The Word is Murder by Anthony Horowitz
Published June 5, 2018     400 pages
First in Hawthorne series

Content:  * * * (3.2)

Lots of language, particularly f–k and s–t. Some suggestive material, including brief references to / descriptions of male anatomy.  Several mentions of homosexuality.  Lead character described many times as homophobic (and this is not okay in the other lead character’s view).  Details of two murders and one fatal accident; lots of blood and some gory descriptions.

Plot:  * * * * * (5.0)

Well written and suspenseful with several plot lines braiding back and forth.  Voiced in first person from the point of view of the author himself (fictionalized of course, with real life details).  Sherlock Holmes’ copy-cat character Daniel Hawthorne makes the book quite fascinating and there are so many hidden details to catch and piece together.  The perfect murder mystery for those who want a little challenge.

Overall Recommendation: * * * (3.5)

The language in this book will stave off many potential readers.  If language bothers you, even slightly, this is not for you (if this was a movie, it would be rated R within the first 30 pages).  It is also quite gory at times and is not for the squeamish.  The main character’s obsession with another character’s supposed “homophobia” is unnecessary in my view, but this is light compared to much of modern literature.  Overall, I would say someone who enjoys murder mysteries needs to read this.  This is the second time I have read this, and I really enjoyed it (due to the fact that I often don’t notice language).  Anthony Horowitz is a fabulous writer – do check out his TV series Foyle’s War as well – and is worth a read for most.