Robert Galbraith is the pseudonym of Joanne Rowling, better known as J.K. Rowling, the acclaimed author behind the Harry Potter series and The Casual Vacancy, a novel for adults. Rowling was born in Yate, Gloucestershire, England, to Anne Rowling (née Volant) and Peter James Rowling. Her mother's heritage is half-French and half-Scottish, contributing to Rowling's rich cultural background. Her parents met in 1964, and Rowling's life has since been a testament to her creativity and storytelling prowess.

As Robert Galbraith, Rowling ventured into the world of detective fiction, creating the Cormoran Strike series. This new pseudonym allowed her to experiment with her writing in a different genre without the expectations tied to her well-known name. The character of Cormoran Strike, an ex-military policeman turned private detective, and his partner, Robin Ellacott, navigate through a series of gripping, intricately plotted mysteries set against the backdrop of London's diverse neighborhoods.

Rowling's decision to write under a male pseudonym was driven by her desire to take her writing persona as far away from her public identity as possible, and to enjoy the freedom of writing without hype or expectation. The choice of the name 'Robert Galbraith' was influenced by her fondness for the name Robert and her admiration for Robert F. Kennedy, as well as a childhood wish to be called 'Ella Galbraith'.

The Cormoran Strike series is celebrated for its compelling character development, meticulous plotting, and Rowling's ability to immerse readers in the detective genre's classic elements while offering fresh perspectives. Rowling's exploration of themes such as change, loss, and the complexities of relationships adds depth to the series, making each book a richly satisfying read.