rehab. 6. I think Deeby is suss. The online video of an interview made me think he was in the building when Lulu fell. It was mentioned in the beginning that a reporter took photos of all the flats because they weren't sure which one was Lulu's so I think those photos will be have a clue, maybe prove Deeby was in the building.
8. Charlotte seems unstable and had always been the one to leave Strike. This time he left her so he's not sure how she will react.
9. Not sure.
10. I think Strike might have been a bit of a ladies man and maybe that's why Charlotte kept leaving him. Robin is engaged so Strike sees her safer to be around. Maybe he had been involved with his previous Secretary Sandra. Strike lost his leg in military service, will all come out at some stage.
11. i think Mrs B really heard fighting and Mr B is trying to hush her up because he was involved. I think it was a huge complicated premeditated murder.
12. I think Lulu's regular driver snuck Deeby in through the car park in that 15 min that derrick was in the loo. Derrivk seems too good at remembering everything from 3 months ago.
13.i think Matthew will just want to settle down and have a simple life, don't think he will encourage Robin to follow her dreams, which fell through once before due to some incident we will find out about later.
14. Strike just stood there and took all Mrs Hooks emotional and physical outpouring. He didn't defend himself but he did try to protect Robin.
15. Robin will get more involved in the investigation side not just filing.
16. No one likes Evan, perfect scapegoat. I want to like Wilson but something doesn't add up. He's either involved or just really good at his job and someone spiked his drink and have him the runs.
17. Security alarm service guy involved. This had been well planned for ages.
18. Kieran really wanted to meet Deeby. Strike hadnt organised the interview with the driver, the security guard set it up a week after he was asked, plenty if time to get their stories straight.
@LK Yep it seems we agree on a lot of things. We'll see how right we are.
@Cristina
#6 I like your theory.
@Renee#7 good catch, didn't think of that!
#12 I think something Luke that happened too.it just might have been another driver or the regular driver.
Questions for Part 2 / Chapters 1 – 7
6. Who is this “ordinary girl” that was in rehab with Lula? Will she be found? Be of help? Have any insight into Lula’s state of mind?
I think she was a friend and I think she will be found. I think she’s the ordinary girl who sat in the back at Lula’s funeral. I think she will be found and may be of help describing Lula’s state of mind at the day of her death.
7. Did anyone in the funeral pictures or videos grab your attention? Is there significance in Deeby Macc sending that particular flower arrangement? Impressions of him?
Not really, they gave the impression that the people who were there, were only at the funeral to get themselves some media attention, with the exception of the girl in the back (who was not in the pictures but was described by a journalist). Deeby Macc did write some songs about Lula and was fascinated by her. No impressions yet of Deeby Macc, the impressions given are all from other people I have to read his account first.
8. Strike’s worries about Charlotte (if he returned for his things) were a bit appalling, right? Or would you use another word?
I would use another word, I think he’s apprehensive and that may be based on experiences in his and Charlotte’s past. He doesn’t paint a pretty picture of her and I think things have happened to make him so.
9. What of the evidence of no ‘foreign DNA’ in Lulu’s apartment? Did they miss something? Or did someone just clean-up really well?
I’m not sure they missed something, I think if Lula was murdered someone planned it very well in advance and could have avoided DNA evidence. There was not enough time afterwards to clean up.
10. Interesting effect Robin’s engagement ring has as a “STOP” sign to Strike and in increasing his comfort with her. Comments. Yet he hasn’t told her about his leg and how he lost it. Will he?
I think Strike is afraid to get close to someone and because of the ring there has to be some distance between him and Robin. I think he won’t tell her about the leg willingly, but she will ask him about it as soon as she feels more comfortable with him. She already suspects something is up and at the moment she is only polite and not asking him about it.
11. What of the neighbors, the Bestiguis? Does Freddie Bestigui’s profession of film producer pique you suspicions?
Yeah, I can’t help thinking he is some sort of porn producer. I get the feeling he’s a vile man and very difficult to live with.
12. Was someone already in Lulu’s apartment? Was the doorman, Derrick Wilson, paid off to look the other way, or did someone just gain access during that quarter hour? What of the back alley, Serf’s Way?
I think someone was already in the building, not necessarily in Lula’s apartment. I think they gained access during the day when there were constantly people getting in and out of the building, caterers for the Bestiguis, Deeby Macc’s entourage getting the apartment ready for him, flower deliveries. I a lot of people gained access to the building during the day and the security guard couldn’t have had his eyes on everyone, also they could have hidden in the pool area as the door was open.
13. Oh! What of Matthew jealousy? He is right, though; Strike is a little weird. True?
I think Matthew is an idiot, sure Strike is weird and has a strange way of handling things, but I think Robin is handling things very well and can take care of herself. I think Matthew wants her to play to his rules and probably wants her to stay home barefoot and pregnant.
14. Rock Star Jonny Rokeby is Strike’s father? Comments. How did you feel about Strike’s interaction with Mrs. Hook and his and Robin’s handling of her?
No comments about his father, but his experiences may give him a leg up with talking to the “famous” friends of Lula. I liked reading about his interaction with Mrs. Hook and Robin really helped him by getting her out of the office in a friendly way.
15. Well, I was pretty sure Robin would somehow continue to work for Strike. You? Do you think she’ll take another permanent job, or continue to work for him?
I was too. I think she will stay longer than the week or two weeks. I’m not sure about permanently.
16. Do you buy Derrick Wilson’s reasoning for not taking a weapon up to the apartment? What of his suspicions of Evan Duffield, Lulu’s boyfriend? Your impression of Wilson?
Yes I buy him not taking a weapon to the apartment. Everyone suspected Evan, because they did have a fight and their relationship was very volatile. My impression of Wilson is that he observes a lot of what is going on the apartment building and he makes due with what is given him. I think the security equipment in that building was not very good and could have been better.
17. Also, it sounds like there were a lot of places someone could have hidden, until they made their escape later. Right? Are the knocked-over vase and flowers – and the problems that arose later because of that – anything to focus on? And the security alarms just happened to be serviced that day? Suspicious, right?
Everything that happened that day is suspicious and a means of getting into the apartment building unseen. I don’t think the knocked-over vase has anything to do with what happened to Lula, but it may give an insight to some of the characters.
18. Kieran Kolovas-Jones, Lulu’s main driver, was chauffeuring for Deeby Macc that night. He also didn’t like Duffield. And he auditioned for Freddie Bestigui. Anything else stand out to you in Strike’s interview with him?
He wants fame a bit too much. He also has connections to everyone in the apartment building. I think Strike has to really grill him in the near future, I think he knows a lot about the main players.
Questions for Part 2 / Chapters 1 - 7 6.I think the girl will be helpful for figuring out how Lulu was actually doing. She isn't in the public eye, and doesn't live that life. So maybe she would be more forthcoming and less likely to lie. I also wonder if someone will try to get to this friend before Strike can catch up with her… seems she might know something from her conversation with Lulu.
7.It was weird that Deeby sent the flowers considering he didn't know her. But what was that about him mentioning her in his songs? Why would he if he didn't know her. That struck me as odd. It'll be interesting when Strike gets around to talking to Deeby. Especially because he was so defensive in the interview. His whole response to the reporter mentioning it was quite the welcome to London with her falling past his window… "I wasn't there, or you got someone who says I was?" Where did that come from? From all indications the reporter was just trying to be lighthearted and he totally jumped on the defensive. Then asking someone if he should have brought his lawyers? I feel like either he is super guilty about something (maybe having actually been there) or he has been in this kind of trouble before. I think he was there.
10.Maybe he sees the engagement ring as a way to be sure that working close with her won't cause him to slip into a rebound situation / harassment situation. I don't think the conversation of his leg has been appropriate to this point. She hasn't asked, and they don't know each other well. I would imagine unless it came up naturally in conversation, why would he bring it up?
11.A lot of things are suspicious about the Bestiguis. First, the fact that Mr. Bestigui made sure that the door wasn't being recorded is weird. Then how Mrs. Bestigui knew Lulu was the one who had fallen strikes me as odd. She came running down, saying Lulu is dead and that someone pushed her off her balcony. That is a lot of assumptions made in a very short amount of time by a supposedly hysterical woman. And according to Wilson, she kept saying "There's a man up there, he threw her over." Again, that's a lot to conclude on your run down the stairs screaming.
It did crack me up reading Wilson's account of Mrs. Bestigui: "… and there's Mrs. Bestigui, shaking and screaming and acting like one mad bitch in her underwear." I can totally hear him saying it in his cockney accent (which he totally has, compared to others in the book so far.)
12. I'm curious as to whether someone some how poisoned or tainted something the security guards so they would be indisposed. Maybe they thought Robson wouldn't show up and therefore there wouldn't be security on, then had to pull an audible and get Wilson sick too. He doesn't seem to be hiding anything. Serf's Way doesn't strike me as important.
13.I don't like Matthew. I could go on, but in the end he just seems like a total jerk.
14. It's interesting that Strike is his illegitimate son, but otherwise I don't really find it interesting who his father is.
Robin showed great poise and ability to diffuse a situation, which probably is a very good skill to have in this business.
15. She will totally keep working for him. They make a good team.
16. I don't buy Wilson's reason for not taking a weapon. That's the only thing that struck me as a lie coming from him, and the only time it seemed like he tripped up in his story. I think Evan is probably an asshole, butI don't think he's involved.
17. Lots of opportunities for someone to hide and later get away. Very suspicious about the alarms being serviced. Plus it was a new guy. And I don't see how the flowers could mean anything, but they obviously do, otherwise they wouldn't have been mentioned. I just have no idea what they could have to do with any of it.
18. Kieran Kolovas-Jones was super suspicious. First, he seems to be the kind of person who likes to brag about who he knows. I felt like he was playing up how important he was to Lulu. It's easy to lie about being important to someone once they're dead. Plus Wilson had a very slight reaction when Kieran was going on about all this. He doesn't buy it.
He also didn't mention his acting or auditioning with Bestigui, and Wilson had to bring it up. That seemed shady.
He also got very uncomfortable and trying to get out of his conversation with Strike once it was mentioned that someone must have tipped off the paparazzi that Deeby wasn't going to be there for hours so they would leave. Who else would know where Deeby would be going or doing? Kieran is who picked the club they went to. Then he got so irritated with Strike. "How's any of this matter?" … suddenly so defensive. Then his reaction when Strike asked about the garage control.
The fact that he had the garage control, that the paparazzi wasn't there to catch it… I wonder if Deeby had something to do with it, then Kieran got him in and out through the garage where no one would see them.
Renee wrote: "It was mentioned in the beginning that a reporter took photos of all the flats because they weren't sure which one was Lulu's so I think those photos will be have a clue, maybe prove Deeby was in the building."Oh I forgot about that! I bet it will!
@Renee and Rebecca
Now that you mention it, I'm starting to find Deeby Macc suspicious too. It might fit with the Strike's "spur of the moment" theory. Also, he had a driver with access to the underground garage, so he could easily make an entrance and disappear quickly. But still, what motive would he have?
#9 - I thought about this a bit. Foreign DNA usually means a strand of hair or some blood. If there wasn't a struggle, then there is no way to have DNA in the apartment. Also, no fingerprints could be explained if the murderer wore gloves. Which is highly probable as it was freezing outside.
Now that you mention it, I'm starting to find Deeby Macc suspicious too. It might fit with the Strike's "spur of the moment" theory. Also, he had a driver with access to the underground garage, so he could easily make an entrance and disappear quickly. But still, what motive would he have?
#9 - I thought about this a bit. Foreign DNA usually means a strand of hair or some blood. If there wasn't a struggle, then there is no way to have DNA in the apartment. Also, no fingerprints could be explained if the murderer wore gloves. Which is highly probable as it was freezing outside.
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Some of these are just my notes. Please don’t feel you have to comment, if you don’t want to.
19. Strike is lying to his sister, Lucy, about his relationship with Charlotte and his business; is this more for her benefit or his? Will it backfire on him? Yet he conforms to the Criminal Procedure and Investigation Act. Comments.
20. Just a comment: Jonny Rokeby, aging rocker, is having his lawyer hassle Strike for money he borrowed?! I see a “Father of the Year” award there.
21. What is your opinion about Evan Duffield’s use of a wolf mask and how it plays into avoiding the paparazzi, the storyline, and his focus as a suspect? Yet, he wore no wolf mask when he visited Lulu’s mother. Comments.
22. Why do you think Lulu changed into that outfit by Guy Somé the night of her death? Is it possible someone else changed her into it?
23. Were Carrianne’s comments about Rochelle (the “ordinary girl” who was in rehab with Lulu) made out of jealousy, or was there a grain of truth in there?
24. Has your impression of Wardle changed after his meeting with Strike? Did anything stand out to you? The comment about the security cameras; the Bestiguis; or Wilson; agreeing to exchange the file if they get Fearney (the fugitive in a different case)?
25. Do you believe, like Strike, that Tansy Bestigui was telling the truth about hearing Lulu’s argument with a man immediately before her death? If so, she had to be somewhere else other than her bathroom, right? Any guesses to the logistics of this?
26. Did anything stand out to you in Strike’s interview with Tansy Bestigui? For me it was:
a) Alison is obsessed with Tony, John Bristow’s handsome uncle.
b) I had to laugh when Strike dared to speak to Ursula May.
c) Freddie Bestigui wanted to do a film of Lulu’s life! Comments.
d) Why wouldn’t Tansy make eye contact with Strike when she said her husband had been asleep?
e) Isn’t Ciara Porter the supermodel who was in that ‘angles in the alley ad’ with Lulu? And she was sleeping with Duffield? Some friend.
f) Bryony Radford, Lulu’s make-up artist, told everyone something Tansy didn’t want Strike to know.
g) Appears Alison told Crypian May (Ursula’s husband) that Tansy was talking with Strike.
Questions for Part 2 / Chapters 8 – 11
19. Strike is lying to his sister, Lucy, about his relationship with Charlotte and his business; is this more for her benefit or his? Will it backfire on him? Yet he conforms to the Criminal Procedure and Investigation Act. Comments.
I don’t think he’ll lie about his work or investigation. I think he lies only about his personal life, I feel he doesn’t want to bother his sister with his problems and maybe they don’t have a very strong relationship.
20. Just a comment: Jonny Rokeby, aging rocker, is having his lawyer hassle Strike for money he borrowed?! I see a “Father of the Year” award there.
Strike’s father has ass-like qualities.
21. What is your opinion about Evan Duffield’s use of a wolf mask and how it plays into avoiding the paparazzi, the storyline, and his focus as a suspect? Yet, he wore no wolf mask when he visited Lulu’s mother. Comments.
I think he uses the mask as a way to escape the paparazzi and “fans”. I don’t trust his visit to Lula’s mom he was probably there to weasel some money out of her for drugs.
22. Why do you think Lulu changed into that outfit by Guy Somé the night of her death? Is it possible someone else changed her into it?
Don’t know, maybe she just had that dress on as part of her new contract with Guy Somé. I don’t think someone changed her into it.
23. Were Carrianne’s comments about Rochelle (the “ordinary girl” who was in rehab with Lulu) made out of jealousy, or was there a grain of truth in there?
I think it may be a little of both. Rochelle probably has exaggerated her connection with Lula but there is also a bit of jealousy on Carrianne’s part.
24. Has your impression of Wardle changed after his meeting with Strike? Did anything stand out to you? The comment about the security cameras; the Bestiguis; or Wilson; agreeing to exchange the file if they get Fearney (the fugitive in a different case)?
Not really, I think he did as much as he was able to do during the investigation, though I do think the police investigation was a bit meagre. He’ll probably handover the file. And his opinion on the Bestiguis is shared by many I think.
25. Do you believe, like Strike, that Tansy Bestigui was telling the truth about hearing Lulu’s argument with a man immediately before her death? If so, she had to be somewhere else other than her bathroom, right? Any guesses to the logistics of this?
I think Tansy is telling the truth about what she has heard, but not about how she heard it. The story she tells about what she heard is constantly the same, she lies when she is telling people about how she heard it. It makes me suspect that she knows the person she heard argue with Lula or that she was doing something illegal while hearing the argument.
26. Did anything stand out to you in Strike’s interview with Tansy Bestigui? For me it was:
a) Alison is obsessed with Tony, John Bristow’s handsome uncle.
Yes!!! But maybe she is just trying to protect John?
b) I had to laugh when Strike dared to speak to Ursula May.
Me too
c) Freddie Bestigui wanted to do a film of Lulu’s life! Comments.
Weasel
d) Why wouldn’t Tansy make eye contact with Strike when she said her husband had been asleep?
Because she was lying!!!!!!
e) Isn’t Ciara Porter the supermodel who was in that ‘angles in the alley ad’ with Lulu? And she was sleeping with Duffield? Some friend.
Yes, the B..
f) Bryony Radford, Lulu’s make-up artist, told everyone something Tansy didn’t want Spike to know.
g) Appears Alison told Crypian May (Ursula’s husband) that Tansy was talking with Spike.
I can't seem to keep up! I've had such a busy week & I'm a day behind (even with ignoring my husband for hours). I'm hoping to be caught up by Monday. However, I have no idea what has happened or how it has happened. I am looking forward to finding out though.
@ AnimaYes, I’m really enjoying Strike’s character. And also his relationship with Robin. I’m happy there are making it a series.
@ Renee#6 – I agree. Deeby was in the building. (LOL! I just realized how that sounded; they say that about music stars, like Elvis.)
#7 – Ah! Forgot about the paparazzi photos. Thanks!
#10 – Interesting. I didn’t get that Strike is a ladies’ man at all. Huh. I didn’t even think about that with regard to his calling Robin “Sandra.” Something to think about.
#11 – I’m inclined to think you’re right. Maybe he thought it would make it easy – and more lucrative – to do a film about her life!
#13 – Forgot about Robin’s dreams falling through before.
#15 – I’m thinking yes here, too.
#16 – Eep! Spiked his drink! Although, I like that theory.
@ Imke#6 – Yes, I think she’ll be able to verify ‘state of mind.’
#9 – True about the time element. They must have been very careful and new the maids had come in, too.
#11 – Yes, I was also wondering if Freddie Bestigui was a porn producer in his prior life.
#12 – True!
#14 – Yes, that connection to his famous father doesn’t hurt in this case, I think. At least to some degree.
#16 – I agree about the degree of security in that building; considering the wealth of the residents, they needed to upgrade.
@ Rebecca#6 – Oh! I hadn’t thought of that!
#7 – I agree. Why so defensive? Or else he has a massive chip on his shoulders.
#11 – Oh, I missed that about Mr. Bestigui and the door. Good point about Mrs. Bestigui knowing/assuming it was Lulu who fell. Why didn’t she say “a woman”? Or maybe because she recognized Lulu’s voice in the argument? **shrugs** Don’t know!
#12 –Ah! You and Renee! Now you two have me thinking.
#16 – Yes, Wilson’s reasons for not taking a weapon had me thinking, too. Why did that trip him up? Is it just because he is so big that he figure he could overpower anyone he came across, or was there another reason?
#18 – True about Wilson bringing up Kieran’s acting with Bestigui; maybe – to go with Imke’s theory – because he did some porn films by him? Oh, oh, oh! Now you have me thinking about the garage control. LOL!
@ CristinaGloves! Hadn’t thought of that, but yes… it was cold outside.
#19 - I agree with Imke
#21 - He probably uses the wolf mask to as a way to escape paps, but also as a way to make himself more interesting. His visit to Landry's mom was probably to gain more popularity.
#22 - I think she changed her outfit herself. Maybe she was heading someplace else.
#23 - There's probably some truth to Carianne's comments. Strike will probably find Rochelle, but later in the book and she might have some key information.
#24 - Again, I agree with Imke, nothing else to add.
#25 - I think she was telling the truth about the argument. Maybe Landry wasn't in her flat, but in the flat above the Bestiguis. This would have made more easier for Tansy to hear. She was lying about her Freddie, but I have no idea why. If she wanted to cover for him, then she wouldn't have said there was a man arguing with Lula.
#26 a - I'm really curious about Tony now
b - Funny
c - He's seems the kind of guy to do that.
d - She's lying
e - She's probably not a very good friend of Lula and we will not get anything interesting from her.
g - Alison didn't agree with the investigation, so she'll probably do anything she can to put the brakes on it.
#21 - He probably uses the wolf mask to as a way to escape paps, but also as a way to make himself more interesting. His visit to Landry's mom was probably to gain more popularity.
#22 - I think she changed her outfit herself. Maybe she was heading someplace else.
#23 - There's probably some truth to Carianne's comments. Strike will probably find Rochelle, but later in the book and she might have some key information.
#24 - Again, I agree with Imke, nothing else to add.
#25 - I think she was telling the truth about the argument. Maybe Landry wasn't in her flat, but in the flat above the Bestiguis. This would have made more easier for Tansy to hear. She was lying about her Freddie, but I have no idea why. If she wanted to cover for him, then she wouldn't have said there was a man arguing with Lula.
#26 a - I'm really curious about Tony now
b - Funny
c - He's seems the kind of guy to do that.
d - She's lying
e - She's probably not a very good friend of Lula and we will not get anything interesting from her.
g - Alison didn't agree with the investigation, so she'll probably do anything she can to put the brakes on it.
@ Cristina#21 – Yes, we haven’t ‘met’ him yet, but it seems like Duffield was after the spotlight.
#22 – Could be.
#25 – Oh! **smacks forehead** I didn’t even think of Landry being elsewhere. I was thinking Tansy was elsewhere. Good one.
Mod
19. I think it is for his benefit - he probably doesn't want to explain. If they have been on-again-off-again for a while the family are probably sick of it! haha
20. Totally
21. This is so weird. I guess at this point I beleive it was him in that mask, but it is a great addition to a mystery :)
24. yes, I as surprised that he was willing to co-operate and give so much info. I guess he doesn't beleive there is anything in the case anyway so "what's the harm"
25. I think she was in the room with her or somewhere close by that she saw what happened. So she told the truth about the argument, but everything else is a lie. That is why she slipped up with the comment about running past her husband. She knows the killer and is trying to blame it on a "mystery man"
26. Nice summary there!
@ Karen#21 - Me, too.
#24 - Yes, I think that is Wardle's attitude.
#26 - Thanks!
19. Strike is lying to his sister, Lucy, about his relationship with Charlotte and his business; is this more for her benefit or his? Will it backfire on him? Yet he conforms to the Criminal Procedure and Investigation Act. Comments. He probably doesn't want the fuss . No I don't think there would be any serious consensuses . He also didn't tell his friend about the break up.
20. Just a comment: Jonny Rokeby, aging rocker, is having his lawyer hassle Strike for money he borrowed?! I see a “Father of the Year” award there.
That's a bit weird , isn't it? He said he met his father only twice but it seems he had borrowed money from him.
22. Why do you think Lulu changed into that outfit by Guy Somé the night of her death? Is it possible someone else changed her into it?
She got home wearing one outfit but died wearing another one. I say she was waiting for someone or knew that someone will come to her apartment . otherwise what's the point changing at 2 am.
24. Has your impression of Wardle changed after his meeting with Strike? Did anything stand out to you? The comment about the security cameras; the Bestiguis; or Wilson; agreeing to exchange the file if they get Fearney (the fugitive in a different case)?
It didn't seem that they didn't take the case seriously they probably had done all they could with the information they had. They just didn't go the extra mile.
25. Do you believe, like Strike, that Tansy Bestigui was telling the truth about hearing Lulu’s argument with a man immediately before her death? If so, she had to be somewhere else other than her bathroom, right? Any guesses to the logistics of this?
yes she heard someone. I'm thinking she was having a meeting with a lover somewhere else in the building that's why she heard it. there was talk of hearing voices from the stars landing. so she might have been on the stairs on her way back to her apartment .and just like Rebecca said , it's hard for me to believe she recognize Lula when she was falling past her window. She knew it was Lula who fell but not from the couple of second it would take the body to fall by her window.
26. Did anything stand out to you in Strike’s interview with Tansy Bestigui? For me it was:
a) Alison is obsessed with Tony, John Bristow’s handsome uncle. yes what's with that! Alison is added to my list of suspicious characters !
c) Freddie Bestigui wanted to do a film of Lulu’s life! Comments.
Opportunist
d) Why wouldn’t Tansy make eye contact with Strike when she said her husband had been asleep?
because she is hiding something
The hardest thing I've ever done was to stop reading at the end chapter 5 in part 3!
Questions for Part 2 / Chapters 8 - 11 19. Strike is lying to his sister, Lucy, about his relationship with Charlotte and his business; is this more for her benefit or his? Will it backfire on him? Yet he conforms to the Criminal Procedure and Investigation Act. Comments.
He doesn't seem very close to his family. It also feels like he doesn't like to address personal questions so he just says whatever will result in the fewest followup questions.
20. Just a comment: Jonny Rokeby, aging rocker, is having his lawyer hassle Strike for money he borrowed?! I see a “Father of the Year” award there.
Then again, they've only met twice so I can't imagine it would be a great relationship otherwise.
21. What is your opinion about Evan Duffield’s use of a wolf mask and how it plays into avoiding the paparazzi, the storyline, and his focus as a suspect? Yet, he wore no wolf mask when he visited Lulu’s mother. Comments.
In my opinion, wearing a wolf mask doesn't lower your "obvious" factor as far as media goes. Plus I'd be freaked out if a random guy showed up in a wolf mask at my house.
22. Why do you think Lulu changed into that outfit by Guy Somé the night of her death? Is it possible someone else changed her into it?
Maybe. But they had mentioned that she just signed some big contract with him.
23. Were Carrianne’s comments about Rochelle (the “ordinary girl” who was in rehab with Lulu) made out of jealousy, or was there a grain of truth in there?
I suppose I'm rooting for Rochelle at this point, everyone else seems rather mean.
24. Has your impression of Wardle changed after his meeting with Strike? Did anything stand out to you? The comment about the security cameras; the Bestiguis; or Wilson; agreeing to exchange the file if they get Fearney (the fugitive in a different case)?
Sounds mostly like an overworked cop to me.
25. Do you believe, like Strike, that Tansy Bestigui was telling the truth about hearing Lulu’s argument with a man immediately before her death? If so, she had to be somewhere else other than her bathroom, right? Any guesses to the logistics of this?
The timeline didn't seem to line up real well. Maybe their door was open or she was in the hallway.
26. Did anything stand out to you in Strike’s interview with Tansy Bestigui? For me it was:
a) Alison is obsessed with Tony, John Bristow’s handsome uncle.
b) I had to laugh when Strike dared to speak to Ursula May.
c) Freddie Bestigui wanted to do a film of Lulu’s life! Comments.
That just feels like capitalizing. Though if he was going to kill her it would make more sense to get a bunch of film first so you could capitalize on the death.
d) Why wouldn’t Tansy make eye contact with Strike when she said her husband had been asleep?
Her timeline didn't match up. I'm guessing her husband was awake.
e) Isn’t Ciara Porter the supermodel who was in that ‘angles in the alley ad’ with Lulu? And she was sleeping with Duffield? Some friend.
They were broken up for awhile. Maybe it wasn't the same time or only overlapped a bit?
f) Bryony Radford, Lulu’s make-up artist, told everyone something Tansy didn’t want Strike to know.
g) Appears Alison told Crypian May (Ursula’s husband) that Tansy was talking with Strike.
@ ShoSho#20 – Oh, I didn’t catch that he had only met him twice. I knew they weren’t close.
#22 – True. She could have changed for whoever was coming over.
#25 – She doesn’t strike me as someone with a lover. Meeting her dealer, maybe. LOL!
#26 a – LOL! Alison went up on mine, too.
Yes, pretty hard to stop with this book! I also find it hard to pick up, when I have a ton of things to do, because I know I’m going to get sucked in again. I’m really enjoying it!
@ Kelly#21 – Ditto! WTH? I completely agree with you over the wolf mask and it “obvious” factor.
#22 – Very true. So, she was promoting the product? But to whom?
#26c – May he secretly filmed her when he was stalking her when she went to Dickie Carbury’s for that country-house weekend?
#26e) True. Revenge sex with your ex’s friend.
Mod
Again, some of these are just my notes. Please don’t feel you have to comment, if you don’t want to.
27. What do you make of Lulu leaving everything to her brother, John Bristow?
28. How about Lady Bristow’s belief it was simply an accident, due to slippery ice? Sure, a mother doesn’t want to believe her daughter committed suicide, but it makes me wonder if the ice was a factor, if it really was a “spur of the moment” act, and not premeditation.
29. Strike has taken some inquires about his paternity thus far in stride, but it seems he has a boiling point. Did you blame him for being abrupt to that neighbor at his nephew’s birthday party? Do you think you could handle the constant intrusion into your personal life, if you were famous famous – or rather, infamous?
30. What did you make of the DVD? Whatever was that first guy pulling out to examine? Do you think the two runners were friends? Was the guy who got on the bus – wearing a stylized GS hoodie – somehow connected to Guy Somé, or was that logo just a red herring? Remember, where Somé lives is within walking distance of Lulu’s home. Did they seek refuge there, and that is why they couldn’t be found on any surveillance cameras?
31. Derrick Wilson gave up Rochelle Onifade’s name readily enough; however, he put off Strike from coming around, because Mister Bestigui is around a lot. Strike needs to talk with Mr. B; think he’ll seek him out in his home turf?
32. Well, Strike opened up a little and told Robin about the “Death Threat Client.” Did you laugh? Or do you think he ought to take this guy a little more seriously?
33. Did you like the scene in the Vashti boutique? Seems like Robin’s a natural born actress. What stood out to me:
a) I loved the phrase “ostentatious ugliness” and laughed over Robin “ruthlessly sacrificing her fictional sister-in-law’s figure.”34. Well, after that interview with Tony Landry, now I suspect him in the death of Charlie Landry!! Comments.
b) Just a wild thought, but maybe Robin taking a job with human resources in the West End, might get some further connections or information for Strike. Maybe I’m barking up the wrong tree; she doesn’t really want to leave.
c) Despite what the shop girls believe, I’m beginning to think it wasn’t Evan Duffield Lulu was on the phone with when she was in the dressing tent there the day before she died. Who do you think it was: Evan Duffield, Tony Landry, or someone else entirely?
d) Strike was attracted to Robin in the slinky green dress, but he remained a gentleman. I don’t think her actions were intentionally seductive. Comments.
27. What do you make of Lulu leaving everything to her brother, John Bristow?Interesting . If that means she has left everything in her will to her brother then she's been thinking about dying and what Mrs.B heard means that Lula already had left everything to her brother and the killer wasn't happy about it. but it just doesn't add up for me.It must be something else
28. How about Lady Bristow’s belief it was simply an accident, due to slippery ice? Sure, a mother doesn’t want to believe her daughter committed suicide, but it makes me wonder if the ice was a factor, if it really was a “spur of the moment” act, and not premeditation.
It could be a spur of the moment but then there is the fact that nobody saw the killer going in so it this part must have been deliberate !
29. Strike has taken some inquires about his paternity thus far in stride, but it seems he has a boiling point. Did you blame him for being abrupt to that neighbor at his nephew’s birthday party? Do you think you could handle the constant intrusion into your personal life, if you were famous famous – or rather, infamous?
I think he had every right to say what he said. I usually don't like personal question from stranger .I don't think I could handle that life style
30. What did you make of the DVD? Whatever was that first guy pulling out to examine? Do you think the two runners were friends? Was the guy who got on the bus – wearing a stylized GS hoodie – somehow connected to Guy Somé, or was that logo just a red herring? Remember, where Somé lives is within walking distance of Lulu’s home. Did they seek refuge there, and that is why they couldn’t be found on any surveillance cameras?
Some lives near by but I don't think he would wear something from his "Ready to wear "line which is the cheaper line.
I thought what he pulled out could be that blue paper Lula passed to someone . and the way that scene was described I don't think they are friends
31. Derrick Wilson gave up Rochelle Onifade’s name readily enough; however, he put off Strike from coming around, because Mister Bestigui is around a lot. Strike needs to talk with Mr. B; think he’ll seek him out in his home turf?
Hmm I doubt it. I don't think Mr.B is the kind of person who would answer his questions if Strike surprise him
32. Well, Strike opened up a little and told Robin about the “Death Threat Client.” Did you laugh? Or do you think he ought to take this guy a little more seriously?
Yeah I don't think anything good will come out of this . and I thought the wife sounded crazy and the husband even crazier!
33. Did you like the scene in the Vashti boutique? Seems like Robin’s a natural born actress. What stood out to me:
a) I loved the phrase “ostentatious ugliness” and laughed over Robin “ruthlessly sacrificing her fictional sister-in-law’s figure.”
I liked this too
b) Just a wild thought, but maybe Robin taking a job with human resources in the West End, might get some further connections or information for Strike. Maybe I’m barking up the wrong tree; she doesn’t really want to leave.
I don't think she would leave
c) Despite what the shop girls believe, I’m beginning to think it wasn’t Evan Duffield Lulu was on the phone with when she was in the dressing tent there the day before she died. Who do you think it was: Evan Duffield, Tony Landry, or someone else entirely?
I'm sure it wasn't Duffield , I think it was the runner ,the one with the hoodie or the killer .There is a small chance that they are the same.
d) Strike was attracted to Robin in the slinky green dress, but he remained a gentleman. I don’t think her actions were intentionally seductive. Comments.
No it wasn't and she was uncomfortable after that , she thought she had crossed a line
34. Well, after that interview with Tony Landry, now I suspect him in the death of Charlie Landry!! Comments.
Huh me too! and he's gone up a notch on my list of suspects
@ ShoSho#27 – I agree.
#28 – Good point. Unless there is another reason they didn’t want to be seen. A married man?
#29 – Yes, my very younger self thought it would be need to be loved by the masses, but now I realize I’m not suited for the fishbowl. While I like to go out and socialize, I’m also a bit of a hermit at times. I think this would push me to be a complete hermit. Plus, the paparazzi seem so much more intrusive now. Dangerously so.
#30 – I didn’t think it was Guy Somé, himself. I was thinking it might be someone who works for him.
#31 – Hmmmm…
#32 – LMBO! Really.
#33 – Good Gravy Beans! Now you’re making me wonder if the runner was in the flat when Lulu was pushed, and isn’t the killer, but a witness!
#34 – I know! I keep putting a new person on the “top of the list.” LOL!
@Lisa Kay#30 you could be right.
#33 what if the runner was there for Mrs.B ?either her dealer or a lover? I think he could be a witness too.
ShoSho wrote: "#33 what if the runner was there for Mrs.B ?either her dealer or a lover? I think he could be a witness too."Oh! I like that. And they weren't in her (Mrs. B's) flat, but somewhere where they could see and hear better.
Ok I'm behind as usual. Had friends over and drank too much wine this weekend to do any reading! Anyway back with it this afternoon when they have gone. Here are my answers to the first part.1. I don't like Carter one bit. I imagine him as an older man who just wants to get to his retirement. I think Wardle seems to be spot on - he goes to look for the ambulance which is fair enough. carter is making a snap judgement but there does seem to be some evidence which suggests it may not be a suicide - the scream for one thing. It is convenient that the boyfriend has gone to rehab.
2. I don't think we know enough about Robin yet but I wonder if her life is really boring, perhaps her boyfriend is not as exciting as he seemed in the first bit. Perhaps she enjoys the adventure of being in a PI office. Hopefully we'll find out more about her life.
3. Strike seems to have a lot on his plate and for some reason I like him. I don't know why as he's really unprofessional and happy to drink alone during a working day.
4. The writing style is easy to understand and follow. I like it so far.
5. It all seems a bit obvious at the moment, although I don't think it's got anything to do with the boyfriend. But if the evidence is so clear surely the police would have investigated it already?
Questions for Part 3 / Chp. 01-05
27. What do you make of Lula leaving everything to her brother, John Bristow?
If that’s true I’m not really surprised by it, who else could she have left it? I don’t think her friends were trustworthy and I think she didn’t have anyone else to leave her money.
28. How about Lady Bristow’s belief it was simply an accident, due to slippery ice? Sure, a mother doesn’t want to believe her daughter committed suicide, but it makes me wonder if the ice was a factor, if it really was a “spur of the moment” act, and not premeditation.
I don’t know, why not come forward if it was an accident that would have been easily proven. Also the police did search the apartment and would have found ice on the balcony if it was there.
29. Strike has taken some inquires about his paternity thus far in stride, but it seems he has a boiling point. Did you blame him for being abrupt to that neighbor at his nephew’s birthday party? Do you think you could handle the constant intrusion into your personal life, if you were famous famous – or rather, infamous?
I don’t blame him, it’s not her business she was just being snoopy, I probably would have reacted the same. I think that’s why he likes Robin so much, she doesn’t ask him about his personal business, only if it affects her. I know I wouldn’t be able to handle the intrusion, if you want to be famous than you know that going into it, but in Strikes case he never asked for it and they should just leave him alone.
30. What did you make of the DVD? Whatever was that first guy pulling out to examine? Do you think the two runners were friends? Was the guy who got on the bus – wearing a stylized GS hoodie – somehow connected to Guy Somé, or was that logo just a red herring? Remember, where Somé lives is within walking distance of Lulu’s home. Did they seek refuge there, and that is why they couldn’t be found on any surveillance cameras?
I’m not sure connected to Guy Somé, the guy’s wearing his designs. But I think it may prove a connection to Lula, ever seen car thieves wear designer outfits? I think they may be connected to Deeby Macc, the writing on the back of the jacket suggest personalized outfits like the entourage of a pop, rock, hiphop star might wear during a tour.
31. Derrick Wilson gave up Rochelle Onifade’s name readily enough; however, he put off Strike from coming around, because Mister Bestigui is around a lot. Strike needs to talk with Mr. B; think he’ll seek him out in his home turf?
I think he is capable of doing that, especially because Mr.B doesn’t want to react to Robin’s constant phone calls.
32. Well, Strike opened up a little and told Robin about the “Death Threat Client.” Did you laugh? Or do you think he ought to take this guy a little more seriously?
Definitely laughed, also what followed that conversation. But he think he should give it more attention, people that tenacious might just snap and act on their threats, at least he should go to the police about it.
33. Did you like the scene in the Vashti boutique? Seems like Robin’s a natural born actress. What stood out to me:
a) I loved the phrase “ostentatious ugliness” and laughed over Robin “ruthlessly sacrificing her fictional sister-in-law’s figure.”
I loved that bit in Vashti, it showed Strike and Robin both have a great sense of humor.
b) Just a wild thought, but maybe Robin taking a job with human resources in the West End, might get some further connections or information for Strike. Maybe I’m barking up the wrong tree; she doesn’t really want to leave.
I don’t think she’ll take the HR job, she wants to stay and work for Strike.
c) Despite what the shop girls believe, I’m beginning to think it wasn’t Evan Duffield Lulu was on the phone with when she was in the dressing tent there the day before she died. Who do you think it was: Evan Duffield, Tony Landry, or someone else entirely?
I don’t think it was Evan Duffield. Tony Landry maybe, but I think it was someone else and I think that someone else may have something to do with Lula’s past before her adoption.
d) Strike was attracted to Robin in the slinky green dress, but he remained a gentleman. I don’t think her actions were intentionally seductive. Comments.
I think she didn’t want to seduce him, she just wanted to help him with the investigation.
34. Well, after that interview with Tony Landry, now I suspect him in the death of Charlie Landry!! Comments.
I’m not sure I suspect him, but I do suspect Charlie’s death may not have been an accident, people in this family do tend to tumble to their deaths.
******************************************************************************************
What I also loved in this section was Strikes interaction with his nephew, letting him unwrap his present and playing with him. It showed a caring side to Strike that I hadn’t seen coming. This also made me smile, but in a different way that with the Vashti scene.
19. Struke is lying about his personal situation because he's private and doesn't want sympathy. He conforms to CPIA out of hsbit from years working in military police. 21. Is Evan wearing the mask? who actually saw him apart from drug dealer? someone going up y he stairs, but was the mask on or off? so much info about such a bizarre thing that would draw more attention rather than put off paparazzi. something suss.
22. I think she changed out of sweaty clubbing clothes to meet someone.
25. I think tansy heard the argument and sae lulu fall but she's lying about where she was and what her husband was doing. if she couldnt recognize the mans voice did she recognize Lulu's or just assume? Was another woman saying it's too late because Lulu was already dead? But then tansy wouldn't have seen her arms flailing as she fell. Just thinking out loud. It's fun speculating when I have absolutely no idea.
also wondering about my ladies man idea, maybe more of an alcohol abuse idea now.
I am a bit late, guys, sorry. Uni started last week and I'm in my final year and lots of things to do. But I am happy I get a catch-up day (I hope I can make it!) I'm gonna answer the first set of question, then eat my lunch and read some more! I really enjoy the book so far!1. The initial crime scene gives us some glimpses about the detectives Warble and Carver. While Warble seems dealing well with the press, Carver seems eager to pronounce the death as suicide and get out of there. Do you think they rushed their conclusions? Will they cooperate with the PI investigation? It looks to me that Carver will make Strike's investigation harder.
He probably rushed, but at first sight it does seem like a suicide: famous girl with a drugs addiction.
2. Robin seems young, intelligent and way too competent to be a temp. I'm wondering why she got so excited when she found out she was working for a PI. She goes to a new job. Gets bumped, twice, is hurt in the process, and still does her job. No reactions to Strike's behavior. No thoughts about it, nothing. Isn't that weird?
So far I really like Robin and it's easier to relate to her because I'd be just as excited to work for a PI!
3. Thoughts about Strike? He runs over Robin, calls her Sandra, is more preoccupied with Charlotte's outbursts than the case and the image he's passing... not a professional one.
I think he's having a hard time with the breakup, being homeless and all that Jazz. I do like that he apologized for the name thing and that he appreciated Robin for being very resourceful.
4. What do you think about the writing style and the changes of POV between Robin and Strike?
I love it! It makes it easier to understand both of them better.
5. And how about the case? The "evidence" compiled by the brother? The retelling of events doesn't strike nothing unusual. Any guesses?
At first I thought it was the brother's wife or girlfriend (is her his wife?) but now I think she's a red herring. I don't know, she seems obvious. And I thought she did it because all the family paid so much attention to Lula. Now I think it's too soon to say who did it. Did this ever happen to you, guys? To suspect someone but at the same time to not suspect them because they seem the perfect suspect? Oh, I just have to wait and see.
@ ClareNeat that you enjoyed your friends!
#1 – I agree about the scream… and Carter, of course. Jerk.
#2 – I think private investigations has always had an alluring mystic about it, for her.
#3 – I’m liking Strike, too.
#4 – I love JKR’s writing style.
#5 – **shrugs** Maybe they were too overworked, or didn’t care that much.
@ Imke#27 – I agree; it didn’t strike me as odd.
#28 – Maybe. Have we had any scene of the incident/photos of the balcony yet? I don’t think so.
#29 – I agree completely about why Strike like Robin.
#30 – Ah! You could very well be right about them being connected with Deeby Macc. Good one.
#32 – I laughed, too.
#33a – Yes, it was full of humor and cleverness.
#33c – Oh, interesting. I like this theory.
Yes, loved the seeing that side of Spike, too. I’m really enjoying the depth of this character.
@ Renee#21 – I agree; who was really under the wolf’s mask and it really only drew more attention.
#22 – Good point about the sweat.
#25 – It is definitely fun to speculate! LOL!
@ Andreea#2 – I would be excited, too, especially about a murder case, as opposed to just checking on a spouse suspected of cheating.
#5 – Alison is John Bristow’s girl-friend. Yes, she goes up and down on my suspect list. LOL!
Lisa Kay wrote: "#5 – Alison is John Bristow’s girl-friend. Yes, she goes up and down on my suspect list. LOL!"I still have her on my list because the same thing happened last month with the Agatha Christie book!
Andreea wrote: "I still have her on my list because the same thing happened last month with the Agatha Christie book!"Yes, I was thinking the same thing. LOL!
Questions for Part 2 / Chapters 8 - 11 19. Strike is lying to his sister, Lucy, about his relationship with Charlotte and his business; is this more for her benefit or his? Will it backfire on him? Yet he conforms to the Criminal Procedure and Investigation Act. Comments.
I think Strike is a pretty decent guy so will follow most of the ‘rules’ but he can’t be bothered with the hassle and fuss his family will make over his failed relationship (especially since it seems like it’s always been pretty rocky). I think that’s fair enough. People are often very different when you get to know them professionally and personally.
20. Just a comment: Jonny Rokeby, aging rocker, is having his lawyer hassle Strike for money he borrowed?! I see a “Father of the Year” award there.
Yeah, the guy is a bit of an idiot from what I can tell. Poor Strike.
21. What is your opinion about Evan Duffield’s use of a wolf mask and how it plays into avoiding the paparazzi, the storyline, and his focus as a suspect? Yet, he wore no wolf mask when he visited Lulu’s mother. Comments.
I think Evan wears it to get more attention from the press and his ‘fans’. I haven’t ruled him out as a suspect and I think he is definitely a dodgy character but he isn’t at the top of my suspect list.
22. Why do you think Lulu changed into that outfit by Guy Somé the night of her death? Is it possible someone else changed her into it?
Maybe it was him in her flat. Maybe she just liked it and wanted to put on something clean after clubbing. Guy has recently moved up my suspect list but I am holding out hope for him still being a good guy.
25. Do you believe, like Strike, that Tansy Bestigui was telling the truth about hearing Lulu’s argument with a man immediately before her death? If so, she had to be somewhere else other than her bathroom, right? Any guesses to the logistics of this?
I think she did hear it but I think Tansy is a really nosey neighbour and probably had her ear pressed up against Lula’s flat door.
26. Did anything stand out to you in Strike’s interview with Tansy Bestigui? For me it was:
a) Alison is obsessed with Tony, John Bristow’s handsome uncle.
Alison worries me. I think she’s having an affair with Tony and they both planned to kill Lula. They are currently my top suspects (although my list changes almost every chapter).
b) Freddie Bestigui wanted to do a film of Lulu’s life! Comments.
I think this guy just wants to make money and he thought this was an easy way to do it whilst getting to gawk at an attractive woman all day (perhaps with the hopes of getting something more than friendship from her).
d) Why wouldn’t Tansy make eye contact with Strike when she said her husband had been asleep?
She didn’t know where he had been because she’d had her ear pressed up against her neighbour’s door for the 30mins previous.
6.Who is this “ordinary girl” that was in rehab with Lulu? Will she be found? Be of help? Have any insight into Lulu’s state of mind?I hope she'll help the investigation.
7.Did anyone in the funeral pictures or videos grab your attention? Is there significance in Deeby Macc sending that particular flower arrangement? Impressions of him?
Well he is on my suspect list. Not sure he did it, but I think he was in the building at the time of the crime and the driver might have let him since he had access and he seems to love stars so much.
8.Strike’s worries about Charlotte (if he returned for his things) were a bit appalling, right? Or would you use another word?
I am really curious about what happened between those two!.
9.What of the evidence of no ‘foreign DNA’ in Lulu’s apartment? Did they miss something? Or did someone just clean-up really well?
I think it was someone close to her. So it probably wasn't her brother's "runner".
10.Interesting effect Robin’s engagement ring has as a “STOP” sign to Strike and in increasing his comfort with her. Comments. Yet he hasn’t told her about his leg and how he lost it. Will he?
He probably will and they'll probably become close friends. I am not sure about romance or anything like that.
11.What of the neighbors, the Bestiguis? Does Freddie Bestigui’s profession of film producer pique you suspicions?
At this point everyone seems suspicious. I think Mrs. Bestiguis is right about hearing someone in Lula's apartment.
12.Was someone already in Lulu’s apartment? Was the doorman, Derrick Wilson, paid off to look the other way, or did someone just gain access during that quarter hour? What of the back alley, Serf’s Way?
I think someone was already in her apartment. You can't really plan that the doorman is gonna have diarrhea, can you?
13.Oh! What of Matthew jealousy? He is right, though; Strike is a little weird. True?
Matthew annoys me. He should be supportive of Robin. Plus, she really likes her temp job!
14.Rock Star Jonny Rokeby is Strike’s father? Comments. How did you feel about Strike’s interaction with Mrs. Hook and his and Robin’s handling of her?
All I can say is that Robin is really awesome!
15.Well, I was pretty sure Robin would somehow continue to work for Strike. You? Do you think she’ll take another permanent job, or continue to work for him?
Hihi! Me too! I hope she stays forever!
16.Do you buy Derrick Wilson’s reasoning for not taking a weapon up to the apartment? What of his suspicions of Evan Duffield, Lulu’s boyfriend? Your impression of Wilson?
Everyone seems so sketchy right now. And I still have 300 pages more to read and figure things out...
17.Also, it sounds like there were a lot of places someone could have hidden, until they made their escape later. Right? Are the knocked-over vase and flowers – and the problems that arose later because of that – anything to focus on? And the security alarms just happened to be serviced that day? Suspicious, right?
A lot of suspicious things happened that day! Hwe driver is busy with Deeby, the doorman is changed, the security alarms, more paparazzi than ever (well, that's because of Deeby). I don't think these are simple coincidences. Maybe they are all in this together? Ah, that's crazy, right?
18.Kieran Kolovas-Jones, Lulu’s main driver, was chauffeuring for Deeby Macc that night. He also didn’t like Duffield. And he auditioned for Freddie Bestigui. Anything else stand out to you in Strike’s interview with him?
He likes to brag...
#27 - It makes sense for her to leave everything to her brother. It's kind of weird she felt the need to draw a will, in the first place.
#28 - The police should have mentioned the ice. Maybe the whole accident idea was Lady Bristow's way of coping with the incident.
#29 - That mom was out of line, asking such private questions.
#30 - There is something fishy about the runner, with his Guy Some jacket. Maybe he is somehow related to the designer?
#31 - Maybe Strike will make a sudden visit there as a last resort. I hope he finds Rochelle and gets some answers out of her.
#32 - I think too that Strike should go to the police. That nutter is sure persevering and he might try to hurt Strike.
#33 - Haha, the scene in Vashti is so much fun. Robin is really amazing and I do hope we'll see more of her. I don't think she realized that it was inappropriate to show herself in such a tight dress, she just got carried on.
c - I believe it was someone else on the phone. Maybe someone connected to her before she became a model. The phone logs should shed some light on this matter.
#34 - Tony Landry is kind of suspicious too, but it may be because he's trying to protect his firm's image that would be somewhat damaged if the press finds out his nephew hired a PI. I do wonder why Lula was calling him that day, maybe she wanted help with something.
#28 - The police should have mentioned the ice. Maybe the whole accident idea was Lady Bristow's way of coping with the incident.
#29 - That mom was out of line, asking such private questions.
#30 - There is something fishy about the runner, with his Guy Some jacket. Maybe he is somehow related to the designer?
#31 - Maybe Strike will make a sudden visit there as a last resort. I hope he finds Rochelle and gets some answers out of her.
#32 - I think too that Strike should go to the police. That nutter is sure persevering and he might try to hurt Strike.
#33 - Haha, the scene in Vashti is so much fun. Robin is really amazing and I do hope we'll see more of her. I don't think she realized that it was inappropriate to show herself in such a tight dress, she just got carried on.
c - I believe it was someone else on the phone. Maybe someone connected to her before she became a model. The phone logs should shed some light on this matter.
#34 - Tony Landry is kind of suspicious too, but it may be because he's trying to protect his firm's image that would be somewhat damaged if the press finds out his nephew hired a PI. I do wonder why Lula was calling him that day, maybe she wanted help with something.
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27. At first I didn't think this was ood, but when I read this question I have given it more thought. Why not anything to her mother? Or her birth family who are apparently poor? Maybe I'm reading too much into this, but it seems a little strange
28. So this is where I don't think we've been given the "nitty gritty" info as I know from being an armchair detective that cops can work out if it is more likely someone jumped or was thrown/pushed. I wonder if this was inconclusive?
29. It must be VERY annoying especially when they are estranged. I don't blame him for reacting like that
30. The two runners must be connected. I wondered if he was looking at his phone, but I guess the light from that would've shown on the video? Something is up with that Guy Some felow.
31. I want to speak to Mr B too! I think he will be forced to use less subtle methods to talk to him
32. That is a wacky story, but I am surprised he hasn't reported it. He really should!
33. Yeah, Robin was great. She won't take the other job as she enjoys this too much :) I think his reaction was a natural one, and she didn't realise until after the fact that she was a bit too much in character at that point! I thought they both handled the situation relatively well
34. Yeah, what a guy! There must be more to charlie's death...
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Other comments
- I agree with Imke about the scene with Strike and his nephew. I hadn't expected him to be like that seeing that he didn't seem so interested in him. It was a nice moment
- What about all those phone calls? How weird is it that she was calling them back and forth and neither claim to know why and the uncle just didn't bother even texting her to ask? Something fishy there
Questions for Part 3 / Chp. 01-05 27. What do you make of Lulu leaving everything to her brother, John Bristow?
It didn't seem like she had a lot of family who really liked her. If you don't have kids or a husband, a sibling makes sense.
28. How about Lady Bristow’s belief it was simply an accident, due to slippery ice? Sure, a mother doesn’t want to believe her daughter committed suicide, but it makes me wonder if the ice was a factor, if it really was a “spur of the moment” act, and not premeditation.
Maybe the mother was there! I forgot if they mentioned if the window/door was broken that she fell out of, but if it was ice then she must have been outside on a balcony... who goes outside in freezing cold weather?
29. Strike has taken some inquires about his paternity thus far in stride, but it seems he has a boiling point. Did you blame him for being abrupt to that neighbor at his nephew’s birthday party? Do you think you could handle the constant intrusion into your personal life, if you were famous famous – or rather, infamous?
I'd probably be annoyed enough by then. To constantly have to tell people that your real dad doesn't want anything to do with you and you've barley met would wear on anyone.
30. What did you make of the DVD? Whatever was that first guy pulling out to examine? Do you think the two runners were friends? Was the guy who got on the bus – wearing a stylized GS hoodie – somehow connected to Guy Somé, or was that logo just a red herring? Remember, where Somé lives is within walking distance of Lulu’s home. Did they seek refuge there, and that is why they couldn’t be found on any surveillance cameras?
Maybe it was about the contract she just signed with Guy. Someone who was unhappy about losing the chance at it? Maybe the other blond she was posing with.
31. Derrick Wilson gave up Rochelle Onifade’s name readily enough; however, he put off Strike from coming around, because Mister Bestigui is around a lot. Strike needs to talk with Mr. B; think he’ll seek him out in his home turf?
Maybe he'll ambush him somewhere, he doesn't seem shy but they also might not let him into the building if he just showed up.
32. Well, Strike opened up a little and told Robin about the “Death Threat Client.” Did you laugh? Or do you think he ought to take this guy a little more seriously?
I did laugh but I'd probably personally take him more seriously. If nothing else he might have already killed the wife. Then again, if the letters have been going on this long with nothing happening it might just be letters.
33. Did you like the scene in the Vashti boutique? Seems like Robin’s a natural born actress. What stood out to me:
a) I loved the phrase “ostentatious ugliness” and laughed over Robin “ruthlessly sacrificing her fictional sister-in-law’s figure.”
She seemed to really get into the moment. It's a turning point for her in what she really wants to do with her life.
b) Just a wild thought, but maybe Robin taking a job with human resources in the West End, might get some further connections or information for Strike. Maybe I’m barking up the wrong tree; she doesn’t really want to leave.
I think it's going to be the cause of her and Matthew breaking up.
c) Despite what the shop girls believe, I’m beginning to think it wasn’t Evan Duffield Lulu was on the phone with when she was in the dressing tent there the day before she died. Who do you think it was: Evan Duffield, Tony Landry, or someone else entirely?
It seems unlikely. Wouldn't want too many plot twists to resolve themselves in the first half of the book.
d) Strike was attracted to Robin in the slinky green dress, but he remained a gentleman. I don’t think her actions were intentionally seductive. Comments.
I got the impression she was just having fun with things she couldn't afford in a situation she was never able to be in before.
34. Well, after that interview with Tony Landry, now I suspect him in the death of Charlie Landry!! Comments.
All the family seems real concerned with shutting down the investigation. If I was a family member I'd probably just speak with both of them and have everyone agree that if what was found was that she committed suicide then that's what would be accepted. Sometimes people just need more proof. The fact that they're so concerned over shutting it down quickly leads me to believe their part of it.
@ Victoria#21 – Oh, very true. Well said. It is the paparazzi he’s flirting with.
#25 – Yes, a definite possible, as she seems the type.
#26 – Oh! A twosome. Interesting.
#26b – Ah. A lecher.
@ Andreea#7 – Yes, I’m pretty sure he was in the building, too.
#8 – Yes, I’m ready to find out.
#12 – Well, so readers are speculating that his drink was tampered with.
#14 – Yes, I like Robin a lot, too.
#17 – Sort of like Murder on the Orient Express? LOL! Maybe.
@ Cristina#27 – I think it is only the responsible thing to do, if you have that kind of money, no matter how young you are.
#30 – Yeah, something is going on there.
#34 – Yeah, I really want to know why Lulu was trying to reach Tony, too. And Evan Duffield; are those two up to something together?
@ Karen#27 – Now, see, I didn’t think it was weird that she didn’t leave anything to her mother, as her mother is dying.
#28 – Yes, usually they can figure it out from the angle of the fall.
#30 – I didn’t know if it was a phone, or something he stole.
Yes, why alternating between Tony and Evan with the phone calls?
Nothing But Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
The Cuckoo's Calling (other topics)The Silkworm (other topics)
Rebecca (other topics)
Rebecca (other topics)
The Cuckoo's Calling (other topics)
Authors mentioned in this topic
Robert Galbraith (other topics)Robert Galbraith (other topics)
J.K. Rowling (other topics)
I really liked Strike as a character. I think that his experiences made him little rough with people, but all in all he seemed devoted to his work, very thorough and meticulous. His attitude towards Robin changed in the course of action, and I think that they are a good team. Robin's relationship with Matthew is a little bit "conventional" to my taste (his jelousy is a little bit of cliche, but I understand it is to show Strike and Robin's relation fully). Still, I think that Strike is a very well-structured character with interesting background story and many opportunities to develop in the next installments (the same with Robin and their professional relation - I don't think there will be any other type)
When it comes to the case, there are so many different hints, it was difficult for me to follow all of them and at some point I just gave up detective work and flowed with the events :)