Close to Death

A Novel

In New York Times bestselling author Anthony Horowitz’s ingenious fifth literary whodunnit in the Hawthorne and Horowitz series, Detective Hawthorne is once again called upon to solve an unsolvable case—a gruesome murder in an idyllic gated community in which suspects abound.

Riverside Close is a picture-perfect community. The six exclusive and attractive houses are tucked far away from the noise and grime of city life, allowing the residents to enjoy beautiful gardens, pleasant birdsong, and tranquility from behind the security of a locked gate.

It is the perfect idyll, until the Kentworthy family arrives, with their four giant, gas-guzzling cars, gaggle of shrieking children, and plans for a garish swimming pool in the backyard. Obvious outsiders, the Kentworthys do not belong in Riverside Close, and quickly offend every last one of the neighbors.

When Giles Kentworthy is found dead on his own doorstep, a crossbow bolt sticking out of his chest, Detective Hawthorne is the only investigator they can call to solve the case.

Because how do you solve a murder when everyone is a suspect?

Hooked from the very first sentence I l

I love Anthony Horowitz books. They’re fun and clever and so well read. I’m always sorry when I finish because I know it’s a long wait for the next one I didn’t, however, care for the most unpleasant way a dog in the story died, which was reiterated time after time. I could’ve done without that. It wasn’t necessary.

Another triumph

The latest Anthony Horowitz is a delight. As always. This audiobook has the added pleasure of Rory Kinnear, one of the greatest audiobook narrators there is, with his wonderful voice and dramatic zest.

Hey, Tony...sorry...Anthony:

"How're you getting on with the next book? The new Hawthorne." We need the sixth in the series.

Even Hawthorne was annoyed with the lengthy set up to this fifth novel, but the information is essential and the wait is worth it. When Tony...sorry...Anthony...begins his first-person presentation, you will know you're back in the world he shares with Hawthorne. I could not turn it off.

Spots of Brit sarcasm that raised guffaws from even a Yank like me embedded in a plot that never ceases turning...superb!

As for the future, there's good news in the acknowledgements.

The best one yet

Different from the other Hawthorne books and so clever. How does Horowitz do it? His imagination is boundless. I love all of his books.

Just a wonderful read

Enjoy the plot, the logic, the divine accent of the narrativ, but most of all the intrigueing characters. Will read again soon - even though I know whodunnit