What is the name of J.K. Rowling’s crime-fiction pen name?

J.K. Rowling’s crime-fiction pen name is Robert Galbraith. She used that name when publishing The Cuckoo’s Calling in 2013, a detective novel featuring private investigator Cormoran Strike.

The pseudonym initially concealed Rowling’s identity from the general reading public. The book received attention for its writing and mystery plot, but its sales increased dramatically after the author’s identity was reported and confirmed. Rowling subsequently continued the Cormoran Strike series under the Robert Galbraith name.

Robert Galbraith is not a separate author with an independent literary career. The name is a pseudonym used by Rowling for a different genre and publishing identity. Her Harry Potter books appeared under J.K. Rowling, while the Galbraith books focus on adult detective fiction, including The Silkworm, Career of Evil, Lethal White, Troubled Blood, and The Running Grave.