1. Much of Strike and Robin’s initial investigation focuses on the serial killer Dennis Creed. Why do you think serial killers hold such fascination for us?
2. In your opinion, what is the significance of the quotes from Spenser’s The Faerie Queen?
3. TROUBLED BLOOD reveals much about Cormoran Strike’s background for the first time in the series. Does knowing this help you understand him better?
4. This is the first time that Cormoran and Robin tackle a cold case in the series. Was that a different experience for you as the reader following the investigation?
5. In this novel, Robin steps up to be co-partner of the agency. How does her approach differ to Strike’s and how is she treated by their employees?
6. Do you think a romantic relationship between Strike and Robin would be a good thing, or detrimental to their business relationship?
7. Anna begins talking to Strike after consulting a medium and tarot card readings go on to play a major role in the investigation. Do you believe in these techniques? Why do you think Robert Galbraith included them in the novel?
8. Both Strike and Anna grow up with maternal figures who are not their mother by blood. How would you say that has that impacted each of their lives?
9. Did you guess the ending? What did you think had happened to Margot?
