Play Book Tag discussion

The Running Grave is another cracking instalment in the Cormoran Strike series — gripping, unsettling, and deeply absorbing from start to finish. This time, Strike and Robin are drawn into the disturbing world of a religious cult, and the case quickly becomes one of the most emotionally intense they’ve ever faced.

The story takes them to Norfolk, where Robin goes undercover inside the Universal Humanitarian Church. This is a group that presents itself as peaceful and inclusive, but hides something much darker. The way the cult operates is genuinely chilling, and Galbraith handles the subject with care, shining a light on how manipulation and control can slowly take hold. Robin’s experience on the inside is particularly powerful. It is at times difficult to read, but incredibly well written.

What really stands out is the emotional depth of the novel. While the investigation is at the heart of the plot, it’s the personal journeys of Strike and Robin that make it so compelling. Their relationship continues to develop in subtle, believable ways, and the emotional toll of the case is felt on every page.

It is a long book. but it never drags. Every chapter adds something, whether it’s building the tension, deepening character insight, or revealing another piece of the puzzle. The writing is sharp, atmospheric, and often darkly funny.

Great review! I love this series, but I still haven't read this. It's one of my 2025 goals so I'm going to have to do it soon.

I need to start catching up - I've read the first 3, have at least 2 more in the TBR. I do like this series so much and always find them a fast enjoyable read.

I think this book is probably my favourite so far.

This one was captivating. It is totally a thriller and much of it set inside a cult - two attributes that would have meant I would never read it if it were a standalone book by an unknown author. But I have been hooked on the series from the beginning on audio. You are in luck because the next book, The Hallmarked Man, just came out and it follows on right after this one.