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Cormoran Strike #8
Merkitty mies
Koukuttava ja monikerroksinen jännäri jatkaa mestarikertojan ylistettyä rikossarjaa.
Hopeakaupan holvista löytyy ruumis. Poliisi uskoo sen olevan kadonnut aseellinen ryöstäjä, mutta Decima Mullins on varma, että kyseessä on hänen kadonnut puolisonsa. Hän kääntyy yksityisetsivä Cormoran Striken puoleen.
Strike ja Robin Ellacott sukeltavat syvälle tapaukseen. Kyseessä ei ole mikä tahansa hopeakauppa vaan vapaamuurarien arvoesineisiin erikoistunut liike, eivätkä poliisin etsimä ryöstäjä ja Deciman puoliso ole ainoat kadonneet miehet, joiden tuntomerkkeihin ruumis sopii.
Rikostutkinta käy yhä monimutkaisemmaksi ja vaaralliseksi, ja samalla Striken tunteet Robinia kohtaan kasvavat entisestään.
Hopeakaupan holvista löytyy ruumis. Poliisi uskoo sen olevan kadonnut aseellinen ryöstäjä, mutta Decima Mullins on varma, että kyseessä on hänen kadonnut puolisonsa. Hän kääntyy yksityisetsivä Cormoran Striken puoleen.
Strike ja Robin Ellacott sukeltavat syvälle tapaukseen. Kyseessä ei ole mikä tahansa hopeakauppa vaan vapaamuurarien arvoesineisiin erikoistunut liike, eivätkä poliisin etsimä ryöstäjä ja Deciman puoliso ole ainoat kadonneet miehet, joiden tuntomerkkeihin ruumis sopii.
Rikostutkinta käy yhä monimutkaisemmaksi ja vaaralliseksi, ja samalla Striken tunteet Robinia kohtaan kasvavat entisestään.
991 pages, Hardcover
First published September 2, 2025
9487 people are currently reading
24010 people want to read
About the author
Robert Galbraith
29 books33k followersThis is a pseudonym for J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series and The Casual Vacancy, a novel for adults.
NOTE: There is more than one author with this name on Goodreads.
Rowling was born to Anne Rowling (née Volant) and Peter James Rowling, a Rolls-Royce aircraft engineer, on 31 July 1965 in Yate, Gloucestershire, England, 10 miles (16 km) northeast of Bristol. Her mother Anne was half-French and half-Scottish. Her parents first met on a train departing from King's Cross Station bound for Arbroath in 1964. They married on 14 March 1965. Her mother's maternal grandfather, Dugald Campbell, was born in Lamlash on the Isle of Arran. Her mother's paternal grandfather, Louis Volant, was awarded the Croix de Guerre for exceptional bravery in defending the village of Courcelles-le-Comte during the First World War.
Rowling's sister Dianne was born at their home when Rowling was 23 months old. The family moved to the nearby village Winterbourne when Rowling was four. She attended St Michael's Primary School, a school founded by abolitionist William Wilberforce and education reformer Hannah More. Her headmaster at St Michael's, Alfred Dunn, has been suggested as the inspiration for the Harry Potter headmaster Albus Dumbledore.
As a child, Rowling often wrote fantasy stories, which she would usually then read to her sister. She recalls that: "I can still remember me telling her a story in which she fell down a rabbit hole and was fed strawberries by the rabbit family inside it. Certainly the first story I ever wrote down (when I was five or six) was about a rabbit called Rabbit. He got the measles and was visited by his friends, including a giant bee called Miss Bee." At the age of nine, Rowling moved to Church Cottage in the Gloucestershire village of Tutshill, close to Chepstow, Wales. When she was a young teenager, her great aunt, who Rowling said "taught classics and approved of a thirst for knowledge, even of a questionable kind," gave her a very old copy of Jessica Mitford's autobiography, Hons and Rebels. Mitford became Rowling's heroine, and Rowling subsequently read all of her books.
Rowling has said of her teenage years, in an interview with The New Yorker, "I wasn’t particularly happy. I think it’s a dreadful time of life." She had a difficult homelife; her mother was ill and she had a difficult relationship with her father (she is no longer on speaking terms with him). She attended secondary school at Wyedean School and College, where her mother had worked as a technician in the science department. Rowling said of her adolescence, "Hermione [a bookish, know-it-all Harry Potter character] is loosely based on me. She's a caricature of me when I was eleven, which I'm not particularly proud of." Steve Eddy, who taught Rowling English when she first arrived, remembers her as "not exceptional" but "one of a group of girls who were bright, and quite good at English." Sean Harris, her best friend in the Upper Sixth owned a turquoise Ford Anglia, which she says inspired the one in her books.
NOTE: There is more than one author with this name on Goodreads.
Rowling was born to Anne Rowling (née Volant) and Peter James Rowling, a Rolls-Royce aircraft engineer, on 31 July 1965 in Yate, Gloucestershire, England, 10 miles (16 km) northeast of Bristol. Her mother Anne was half-French and half-Scottish. Her parents first met on a train departing from King's Cross Station bound for Arbroath in 1964. They married on 14 March 1965. Her mother's maternal grandfather, Dugald Campbell, was born in Lamlash on the Isle of Arran. Her mother's paternal grandfather, Louis Volant, was awarded the Croix de Guerre for exceptional bravery in defending the village of Courcelles-le-Comte during the First World War.
Rowling's sister Dianne was born at their home when Rowling was 23 months old. The family moved to the nearby village Winterbourne when Rowling was four. She attended St Michael's Primary School, a school founded by abolitionist William Wilberforce and education reformer Hannah More. Her headmaster at St Michael's, Alfred Dunn, has been suggested as the inspiration for the Harry Potter headmaster Albus Dumbledore.
As a child, Rowling often wrote fantasy stories, which she would usually then read to her sister. She recalls that: "I can still remember me telling her a story in which she fell down a rabbit hole and was fed strawberries by the rabbit family inside it. Certainly the first story I ever wrote down (when I was five or six) was about a rabbit called Rabbit. He got the measles and was visited by his friends, including a giant bee called Miss Bee." At the age of nine, Rowling moved to Church Cottage in the Gloucestershire village of Tutshill, close to Chepstow, Wales. When she was a young teenager, her great aunt, who Rowling said "taught classics and approved of a thirst for knowledge, even of a questionable kind," gave her a very old copy of Jessica Mitford's autobiography, Hons and Rebels. Mitford became Rowling's heroine, and Rowling subsequently read all of her books.
Rowling has said of her teenage years, in an interview with The New Yorker, "I wasn’t particularly happy. I think it’s a dreadful time of life." She had a difficult homelife; her mother was ill and she had a difficult relationship with her father (she is no longer on speaking terms with him). She attended secondary school at Wyedean School and College, where her mother had worked as a technician in the science department. Rowling said of her adolescence, "Hermione [a bookish, know-it-all Harry Potter character] is loosely based on me. She's a caricature of me when I was eleven, which I'm not particularly proud of." Steve Eddy, who taught Rowling English when she first arrived, remembers her as "not exceptional" but "one of a group of girls who were bright, and quite good at English." Sean Harris, her best friend in the Upper Sixth owned a turquoise Ford Anglia, which she says inspired the one in her books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,479 reviews
February 5, 2026
I’m really torn on this. I want to start this whole thing by making it clear that I have been a huge fan of the Strike/Robin series and I am reviewing this from that perspective. I’m a fan. I like it better than Harry Potter, and I’ve been waiting for The Hallmarked Man with bated breath. I’ve liked every previous book in the series, with #5 (Troubled Blood) being one of the best books I’ve ever read.
To say that The Hallmarked Man has let me down would be an understatement. Right from the moment I unpacked the box and saw the incredibly cheap, thin quality of the paper, this has been nothing but deflation.
I just don’t enjoy this book. There is some good writing, as always, and some interesting developments and scenes (it isn't a total loss) but...900 pages is a major commitment to make to any story, and you should probably feel some level of passion for the book to stick it out for that long. I like long books. I’ve always enjoyed the length of the books in the Strike series—I think it is a unique signature of this particular series and a great way to experience deeper, more complex mysteries and more in-depth character study than you usually get in detective fiction. This is the first time I genuinely think that this book is too long.
We’ve got two major threads in any Strike book. Let’s look at them separately:
The Mystery
First, we have the main case in this book. Rowling has always been a great crafter of mysteries and the cases in most of the previous books are interesting, complex, twisty and full of original and fascinating characters. My absolute favorite part of the Strike series has always been the interviews. I love watching Strike and Robin interview suspects and witnesses and seeing how they glean information. Rowling is a master of bringing people to life in just a short scene.
The main case in The Hallmarked Man is needlessly convoluted and difficult to follow. The cast of suspects and related parties is legion and it’s very hard to keep track of who everyone is in relation to everyone else without literally taking notes while reading. I found the inciting “we’ll take the case” bit of the story to be underwhelming. Strike is incredibly judgmental of Decima, the woman who hires them to identify the body of a man found dead in a silver vault. He doesn’t like her at all, and has no personal stake or interest in the mystery. In the other books, it’s been more than idle curiosity that has driven things, especially as it gets going.
From there, we get introduced to a succession of possibilities for who the dead man could be and each one of them is pretty underdeveloped, with their own set of supporting characters who are both hard to keep straight and lacking in intrigue. There are lots of details and diversions and dead ends, with all kinds of things thrown in such as the Freemasons, the Isle of Sark, silver grading, the pornography industry, Charlotte’s aristocratic family, MI5…it’s a lot.
In short, I found the main case both confusing and boring. I was simply not invested in it, and this is after the incredibly compelling and emotional investigations in Troubled Blood, The Running Grave, The Cuckoo’s Calling, etc. Those books had victims you felt compassion for and wanted to see get justice. We barely get to know anyone involved in the case in this book. It is just detail piled on top of detail on top of detail.
There are also the minor agency subplots we always get in the books, to see the other work they are doing at the time. I thought the nature of Plug’s crimes was pretty obvious from the get-go, so that didn’t interest me. And the entire Kim subplot was one huge and annoying cliché—a female worker who flirts outrageously with Strike and disrespects Robin continually.
I am glad to see Wardle, a strong supporting character since book one, join the agency. But there simply wasn’t enough Barclay and Pat in this book.
The Personal Life Stuff
One of the hallmarks (yuck yuck) of this series has always been the way it balances the personal lives of the characters with the mysteries. That balance has always been just about right for me in the past, with a good mix of investigation and the interpersonal drama (families, trauma, health and, of course, the continual slow burn simmering tension between Strike and Robin).
The balance was off in The Hallmarked Man. I think part of the reason I had such a hard time connecting with the case, apart from it being convoluted, was the fact that the book kept abandoning the mystery in favor of a LOT of endless internal dialogue and dithering from both Strike and Robin about their feelings towards each other. While I’ve been a shipper in the past, wanting these two to end up together, I’m not so sure anymore. A lot of this book honestly felt soapy.
Strike wants to find the perfect moment to tell Robin how he feels but, of course, he gets interrupted over and over again. He won’t just speak up. His preoccupation with Robin actually impacts his work in this book, making him a worse detective. Robin is worse. In fact, Robin is the worst part of this book and my biggest disappointment of all. I love this character. She has long been one of my absolute favorites. I barely even tolerated her in this book. She’s always been flawed, and that’s part of what makes her human and interesting, but rather than grow in this book (as Strike has done in the last few volumes), Robin backslides. She gives in to all of her worst impulses. Her lying and secret keeping. Her inability to be honest with herself about how she feels. That one especially drives me nuts. She knows she loves Strike. She knows she doesn’t love Murphy. But she actively works to ignore and question both of those truths.
I don’t even like Murphy (he is Matthew 2.0 with the constant questioning of her job and Strike) but she treats him *horribly* in this book. Her behavior is selfish. She’s stringing him along, even though she knows he wants children and that she doesn’t want to have children with him (not that she’ll admit it to herself). She refuses to act and has mired herself again in exactly the same situation she was in with Matthew. And then she gets mad at Strike for not saying anything! Girl, you have a voice too. She also thinks the worst of Strike at times. He would be heartbroken to know that, even for a moment, she thought he might have been abusive towards Charlotte. Her fears have made her not very nice to other people. Thank goodness she is going to therapy. She needs to work on all of this very badly.
And ugh. I continue to loathe Charlotte who isn’t even alive anymore and we STILL have to deal with her drama and hear all over again about her terrible behavior and sick relationship with Strike. It’s just like the saga of Strike’s mother and father. I’m over it. I no longer care. If one of the last two books features Leda Strike’s death as the main mystery, I have literally no interest in that.
This book is so long in large part because of so much repetitive miscommunication, misunderstanding and angsty bs from both Strike and Robin. Just. Talk. To. Each. Other. There is slow burn and then there is simply dragging it out and tormenting your readers, long past the point of it being entertaining any longer. I’m not sure I even think they belong together anymore. Their relationship has become unhealthy and destructive. Everyone is miserable for most of this book, and that made me miserable to read.
Other things:
- Two multi-book minor supporting characters die at the beginning of this novel and I thought they both deserved more than a few sentences before the narrative moved on.
- I never wanted to hear from Bijou Watkins again. Guess who returns?
- I’m with Lucy about Strike’s favoritism towards his nephew Jack. It stinks. I get that Luke is a little shit, but what has Adam, the youngest, ever done to Strike? He literally only gets Jack a Christmas present and gives the other two vouchers.
- I don’t know if this has been the case in the past, but I really noticed while reading this book how much everyone drinks all the time. It’s booze all the time for everybody.
I’m sad, honestly. I’ve been looking forward to this for months but I just didn’t like it at all. And it ends on another cliffhanger, of course, but I’m not sure I even care anymore! Hard to believe, considering how much I’ve loved this series for so long.
2/5/26: Thank you for all the comments and engagement on this review. I've moved on from this book, so I'm no longer accepting comments.
To say that The Hallmarked Man has let me down would be an understatement. Right from the moment I unpacked the box and saw the incredibly cheap, thin quality of the paper, this has been nothing but deflation.
I just don’t enjoy this book. There is some good writing, as always, and some interesting developments and scenes (it isn't a total loss) but...900 pages is a major commitment to make to any story, and you should probably feel some level of passion for the book to stick it out for that long. I like long books. I’ve always enjoyed the length of the books in the Strike series—I think it is a unique signature of this particular series and a great way to experience deeper, more complex mysteries and more in-depth character study than you usually get in detective fiction. This is the first time I genuinely think that this book is too long.
We’ve got two major threads in any Strike book. Let’s look at them separately:
The Mystery
First, we have the main case in this book. Rowling has always been a great crafter of mysteries and the cases in most of the previous books are interesting, complex, twisty and full of original and fascinating characters. My absolute favorite part of the Strike series has always been the interviews. I love watching Strike and Robin interview suspects and witnesses and seeing how they glean information. Rowling is a master of bringing people to life in just a short scene.
The main case in The Hallmarked Man is needlessly convoluted and difficult to follow. The cast of suspects and related parties is legion and it’s very hard to keep track of who everyone is in relation to everyone else without literally taking notes while reading. I found the inciting “we’ll take the case” bit of the story to be underwhelming. Strike is incredibly judgmental of Decima, the woman who hires them to identify the body of a man found dead in a silver vault. He doesn’t like her at all, and has no personal stake or interest in the mystery. In the other books, it’s been more than idle curiosity that has driven things, especially as it gets going.
From there, we get introduced to a succession of possibilities for who the dead man could be and each one of them is pretty underdeveloped, with their own set of supporting characters who are both hard to keep straight and lacking in intrigue. There are lots of details and diversions and dead ends, with all kinds of things thrown in such as the Freemasons, the Isle of Sark, silver grading, the pornography industry, Charlotte’s aristocratic family, MI5…it’s a lot.
In short, I found the main case both confusing and boring. I was simply not invested in it, and this is after the incredibly compelling and emotional investigations in Troubled Blood, The Running Grave, The Cuckoo’s Calling, etc. Those books had victims you felt compassion for and wanted to see get justice. We barely get to know anyone involved in the case in this book. It is just detail piled on top of detail on top of detail.
There are also the minor agency subplots we always get in the books, to see the other work they are doing at the time. I thought the nature of Plug’s crimes was pretty obvious from the get-go, so that didn’t interest me. And the entire Kim subplot was one huge and annoying cliché—a female worker who flirts outrageously with Strike and disrespects Robin continually.
I am glad to see Wardle, a strong supporting character since book one, join the agency. But there simply wasn’t enough Barclay and Pat in this book.
The Personal Life Stuff
One of the hallmarks (yuck yuck) of this series has always been the way it balances the personal lives of the characters with the mysteries. That balance has always been just about right for me in the past, with a good mix of investigation and the interpersonal drama (families, trauma, health and, of course, the continual slow burn simmering tension between Strike and Robin).
The balance was off in The Hallmarked Man. I think part of the reason I had such a hard time connecting with the case, apart from it being convoluted, was the fact that the book kept abandoning the mystery in favor of a LOT of endless internal dialogue and dithering from both Strike and Robin about their feelings towards each other. While I’ve been a shipper in the past, wanting these two to end up together, I’m not so sure anymore. A lot of this book honestly felt soapy.
Strike wants to find the perfect moment to tell Robin how he feels but, of course, he gets interrupted over and over again. He won’t just speak up. His preoccupation with Robin actually impacts his work in this book, making him a worse detective. Robin is worse. In fact, Robin is the worst part of this book and my biggest disappointment of all. I love this character. She has long been one of my absolute favorites. I barely even tolerated her in this book. She’s always been flawed, and that’s part of what makes her human and interesting, but rather than grow in this book (as Strike has done in the last few volumes), Robin backslides. She gives in to all of her worst impulses. Her lying and secret keeping. Her inability to be honest with herself about how she feels. That one especially drives me nuts. She knows she loves Strike. She knows she doesn’t love Murphy. But she actively works to ignore and question both of those truths.
I don’t even like Murphy (he is Matthew 2.0 with the constant questioning of her job and Strike) but she treats him *horribly* in this book. Her behavior is selfish. She’s stringing him along, even though she knows he wants children and that she doesn’t want to have children with him (not that she’ll admit it to herself). She refuses to act and has mired herself again in exactly the same situation she was in with Matthew. And then she gets mad at Strike for not saying anything! Girl, you have a voice too. She also thinks the worst of Strike at times. He would be heartbroken to know that, even for a moment, she thought he might have been abusive towards Charlotte. Her fears have made her not very nice to other people. Thank goodness she is going to therapy. She needs to work on all of this very badly.
And ugh. I continue to loathe Charlotte who isn’t even alive anymore and we STILL have to deal with her drama and hear all over again about her terrible behavior and sick relationship with Strike. It’s just like the saga of Strike’s mother and father. I’m over it. I no longer care. If one of the last two books features Leda Strike’s death as the main mystery, I have literally no interest in that.
This book is so long in large part because of so much repetitive miscommunication, misunderstanding and angsty bs from both Strike and Robin. Just. Talk. To. Each. Other. There is slow burn and then there is simply dragging it out and tormenting your readers, long past the point of it being entertaining any longer. I’m not sure I even think they belong together anymore. Their relationship has become unhealthy and destructive. Everyone is miserable for most of this book, and that made me miserable to read.
Other things:
- Two multi-book minor supporting characters die at the beginning of this novel and I thought they both deserved more than a few sentences before the narrative moved on.
- I never wanted to hear from Bijou Watkins again. Guess who returns?
- I’m with Lucy about Strike’s favoritism towards his nephew Jack. It stinks. I get that Luke is a little shit, but what has Adam, the youngest, ever done to Strike? He literally only gets Jack a Christmas present and gives the other two vouchers.
- I don’t know if this has been the case in the past, but I really noticed while reading this book how much everyone drinks all the time. It’s booze all the time for everybody.
I’m sad, honestly. I’ve been looking forward to this for months but I just didn’t like it at all. And it ends on another cliffhanger, of course, but I’m not sure I even care anymore! Hard to believe, considering how much I’ve loved this series for so long.
2/5/26: Thank you for all the comments and engagement on this review. I've moved on from this book, so I'm no longer accepting comments.
November 2, 2025
(B+) 76% | Good
Notes: Forever waiting, self-debating, baby-making's booming and Robin here is written weird: consumed by her assuming.
*Check out progress updates for detailed commentary:
Notes: Forever waiting, self-debating, baby-making's booming and Robin here is written weird: consumed by her assuming.
*Check out progress updates for detailed commentary:
October 3, 2025
It pains me to give a Strike novel only 3*, but I just can’t go higher. It took me 3 weeks to finish this novel, where I normally cannot wait to read every chance I got. Hell, I was 80% and I preferred to listen to short stories for 1 day, that’s how invested I was in novel. In the beginning I thought it was me being sick with a cold (maybe Covid) and pretty much not wanting to do anything, including reading. Then the cold passed, the energy came back, but the enthusiasm for The Hallmarked Man was still quite low.
From here I will discuss some of the plot, who will contain spoilers to the other books. This is still my favourite series, so I suggest you check it out from the beginning. Cheers.
My no.1 problem with the novel was the high-school melodrama surrounding the relationship between Strike and Robin. I was sick of internal monologues, the self-lying, the misunderstanding, the evasions, everything. Until now, it was a nice balance between the relationship aspect and the mystery, but this time it did not work for me. I actually skipped some parts of the novel because of this. Secondly, and connected to the first issue, I was totally baffled and enraged by how the author wrote Robin’s behaviour in this book . I understand she is suffering from PTSD from the cult thing and other stuff that happened to her, but she makes no sense whatsoever. She makes stupid decisions, she tries to convince herself that she loves Murphy while she clearly doesn’t, she finds fault in Strike for obviously false reasons and so on.
Finally, the mystery did not feel all that interesting. Maybe because there was too much navel gazing during the investigation. Also a lot of mistakes were made by our two teenage heroes. Oh wait, they are actually adults. Strange.
***
Finally, the long awaited day every few years when I find my Cormoran Strike pre-order waiting for me in my kindle/audible app. I am dropping everything to read this now, see you at the other end of the 900 pages.
From here I will discuss some of the plot, who will contain spoilers to the other books. This is still my favourite series, so I suggest you check it out from the beginning. Cheers.
My no.1 problem with the novel was the high-school melodrama surrounding the relationship between Strike and Robin. I was sick of internal monologues, the self-lying, the misunderstanding, the evasions, everything. Until now, it was a nice balance between the relationship aspect and the mystery, but this time it did not work for me. I actually skipped some parts of the novel because of this. Secondly, and connected to the first issue, I was totally baffled and enraged by how the author wrote Robin’s behaviour in this book . I understand she is suffering from PTSD from the cult thing and other stuff that happened to her, but she makes no sense whatsoever. She makes stupid decisions, she tries to convince herself that she loves Murphy while she clearly doesn’t, she finds fault in Strike for obviously false reasons and so on.
Finally, the mystery did not feel all that interesting. Maybe because there was too much navel gazing during the investigation. Also a lot of mistakes were made by our two teenage heroes. Oh wait, they are actually adults. Strange.
***
Finally, the long awaited day every few years when I find my Cormoran Strike pre-order waiting for me in my kindle/audible app. I am dropping everything to read this now, see you at the other end of the 900 pages.
Read
November 19, 2024Why do people rate books and write reviews when the book isn't even released yet?????
September 4, 2025
I think this series is at a loss. The mystery was buried by the repetitive scenes with the same old drama, the two MCs refusing to divulge their feelings but remaining jealous and petty. This could’ve been 500 pages if we just cut down the personal drama to one scene of each trope (it’s to the point where these scenes are tropes of the series). It’s so much filler. What do you have to gain by making your book 1000 pages long when you have nothing new to say?
Once again, it’s Robin getting deeper into a toxic relationship with someone she doesn’t want to be with, continuously putting herself in danger, keeping secrets… it’s just gotten really tired and totally overshadowed the actual investigation. Sacrificing a respectful portrayal of your main female character to create bogus conflict always pisses me off. And there are no other redeeming depictions of women in this series.
And you know the mystery is always so convoluted with so many characters with relationships between them to keep track of, it all got so bogged down by this extremely non-romantic subplot.
Once again, it’s Robin getting deeper into a toxic relationship with someone she doesn’t want to be with, continuously putting herself in danger, keeping secrets… it’s just gotten really tired and totally overshadowed the actual investigation. Sacrificing a respectful portrayal of your main female character to create bogus conflict always pisses me off. And there are no other redeeming depictions of women in this series.
And you know the mystery is always so convoluted with so many characters with relationships between them to keep track of, it all got so bogged down by this extremely non-romantic subplot.
September 4, 2025
Infuriatingly convoluted case, but the central relationship keeps me reading this series against my better judgment.
October 8, 2025
I don't even know what to think, I'm too dead after waiting in suspense for my book to come, reading like a crazy person once it did come, barely sleeping for thinking of what might happen, and then finally finishing it in one crazy burst that ended with lots of crying because oh my GOSH THE ENDING. How am I going to survive till the next book comes out???????????
September 6, 2025
Disappointing after how good the last one was. And stringing us along for a thousand pages just to have us virtually in the same place in the end as in the last book was... underwhelming, to say the least. Honestly, this one was just a rehash of things we've seen before in the series, but worse. The "three different men as possible answers" was better done in Career of Evil, the run-ins with the upper class was better and more interesting in Lethal White, the gruesome murder was better in The Silkworm, the crazy symbolism that seems to permeate every part of the case was better in Troubled Blood. I'm sort of sick of the "Robin in constant danger" thing, and it really was neither chilling and frightening like in Career of Evil nor satisfying to see her overcome it/fight back. I don't know. I sped through it as always because a mystery is always compelling to me but The Running Grave was so stellar, this one felt almost lazy. I think back to other entries and most of them have been really good at being genuinely scary when they need to be - I still remember how revolting the scene of finding the body in The Silkworm was, or how chilling the killer in Career of Evil was. Troubled Blood also had so many scary bits. The final showdown in IBH was so action-packed. And TRG felt so real it took me a year to even want to reread it, it had such an effect on me. This one... meh.
September 6, 2025
Maybe I'm biased, but I fully believe JK Rowling is the greatest storyteller of our time.
The writing. The character development. The intricate plot. Perfection.
Let the book hangover commence....
The writing. The character development. The intricate plot. Perfection.
Let the book hangover commence....
September 19, 2025
Not my favorite, but will be reread. The plot is pretty complicated and I suspect brilliant once I go back and reread it. Hard books are satisfying books.
September 6, 2025
Very disappointing read. The story went on for way too long, and the plot unnecessarily convoluted.
Somewhere along the way, I stopped caring about the mystery and instead became a reluctant genealogist, flipping back pages just to figure out which one of Charlotte’s thoroughly unlikeable relatives was talking, and how on earth they were connected to anything at all.
The whole will they/won't they plot was also very distracting at this point and made both main characters kind of unlikable. Strike trying to plot the relationship's downfall while booking luxury hotels on the agency's dime felt very out of character and petty. Meanwhile, Robin’s denial routine just made her come across as… well, not the sharpest detective in the drawer.
Which is a shame because I used to like these characters!
Also, why are we getting a running commentary on every single drink ordered? Could've made the book a lot shorter..
Somewhere along the way, I stopped caring about the mystery and instead became a reluctant genealogist, flipping back pages just to figure out which one of Charlotte’s thoroughly unlikeable relatives was talking, and how on earth they were connected to anything at all.
The whole will they/won't they plot was also very distracting at this point and made both main characters kind of unlikable. Strike trying to plot the relationship's downfall while booking luxury hotels on the agency's dime felt very out of character and petty. Meanwhile, Robin’s denial routine just made her come across as… well, not the sharpest detective in the drawer.
Which is a shame because I used to like these characters!
Also, why are we getting a running commentary on every single drink ordered? Could've made the book a lot shorter..
September 8, 2025
A total editing failure.
Out of all the Strike novels, this is hands down the worst one - in terms of plot, character development, and even the writing itself. I have no idea if there was an editor involved in any part of the process, but if so, they should seriously consider a change of occupation.
This book could have comfortably been 200-300 pages shorter, and it would have actually benefited the story. The plot is badly constructed, overly clunky, and very poorly paced. The resolution comes out of nowhere, and the ending is extremely rushed, which, after 700+ pages of virtually no development whatsoever, is honestly the least of the novel´s problems.
As to the detective plot of the book (and I use this term very loosely), JKR should probably consider dipping into another pool where the motive for a crime is concerned. I understand she is most likely healing her own trauma in some way, but there are other reasons for murder and other crimes being committed every day. At this point, she is beating a dead horse with the same narrative bat over and over again, and it both hurts the story and lessens the gravitas of the real-life criminal activity, not unlike the true-crime obsession era we are currently in.
On the topic of character development: there simply isn´t any. On the contrary, both main characters devolve drastically, and the rest of the cast serves virtually no purpose other than being either a pain point or a channel of communication between the two partners. Robin regresses into her Book 1/Book 2 self, makes a ton of nonsensical compromises and spends most of the book angry, resentful and passive-aggressive. As if that was not enough, Strike becomes a complete idiot, viewing everything (including the investigation) solely through the lens of how it can help him get with Robin. There is no professionalism to be seen from either of them, and as a result, they mess up pretty much everything that has to do with the case. I have never seen a better argument in favour of the "don´t shit where you eat" view on the topic of personal relationships between work colleagues.
To nail this coffin of a novel completely, the writing is subpar as well. There are endless pointless repetitions - throwbacks to focal points of the series we can all remember, recaps of events from previous chapters of THIS VERY BOOK (even using the same wording just to make sure the reader is sufficiently annoyed), and even the use of the same adverbs 2-3 times in the span of a single paragraph, which brings me back to my initial question - where the hell was an editor in all this mess?
I suspect no one is reading JKR´s books anymore before sending them to the printer, knowing they will sell anyway. Personally, I am just happy I did not pay a penny for this literary disaster, and not just because there is no way in hell I am supporting this woman financially ever again. On every count, this is a poorly written filler book that should never have been put on a shelf in any bookstore.
The single star I am willing to give out is for the narration of the audiobook, which is excellent as usual. It was the only thing that got me through a doorstopper of a novel with nothing to say and nothing to offer.
Out of all the Strike novels, this is hands down the worst one - in terms of plot, character development, and even the writing itself. I have no idea if there was an editor involved in any part of the process, but if so, they should seriously consider a change of occupation.
This book could have comfortably been 200-300 pages shorter, and it would have actually benefited the story. The plot is badly constructed, overly clunky, and very poorly paced. The resolution comes out of nowhere, and the ending is extremely rushed, which, after 700+ pages of virtually no development whatsoever, is honestly the least of the novel´s problems.
As to the detective plot of the book (and I use this term very loosely), JKR should probably consider dipping into another pool where the motive for a crime is concerned. I understand she is most likely healing her own trauma in some way, but there are other reasons for murder and other crimes being committed every day. At this point, she is beating a dead horse with the same narrative bat over and over again, and it both hurts the story and lessens the gravitas of the real-life criminal activity, not unlike the true-crime obsession era we are currently in.
On the topic of character development: there simply isn´t any. On the contrary, both main characters devolve drastically, and the rest of the cast serves virtually no purpose other than being either a pain point or a channel of communication between the two partners. Robin regresses into her Book 1/Book 2 self, makes a ton of nonsensical compromises and spends most of the book angry, resentful and passive-aggressive. As if that was not enough, Strike becomes a complete idiot, viewing everything (including the investigation) solely through the lens of how it can help him get with Robin. There is no professionalism to be seen from either of them, and as a result, they mess up pretty much everything that has to do with the case. I have never seen a better argument in favour of the "don´t shit where you eat" view on the topic of personal relationships between work colleagues.
To nail this coffin of a novel completely, the writing is subpar as well. There are endless pointless repetitions - throwbacks to focal points of the series we can all remember, recaps of events from previous chapters of THIS VERY BOOK (even using the same wording just to make sure the reader is sufficiently annoyed), and even the use of the same adverbs 2-3 times in the span of a single paragraph, which brings me back to my initial question - where the hell was an editor in all this mess?
I suspect no one is reading JKR´s books anymore before sending them to the printer, knowing they will sell anyway. Personally, I am just happy I did not pay a penny for this literary disaster, and not just because there is no way in hell I am supporting this woman financially ever again. On every count, this is a poorly written filler book that should never have been put on a shelf in any bookstore.
The single star I am willing to give out is for the narration of the audiobook, which is excellent as usual. It was the only thing that got me through a doorstopper of a novel with nothing to say and nothing to offer.
September 11, 2025
4 stars because of my Robin-centred frustration; the curse of the even-numbered Cormoran Strike series hits again.
I don't know how or why but my book arrived today, one I had pre-ordered months ago. HAPPY LABOUR DAY WEEKEND TO ME. After everything in the past few months, this alone seemed proof that God existed.
And I loved the book, really; I sat and read it for 8.5 hours straight.
But JKR, how could you do a girl dirty like that? Robin is a character who is close to my own heart because she speaks the same anxiety-language that I do. Robin is a strong-ass woman who does tend to go down the path of least resistance, a character trait that's not great at the best of times. But this is beyond absurd. The way that Robin comes off in this book is totally antithetical to who she is.
The thing is, it almost reminded me of Harry Potter in the Deathly Hallows. Harry had KNEW that everything Rita Skeeter wrote was crap, but then believed it about Dumbledore. Robin KNOWS Strike, and yet finds it so easy to believe all the shit people say about him. It doesn't make sense. She knows better.
SPOILERS BELOW. DO NOT READ ON.
The shit that she puts up with? The *not mentioning the whole "Charlotte knew I was in love with you"* thing? Knowing she doesn't love Murphy but just sticking along with him? Discovering that he's been lying to her and is drinking again and just ... sticks it out? Describes herself as being "shackled" to Murphy and just keeps going?
There's literally not a fucking chance in hell.
Robin might go down the path of least resistance but she is too strong for this; and it's hardly like she needs a different option. She loved her solitude. She just *agrees to move in with him*? WHAT?
It feels like she's just doing all this stuff to avoid an argument or avoid conflict, as opposed to because she really wants it.
I know that we want to draw the whole R&C thing out, but even I think that this is absolutely ridiculous. I love you JKR. But Robin deserved better.
This book fundamentally feels like its entire purpose it to set up multiple story lines for an explosive book 9. And while I look forward to said explosiveness, it feels like this was 800 pages of filler.
AND HOW COULD YOU DO THAT TO TED WITHOUT MORE THAN A PAGE.
THEORIES BELOW:
- JKR is obviously setting this up for a showdown at the Ritz (or something very close to it); I've no doubt that Robin says no, and it comes out that she's confused about her feelings; there will be some sort of association between the evening she spent with Strike at the Ritz and the discomfort, fear and anxiety she feels about the impending engagement
- Shit is going to hit the fan between Strike and Murphy
- Strike getting in trouble with the law and being arrested this book is obviously going to happen in a more major way next time; I suspect it will have to do with Bijou. She turns up dead, and Murphy (because of Robin's lies) still thinks that she was with Cormoran. And because of his general vindictiveness, he goes after him.
- It's going to be Murphy v. Strike
I don't know how or why but my book arrived today, one I had pre-ordered months ago. HAPPY LABOUR DAY WEEKEND TO ME. After everything in the past few months, this alone seemed proof that God existed.
And I loved the book, really; I sat and read it for 8.5 hours straight.
But JKR, how could you do a girl dirty like that? Robin is a character who is close to my own heart because she speaks the same anxiety-language that I do. Robin is a strong-ass woman who does tend to go down the path of least resistance, a character trait that's not great at the best of times. But this is beyond absurd. The way that Robin comes off in this book is totally antithetical to who she is.
The thing is, it almost reminded me of Harry Potter in the Deathly Hallows. Harry had KNEW that everything Rita Skeeter wrote was crap, but then believed it about Dumbledore. Robin KNOWS Strike, and yet finds it so easy to believe all the shit people say about him. It doesn't make sense. She knows better.
SPOILERS BELOW. DO NOT READ ON.
The shit that she puts up with? The *not mentioning the whole "Charlotte knew I was in love with you"* thing? Knowing she doesn't love Murphy but just sticking along with him? Discovering that he's been lying to her and is drinking again and just ... sticks it out? Describes herself as being "shackled" to Murphy and just keeps going?
There's literally not a fucking chance in hell.
Robin might go down the path of least resistance but she is too strong for this; and it's hardly like she needs a different option. She loved her solitude. She just *agrees to move in with him*? WHAT?
It feels like she's just doing all this stuff to avoid an argument or avoid conflict, as opposed to because she really wants it.
I know that we want to draw the whole R&C thing out, but even I think that this is absolutely ridiculous. I love you JKR. But Robin deserved better.
This book fundamentally feels like its entire purpose it to set up multiple story lines for an explosive book 9. And while I look forward to said explosiveness, it feels like this was 800 pages of filler.
AND HOW COULD YOU DO THAT TO TED WITHOUT MORE THAN A PAGE.
THEORIES BELOW:
- JKR is obviously setting this up for a showdown at the Ritz (or something very close to it); I've no doubt that Robin says no, and it comes out that she's confused about her feelings; there will be some sort of association between the evening she spent with Strike at the Ritz and the discomfort, fear and anxiety she feels about the impending engagement
- Shit is going to hit the fan between Strike and Murphy
- Strike getting in trouble with the law and being arrested this book is obviously going to happen in a more major way next time; I suspect it will have to do with Bijou. She turns up dead, and Murphy (because of Robin's lies) still thinks that she was with Cormoran. And because of his general vindictiveness, he goes after him.
- It's going to be Murphy v. Strike
September 5, 2025
Ok, so where is the next book…? 😅
February 16, 2026
Book #8 in the Cormoran Strike series — and once again, 908 pages long! Robert Galbraith (a.k.a. J.K. Rowling) clearly has no plans of returning to shorter books anytime soon. The Ink Black Heart was over 1000 pages, but that one got away with it since half the book was chat transcripts. The Running Grave too, despite being lengthy, justified its page count with the complex cult plot. But even then, I had this niggle that 900+ pages for any mystery does not make it gripping enough and with The Hallmarked Man, that 900+ page stretch finally feels like a burden.
First-time readers, please do ensure you are reading the series in order, else you are definitely gonna miss out on the interrelationship dynamics that are scattered throughout the book. And series readers are in for a treat — or MAYBE NOT???
If you are one of those, like me, who loved all the other books in the series because there is a perfect balance of mystery and “will they/won’t they” dynamics between the two leads, you are probably gonna be disappointed. For the first time in the series, The Hallmarked Man, in which the lead detectives have to identify a body discovered in a silver vault, the mystery element is quite tepid.
And now to the relationship aspect of the story, which works big time for many — I can sum it up with these two quotes from the book:
Strike is all heart in this… lamenting his lost chances and unable to compartmentalize the personal and professional elements of his life, which he was a pro at. Hence, the reason for taking up the case seems to be only so that he can spend time with Robin. In fact, every point in the investigation is about getting a chance to be with Robin and bare one's heart out. And also, for the first time in his life makes an effort and gives Robin a bracelet with charms that give meaning to each of the 7 years of their life.
I loved the fact that Strike is in a lot of mess for the casual affairs he’s had all through the series, and most of them coming back to bite his ass in unimaginable ways was brilliantly done and clearly shows the mess he has created in his life. I would have assumed both of them to behave maturely when dealing with the emotions entangled in their life, but unfortunately, that is missing, leaving me feeling exasperated.
And then ROBIN:
Robin, meanwhile, is a wreck. She’s under the worst stress imaginable after enduring the emotional and physical torture in book #7 with The Running Grave, here and I kind of feel JKR was purposely being cruel by torturing her to the maximum. She suffers thru an ectopic pregnancy and is made aware of the challenges of becoming naturally pregnant, then there’s the repetition of the attacks and stalking and never ending trauma and the reason I feel that in this we find Robin kind of regressed to her earlier selfless and loyal to a fault trait.
For someone who knows her job is her life — and having already gone through a divorce and a jealous husband — going through the same with her current boyfriend should have been an eye-opener. Instead, we see Robin repeatedly hiding behind lies and being self-destructive to her mental well-being. I’m glad there’s at least a discussion about therapy towards the end, because doubting someone you’ve known for seven years, through all kinds of violence, clearly reflects her mental state.
The TV adaptation of this one will be a fan favourite purely for the emotional outbursts between Strike and Robin. But amidst all that, the balance between mystery and drama is seriously missing. It feels like JKR brought readers to a point where the relationship overshadows the mystery. The plot is convoluted to the point of confusion, with a multitude of characters linked to each possible murdered victim — MI5 connections, drug trafficking, missing women, murder — pure mayhem. Even with the final reveal, I didn’t get that heart-pounding climax we’re so used to.
Series lovers, however, will be in heaven with all the familiar faces — Pat, Barclay, Midge, Shah — plus a new recruit, Kim, who adds her own drama. We also meet new characters like Rokeby and Tara (Charlotte’s mother). I absolutely love how JKR shows the passage of time in the leads’ lives: the beloved Land Rover failing its MOT, the passing of Ted, and the sale of their Cornwall house — all adding a touch of realism, giving a bit of breathing space for Strike from the constant money crunching that he has to do.
The mystery part of the story gets 3 stars, but the relationship development and emotional depth definitely deserve 5 stars.
Overall rating: 3.5 / 5 ⭐
***************************************************************************
Wow, that TITLE....just amazing...a few chapters set in SARK and with an explosive ending at the end of book #7, no prizes for guessing the sky-rocket expectations!
First-time readers, please do ensure you are reading the series in order, else you are definitely gonna miss out on the interrelationship dynamics that are scattered throughout the book. And series readers are in for a treat — or MAYBE NOT???
If you are one of those, like me, who loved all the other books in the series because there is a perfect balance of mystery and “will they/won’t they” dynamics between the two leads, you are probably gonna be disappointed. For the first time in the series, The Hallmarked Man, in which the lead detectives have to identify a body discovered in a silver vault, the mystery element is quite tepid.
And now to the relationship aspect of the story, which works big time for many — I can sum it up with these two quotes from the book:
“no matter the subsequently disastrous consequences. His older self had chosen to be cautious where he should have been bold; in recognising too late what he wanted and perhaps even needed, he’d jettisoned what he was increasingly feeling was his one chance of real happiness.”
Strike is all heart in this… lamenting his lost chances and unable to compartmentalize the personal and professional elements of his life, which he was a pro at. Hence, the reason for taking up the case seems to be only so that he can spend time with Robin. In fact, every point in the investigation is about getting a chance to be with Robin and bare one's heart out. And also, for the first time in his life makes an effort and gives Robin a bracelet with charms that give meaning to each of the 7 years of their life.
I loved the fact that Strike is in a lot of mess for the casual affairs he’s had all through the series, and most of them coming back to bite his ass in unimaginable ways was brilliantly done and clearly shows the mess he has created in his life. I would have assumed both of them to behave maturely when dealing with the emotions entangled in their life, but unfortunately, that is missing, leaving me feeling exasperated.
And then ROBIN:
“waiting for something to happen, something disruptive and cathartic, as a person feels in the change of air pressure the first intimations of a coming thunderstorm.”
Robin, meanwhile, is a wreck. She’s under the worst stress imaginable after enduring the emotional and physical torture in book #7 with The Running Grave, here and I kind of feel JKR was purposely being cruel by torturing her to the maximum. She suffers thru an ectopic pregnancy and is made aware of the challenges of becoming naturally pregnant, then there’s the repetition of the attacks and stalking and never ending trauma and the reason I feel that in this we find Robin kind of regressed to her earlier selfless and loyal to a fault trait.
For someone who knows her job is her life — and having already gone through a divorce and a jealous husband — going through the same with her current boyfriend should have been an eye-opener. Instead, we see Robin repeatedly hiding behind lies and being self-destructive to her mental well-being. I’m glad there’s at least a discussion about therapy towards the end, because doubting someone you’ve known for seven years, through all kinds of violence, clearly reflects her mental state.
The TV adaptation of this one will be a fan favourite purely for the emotional outbursts between Strike and Robin. But amidst all that, the balance between mystery and drama is seriously missing. It feels like JKR brought readers to a point where the relationship overshadows the mystery. The plot is convoluted to the point of confusion, with a multitude of characters linked to each possible murdered victim — MI5 connections, drug trafficking, missing women, murder — pure mayhem. Even with the final reveal, I didn’t get that heart-pounding climax we’re so used to.
Series lovers, however, will be in heaven with all the familiar faces — Pat, Barclay, Midge, Shah — plus a new recruit, Kim, who adds her own drama. We also meet new characters like Rokeby and Tara (Charlotte’s mother). I absolutely love how JKR shows the passage of time in the leads’ lives: the beloved Land Rover failing its MOT, the passing of Ted, and the sale of their Cornwall house — all adding a touch of realism, giving a bit of breathing space for Strike from the constant money crunching that he has to do.
The mystery part of the story gets 3 stars, but the relationship development and emotional depth definitely deserve 5 stars.
Overall rating: 3.5 / 5 ⭐
***************************************************************************
Wow, that TITLE....just amazing...a few chapters set in SARK and with an explosive ending at the end of book #7, no prizes for guessing the sky-rocket expectations!
September 5, 2025
I was lucky enough to be on a beach vacation during release week so I was able to give the book my undivided attention. That being said, ugh. This was by far my least favorite in the series. I think I’m so invested in Cormoran and Robin that I had no interest in the silver / masons / Rupert mystery.
You know they’re going to solve it and you know you’re going to be in the dark until the 85-90% mark so whatever?! It didn’t help that the case never grabbed my attention so I was unbothered by who the body in the vault was.
I really hate what JKR has made of Robin in this story, she’s kind of a horrible person? I understand that she’s going through a lot after UHC and dealing with PTSD, but that doesn’t mean you can lie, gaslight and sulk your way through life.
As always, Pat & Barclay remain the MVPs for me!
*I originally rated this a 3 but then I realized I waited 2 long years for THIS????? Oh hell no!
You know they’re going to solve it and you know you’re going to be in the dark until the 85-90% mark so whatever?! It didn’t help that the case never grabbed my attention so I was unbothered by who the body in the vault was.
I really hate what JKR has made of Robin in this story, she’s kind of a horrible person? I understand that she’s going through a lot after UHC and dealing with PTSD, but that doesn’t mean you can lie, gaslight and sulk your way through life.
As always, Pat & Barclay remain the MVPs for me!
*I originally rated this a 3 but then I realized I waited 2 long years for THIS????? Oh hell no!
September 6, 2025
I NEED to talk about this book! I've just binge read the Hallmarked Man in 2 days. I booked time off work and warned my family I'd be holed up in my room devouring this book.
If you've read it you'll know that the first few chapters really set the tone for this installment. I feel like my guts have been twisted up and yanked repeatedly with each of the many MANY monumental developments/losses/setbacks/revelations. I don't think I've ever felt so much stress and anxiety reading a book. I wept when I read about Ted passing away. It also felt like such a small blip after Joan's prolong battled in Troubled Blood. Ted was just gone and Strike still seemed to dwell more on Charlotte ( I am so tired of reading page after page of repetition about how toxic she was).
The mystery was complex, and I felt like it was extremely messy but expertly done. I just kept thinking, "Why?!" right until the end. I found it difficult to really connect with Decima. Usually I feel as invested in the clients desire for answers as the partners do, but I suppose the whole case is skewed by Strike's alterior motives in taking the case. Robin and Strike start off only mildly intrigued by the actual mystery and only get more invested the more people warn them off. Natural I suppose for Strike in particular to have heightened interest once he's been told to butt out of it but I found as a reader I didn't start to really care who was in the vault until half way through the book. As always the conclusion connected all the dots and by the time answers were given, I was deeply invested in each 'Wright'. Brilliant.
Annnndd, then we come to the relationship of those two absolutely infuriating detectives! Arghhh!! The emotional bloody rollercoaster ride this book is left me crying, raging, crying again, and squealing. Poor Robin having her heart broken so many times by Strike and he doesn't even know it's happening! I am of the opinion that the partners won't truly be together until the last book, #10. Strike has a long way to go to convince Robin he really does want to be with her. I want them to be together, but it seems still like such a far off prospect.
I'm sad that Ryan lapsed and that that's the driving factor in Robin and his relationship issues. I hoped Robin would own up to not being ready for what Ryan wants rather than have their not buying a place together be due to Ryan's drinking.
I was SHOOK that Strike went to Rokeby. Reading that chapter was difficult due to the tears in my eyes. That he apologized. That he was honest with Strike about his regrets and what went on with Leda. I was so so so happy to have this happen. Cannot wait for more development with Rokeby and Strike.
I'm still trying to return to reality.
If you've read it you'll know that the first few chapters really set the tone for this installment. I feel like my guts have been twisted up and yanked repeatedly with each of the many MANY monumental developments/losses/setbacks/revelations. I don't think I've ever felt so much stress and anxiety reading a book. I wept when I read about Ted passing away. It also felt like such a small blip after Joan's prolong battled in Troubled Blood. Ted was just gone and Strike still seemed to dwell more on Charlotte ( I am so tired of reading page after page of repetition about how toxic she was).
The mystery was complex, and I felt like it was extremely messy but expertly done. I just kept thinking, "Why?!" right until the end. I found it difficult to really connect with Decima. Usually I feel as invested in the clients desire for answers as the partners do, but I suppose the whole case is skewed by Strike's alterior motives in taking the case. Robin and Strike start off only mildly intrigued by the actual mystery and only get more invested the more people warn them off. Natural I suppose for Strike in particular to have heightened interest once he's been told to butt out of it but I found as a reader I didn't start to really care who was in the vault until half way through the book. As always the conclusion connected all the dots and by the time answers were given, I was deeply invested in each 'Wright'. Brilliant.
Annnndd, then we come to the relationship of those two absolutely infuriating detectives! Arghhh!! The emotional bloody rollercoaster ride this book is left me crying, raging, crying again, and squealing. Poor Robin having her heart broken so many times by Strike and he doesn't even know it's happening! I am of the opinion that the partners won't truly be together until the last book, #10. Strike has a long way to go to convince Robin he really does want to be with her. I want them to be together, but it seems still like such a far off prospect.
I'm sad that Ryan lapsed and that that's the driving factor in Robin and his relationship issues. I hoped Robin would own up to not being ready for what Ryan wants rather than have their not buying a place together be due to Ryan's drinking.
I was SHOOK that Strike went to Rokeby. Reading that chapter was difficult due to the tears in my eyes. That he apologized. That he was honest with Strike about his regrets and what went on with Leda. I was so so so happy to have this happen. Cannot wait for more development with Rokeby and Strike.
I'm still trying to return to reality.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2025
Frankly quite an annoying read. The plot is unnecessarily complicated and sprawling with far too many dead ends and underdeveloped characters. The most irritating problem with it though is how repetitive it is, particularly when considering the rest of the series. A lot of the story beats are ones we’ve seen before and despite this being the 8th book in the series, the main characters somehow have barely developed whatsoever. Still making the same stupid decisions, learning nothing from their past experiences and breeding conflict between each other mostly through lack of communication and pointless secret keeping. I also found it annoying how often the characters repeat to each other events I’ve just read about - I don’t need to read all this again, it’s only like four pages back!!
The only real saving grace for me is that the book is very well written. Even during the most tedious sections of the narrative, there is still plenty of beautiful imagery and vivid world building to enjoy. I likely wouldn’t have finished the book without it, and I’m glad I used audible credits to get the audiobook instead of using my own money.
The only real saving grace for me is that the book is very well written. Even during the most tedious sections of the narrative, there is still plenty of beautiful imagery and vivid world building to enjoy. I likely wouldn’t have finished the book without it, and I’m glad I used audible credits to get the audiobook instead of using my own money.
Want to read
February 4, 2025I have never preordered a book so quickly, I am SO ready to continue this story. Easily my favourite crime series of all time.
Read
September 22, 2025Здається, це єдина з відомих мені серій, де без любовної лінії, на мою думку, було б значно краще - або з любовною лінією, але на кілька томів менше. Тому що коли нагнітання напруги "чи зважаться герої нарешті поговорити про свої почуття, чи зіллються у пристрасних обіймах" стає однією з важливих опорних конструкцій циклу, то авторці доводиться знову і знову вигадувати, з одного боку, нові способи доводити читачам, що ці герої справді підходять одне одному, а з другого - причини, чому вони не можуть бути разом просто зараз. На якійсь меншій дистанції це милий сюжет! Але на дистанції у 8 довжелезних книжок це вже або скочується в абсурд, або нагромадження подробиць "чому ні" таки починає переважувати (скажімо, в цьому томі "чому ні" настільки вагомі, що вболівати за цю пару складно, з додатковим бонусом, що вони обоє абсолютно паскудно поводяться зі своїми іншими партнер(к)ами).
І це не єдина причина, чому менший об'єм, на мою думку, пішов би у плюс цьому циклу. Ролінґ добре вміє нагадувати, що було раніше - зазвичай я навіть дуже улюблені цикли кидаю тому після 4-го, бо більше не здатна втримати в пам'яті, а тут сяк-так дотягла до 8-го (хоча, звичайно, в книжці на 900 сторінок під кінець усе одно починаю плутатися в підозрюваних з різних ліній) - але так з'являються ненавмисно смішні сталі епітети, як у Гомера, які повторюються десятки разів по тексту, аби ніхто нічого не забув (спойлер з цього тому: ). Ну й нагадування додатково починають розростатися і збільшувати текст. Ролінґ, звичайно, дуже подобається проводити час із цими героями, але половина побутових сцен геть необов'язкова для сюжету. Але сам сюжет (чи то пак, сюжети) драматичні і колоритні, тримати напругу вона добре вміє.
І це не єдина причина, чому менший об'єм, на мою думку, пішов би у плюс цьому циклу. Ролінґ добре вміє нагадувати, що було раніше - зазвичай я навіть дуже улюблені цикли кидаю тому після 4-го, бо більше не здатна втримати в пам'яті, а тут сяк-так дотягла до 8-го (хоча, звичайно, в книжці на 900 сторінок під кінець усе одно починаю плутатися в підозрюваних з різних ліній) - але так з'являються ненавмисно смішні сталі епітети, як у Гомера, які повторюються десятки разів по тексту, аби ніхто нічого не забув (спойлер з цього тому: ). Ну й нагадування додатково починають розростатися і збільшувати текст. Ролінґ, звичайно, дуже подобається проводити час із цими героями, але половина побутових сцен геть необов'язкова для сюжету. Але сам сюжет (чи то пак, сюжети) драматичні і колоритні, тримати напругу вона добре вміє.
September 6, 2025
THIS FUCKING BOOK AGGGGRRRRRR
this is no longer a slow burn this is some kind of teenager's angst fueled by mountain of misunderstandings and miscommunication
i hate it!!!
and the fact i am so deep into that shit, that i will wait patiently for another few years just to yet again be feed a whole lot of crumbs at the end, is pissing me off so much
i am losing my mind
as for the murder case
i got lost, i didn't care and at the end it seemed like a whole lot of random bs put up together just to make it look smarter than it really was
that cupboard hole made me laugh like crazy cuz that was my 1st thought and it never accrued to them to cheek the walls till the very end? how dumb can you be as a private detective? cuz sure as hell you should read more mystery novels if you are in this kind of field XD
this is no longer a slow burn this is some kind of teenager's angst fueled by mountain of misunderstandings and miscommunication
i hate it!!!
and the fact i am so deep into that shit, that i will wait patiently for another few years just to yet again be feed a whole lot of crumbs at the end, is pissing me off so much
i am losing my mind
as for the murder case
i got lost, i didn't care and at the end it seemed like a whole lot of random bs put up together just to make it look smarter than it really was
that cupboard hole made me laugh like crazy cuz that was my 1st thought and it never accrued to them to cheek the walls till the very end? how dumb can you be as a private detective? cuz sure as hell you should read more mystery novels if you are in this kind of field XD
September 12, 2025
I absolutely *loved* The Hallmarked Man. It’s not quite my favourite in the series (for me
*The Running Grave* still holds that crown), but it’s a brilliantly crafted, deeply satisfying
addition that pushes Strike & Robin’s story forward in compelling ways.
The Case & Plot
The central mystery is gruesome, dark, and memorable: a man is found in a vault in a
silver shop (next to Freemasons’ Hall) who’s been partially dismembered, with a hallmark
carved into his back. Initially the police think it’s a convicted robber, but things get messy
when Decima Mullins (the client) insists the corpse might actually be her missing boyfriend
— the father of her newborn child. As Strike and Robin dig, the trail widens: other men are
missing, identities are uncertain, and every clue seems to have multiple meanings. The
investigations span locations, plenty of misdirection, and the stakes feel both personal and
dangerous.
Strike & Robin’s Relationship
One of the things I found most satisfying about this book was how slowly but surely Strike
and Robin’s relationship grows (or edges closer) to being more open. The tension is still
there — the “will they/won’t they”, the unspoken feelings, the misunderstandings — but
there’s growth. Strike seems more aware (though still awkward), and Robin is no longer
just being carried along; her own convictions and fears weigh more heavily. The case
forces both of them to confront what they *won’t* say and what they *must*. It’s not a
romance, but the emotional current between them is strong and earns its moments.
Agency Staff & Side Stories
What I appreciated here — as in past books, but even more — is how the rest of the
agency staff get their moments (quiet but real). They aren’t just there for colour; they make
the world feel lived-in. Pat, especially, is a standout: gruff, no-nonsense, but fiercely loyal,
holding things together behind the scenes. When she steps in, it reminds you how much
the agency depends on more than just Strike and Robin. It adds a layer of reality to the
detective work: it’s not all dramatic interludes and high stakes — there are people who do
the steady work, who handle the pain, the small frustrations, the paperwork, and yes even
the booze!
Narration & Audio Version
I listened to the audiobook version and found Robert Glenister *marvellous*. His voice *is*
Strike in my head now, and he does justice to Robin, Pat, and the other characters, giving
subtle differences that help when the plot gets sprawling. It’s a big book, complex, but
having a narrator you trust helps carry you through.
Final Thoughts
There was a significant cliffhanger — exciting, frustrating, in the best possible way. I’m
desperate to see where things go next! If you like complex plots, moral ambiguity,
slow-burning emotional arcs, and characters who feel real and worn (in a good way), then
this is absolutely one to read.
*The Running Grave* still holds that crown), but it’s a brilliantly crafted, deeply satisfying
addition that pushes Strike & Robin’s story forward in compelling ways.
The Case & Plot
The central mystery is gruesome, dark, and memorable: a man is found in a vault in a
silver shop (next to Freemasons’ Hall) who’s been partially dismembered, with a hallmark
carved into his back. Initially the police think it’s a convicted robber, but things get messy
when Decima Mullins (the client) insists the corpse might actually be her missing boyfriend
— the father of her newborn child. As Strike and Robin dig, the trail widens: other men are
missing, identities are uncertain, and every clue seems to have multiple meanings. The
investigations span locations, plenty of misdirection, and the stakes feel both personal and
dangerous.
Strike & Robin’s Relationship
One of the things I found most satisfying about this book was how slowly but surely Strike
and Robin’s relationship grows (or edges closer) to being more open. The tension is still
there — the “will they/won’t they”, the unspoken feelings, the misunderstandings — but
there’s growth. Strike seems more aware (though still awkward), and Robin is no longer
just being carried along; her own convictions and fears weigh more heavily. The case
forces both of them to confront what they *won’t* say and what they *must*. It’s not a
romance, but the emotional current between them is strong and earns its moments.
Agency Staff & Side Stories
What I appreciated here — as in past books, but even more — is how the rest of the
agency staff get their moments (quiet but real). They aren’t just there for colour; they make
the world feel lived-in. Pat, especially, is a standout: gruff, no-nonsense, but fiercely loyal,
holding things together behind the scenes. When she steps in, it reminds you how much
the agency depends on more than just Strike and Robin. It adds a layer of reality to the
detective work: it’s not all dramatic interludes and high stakes — there are people who do
the steady work, who handle the pain, the small frustrations, the paperwork, and yes even
the booze!
Narration & Audio Version
I listened to the audiobook version and found Robert Glenister *marvellous*. His voice *is*
Strike in my head now, and he does justice to Robin, Pat, and the other characters, giving
subtle differences that help when the plot gets sprawling. It’s a big book, complex, but
having a narrator you trust helps carry you through.
Final Thoughts
There was a significant cliffhanger — exciting, frustrating, in the best possible way. I’m
desperate to see where things go next! If you like complex plots, moral ambiguity,
slow-burning emotional arcs, and characters who feel real and worn (in a good way), then
this is absolutely one to read.
January 12, 2026
Яка б ще книга мене так чудово відволікала від відсутності опалення у квартирі у мінус 15 за вікном!)))
Читаючи, думала, що ніхто не пише таких детективів, як пані Роулінг. Бо по суті тут на 1000 сторінок декілька детективних розслідувань, мульйон героїв, проблеми агенції, особисті проблеми двох головних героїв та їхні часом стагнуючі, часом дуже динамічні стосунки.
Давайте ще!
п.с. Єдине, дуже не хотілося б, якби наступна книга повністю фокусувалася на ментальному здоров’ї Робін. Побачимо.
Читаючи, думала, що ніхто не пише таких детективів, як пані Роулінг. Бо по суті тут на 1000 сторінок декілька детективних розслідувань, мульйон героїв, проблеми агенції, особисті проблеми двох головних героїв та їхні часом стагнуючі, часом дуже динамічні стосунки.
Давайте ще!
п.с. Єдине, дуже не хотілося б, якби наступна книга повністю фокусувалася на ментальному здоров’ї Робін. Побачимо.
September 6, 2025
Too long, with too many characters and their side stories. And who really cares about Masons and their silver doodads? The Robin and Strike romance has become tiresome--very little progress after all these books. I feel like this book just strings the reader along.
September 4, 2025
My reading experience of the book benefited from successfully avoiding reading any spoilers, AND not cutting to the epilogue ahead of time. Good for me, as if I had pre-viewed the cliffhanger ending I might not have made it through the tedious, confusing case story. Even when reading slowly and with focus there was no keeping track of the crowded cast of often unengaging characters. Only JKR’s superb writing and the Strike - Robin - Murphy interaction propelled me through the book. IMO the ending was unnecssarily repetitive, and predictivly inconclusive. The least satisfactory installment of the series by far.
September 1, 2025
20/10 Galbraith does it again! This was a wild and absolutely brilliant roller coaster ride from the jump. If you think you are going to solve this one, you are wrong! Just enjoy the ride! A body is found mutilated inside a Masonic silver vault and our favorite detective duo have been hired by a distraught mother to prove that the body belongs to her partner/baby’s father. In addition to the case, things in the agency are akin to a pressure cooker. A declaration still hangs, feelings are unanalyzed and unsaid, bad press hits, rivalry with the Met, sabotage from within, and a race against time on more than one front confront the partners. Will they/ won’t they? Now or never? This book is definitely a crucible and a breaking point for Strike & Robin!
#TheHallmarkedMan
#Strike #Strellacott
#RobertGalbraith
#TheHallmarkedMan
#Strike #Strellacott
#RobertGalbraith
December 31, 2025
4⭐️
Робін і Страйк мої книжкові краші!
Я фанат цієї серії та одна книга серії має трійку від мене.
Найбільш очікувана книга 2025 року (є ще одна серія книг, але зараз тут не буду згадувати). Я спеціально притримав на фінал року! Чи виправдала очікування?
Тут Ро знову сильно мені збиткується з Робін, куди ще більше навалювати на неї проблеми. Страйк тут харош, але де ти чоловіче був всі сім попередніх книг? Хоча ти не винен, це все так бачить і хоче Ро.
Якраз у книзі зимовий період подій, тому це ще й було атмосферне читання. (Цікаво як всім було читати у вересні про зиму?).
Історії про Робін і Корморона давно для мене не про розслідування, це як повернутися додому! В цій частині злочини розгадати просто нереально, як і в деяких інших книгах, тому навіть не старайтесь щось вгадати.
А ще з хорошого, що до знімають сьомий сезон, тому не бачу перешкод знову перегляну у 2026 всі серії перед новим сезоном.
Очікування виправдились, читав дуже уважно. Останні 5 сторінок потішили! Чекаю на 9-ту книгу.
Робін і Страйк мої книжкові краші!
Я фанат цієї серії та одна книга серії має трійку від мене.
Найбільш очікувана книга 2025 року (є ще одна серія книг, але зараз тут не буду згадувати). Я спеціально притримав на фінал року! Чи виправдала очікування?
Тут Ро знову сильно мені збиткується з Робін, куди ще більше навалювати на неї проблеми. Страйк тут харош, але де ти чоловіче був всі сім попередніх книг? Хоча ти не винен, це все так бачить і хоче Ро.
Якраз у книзі зимовий період подій, тому це ще й було атмосферне читання. (Цікаво як всім було читати у вересні про зиму?).
Історії про Робін і Корморона давно для мене не про розслідування, це як повернутися додому! В цій частині злочини розгадати просто нереально, як і в деяких інших книгах, тому навіть не старайтесь щось вгадати.
А ще з хорошого, що до знімають сьомий сезон, тому не бачу перешкод знову перегляну у 2026 всі серії перед новим сезоном.
Очікування виправдились, читав дуже уважно. Останні 5 сторінок потішили! Чекаю на 9-ту книгу.
September 11, 2025
Always a fan of Robert Galbraith’s work (and J.K. Rowling too), I gladly reached for the eighth novel in the Cormoran Strike series. After a body is found in a vault, the authorities suspect a robber whose heist went south. However, someone feels they know the victim and hires Cormoran Strike to investigate. Engaging the assistance of his partner, Robin Ellacott, Strike begins poking around and discovers that there is much more to the story than meets the eye. A killer is out there and pressure is coming from all sides to solve this case. Strike and Robin also have their own personal issues that come smashing into the middle of the investigation. Galbraith delivers another stunning novel in this highly addictive series.
When a dismembered body is found within the vault of a silver shop, the authorities are quick to suspect it was a heist gone wrong. However, some are not ready to accept that answer, especially Decima Mullins. She is sure that the body is that of her newborn’s father, whose sudden disappearance leaves her in a state of panic. She hires private investigator, Cormoran Strike, to get to the bottom of things, even as the man’s family is sure he’s moved across the Atlantic.
Strike engages his partner, Robin Ellacott, to assist him, but they find it is more a maze than anything else. This is no typical silver shop, but rather one that caters to the Freemasons. Other men have also gone missing and all could have a loose connection to the Freemasons, though nothing is clear as of yet. Strike and Ellacott begin turning over every rock they can, which opens up a number of troubling pathways, all of which prove tangents.
While they explore all angles, Strike and Robin are inundated with personal issues of their own. They try to make sense of it all, which proves difficult as the outside pressures make things all the more troubling. Tensions mount with the case and their respective personal plights, keeping Strike and Robin on edge as they seek to reveal the killer and motive for this case. What comes to the surface shocks everyone involved and creates quite the uproar when all is revealed. Robert Galbraith provides a strong thriller that proves a stellar addition to the collection.
While some appear to have preconceived notions about Robert Galbraith and J.K. Rowling, I stay above the fray and enjoy these novels. Well-paced and full of action, the Cormoran Strike series is well worth the reader’s time. The narrative of this piece keeps moving throughout, though there is surely a great deal of information that the reader must process. There are significant developments in this story throughout and the reader is sure to see the slow and methodical presentation of the mystery. Characters prove useful to help shape the story, with Cormoran Strike and Robin Ellacott offering their own development and backstories to keep the series fan engaged. Plot points move through the story and keep things on edge. Surprises emerge at key moments, thickening the tension and providing wonderful moments of revelation for all to enjoy. Galbraith delivers to provide series fans with what they need to stay connected to all that is going on. I am eager to see where the series goes from here, as each of the novels proved top-rate.
Kudos, Mr. Galbraith, for a great novel whose complexity makes it even better.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
When a dismembered body is found within the vault of a silver shop, the authorities are quick to suspect it was a heist gone wrong. However, some are not ready to accept that answer, especially Decima Mullins. She is sure that the body is that of her newborn’s father, whose sudden disappearance leaves her in a state of panic. She hires private investigator, Cormoran Strike, to get to the bottom of things, even as the man’s family is sure he’s moved across the Atlantic.
Strike engages his partner, Robin Ellacott, to assist him, but they find it is more a maze than anything else. This is no typical silver shop, but rather one that caters to the Freemasons. Other men have also gone missing and all could have a loose connection to the Freemasons, though nothing is clear as of yet. Strike and Ellacott begin turning over every rock they can, which opens up a number of troubling pathways, all of which prove tangents.
While they explore all angles, Strike and Robin are inundated with personal issues of their own. They try to make sense of it all, which proves difficult as the outside pressures make things all the more troubling. Tensions mount with the case and their respective personal plights, keeping Strike and Robin on edge as they seek to reveal the killer and motive for this case. What comes to the surface shocks everyone involved and creates quite the uproar when all is revealed. Robert Galbraith provides a strong thriller that proves a stellar addition to the collection.
While some appear to have preconceived notions about Robert Galbraith and J.K. Rowling, I stay above the fray and enjoy these novels. Well-paced and full of action, the Cormoran Strike series is well worth the reader’s time. The narrative of this piece keeps moving throughout, though there is surely a great deal of information that the reader must process. There are significant developments in this story throughout and the reader is sure to see the slow and methodical presentation of the mystery. Characters prove useful to help shape the story, with Cormoran Strike and Robin Ellacott offering their own development and backstories to keep the series fan engaged. Plot points move through the story and keep things on edge. Surprises emerge at key moments, thickening the tension and providing wonderful moments of revelation for all to enjoy. Galbraith delivers to provide series fans with what they need to stay connected to all that is going on. I am eager to see where the series goes from here, as each of the novels proved top-rate.
Kudos, Mr. Galbraith, for a great novel whose complexity makes it even better.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
September 3, 2025
As someone who has followed Cormoran Strike and Robin Ellacott's partnership from the very beginning—long before J.K. Rowling revealed herself as Robert Galbraith in that memorable 2013 The Sunday Times exposé—I can confidently say that The Hallmarked Man represents both a triumphant return to the series' investigative roots and its most emotionally complex entry yet. This eighth installment doesn't merely solve a mystery; it excavates the human cost of secrets, lies, and the desperate lengths people go to protect those they love.
The Intricate Web of Mystery
The novel opens with Decima Mullins, a restaurant owner desperate to prove that the dismembered corpse found in a London silver shop vault belongs to her missing boyfriend, Rupert Fleetwood—the father of her newborn son. What initially appears to be a straightforward case of mistaken identity evolves into something far more sinister and complex. The police believe the body belongs to Jason Knowles, a convicted armed robber, but Decima's unshakeable conviction that her partner met a violent end sets Strike and Robin on a path that will uncover a trafficking ring, multiple murders, and a conspiracy that reaches into the darkest corners of human exploitation.
Galbraith's plotting in The Hallmarked Man showcases the author's masterful understanding of misdirection. The masonic silver shop setting—positioned tantalizingly close to Freemasons' Hall—initially suggests ritualistic murder and conspiracy theories that proliferate through the early chapters. However, this proves to be elaborate window dressing for a far more prosaic yet devastating truth: the systematic trafficking and abuse of vulnerable young women by powerful men who believe themselves untouchable.
The revelation that the corpse belongs to Tyler Powell, a young mechanic from Ironbridge who fell in love with Jolanda (a trafficked Belgian woman forced into prostitution under the name "Chloe"), transforms the narrative from puzzle to tragedy. Powell's attempt to rescue Jolanda by infiltrating the trafficking network through his work at Ramsay Silver demonstrates both his courage and naivety—qualities that ultimately cost him his life.
Character Development and Emotional Resonance
Strike and Robin's Evolving Dynamic
Eight books in, the relationship between Strike and Robin has reached a fascinating inflection point. Robin's engagement to police officer Ryan Murphy creates a tension that permeates every interaction, while Strike's growing awareness of his feelings adds layers of complexity to their professional partnership. Galbraith handles this emotional subplot with remarkable restraint, allowing the romantic tension to simmer beneath the surface without overwhelming the investigative narrative.
Strike's protective instincts toward Robin intensify throughout the case, particularly after receiving anonymous warnings about their investigation. His insistence on taking precautions reveals not just professional caution but deep personal investment in Robin's safety. Meanwhile, Robin's internal struggle between her commitment to Murphy and her undeniable connection to Strike provides some of the novel's most compelling psychological drama.
Decima Mullins: A Portrait of Maternal Desperation
Decima emerges as one of the series' most tragic client figures. Her unwavering belief that Rupert is dead stems not from evidence but from a mother's need to give her son a clear narrative about his father. The revelation that Rupert is actually her half-brother—a family secret that destroyed their relationship—adds devastating complexity to her situation. Galbraith explores themes of family dysfunction, genetic luck, and the stories we tell ourselves to survive impossible circumstances.
Social Commentary and Thematic Depth
The Hallmarked Man continues the series' tradition of addressing contemporary social issues through the lens of crime fiction. The trafficking subplot exposes the vulnerability of young women in the care system, while the masonic conspiracy theories reflect society's tendency to find elaborate explanations for mundane evil. The novel suggests that real conspiracies—the systematic abuse of power by wealthy, connected men—often hide in plain sight, requiring no secret handshakes or ritual daggers.
The exploration of class dynamics remains sharp throughout. Tyler Powell's working-class background makes him an easy target for both the traffickers and the police, while Jolanda's status as an undocumented immigrant renders her virtually invisible to authorities. These social realities drive the plot more effectively than any supernatural conspiracy.
Technical Excellence and Writing Quality
Galbraith's prose in The Hallmarked Man demonstrates the mature confidence of an author fully in command of her craft. The pacing balances investigative procedure with character development, while the dialogue captures distinct voices for each character. The author's research into masonic symbolism, trafficking networks, and police procedures provides authentic detail without becoming overwhelming.
The novel's structure, divided into multiple parts that follow different investigative threads, allows for complex plotting while maintaining narrative momentum. Galbraith particularly excels at the gradual revelation of information, ensuring readers piece together clues alongside the detectives without ever feeling manipulated or confused.
Minor Criticisms and Areas for Improvement
While The Hallmarked Man succeeds on multiple levels, it occasionally suffers from pacing issues in its middle sections. Some investigative threads—particularly those involving Strike's surveillance of the cricketer's ex-wife—feel tangential to the main narrative. Additionally, certain supporting characters, while well-drawn, don't receive sufficient development to justify their prominent roles in the plotting.
The resolution, while emotionally satisfying, relies heavily on coincidence and the convenience of key characters being present at crucial moments. More rigorous plotting could have strengthened these climactic scenes without sacrificing their emotional impact.
Literary Merit and Genre Excellence
The Hallmarked Man demonstrates why the Strike series has transcended typical crime fiction to become literature worth serious critical attention. Galbraith's exploration of trauma, class, and human connection provides substance beyond the mystery solving, while her technical skill in plotting and character development rivals the genre's finest practitioners.
The novel's treatment of trafficking and sexual violence shows remarkable sensitivity, avoiding exploitation while not minimizing the horror of these crimes. This balance between social responsibility and narrative effectiveness exemplifies crime fiction at its most mature and thoughtful.
Final Verdict
The Hallmarked Man represents Robert Galbraith at the height of her powers as a crime writer. The novel successfully balances multiple complex plotlines while delivering genuine emotional resonance through its character development. Most importantly, it respects both its characters and readers by refusing to offer easy answers to difficult questions about justice, love, and moral responsibility.
For long-time series followers, this installment provides both the investigative satisfaction we've come to expect and meaningful development in Strike and Robin's relationship. For newcomers, it offers an accessible entry point into one of contemporary crime fiction's most sophisticated ongoing narratives.
The novel confirms that eight books in, the Strike series remains vital, relevant, and emotionally engaging—a rare achievement in any long-running series. While not perfect, The Hallmarked Man stands as a worthy addition to what has become one of the most important crime fiction series of the 21st century.
The questions it raises about justice, love, and the price of truth will linger long after the final page, marking it as both an excellent mystery and a meaningful exploration of contemporary social issues. In a genre often content with surface-level thrills, Galbraith continues to demand more of both herself and her readers—and consistently delivers work worthy of that ambition.
The Intricate Web of Mystery
The novel opens with Decima Mullins, a restaurant owner desperate to prove that the dismembered corpse found in a London silver shop vault belongs to her missing boyfriend, Rupert Fleetwood—the father of her newborn son. What initially appears to be a straightforward case of mistaken identity evolves into something far more sinister and complex. The police believe the body belongs to Jason Knowles, a convicted armed robber, but Decima's unshakeable conviction that her partner met a violent end sets Strike and Robin on a path that will uncover a trafficking ring, multiple murders, and a conspiracy that reaches into the darkest corners of human exploitation.
Galbraith's plotting in The Hallmarked Man showcases the author's masterful understanding of misdirection. The masonic silver shop setting—positioned tantalizingly close to Freemasons' Hall—initially suggests ritualistic murder and conspiracy theories that proliferate through the early chapters. However, this proves to be elaborate window dressing for a far more prosaic yet devastating truth: the systematic trafficking and abuse of vulnerable young women by powerful men who believe themselves untouchable.
The revelation that the corpse belongs to Tyler Powell, a young mechanic from Ironbridge who fell in love with Jolanda (a trafficked Belgian woman forced into prostitution under the name "Chloe"), transforms the narrative from puzzle to tragedy. Powell's attempt to rescue Jolanda by infiltrating the trafficking network through his work at Ramsay Silver demonstrates both his courage and naivety—qualities that ultimately cost him his life.
Character Development and Emotional Resonance
Strike and Robin's Evolving Dynamic
Eight books in, the relationship between Strike and Robin has reached a fascinating inflection point. Robin's engagement to police officer Ryan Murphy creates a tension that permeates every interaction, while Strike's growing awareness of his feelings adds layers of complexity to their professional partnership. Galbraith handles this emotional subplot with remarkable restraint, allowing the romantic tension to simmer beneath the surface without overwhelming the investigative narrative.
Strike's protective instincts toward Robin intensify throughout the case, particularly after receiving anonymous warnings about their investigation. His insistence on taking precautions reveals not just professional caution but deep personal investment in Robin's safety. Meanwhile, Robin's internal struggle between her commitment to Murphy and her undeniable connection to Strike provides some of the novel's most compelling psychological drama.
Decima Mullins: A Portrait of Maternal Desperation
Decima emerges as one of the series' most tragic client figures. Her unwavering belief that Rupert is dead stems not from evidence but from a mother's need to give her son a clear narrative about his father. The revelation that Rupert is actually her half-brother—a family secret that destroyed their relationship—adds devastating complexity to her situation. Galbraith explores themes of family dysfunction, genetic luck, and the stories we tell ourselves to survive impossible circumstances.
Social Commentary and Thematic Depth
The Hallmarked Man continues the series' tradition of addressing contemporary social issues through the lens of crime fiction. The trafficking subplot exposes the vulnerability of young women in the care system, while the masonic conspiracy theories reflect society's tendency to find elaborate explanations for mundane evil. The novel suggests that real conspiracies—the systematic abuse of power by wealthy, connected men—often hide in plain sight, requiring no secret handshakes or ritual daggers.
The exploration of class dynamics remains sharp throughout. Tyler Powell's working-class background makes him an easy target for both the traffickers and the police, while Jolanda's status as an undocumented immigrant renders her virtually invisible to authorities. These social realities drive the plot more effectively than any supernatural conspiracy.
Technical Excellence and Writing Quality
Galbraith's prose in The Hallmarked Man demonstrates the mature confidence of an author fully in command of her craft. The pacing balances investigative procedure with character development, while the dialogue captures distinct voices for each character. The author's research into masonic symbolism, trafficking networks, and police procedures provides authentic detail without becoming overwhelming.
The novel's structure, divided into multiple parts that follow different investigative threads, allows for complex plotting while maintaining narrative momentum. Galbraith particularly excels at the gradual revelation of information, ensuring readers piece together clues alongside the detectives without ever feeling manipulated or confused.
Minor Criticisms and Areas for Improvement
While The Hallmarked Man succeeds on multiple levels, it occasionally suffers from pacing issues in its middle sections. Some investigative threads—particularly those involving Strike's surveillance of the cricketer's ex-wife—feel tangential to the main narrative. Additionally, certain supporting characters, while well-drawn, don't receive sufficient development to justify their prominent roles in the plotting.
The resolution, while emotionally satisfying, relies heavily on coincidence and the convenience of key characters being present at crucial moments. More rigorous plotting could have strengthened these climactic scenes without sacrificing their emotional impact.
Literary Merit and Genre Excellence
The Hallmarked Man demonstrates why the Strike series has transcended typical crime fiction to become literature worth serious critical attention. Galbraith's exploration of trauma, class, and human connection provides substance beyond the mystery solving, while her technical skill in plotting and character development rivals the genre's finest practitioners.
The novel's treatment of trafficking and sexual violence shows remarkable sensitivity, avoiding exploitation while not minimizing the horror of these crimes. This balance between social responsibility and narrative effectiveness exemplifies crime fiction at its most mature and thoughtful.
Final Verdict
The Hallmarked Man represents Robert Galbraith at the height of her powers as a crime writer. The novel successfully balances multiple complex plotlines while delivering genuine emotional resonance through its character development. Most importantly, it respects both its characters and readers by refusing to offer easy answers to difficult questions about justice, love, and moral responsibility.
For long-time series followers, this installment provides both the investigative satisfaction we've come to expect and meaningful development in Strike and Robin's relationship. For newcomers, it offers an accessible entry point into one of contemporary crime fiction's most sophisticated ongoing narratives.
The novel confirms that eight books in, the Strike series remains vital, relevant, and emotionally engaging—a rare achievement in any long-running series. While not perfect, The Hallmarked Man stands as a worthy addition to what has become one of the most important crime fiction series of the 21st century.
The questions it raises about justice, love, and the price of truth will linger long after the final page, marking it as both an excellent mystery and a meaningful exploration of contemporary social issues. In a genre often content with surface-level thrills, Galbraith continues to demand more of both herself and her readers—and consistently delivers work worthy of that ambition.
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