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The Cuckoo's Calling summary
Brief summary
The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith is a gripping mystery novel that follows private detective Cormoran Strike as he investigates the supposed suicide of a supermodel. Full of twists and turns, it will keep you guessing until the very end.
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The Cuckoo's Calling
Summary of key ideas
The Case of a Supermodel's Death
In The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith, private detective Cormoran Strike, a war veteran with a prosthetic leg, is struggling with his personal life and business. His luck changes when John Bristow, the adoptive brother of supermodel Lula Landry, approaches him to re-investigate her apparent suicide. Lula, known as the Cuckoo, was found dead outside her luxury apartment, and the police had ruled it as a case of self-harm.
As Strike delves into the case, he uncovers a complex web of relationships and secrets surrounding Lula. He interviews Lula's friends, family, and associates, and discovers that her adoptive brother John has a suspiciously keen interest in proving her death as a murder. Strike also learns that Lula had been struggling with her identity, her biracial heritage, and the pressures of fame.
The Dark Underbelly of Glamour
As the investigation progresses in The Cuckoo's Calling, Strike is drawn into the glamorous world of fashion and celebrity, where appearances are deceiving and everyone has something to hide. He meets Lula's boyfriend Evan Duffield, a drug-addicted rocker; her biological brother Jonah Agyeman, a politician with a shady past; and her friend Rochelle Onifade, a fellow model who seems to know more than she's letting on.
Meanwhile, Strike's personal life is no less tumultuous. He's dealing with a messy breakup, financial troubles, and the constant physical discomfort of his prosthetic leg. Despite these challenges, he remains focused on the case, determined to uncover the truth about Lula's death.
Unveiling the Truth
As the plot of The Cuckoo's Calling thickens, Strike and his assistant Robin Ellacott uncover crucial evidence that casts doubt on the suicide ruling. They find a witness who saw a mysterious man arguing with Lula on the night of her death, and a security camera footage that contradicts the official timeline of events. With these new leads, Strike intensifies his efforts to identify the real killer.
In a dramatic turn of events, Strike invites all the key suspects to a confrontation at the Landry residence. Here, he reveals his deductions and forces the murderer to confess. The killer turns out to be Lula's biological brother Jonah, who had accidentally killed her in a fit of rage during an argument. He had staged the scene to look like a suicide to avoid tarnishing his political career.
The Aftermath and Conclusion
In the aftermath of Jonah's arrest, The Cuckoo's Calling concludes with Strike's professional reputation restored. He also mends his strained relationship with his assistant Robin, who proves to be an invaluable ally in solving the case. As for John Bristow, he is left to grapple with the revelation that his sister's death was not as he had believed.
In conclusion, The Cuckoo's Calling is a masterfully crafted detective novel that skillfully combines a compelling murder mystery with a detailed exploration of the dark side of fame and fortune. It introduces us to the complex character of Cormoran Strike and sets the stage for further thrilling investigations in the subsequent books of the series.
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What is The Cuckoo's Calling about?
The Cuckoo's Calling is a gripping mystery novel that follows private detective Cormoran Strike as he investigates the supposed suicide of a famous supermodel. Written by J.K. Rowling under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith, the book delves into the glamorous yet dark world of celebrities and the secrets that lie beneath their public personas. With well-developed characters and a cleverly crafted plot, it keeps readers guessing until the very end.
The Cuckoo's Calling Review
The Cuckoo's Calling (2013) introduces readers to a gripping mystery set in the world of private investigation. Here's why this book is a captivating read:
- Featuring complex characters with hidden depths, it keeps readers intrigued by unraveling the layers of each individual throughout the investigation.
- Its twists and turns in the plot create suspense, ensuring that the story remains unpredictable and engaging until the very end.
- Exploring the seedy underbelly of the glamorous fashion world, the book offers a fascinating look into a world full of secrets and deceptions.
Who should read The Cuckoo's Calling?
Readers who enjoy mystery novels and crime fiction
Those looking for a compelling and well-crafted detective story
People interested in exploring the darker side of celebrity culture and the complexities of human nature
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The Cuckoo's Calling FAQs
What is the main message of The Cuckoo's Calling?
Follow private detective Cormoran Strike as he unravels complex mysteries and delves into the world of fame and fortune.
How long does it take to read The Cuckoo's Calling?
Reading time varies, but expect an engaging journey. The Blinkist summary is a quick way to grasp key insights.
Is The Cuckoo's Calling a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Cuckoo's Calling intrigues with intricate plots and well-developed characters, making it a compelling read.
Who is the author of The Cuckoo's Calling?
The author of The Cuckoo's Calling is Robert Galbraith.
What to read after The Cuckoo's Calling?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Cuckoo's Calling, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Simply Complexity by Neil F. Johnson
- Trust Me, I’m Lying by Ryan Holiday
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