The Sentence is Death is the second novel in the Hawthorne and Horowitz series by Anthony Horowitz.

The unlikely duo; Detective Daniel Hawthorne and author Anthony Horowitz, a fictional version of the author himself, are back at it again. The story begins with the murder of a wealthy divorce lawyer Richard Pryce. The murder weapon? A very expensive bottle of wine. He has been murdered in his own home, his exquisite bachelor pad. The killer has left a message, a three-digit number on the wall.

As Hawthorne and Horowitz delve deeper into the case, they uncover a web of secrets and hidden motives involving a diverse cast of characters from the London legal scene.

How did it make me feel?

The Narrative

The thing that I’ve been liking best about this series is that Horowitz cleverly inserts himself into the story, serving as both the narrator and Hawthorne’s reluctant sidekick. This unique narrative approach adds depth and intrigue to the novel, allowing readers to see the case from multiple perspectives. Horowitz’s writing is sharp and immersive, effortlessly drawing you into the dark and labyrinthine world of the London legal scene. His attention to detail and meticulous plotting ensures that every clue and revelation feels earned, making the ultimate resolution all the more satisfying.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its ability to keep you guessing. Horowitz skillfully plants red herrings and twists, keeping the reader on their toes throughout the investigation. The pacing is pitch-perfect, with tension steadily building as the narrative hurtles toward its shocking conclusion.

The Characters

Hawthorne is a complex figure, brilliant but abrasive, and his interactions with the author/narrator provide both humor and tension. As the layers of the murder mystery are peeled away, you’ll find yourself drawn deeper into the minds and motivations of the characters, each with their own secrets and hidden agendas. We get a bit more peek at Hawthorne’s character in this one and it’s very exciting.

Would I recommend it?

With its compelling narrative, intricate characters, and expertly plotted twists, Anthony Horowitz once again proves that he is a brilliant mystery writer. Whether you’re a longtime fan of his work or a newcomer to his storytelling, I think you’re going to love this book.

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