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The Cuckoo's Calling (Cormoran Strike, #1)
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Previous BRs - Authors; E - H > Galbraith, Robert (J.K Rowling): The Cuckoo's Calling - Start Date October 2, 2013 (October 2013 Adult Anything Goes)

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Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Yes, Andreea, but we all understand University comes first.

That said... Did you start? Did you start? LOL!


message 302: by Andreea (last edited Oct 16, 2013 01:20PM) (new) - rated it 4 stars

Andreea (magicb) | 0 comments Questions for Part 2 / Chapters 8 - 11
19. I think he doesn't want to admit all of his failures in front of someone else.

20. I am curious how all these parts of Strike's past and issues with family will play out in the end. I am really interested in the murder, to be honest.

21. I don't know... a guy with a wolf mask attracts attention, doesn't avoid it. Maybe it wasn't Duffield under the mask.

22. Or maybe she was heading somewhere else? I don't see why the killer would bother to change her clothes... unless the designer payed him to do so? Wait, what?

23. I don't know, I just want to meet that girl - they keep talking about her, she must play an important part, right?

24. Not really...

25. I think there is some truth in what she's saying. But it's hard to believe her because they don't really add up.


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! I am quite curious about this... and I guess where gonna meet Tony too, right?
c) Freddie Bestigui wanted to do a film of Lulu’s life! Comments. Her death sure plays in his advantage, right?
d) Why wouldn’t Tansy make eye contact with Strike when she said her husband had been asleep? Maybe she's trying to protect the husband she... is divorcing? Doesn't really make sense.
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. I expected this to be honest.
g) Appears Alison told Crypian May (Ursula’s husband) that Tansy was talking with Strike. There's something suspicious about Alison, isn't there?


Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments @ Andreea

#21 - Agree with you completely - and think this makes Duffield more than a bit of a dweeb.

#26c - That's what I thought! I didn't like Freddie.

#26d - Yes, something's off there.

#26e - Definitely!


Andreea (magicb) | 0 comments Lisa Kay wrote: "Yes, Andreea, but we all understand University comes first.

That said... Did you start? Did you start? LOL!"


Start the book? Yes! I just started part 3 and I will read some more until I go to sleep.
I also started Uni and I already have 4 projects to finish until the end of the month :(.


Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Four projects! Yikes.


message 306: by Becca (new) - rated it 5 stars

Becca (ladybeccaboo) Wow... 4 projects? Makes me antsy just thinking about it. Good luck!


message 307: by Clare (new) - rated it 4 stars

Clare Butler | 294 comments #41. I think Rochelle is already dead. I don't like her at all. Perhaps she thought that she would inherit?
#42. I really like Guy. I think he is really genuine. He is implying that John is gay but I don't know why John would want to hide this or why it could feature in the murder. I think the title refers to her calling to Strike when he went into her room. He felt so close to her.
#43. The interview with Guy was fascinating. I loved Strike's comments and the clothes and photos that were described
#44. I think the photos are key but I don't know who would have deleted them unless Lady Bristow is more involved than we think. Could it have been Tony. I have got no idea. It is really baffling me
#45. Ok I am totally puzzled by the link with JP Agyeman and Tony. Why would she link the two. I have to say I can't wait to find out but I am feeling a bit thick. I get the feeling I am supposed to be piecing it all together by now but I'm definitely not!
#46. The apartment scene was good. Strike seems to know who did it now. What is with the water?
#47. I really hate Strike's father. Who would do that?
#48. Would be interesting if one oft h sons was already in the picture


message 308: by Lisa Kay (last edited Oct 16, 2013 11:49PM) (new) - rated it 5 stars

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments @ Clare

#42 - Whoa. I didn't think of that. Good one.

#45 - I waxed and waned on my beliefs on this one, throughout the story.

#46 - Yeah, the water is important. I knew it from the beginning, but I didn't know why.

#48 - Oh!

DON'T Read the next comment by Sarah... it has a spoiler.


message 309: by Sarah (last edited Oct 16, 2013 11:48PM) (new) - rated it 3 stars

Sarah | 3273 comments 71. Was this your first JKR book, or were you already a fan? Sarah was a bit concerned that there was so much hype around the book. Did it change your opinion knowing this was written by JKR and not "Robert Galbraith"? Do you think the book is worth the hype?

OK - well I feel I should comment - I did enjoy reading the book - it was a nice light read that I enjoyed. But nothing that was deserving of such hype, it was a nice detective story. But was it amazing? No. Not for me. It is my first read from this author.

72. Did you like the writing style? Did JKR do a male voice convincingly?

I liked my big hairy detective with the prosthetic leg very much.

73. Final thoughts? will you read the next book in the series?

So final thought. My first thought actually was the brother did it, but my second thought was that would be stupid - it would not make any sense at all that the murderer would hire a detective to investigate a presumed suicide that had a closed case. Especially because he wasn't a suspect anyway. Then what do you know. My first thought was correct - yet it still makes no logical sense. So I enjoyed the book until the end because it just ended up being a little ridiculous. I mean, did I miss something here?


message 310: by Clare (new) - rated it 4 stars

Clare Butler | 294 comments #49. I don't like Charlotte, Strike can do a lot better than that (not Ciara!). Fancy leaving a message like that with his secretary. No wonder he reacted like he did. I hope Strike doesn't rescue her, even if she wants him to.
#50. I think her relationship with Matthew sounds a bit boring anyway. She took really good care of him didn't she and she was so efficient in the morning with the note and the things she went to investigate.
#51. I didn't pick up that she knew about the blue note. But no one else seems to?
#52. I think Ciara has a bit of a big mouth
#53. I'm not sure about Lady Bristow. On the one hand I reckon that she could be being over protective but on the other, if your daughter was involved with the life she was, I think I would be a bit protective too.
#54. I didn't get the link between Owusu and Guy. How old is Guy? Is he old enough to be her father? Is he white? Therefore I suppose he could be her brother but how would that link in with the murder? Perhaps he was being protective and so wanted to attack Evan and something went wrong?
#55. They mention these all the time. The only link I can see is that the water could have come out of the vase of flowers but why would it be up in her room?
#56. I can't stand Evan. He is horrible. He seems like one of these people that people pretend to like because he is famous but can't stand underneath. I think he is putting on all the emotion about Lula.
#57. The photos of he two of the. Could be a disaster for Strike and Robin, I think she is going to be really annoyed. I hope Charlotte sees them!


Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments @ Clare

#54 - I was puzzled by that, too.

#56 - Yes, I'm thinking he's just popular because of his looks... but he has no substance. Everything he felt about Lulu was in relation to him.

#57 - LOL!


message 312: by Clare (new) - rated it 4 stars

Clare Butler | 294 comments I've finished it! I had to leave the penultimate questions because it got too exciting and I just couldn't stop!
#68. It did feel very much like a Poirot book where everyone comes together at the end. I really liked how there were no loose ends.
#69. I didn't mark down any quotes so I will do that next time
#70. It was very classic detective story with the characters of Strike and Robin. But that doesn't mean it wasn't good. There is a lot to be said for classic!
#71. This was my first JKR book. I have not read any of the HP books so I have nothing to compare with but I thought her writing was good. It was worth reading. If I hadn't have done this reading group I don't think I would have read it though particular as The Casual Vacancy got such poor reviews.
#72. I liked the writing style. I can't say whether it was masculine or not. I think I would have predicted a female writer if I didn't know beforehand.
#73. I would definitely read the next one. Can we do it in the reading group?

Thank you all for a great discussion. Particular thanks to Lisa Kay who kept commenting on my posts even though I was far behind!!


Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments @ Clare

#69 - Yes, I could read it again and mark the quotes, too.

#70 - I concur!

#73 - Sounds good! Too bad we have to wait till next year.

Aww... I didn't mind, Clare. Loved this book. I couldn't stop when I got near the end, either.


message 314: by Karen ⊰✿, Fiction Aficionado (new) - rated it 4 stars

Karen ⊰✿ | 16593 comments Mod
It is so hard to stop reading Claire! I'm glad you enjoyed it. I can't wait for book 2 either :)


message 315: by Andreea (last edited Oct 20, 2013 02:44PM) (new) - rated it 4 stars

Andreea (magicb) | 0 comments Questions for Part 3 / Chp. 01-05

27. I wasn't too surprised since he seems to be the only to care about her...

29. I think the neighbor has rather impolite. If it was me... well let's just say I am good at ignoring everything, including rude people.

30. I was thinking that maybe (by the way, I finished the entire part 3 before answering) Some was mad because she didn't work just for him and maybe he was losing her and losing money and fame so he paid guys to kill her and dress her in his creations for publicity. But I am not too sure about this theory, it seems pretty weak.

32. I think he doesn't take them too seriously and he probably should - maybe in a sequel they'll play a big part.

33. I love Robin. I just love her!
c) I think it was the rapper... forgot his name. Or maybe her uncle...

34. Of Charlie's? That's interesting, it didn't even occur to me. Guess I didn't pay enough attention to those scenes.

Questions for Part 3 / Chp. 06-10

37. I loved him. I think it's pretty awesome that Strike has not only a Robin (if you know what I mean) but also a cool techy guy.

38. I think she likes drama... and when she gets bored she needs more drama and maybe she creates it herself. Just a theory.

39. I think she knows more and maybe she is afraid to tell more... like, she tries to look fierce and strong, but she might be scared.

40. I hope they'll be alright soon. And... I love Robin - and I think this is my third of fourth time I say this.


Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments @ Andreea

#33 - I certainly bounced around with who I thought was the killer, but Deeby Macc, the rapper, was always pretty high on my list.

#37 - As in Robin & Batman?

#40 - Yes, ♥Robin, too.


message 317: by Andreea (last edited Oct 22, 2013 07:40AM) (new) - rated it 4 stars

Andreea (magicb) | 0 comments Lisa Kay wrote: "#37 - As in Robin & Batman?"

Exactly!

She is just so great at her job and she seems to love what she's doing. I just hope he'll hire her FOREVER and that she won't listen to her boyfriend...


message 318: by Karen ⊰✿, Fiction Aficionado (new) - rated it 4 stars

Karen ⊰✿ | 16593 comments Mod
JKR speaks at Harvard Commencement:
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=wHGqp8lz...


Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Whoa. Great speech, Karen.


message 320: by Karen ⊰✿, Fiction Aficionado (new) - rated it 4 stars

Karen ⊰✿ | 16593 comments Mod
Isn't she fab?! I posted it to the main page as our vids there were from a month or so ago


Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments I didn't notice it then. **duh!**


message 322: by Karen ⊰✿, Fiction Aficionado (new) - rated it 4 stars

Karen ⊰✿ | 16593 comments Mod
lol, no I posted it there after I posted here. :)


message 323: by Karen ⊰✿, Fiction Aficionado (new) - rated it 4 stars

Karen ⊰✿ | 16593 comments Mod
Book 2 is due out in June :D
http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/b...

The Silkworm (Cormoran Strike, #2) by Robert Galbraith


message 324: by Steven (new) - rated it 4 stars

Steven (gallifreyan1218) | 5272 comments Kind of excited. Book one was a little slow, but I really loved Robin and Cormoran, so I'll read book two!


message 325: by Sarah (new) - rated it 3 stars

Sarah | 3273 comments I will probably read this one - I loved Cormoran - my sexy hairy beast.


message 326: by Karen ⊰✿, Fiction Aficionado (new) - rated it 4 stars

Karen ⊰✿ | 16593 comments Mod
Lol!


message 327: by Karen ⊰✿, Fiction Aficionado (new) - rated it 4 stars

Karen ⊰✿ | 16593 comments Mod
Book 2 has been released :D
https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/tit...


Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Yay! Too bad I have company coming for the week-end tomorrow.


message 329: by Steven (new) - rated it 4 stars

Steven (gallifreyan1218) | 5272 comments I wants the preshusssss! :)


message 330: by Karen ⊰✿, Fiction Aficionado (new) - rated it 4 stars

Karen ⊰✿ | 16593 comments Mod
Teehee


message 331: by Steven (new) - rated it 4 stars

Steven (gallifreyan1218) | 5272 comments I gots the preshussssss! But I have like 8 things on my reading plan first *sigh*


message 332: by Karen ⊰✿, Fiction Aficionado (new) - rated it 4 stars

Karen ⊰✿ | 16593 comments Mod
oh then now to make choices!


message 333: by Lauren (new) - rated it 4 stars

Lauren (laurenjberman) OK, so I've started reading and so far so good. I like Strike although he certainly needs to go on a diet!


message 334: by Karen ⊰✿, Fiction Aficionado (new) - rated it 4 stars

Karen ⊰✿ | 16593 comments Mod
hahaha

Enjoy Lauren :) Such a good series


ShoSho  (shoshost) | 446 comments Lauren wrote: "OK, so I've started reading and so far so good. I like Strike although he certainly needs to go on a diet!"

I loved Strike and his pubic hair :D


message 336: by Sheila (last edited Oct 29, 2014 02:42PM) (new) - rated it 3 stars

Sheila (sheilaj) Finally getting around to this one.

The Cuckoo's Calling (Cormoran Strike, #1) by Robert Galbraith The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith

Prologue-Part 1 / Chp. 01-07 001-053

Comments and questions for Prologue-Part 1/ Chp. 01-07

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.

Yes they did rush it imho. I would imagine that any kind of high profile crime is a major pain to those trying to investigate. Calling it a suicide made it quick and easy for the cops to unload this one

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?

Maybe she has read a lot of mysteries and the thought of being part of 1 is exciting for her

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.

Not sure on this one yet. He is probably very cynical

4. What do you think about the writing style and the changes of POV between Robin and Strike?

I like it, although you have to pay attention as to who is thinking what.

5. And how about the case? The "evidence" compiled by the brother? The retelling of events doesn't strike nothing unusual. Any guesses?

too early. Not sure if the brother is just hopeful or what


message 337: by Lauren (new) - rated it 4 stars

Lauren (laurenjberman) ShoSho wrote: "Lauren wrote: "OK, so I've started reading and so far so good. I like Strike although he certainly needs to go on a diet!"

I loved Strike and his pubic hair :D"


Lol! I can empathize with him because my hair is curly too and I try everything to get it to stay straight. My mother used to iron her hair when she was a teenager!


message 338: by Lauren (new) - rated it 4 stars

Lauren (laurenjberman) Lauren's comments and questions for Prologue-Part 1/ Chp. 01-07

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.

From what I've seen in the news, the police often seem to jump to conclusions and try to make the evidence fit the crime in the way they want it to. Carver and Warble are no different - they want it to be a suicide so they see it that way and don't try too hard to see anything else. I'm sure they will investigate, but have to wonder how much effort they will really put into it.

At this point, I don't think we know enough about them to say whether or not they will be a help or a hindrance. The police don't really like PIs, so I'm going with the latter.


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?

Robin comes across as a small town girl in the big city for the first time. She is also quite awestruck with Strike and his profession - its sweet!

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.

Strike seems to be at a crossroads in his life. He is preoccupied with his personal problems and needs to decide how to continue with his life - perhaps this case is going to be a turning point for him.

4. What do you think about the writing style and the changes of POV between Robin and Strike?

I like the alternating POVs - its interesting to see the way that Strike and Robin see each other and the other characters they encounter.

5. And how about the case? The "evidence" compiled by the brother? The retelling of events doesn't strike nothing unusual. Any guesses?

John Bristow is a strange duck! I understand why he wouldn't want his sister to have committed suicide, but he seems to be grasping at straws. That said, this is a mystery so I'm assuming that there is going to be something strange about Lula's death and we just don't know what it is yet.


message 339: by Lauren (last edited Oct 30, 2014 12:04AM) (new) - rated it 4 stars

Lauren (laurenjberman) @Sheila

#1. Exactly. By calling it a suicide, they also don't have to deal with any negative fallout from not being able to catch a celebrity's killer.

#2. A wannabe Nancy Drew :0)

Any ideas on why Strike broke up with Charlotte (for good this time)? I think that she may have had an abortion and lied about it.


message 340: by Sheila (new) - rated it 3 stars

Sheila (sheilaj) @Lauren, I don't know what the deal with Charlotte and Strike is yet, but it will be interesting to find out.


message 341: by Karen ⊰✿, Fiction Aficionado (new) - rated it 4 stars

Karen ⊰✿ | 16593 comments Mod
ShoSho wrote: "Lauren wrote: "OK, so I've started reading and so far so good. I like Strike although he certainly needs to go on a diet!"

I loved Strike and his pubic hair :D"


teehee!


message 342: by Sheila (new) - rated it 3 stars

Sheila (sheilaj) Questions for Part 2 / Chapters 1 - 7

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?

--Maybe Lulu just wanted to be ordinary too. Was the girl of mixed race like Lulu?

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?

--flash in the pan

8. Strike’s worries about Charlotte (if he returned for his things) were a bit appalling, right? Or would you use another word?

--That entire relationship sounds a bit weird to me.

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 would think that there would always be DNA, so something was missed.

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?

--Maybe he has some scruples about engaged/married women and he and Robin could just be friends. I'm sure she will find out about the leg.

11. What of the neighbors, the Bestiguis? Does Freddie Bestigui’s profession of film producer pique you suspicions?

--not sure yet

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?

--It seems suspicious to me that that particular day a new guy was doing the servicing of the alarm system.

13. Oh! What of Matthew jealousy? He is right, though; Strike is a little weird. True?

--I suppose Matthew would be jealous especially if she comes home and goes on and on about her exciting new job/boss.

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?

--It almost feels like Robin has done a job similar to this before. She sure seems to be good at it for only being a temp for a week. As far as Mrs. Hook, I guess if she didn't want to know the truth she shouldn't have hired a PI. What else could CS do?

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?

--Oh yeah, she will continue to work for him somehow.

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?

--So far, I don't get a bad vibe from Wilson although I do think he was foolish in not taking a weapon.

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?

--yes, very suspicious and especially that it wasn't the regular guy.

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 seemed to want to use his job driving to "network"


message 343: by Sheila (new) - rated it 3 stars

Sheila (sheilaj) Questions for Part 2 / Chapters 8 - 11
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.

--I suppose he doesn't want to appear as a failure in his sisters eyes.

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.

--nice

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.

--How lame is that? Also how could he prove that it was or wasn't actually him and why wear it for the entire ride. What a poser.

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 she was dressing up for company?

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?

--probably both.

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)?

--I just kept thinking that NO cop would give out this kind of info to a PI.

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?

--not sure on this one. Maybe Tansy was hiding in Lula's appt.

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.

--don't know

◆ What really struck me in this section of the book is just how many people there are to keep track of. As someone who generally reads several books at a time, I have had to stop reading the others and concentrate on keeping everyone straight in this one. Has anyone else noticed this?



message 344: by Lauren (new) - rated it 4 stars

Lauren (laurenjberman) Lauren's Answers for Part 2 / Chapters 1 - 7

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?

No idea who she is but I'm sure that she will end up being important to the case. Rowling never mentions anyone for nothing

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?

I'm suspicious of him - there is more to his actions than meets the ye

8. Strike’s worries about Charlotte (if he returned for his things) were a bit appalling, right? Or would you use another word?

Charlotte seems like a complete psycho! This is not a healthy relationship

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?

"No foreign DNA" could suggest that the person who killed her was someone's whose DNA has a legitimate reason for being there - like her brother...

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?

Yes, the fact that Robin is "taken" seems to make Strike more at ease. He isn't interested in a new relationship and may have had women come on to him because of his father.

She will find out about his leg and her reaction will be interesting...


11. What of the neighbors, the Bestiguis? Does Freddie Bestigui’s profession of film producer pique you suspicions?

There is something fishy about them. Why do I always thing of producers as smarmy?

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?

This is quite a locked room mystery, isn't it? Perhaps the killer knew the code because Lula gave it to them. I don't think that Wilson was paid to look the other way but I do think he missed something. Everyone seems to be saying the killer couldn't get out by going down the stairs but perhaps he went up to the roof instead

13. Oh! What of Matthew jealousy? He is right, though; Strike is a little weird. True?

Matthew is actually annoying me. He is condescending and dismissive toward Robin and her interest in working for Strike. He should want her to be happy, no? If he loves and trusts Robin, why is he jealous and insecure?

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?

Strike's father seems like a real jerk!

Strike's interaction with Mrs. Hook was revealing - he allowed her to go off on him when she needed to vent her rage - quite chivalrous, really.


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?

Not surprised that she continued working for him and I have my doubts that she will take another job even if one is offered

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?

Wilson seemed genuinely upset about Lulu's death and his own mistake, which may have contributed to it. The lack of a weapon did not surprise me - they are not as ubiquitous in the UK as they are in the US with police and security guards. The UK had very strict gun laws

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?

Yes, the broken vase and the security alarm guy who was left alone in Lula's flat are very suspicious.

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's not the brightest penny is he? I have no doubt that Deeby could have managed to sneak past him.


message 345: by Lauren (new) - rated it 4 stars

Lauren (laurenjberman) Lauren's Answers 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'm not sure why he is lying to Lucy. Perhaps he just doesn't want to talk to anyone about the end of the relationship yet. I'm sure Lucy will find out though and she'll probably be hurt that he didn't say anything

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, a real sweetheart, isn't he?

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'm suspicious of the wolf mask - it could have been anyone under there although some people did see him that night without the mask. The whole thing is fishy

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?

I have my doubts that someone changed her - it is very difficult to dress an unconscious or dead body. Also, I think the autopsy said she died from the fall?

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?

Sounds like jealousy to me

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)?

No, if anything, my opinion of him as an attention seeking jerk was solidified. He only cares about the glory not actually solving cases

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, I do believe that Tansy heard something. I wish there was a diagram of the apartment - it would make things easier to imagine

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, it seems that John is the consolation prize for her

b) I had to laugh when Strike dared to speak to Ursula May.
Jeez, those women are self-absorned you know whats!

c) Freddie Bestigui wanted to do a film of Lulu’s life! Comments.
Very stereotypical portrayal of a slimy producer

d) Why wouldn’t Tansy make eye contact with Strike when she said her husband had been asleep?
Because she was lying and wanted to see if he realized?

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.
With friends like that who needs enemies?

The thing that stands out the most to me at this point is that Lulu was perfectly happy in the morning when she visited her mother but something happened later in the day to make her miserable so that when she met Rochelle (I think it was her) at the coffee shop she was distressed.


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Lauren (laurenjberman) @Sheila

#25 - oooh! I didn't think of that!

Yes, there are a lot of characters to keep track of and it can get confusing at times, especially the names of Lulu's friends.


message 347: by Renee (new) - rated it 5 stars

Renee (reneeconoulty) | 3309 comments This was the first BOM I did. There were lots of characters to keep track of. The DQs helped me so and think about what was going on, and keep changing my mind about who done it.


message 348: by Lauren (new) - rated it 4 stars

Lauren (laurenjberman) Renee wrote: "This was the first BOM I did. There were lots of characters to keep track of. The DQs helped me so and think about what was going on, and keep changing my mind about who done it."

I have no idea yet who done it but I have my suspects :0)


message 349: by Michelle (last edited Nov 10, 2014 09:27AM) (new) - rated it 3 stars

Michelle (govmarley) | 3150 comments Renee wrote: "This was the first BOM I did. There were lots of characters to keep track of. The DQs helped me so and think about what was going on, and keep changing my mind about who done it."

I read this a while back (not with the group) and I found the amount of characters a bit hard to sort out, and I definitely changed my mind several times about "whodunit". And I was still wrong in the end!
I definitely liked the first two books in the series. I thought book 2 was even stronger.


message 350: by Sheila (new) - rated it 3 stars

Sheila (sheilaj) Questions and comments. Part 4, chapters 14 - end

68. I loved how the mystery all came together at the end. There was just the right amount of tension and surprises thrown in. It reminded me very much of an Agatha Christie mystery. What did you think?

--I haven't read Christie but it did remind me of Mary Higgins Clark where you have several different story lines that all come together at the end and then you think NOW I get the relationship. I always think of trains on different tracks all barreling toward the same meeting spot.

69. My favourite quote from this book was in this section when Strike visited Lady Bristow:
"Her death was an almost palpable presence in the room, as though it stood waiting patiently, politely, behind the curtains."
Do you have any favourites?

--nothing stands out

70. Question adapated from LitLovers Using a hard-bitten investigator assisted by an young, ambitious "Girl Friday" is a classic detective-story trope. What were your final impressions of Strike and Robin?

--kind of like Batman Bam! Strike and Robin. A good crime fighting duo.

71. Was this your first JKR book, or were you already a fan? Sarah was a bit concerned that there was so much hype around the book. Did it change your opinion knowing this was written by JKR and not "Robert Galbraith"? Do you think the book is worth the hype?

--No, I've read all the HP books - loved them
Read Casual Vacancy - zzzzz very disappointed by it
I liked this one very much but the fact that it was JKR did influence me. A lot of time books that get lots of hype leave me kind of thinking, why? A good example of that for me currently is Gone Girl. I wasn't all that impressed by that and it has gotten lots of hype.

72. Did you like the writing style? Did JKR do a male voice convincingly?

--It was fine. Well written. No wonder critics were so impressed by this being the "first" book by Robert Galbraith. Nice mystery touch there as well by JKR. Too bad she couldn't have kept the secret hidden.

73. Final thoughts? will you read the next book in the series?

--Yep, I've already got Silkworm and much more excited about reading it. I hope to read it during the tower team challenge.



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