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Close to Death  By  cover art

Close to Death

By: Anthony Horowitz
Narrated by: Anthony Horowitz, Rory Kinnear
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Publisher's summary

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?

©2024 Anthony Horowitz (P)2024 HarperCollins Publishers

What listeners say about Close to Death

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Close to perfection

This is exactly what I want from a book, This book series is such a treat. I really enjoyed everything about it. The dynamic between Hawthorne & Horowitz is so fun much. What a great read.

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    4 out of 5 stars

The book personified: “riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma”

Complex and detailed plot, convoluted conclusion, multiple well–drawn characters- I found myself scratching my head, but continued reading.

I enjoyed the book but would not recommend falling asleep while listening. You will be lost if you don’t bookmark your pre-lights out place.

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Another fun mystery

I have read all the Hawthorne books, and many other Horowitz stories. I'm glad to hear there are more to come. I'll buy, and recommend them all.

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1 person found this helpful

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So unique

I’ve read all the Hawthorne series books and devoured each one. I am always saddened when I reach the end of an Anthony Horowitz novel. The blending of a fictional story with the real life “Tony” is so clever. I do love a witty book. I was glad to hear in the credits that Anthony plans seven more books in this series. Highly recommend.

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best Hawthorne mystery yet

was pleasantly surprised by the turn and by how the story got there. this has been my favorite Hawthorne book yet, and I started wondering if I was going to give up on the series.

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Always the story and the humanity…7 more books to look forward to.

That is have to wait another year…or more for the next novel. Excellent narration as well

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Never Predictable

I love this series and Mr. Horowitz never disappoints. He does such a great job playing with the various mystery tropes. I can't wait for the next one. The narrator is fabulous as well.

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  • 04-22-24

Another success!

The characters that are created by Anthony Horowitz become real as he weaves his narrative. I will anxiously await for the next adventure mystery murder.

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Most complex Hawthorne yet

With all the hallmarks of Horowitz’s considerable skill, this book is, overall, a pleasure. I will confess to getting a little impatient toward the end—felt a bit deep in the weeds. It has a more serious tone, as well. But good writing, good pacing, and a rather complicated plot make for a good experience in the end.

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The character of Hawthorn and Dudley.

This is the best of the series. Anthony Horowitz is a first class and decent human being. I’m happy that he has a close knit and loving family.

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