The Word is Murder is the first book in the mystery series Hawthorne and Horowitz Investigate by Anthony Horowitz. Set in contemporary London, the story begins with a shocking murder that leaves the police baffled. The police department calls upon Detective Daniel Hawthorne to help investigate this unusual case. Detective Hawthorne on the other hand approaches Anthony, who is the narrator of this story and a fictionalized version of the author himself. Hawthorne wants Anthony to write a book about him and proposes to split the royalties 50-50. 

And thus begin the adventures of Hawthorne and Horowitz which have graced four books so far in the series. In this particular case, a woman is found dead a few hours after planning her funeral. Diana Cowper, a wealthy woman with a dark past, has been strangled in her own home.

How did it make me feel?

The Narrative

The most intriguing aspect of this novel for me was the inclusion of the author, Anthony Horowitz, as a character within his own story. I found this very interesting and it drew my attention immensely to how this story was unfolding. Horowitz’s writing style is both engaging and clever. The plot unfolds at a brisk pace, revealing a multitude of suspects and motives along the way. The seamless blend of real-world references and fictional elements creates an immersive reading experience that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

While the unconventional structure of the book is refreshing, it may not appeal to readers who prefer a straightforward mystery narrative. Additionally, a few plot points might feel slightly far-fetched, but by the end of the book, I didn’t mind those at all.

The Characters

Character development is another strong point in “The Word is Murder.” Hawthorne is a fascinating protagonist, with his quirks and flaws making him all the more compelling. His interactions with the author offer a unique glimpse into the world of crime-solving, as well as the challenges faced by a writer trying to capture the essence of a complex investigation. I didn’t particularly like Hawthorne, to be honest, but I think that is because he seems to have a lot that is not visible to the readers at this point. And this actually adds to the narrative, which I love!

Would I recommend it?

Whether you’re a dedicated mystery enthusiast or simply in search of a gripping page-turner, this book will not disappoint. So, step into the world of murder, intrigue, and clever deductions, and prepare to be captivated!

Get your own copy of The Word is Murder here. If you use my link to buy, I may get a small commission at NO additional cost to you! It will help me keep my blog running! 🙂 Thank you for your support!