What pseudonym did J.K. Rowling use for her first Cormoran Strike novel?

J.K. Rowling used the pseudonym Robert Galbraith for her first Cormoran Strike novel.

The Cuckoo’s Calling was published in 2013 under the name Robert Galbraith. It introduced private detective Cormoran Strike and his temporary secretary Robin Ellacott, who became the central investigative partnership of Rowling’s crime series.

The pseudonym was initially presented as belonging to a debut author. Rowling’s identity was revealed publicly later in 2013 after an analysis by linguists and other reporting connected the writing to her. The revelation drew renewed attention to the novel and its sales.

Robert Galbraith remains the credited author name for the Cormoran Strike books. Rowling has explained that using a pseudonym allowed her to write in a different genre and receive feedback without the immediate expectations attached to the Harry Potter name.