Career of Evil (Cormoran Strike, #3) Summary & Key Insights

Robert Galbraith's (J.K. Rowling's) Career of Evil plunges Cormoran Strike and Robin Ellacott deeper into the murky underworld of London's elite, following the dispatch of a gruesome package – a woman's severed leg – to Strike's office. This chilling event sets in motion a complex and perilous investigation, pushing the boundaries of their professional and personal relationship.

The severed leg belongs to a model, Charlotte Campbell, and the investigation quickly unravels a tangled web of deceit and violence connecting Charlotte to a number of influential individuals. Strike and Robin, alongside Strike's loyal but often troublesome assistant, Matthew Cunliffe, delve into the victim's past, uncovering a trail of bitter rivalries, past traumas, and hidden secrets within the fashion industry and beyond. Their investigation leads them to a circle of suspicious characters, including Charlotte's seemingly charming but possibly manipulative husband, a ruthless businesswoman with a dark past, and a shadowy figure from Charlotte's modelling agency.

The central plot revolves around identifying Charlotte's killer and deciphering the motive behind the brutal murder. As Strike and Robin unravel the complexities of the case, the danger escalates. They face threats, intimidation, and near-misses, emphasizing the high stakes of their work. The investigation becomes deeply personal for Robin, who finds herself increasingly involved and even targeted by the killer. Her growing competence as an investigator, coupled with her burgeoning feelings for Strike, add a significant layer of tension and drama to the narrative.

Career of Evil explores several overarching themes. The exploration of the dark underbelly of glamour and the cutthroat nature of the fashion industry is a significant element. The novel also delves into themes of obsession, betrayal, revenge, and the corrosive effects of unchecked ambition. Furthermore, the growing relationship between Strike and Robin is central, showcasing their evolving professional partnership and the developing romantic tension between them. Their dynamic forms the emotional core of the narrative, balancing the thrilling investigation with intimate character development.

The investigation culminates in a shocking revelation of the killer's identity and motives, revealing layers of deception and a meticulously planned crime. The climax is intense and suspenseful, leaving the reader on the edge of their seat. In the aftermath, the novel underlines the lasting psychological impact of the case, especially on Robin, solidifying her place as a powerful and integral part of Strike's investigative team and highlighting the personal costs of their dangerous profession.