What is the name of J.K. Rowling’s pseudonym for her crime novels?

J.K. Rowling’s pseudonym for her crime novels is Robert Galbraith.

The name first appeared on The Cuckoo’s Calling, a detective novel published in 2013. The story introduces private investigator Cormoran Strike and his temporary secretary, Robin Ellacott. Rowling initially published the novel without publicly identifying herself as its author.

The pseudonym was revealed in July 2013 after an analysis by linguists and a subsequent investigation connected the book with Rowling. She later continued the series under the same name, while the books’ covers and marketing retained the Robert Galbraith author identity.

“Robert” was reported as a tribute to Rowling’s political hero Robert F. Kennedy, while “Galbraith” was chosen for personal reasons. The name is sometimes mistakenly treated as a separate writer, but Rowling has openly continued to acknowledge the connection.