Book Review: Troubled Blood by Robert Galbraith, Book Five
Troubled Blood, the fifth instalment in the Cormoran Strike series by Robert Galbraith (the pseudonym of J.K. Rowling), is a sprawling, intricately plotted crime novel that delves deeply into the lives of its characters while offering a gripping, old-fashioned whodunit. At over 900 pages, it’s an ambitious and richly layered book that rewards readers willing to immerse themselves in its complexities.
A Cold Case, Warming Relationships
The novel opens with private detective Cormoran Strike visiting his aunt in Cornwall, where he is approached by a woman named Anna Phipps. Anna seeks Strike’s help to investigate the mysterious disappearance of her mother, Margot Bamborough, a general practitioner who vanished from her clinic in 1974. The case is over four decades old, with limited leads and a tangled web of rumors, suspects, and coincidences. What complicates matters is that the original police investigator was battling mental illness, leaving a disorganised and cryptic case file for Strike and his partner, Robin Ellacott, to decipher.
At its core, Troubled Blood is about more than just solving a murder. It’s a book that examines the human cost of loss, obsession, and trauma while simultaneously deepening the emotional connection between Strike and Robin. Both characters have evolved significantly since the series began. Strike grapples with the pressures of his growing fame, his personal ties to his ailing aunt, and lingering feelings for past loves. Robin, on the other hand, continues to assert her independence after her divorce while navigating a professional relationship with Strike that teeters on the edge of something deeper. Their chemistry remains one of the most compelling aspects of the series, and Troubled Blood delivers some satisfying moments for fans invested in their partnership.
The Puzzle Box of the Case
The mystery of Margot Bamborough is a masterclass in slow-burn storytelling. Galbraith introduces an expansive cast of characters, including former colleagues, witnesses, and suspects, each with their own motives and secrets. The narrative weaves together timelines, red herrings, and false leads, keeping the reader guessing until the very end. One of the standout elements is the detailed way Strike and Robin go about their investigation: interviewing witnesses, piecing together fragments of evidence, and revisiting cold trails with fresh eyes.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the case is its connection to a series of astrological charts created by the original investigator, which add an unusual, almost esoteric element to the otherwise grounded narrative. These charts, while initially appearing absurd, become a crucial aspect of the mystery and a testament to the book’s intricate plotting.
The case is deeply atmospheric, with Galbraith skilfully evoking the London of both the 1970s and the present day. From seedy pubs to sterile medical clinics, each setting feels authentic and vividly described. The city becomes a character in itself, reflecting the complexities and contradictions of the people Strike and Robin encounter.
Themes of Gender, Power, and Identity
As with previous books in the series, Troubled Blood explores themes of gender, power, and identity. Margot’s disappearance is emblematic of societal attitudes toward women in the 1970s, particularly professional women who dared to challenge traditional roles. Throughout the investigation, Strike and Robin uncover layers of sexism, betrayal, and violence that contextualize Margot’s life and death.
Robin’s own journey adds another layer to these themes. As a woman in a male-dominated field, she frequently contends with condescension, harassment, and the expectation that she will put her personal life on hold for her career. Her resilience and growth are central to the book, and her determination to prove herself is inspiring without feeling overstated.
That said, the book is not without controversy. Some readers have raised concerns about how certain characters and themes are handled, particularly in relation to gender identity and the portrayal of mental illness. While these elements are not central to the plot, they have sparked debate about the author’s intentions and broader views. As with any work, readers bring their own interpretations and experiences to the text, and these discussions are a testament to the book’s ability to provoke thought and conversation.
Strengths and Challenges
One of Troubled Blood’s greatest strengths is its character development. Strike and Robin are deeply flawed yet immensely relatable protagonists, and their personal struggles are as compelling as the mystery they are trying to solve. Supporting characters, such as Strike’s ex-girlfriend Charlotte and Robin’s colleague Barclay, are given enough depth to make them memorable, even if they play relatively minor roles.
However, the book’s length may be a sticking point for some readers. At over 900 pages, it demands a significant investment of time and attention. While the detail and depth are part of what makes the series so immersive, there are moments where the narrative feels unnecessarily drawn out. Certain subplots, while interesting in their own right, could have been trimmed to maintain a tighter focus on the main mystery.
Another challenge is the sheer number of characters and plot threads. While Galbraith does a commendable job of tying everything together, the complexity can be overwhelming, especially for readers unfamiliar with earlier books in the series. This is not a book to pick up casually; it requires and rewards close reading.
Verdict: A Complex, Rewarding Mystery
Troubled Blood is a richly detailed and deeply satisfying entry in the Cormoran Strike series. It’s a book that rewards patience and attention, offering a mystery that feels both timeless and timely. While its length and complexity may deter some readers, those willing to invest in the story will find it a rewarding experience.
Galbraith’s ability to weave together intricate plotting, strong character development, and evocative settings cements the series’ status as a standout in contemporary crime fiction. Fans of classic detective novels, with their intricate puzzles and memorable sleuths, will find much to enjoy here. At the same time, the book’s exploration of human relationships and societal issues gives it a depth that elevates it beyond mere entertainment.Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or a newcomer willing to start with a monumental case, Troubled Blood offers a compelling journey into the heart of a cold case—and the lives of those determined to solve it.
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