Synopsis
Lethal White is the fourth novel in the Cormoran Strike series, written by J.K. Rowling under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith. The story begins with private investigator Cormoran Strike and his partner Robin Ellacott, who is now a full-fledged investigator, becoming embroiled in a complex case involving politics, blackmail, and murder.
The novel kicks off when Billy, a troubled young man, visits Strike’s office, claiming to have witnessed a child’s murder years earlier. Though Billy’s memory is fragmented and unreliable, Strike takes his account seriously and starts investigating. The case leads Strike and Robin into the corridors of British government and the world of high society, where they uncover a tangled web of secrets and lies.
As they delve deeper, Strike and Robin must navigate personal and professional challenges. Robin is dealing with the fallout from her tumultuous marriage to Matthew, while Strike grapples with his feelings for Robin and the pressures of his growing fame. The investigation becomes increasingly dangerous as they get closer to the truth, culminating in a thrilling and unexpected resolution.
Characters
- Cormoran Strike: The determined and intuitive private investigator dealing with his own personal complexities while solving the case.
- Robin Ellacott: Strike’s capable partner, who balances her investigative duties with personal struggles.
- Billy Knight: A troubled young man whose claim about witnessing a murder sets the investigation in motion.
- Jasper Chiswell: A government minister with a murky past, who becomes central to Strike and Robin’s investigation.
- Matthew Cunliffe: Robin’s estranged husband, whose relationship with her continues to deteriorate.
- Izzy Chiswell: Jasper Chiswell’s daughter, who aids Strike and Robin in their investigation.
- Raff Chiswell: Jasper Chiswell’s son, whose actions and history become crucial to the unfolding mystery.
Themes
Lethal White explores several key themes:
- Memory and Truth: The novel examines how memories can be fragmented and unreliable, yet still hold crucial truths.
- Power and Corruption: The story delves into the corrupting influence of power and the moral compromises individuals make.
- Personal Struggles: The characters’ personal lives and struggles are intricately woven into the narrative, adding depth to their motivations and actions.
- Justice and Morality: The investigation raises questions about justice and the moral ambiguities that often accompany the pursuit of truth.
Publication History
Lethal White was published on September 18, 2018. The novel was released by Sphere Books in the United Kingdom and by Mulholland Books in the United States. The book received positive reviews for its intricate plot and character development, solidifying the series’ reputation for compelling detective fiction.