62 pages 2 hours read

Anthony Horowitz

The Word is Murder

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2017

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Word is Murder, a murder mystery by Anthony Horowitz, follows the metafictional journey of Horowitz as both author and character, who teams up with former detective Daniel Hawthorne to investigate the suspicious death of Diana Cowper, a woman who planned her funeral hours before her murder. Their complex investigation uncovers secrets about Cowper's past and Hawthorne's biases, blending mystery with reflections on storytelling and character development. The source material features depictions of death by suicide, discussions of death and injury to children, and some graphic descriptions of blood and violence.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Anthony Horowitz's The Word is Murder is a compelling whodunit that captivates with its unique narrative style and clever plot twists. Fans appreciate the meta-fictional element and intricate storytelling. However, some readers find the pacing uneven and certain characters underdeveloped. Overall, it's a must-read for mystery enthusiasts with a taste for inventive plots.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Word is Murder?

Fans of intricate murder mysteries and meta-fiction will enjoy Anthony Horowitz's The Word is Murder. Ideal for readers who appreciate Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes series and the modern twist of Anthony Horowitz's Magpie Murders, this novel combines clever puzzles with engaging storytelling.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Lexile Level

740L

Book Details

Genre

Mystery / Crime Fiction

Horror / Thriller / Suspense Fiction

British Literature

Themes

Values/Ideas: Justice & Injustice

Values/Ideas: Truth & Lies

Emotions/Behavior: Revenge