Lethal White

Lethal White is the fourth novel in the Cormoran Strike series, written by British author Robert Galbraith, a pseudonym for J.K. Rowling. Published in 2018, the book continues the thrilling detective adventures of private investigator Cormoran Strike and his assistant Robin Ellacott.

Plot Summary

The story of Lethal White begins with Strike and Robin receiving a mysterious visitor named Billy, who claims to have witnessed a murder as a child. Billy's story takes them back to the 1970s, when he was a young boy staying at a country house where he saw a girl being strangled. However, due to his unreliable memory and the trauma he experienced, Billy is unable to provide many details about the incident.

As Strike and Robin delve deeper into the case, they find themselves entangled in a web of political intrigue and scandal. The murder Billy witnessed seems to be connected to a high-profile politician, Jasper Chiswell, and his dysfunctional family. Strike and Robin must navigate through a complex network of lies, secrets, and hidden agendas to uncover the truth.

Themes

Lethal White explores various themes, including political corruption, class divisions, and the impact of childhood trauma. Rowling skillfully weaves these themes into the narrative, highlighting the ways in which power and privilege can influence and manipulate individuals and society as a whole. The book also delves into the psychological effects of trauma and the long-lasting consequences it can have on a person's life.

Characters

The novel features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique personalities and motivations. Cormoran Strike, the protagonist, is a war veteran turned private detective. He is portrayed as a complex and flawed character, dealing with physical and emotional scars from his past. Robin Ellacott, Strike's assistant, is a resourceful and intelligent woman who plays a crucial role in solving the case.

Other notable characters include Jasper Chiswell, the enigmatic politician at the center of the investigation, and his dysfunctional family members. Each character brings their own secrets and motivations to the story, adding depth and complexity to the plot.

Reception

Lethal White received generally positive reviews from critics and readers alike. The book was praised for its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and Rowling's ability to keep readers engaged throughout. However, some critics felt that the novel was overly long and could have benefited from tighter editing.

See Also

• Cormoran Strike series
• Robert Galbraith
• J.K. Rowling