BOOK REVIEW: “The Word is Murder” by Anthony Horowitz
Author: Anthony Horowitz
Main Characters: Daniel Hawthorne, Anthony Horowitz, Mrs. Diana Cowper, Jo Weston, Jacko, Douglas Cowper
“The Word is Murder” by Anthony Horowitz is a unique and refreshing piece of modern mystery. The book remarkably combines elements of mystery, self-reflection, and the exploration of relationships, making for a fascinating and thrilling read.
A Unique Blend of Fiction and Reality
The novel presents the engaging tale of Daniel Hawthorne, a police detective consultant, who entangles best-selling author Anthony Horowitz to write a book about him. Horowitz brilliantly plays with the lines between fiction and reality by inserting himself as a character in his own book, adding a layer of complexity to the tradition of the murder mystery genre.
The Characters
Anthony Horowitz develops the characters with precision. Each one carries their unique voicing and complexity, highlighting the author’s keen observation on human emotions and relationships. I especially enjoyed the unique dynamic and banter between the fictional Horowitz and Hawthorne, which gives the novel a distinct flavor.
The Puzzling Mystery
The core mystery of the novel – the murder of Diana Cowper – is intriguing. The woman herself plans her own funeral and six hours later is strangled to death. The intricacies and red herrings Horowitz weaves into the plot keep you on edge and turning pages. He subtly leads you through a maze of clues, leaving you guessing until the very end.
Exploring Deeper Connections and Societal Issues
Horowitz delves into social issues and intricacies of human emotions, drawing links to literary masterpieces such as Shakespeare’s Hamlet and its exploration of existential questions. He correlates the complexities of the human psyche and societal dilemmas with the simplicity found in nature, resonating deeply with readers.
FAQ
What is unique about “The Word is Murder”?
The novel incorporates an unconventional metafiction technique with the author positioning himself as a character within his own novel.
Who is the main protagonist of the novel?
Daniel Hawthorne, a consultant detective, is the main protagonist, with Anthony Horowitz portrayed as a secondary character.
Concluding Thoughts
“The Word is Murder” is a stimulating exploration into the realm of murder mystery, questioning the boundaries between fiction and reality, and highlighting the richness of human emotions. The book offers a far deeper experience than ‘just another murder mystery’, pulling readers into an existential detective adventure. Anthony Horowitz’s novel unveils that within the simplicity of our daily environment, profound mysteries await discovery if we choose to look closer and deeper.
