Krysten’s Review

It’s been awhile since I read the Harry Potter series, and yes, this is a different genre for a different audience, but I was somewhat surprised by how different the writing styles were. Galbraith’s (or should I just say Rowling?) language was a little dense, but I enjoyed the way little bits of information about Strike were peppered throughout the story and how purposeful the details were—for example, the significance of the detective’s fall down the stairs just before the final scene. It was rather heavy on the narration and description, and I think more dialogue might have helped it flow better and helped readers connect to the characters. For instance, the scene in which Strike gets drunk and lets his guard down in front of Robin was not only funny, but it helped me “bond” with this otherwise stoic, restrained individual.

I found it jarring when Rowling switched point of view mid-scene. The few glimpses into Robin’s mind were shallow… If we’re going to be jerked into another person’s head, at least make it worthwhile. Rather than Robin giving Strike a summary of what she’d learned, why not follow her so we can find out first hand?

Furthermore, the info-dump at the end was overwhelming. The killer already knows all this, so it’s obvious the information is solely for the reader’s benefit. I understand why Strike’s hypothesis remained hidden, but the little clues that were supposed to help us come to the same conclusion—the water Wilson slipped on, Bryony’s dyslexia, Lady Bristow’s refusal to repeat her brother’s accusation, etc.—were vague and frustrating, especially when we were shut out of Strike’s thoughts. As I was reading, I knew certain things were significant (where did the water come from? why would Bryony be dyslexic?), but there’s not enough information to figure out how these tidbits are important. If you want the reader to figure it out, the clues need to be clearer… and then there is no need for an info dump at the end.

That said, I might read the next book in the series. But if Rowling is going to switch POVs again, I’d like to see Robin have more of a role in investigating the crime, and learn more about her relationships (not just Strike’s).