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Close to Death
Book (2024)
In New York Times–bestselling author Anthony Horowitz’s ingenious fifth literary whodunit 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, a 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 they quickly offend every last one of their neighbours.
When Giles Kentworthy is found dead on his own doorstep, a crossbow bolt sticking out of his chest, Detective Hawthorne is the only investigator that can be called on to solve the case.
Because how do you solve a murder when everyone is a suspect?
Book (2024)
In New York Times–bestselling author Anthony Horowitz’s ingenious fifth literary whodunit 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, a 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 they quickly offend every last one of their neighbours.
When Giles Kentworthy is found dead on his own doorstep, a crossbow bolt sticking out of his chest, Detective Hawthorne is the only investigator that can be called on to solve the case.
Because how do you solve a murder when everyone is a suspect?
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Content at a glance
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Sex & Nudity
The content focuses primarily on a mystery investigation, with only occasional mentions of personal relationships or minor romantic tension. There is no graphic content or nudity involved.
Violence & Gore
The plot centers on a murder committed with a crossbow; while the premise is lethal, the narrative focuses on the investigation rather than graphic depictions of gore. Expect mild to moderate intensity regarding the discovery of the crime.
Profanity
The dialogue is typical of a standard British crime thriller, featuring occasional mild expletives such as "bl**dy" or "d*mn" used in moments of frustration during the investigation.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
Social drinking occurs periodically as characters meet in casual or professional settings, typical of the cozy mystery genre. There are no depictions of substance abuse or addiction themes.
Frightening Scenes
The story maintains a sense of psychological suspense as the mystery unfolds within a closed community. While the situation is tense, it avoids overt horror elements or jump scares.
Key Insights
Quick summary and important considerations
This is a complex detective story for older readers who enjoy solving challenging murder mysteries.
Content Warnings
Graphic violence (lethal crossbow injury)
Detailed Analysis
In-depth insights for parents and educators
What Parents Need to Know
The story features a graphic death involving a crossbow bolt, making it unsuitable for younger children. It focuses on the volatile social dynamics of a gated community, prioritizing mystery-solving over lighthearted themes.
What Kids Can Learn
Readers can sharpen their observational skills and gain practice in identifying motives and contradictions within a complex social setting.
Key Topics Discussed
Detective fiction
Interpersonal conflict
Logical deduction
Why Parents Might Like It
Horowitz provides an intellectually stimulating 'whodunit' that functions as a classic literary puzzle for fans of traditional detective mysteries.
Positives & learning
More filled segments mean stronger positive content or learning value.
Positive messages
The narrative emphasizes the consequences of social alienation and the importance of community harmony, though these are secondary to the central puzzle.
Role models
The protagonist, Detective Hawthorne, exhibits intellectual rigor and analytical thinking, though his personality is often detached and unconventional.
Representation
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Learning
Provides practice in deductive reasoning, logical inference, and following intricate narrative threads.
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