Even though the title immediately made me think of the Blue Öyster Cult, it wasn't until I opened the book that I realized it actually was in reference to it. So many Blue Öyster Cult references! They've made my favourite song of all time (Burnin' For You), so that was a nice surprise.

The book was as good as the rest of the series. The blurb promised plot twist upon plot twist, which it didn't really delived, but it was nice and enjoyable nonetheless. The biggest "twist" came at the end, but it worked really well and made sense so I liked that. It so easily explained everything yet I totally didn't see it coming. That's pretty much what I expected from a crime novel by Rowling though.

Gonna put this whole thing under spoilers though. The romance!? I don't know. I've realized in my head Strike is like 20 years older than he actually is, which made all the comments about him and Robin really creepy until I realized my mistake. I'm still not sure I like it. I kinda like his crush on her, but I don't want her to reciprocate? That's how I ship ...

But oh my gods, I HATE Matthew. Never liked that douche and especially not after this one. Like he's 100% the worst and Robin should dump him, but she should NOT run into Strike's arms as soon as she does. Be single for a while, girl! Live a little, for fuck's sake. Or find someone who is supportive but not holds some weird power over you. It's not really the mark of a good relationship.

On the plus side I really started to like Robin more in this one. She stands up for herself and takes charge more, I felt, and that was nice. I still can't really relate to her need to get married and be with a douche like Matthew, but maybe that's just me.

Oh well, I am in desperate need for a sequel now! ( )

This third in the Cormoran Strike series is a lot darker than the previous two. There is a LOT of delving into the past of both Cormoran and Robin which helps a little to explain why they are who they are. Their characters are becoming more fully fleshed as the series goes on.
The violence/descriptions of violence were a bit too graphic for my tastes but I put up with them because I felt so involved in the story. Galbraith really does make you care about her characters (and loathe those who you are supposed to - MATTHEW!). Another good mystery and I'm looking forward to the fourth. ( )

Review to come. I need a while to process the awful truth from the end of this book ......

I would give this 3.5 stars. Each book in this series got progressively darker and disturbing, which I didn't like. But I was invested in the characters, found the book to be engaging, and read it pretty quickly. The mystery was well done, and kept me guessing.The cliff hanger at the end really makes me want the next book! ( )

Still love the series. Not thrilled with the ending but it'll be fun to see how it resolves. Eventually.

The case was good and, just like the previous ones, a little hard to believe but very entertaining.

I'll be not-so-patiently waiting for the next in the series. ( )