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Hawthorne & Horowitz #6
A Deadly Episode
They’re making a major feature film of the first Hawthorne/Horowitz mystery novel. Except—they’re behind schedule, they’ve run out of money and . . . oh! The star has just been murdered.
Ex-Detective Inspector Daniel Hawthorne is dead.
Or, rather, the actor playing him in the film adaptation of The Word is Murder is. Rising star David Caine has been stabbed, and it seems that everyone on the set had a motive.
Caine had just fired his PA. He had fallen out with his director, slept with the screenwriter, humiliated his co-star and dropped his agent days before he was about to sign a multi-million-dollar deal to appear in the next Spider-Man movie.
But what if Caine’s murderer had made a mistake? What if it was the real Hawthorne who was the intended victim? For it turns out that the brilliant detective may have got it wrong ten years earlier. An innocent man has died in jail. And perhaps someone has decided that Hawthorne must pay the price.
From the film set on the south coast of England, the story moves to Reeth, in Yorkshire, the village where Hawthorne grew up. A burned-down school, a car accident that isn’t what it seems, blackmail and murder in an Elizabethan country house . . . somehow they combine to unlock the secret of what has happened in Hastings.
For once, the local police are helpful. DS Sarah Milnes gives Hawthorne carte blanche to investigate and there may even be a hint of romance in the air. Which leaves his hapless sidekick, Horowitz, on his own, stumbling his way to the truth.
A riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma, A Deadly Episode is an intriguing page-turner that once again demonstrates why Anthony Horowitz is the reigning king of the modern whodunit.
Ex-Detective Inspector Daniel Hawthorne is dead.
Or, rather, the actor playing him in the film adaptation of The Word is Murder is. Rising star David Caine has been stabbed, and it seems that everyone on the set had a motive.
Caine had just fired his PA. He had fallen out with his director, slept with the screenwriter, humiliated his co-star and dropped his agent days before he was about to sign a multi-million-dollar deal to appear in the next Spider-Man movie.
But what if Caine’s murderer had made a mistake? What if it was the real Hawthorne who was the intended victim? For it turns out that the brilliant detective may have got it wrong ten years earlier. An innocent man has died in jail. And perhaps someone has decided that Hawthorne must pay the price.
From the film set on the south coast of England, the story moves to Reeth, in Yorkshire, the village where Hawthorne grew up. A burned-down school, a car accident that isn’t what it seems, blackmail and murder in an Elizabethan country house . . . somehow they combine to unlock the secret of what has happened in Hastings.
For once, the local police are helpful. DS Sarah Milnes gives Hawthorne carte blanche to investigate and there may even be a hint of romance in the air. Which leaves his hapless sidekick, Horowitz, on his own, stumbling his way to the truth.
A riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma, A Deadly Episode is an intriguing page-turner that once again demonstrates why Anthony Horowitz is the reigning king of the modern whodunit.
9 pages, Audible Audio
First published April 28, 2026
About the author
Anthony Horowitz
361 books21.6k followersAnthony Horowitz, OBE is ranked alongside Enid Blyton and Mark A. Cooper as "The most original and best spy-kids authors of the century." (New York Times). Anthony has been writing since the age of eight, and professionally since the age of twenty. In addition to the highly successful Alex Rider books, he is also the writer and creator of award winning detective series Foyle’s War, and more recently event drama Collision, among his other television works he has written episodes for Poirot, Murder in Mind, Midsomer Murders and Murder Most Horrid. Anthony became patron to East Anglia Children’s Hospices in 2009.
On 19 January 2011, the estate of Arthur Conan Doyle announced that Horowitz was to be the writer of a new Sherlock Holmes novel, the first such effort to receive an official endorsement from them and to be entitled the House of Silk.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/anthon...
On 19 January 2011, the estate of Arthur Conan Doyle announced that Horowitz was to be the writer of a new Sherlock Holmes novel, the first such effort to receive an official endorsement from them and to be entitled the House of Silk.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/anthon...
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Review of advance copy received from Otros
i can't wait to read it!!! i need a dose of horowitz & hawthorne asap
update: finished reading. chef kiss. now i need the next one!!! ill be obsessively reading the others in the meantime
update: finished reading. chef kiss. now i need the next one!!! ill be obsessively reading the others in the meantime
January 25, 2026
If there is a better series of metafiction crime novels out there, I've yet to find it. A Deadly Episode, the sixth book in Anthony Horowitz's brilliant Hawthorne and Horowitz series, is a delight, brilliantly blending humour, mystery and a whole heap of self deprecation on the author's part, although the majority of it possibly doesn't fit that description quite so well given that his perceived failings are delivered lovingly(?) by his fictional(?) partner in crime solving, former Detective Daniel Hawthorne. It's strange to say, given that the entire series of books is based on Horowitz writing accounts of Hawthorne's prowess as a Private Investigator, but this is perhaps Hawthorne's most personal case yet, and certainly the closest that Anthony Horowitz, and we readers, come to learning the full truth of Hawthorne's past.
A Deadly Episode is about an investigation into a murder that occurs during the filming of an adaptation of 'The Word Is Murder', bookone in the series. So this is art imitating life, which is imitating art (a very liberal interpretation of an adaptation to say the least), which was an imitation (names changed etc) of life. Which may or may not be true - this is metafiction. We think. And as the victim in this case is the very man portraying Hawthorne, was the it 'Hawthorne', the actor, aka David Caine, or Hawthorne, the Detective and on set technical advisor, who was really the intended victim? Confused? Well, buckle up because there is so much more going on here and, despite it sounding confusing on paper, it is an absolute blast full of questionable characters, pretentious film type folk and all the humour, mystery and misdirection - often cause by Horowitz's confused, or perpetually two steps behind, state. And I loved it.
There are so many brilliantly observed characters in this book which not only parodies Anthony Horowitz's own work and life, but also the whole prospect of TV adaptations and the process in itself. I don't know whether or not the author has met people just like this over the course of his life, having spent a lot of time working on TV series over the years, but his witty observations of the various characters never fail to amuse. and his mirth is not just focused on the actors and various people in his life. Much of the joy comes in his first person narrative which never fails to mock his own personality and understanding, or lack thereof, when it comes to what is happening around him.
The banter between him and Hawthorne is pitch perfect as always, and Hawthorne always comes across as strangely enigmatic whilst completely charismatic. Conversely, most of the TV crowd come across as the type who would gladly stab each other in the back - oddly prophetic in the circumstances. David Caine is a rather objectionable character, the list of reasons why those around him may bear a grudge growing longer with each page turn. It could be literally anyone, it is that kind of book, and the mystery is maintained until the last. Those paying very close attention may twig it, but why rush? Enjoy the ride. It's worth it.
The story focuses not just on the murder of David Caine, but also a case over which Hawthorne has his greatest regret, bringing us and author Mr H, in close contact with some faces from Hawthorne's past. Whether this answers lingering questions about his past, or just brings up new ones you will have to judge for yourself, but it left me all the more intrigued and also a touch sad for the author given his desire to learn more about his friend, albeit from the point of view of someone who may or may not also be motivated by a small amount of curiosity and nosiness. It adds some menace to the story, but is strangely fitting in this story.
I love these books and tore through this one in no time. They're addictive and pacy, packed with laughs as well as some truly memorable characters you can both love and hate. Everything in this books points to there being still more to learn about our intrepid detective and his biographer, and I cannot wait for the next book. As to whether there is any scope for this series to ever make it to the screen, small or large ... Well, I'd love it but finding the perfect cast could be murder.
A Deadly Episode is about an investigation into a murder that occurs during the filming of an adaptation of 'The Word Is Murder', bookone in the series. So this is art imitating life, which is imitating art (a very liberal interpretation of an adaptation to say the least), which was an imitation (names changed etc) of life. Which may or may not be true - this is metafiction. We think. And as the victim in this case is the very man portraying Hawthorne, was the it 'Hawthorne', the actor, aka David Caine, or Hawthorne, the Detective and on set technical advisor, who was really the intended victim? Confused? Well, buckle up because there is so much more going on here and, despite it sounding confusing on paper, it is an absolute blast full of questionable characters, pretentious film type folk and all the humour, mystery and misdirection - often cause by Horowitz's confused, or perpetually two steps behind, state. And I loved it.
There are so many brilliantly observed characters in this book which not only parodies Anthony Horowitz's own work and life, but also the whole prospect of TV adaptations and the process in itself. I don't know whether or not the author has met people just like this over the course of his life, having spent a lot of time working on TV series over the years, but his witty observations of the various characters never fail to amuse. and his mirth is not just focused on the actors and various people in his life. Much of the joy comes in his first person narrative which never fails to mock his own personality and understanding, or lack thereof, when it comes to what is happening around him.
The banter between him and Hawthorne is pitch perfect as always, and Hawthorne always comes across as strangely enigmatic whilst completely charismatic. Conversely, most of the TV crowd come across as the type who would gladly stab each other in the back - oddly prophetic in the circumstances. David Caine is a rather objectionable character, the list of reasons why those around him may bear a grudge growing longer with each page turn. It could be literally anyone, it is that kind of book, and the mystery is maintained until the last. Those paying very close attention may twig it, but why rush? Enjoy the ride. It's worth it.
The story focuses not just on the murder of David Caine, but also a case over which Hawthorne has his greatest regret, bringing us and author Mr H, in close contact with some faces from Hawthorne's past. Whether this answers lingering questions about his past, or just brings up new ones you will have to judge for yourself, but it left me all the more intrigued and also a touch sad for the author given his desire to learn more about his friend, albeit from the point of view of someone who may or may not also be motivated by a small amount of curiosity and nosiness. It adds some menace to the story, but is strangely fitting in this story.
I love these books and tore through this one in no time. They're addictive and pacy, packed with laughs as well as some truly memorable characters you can both love and hate. Everything in this books points to there being still more to learn about our intrepid detective and his biographer, and I cannot wait for the next book. As to whether there is any scope for this series to ever make it to the screen, small or large ... Well, I'd love it but finding the perfect cast could be murder.
May 2, 2026
While the mystery itself in A Deadly Episode didn't quite live up to five-star level, this is one of those series where I’ve realized that’s not really why I’m here.
What keeps me coming back is the voice. Between that dry humor and the dynamic between Hawthorne and Horowitz (as Horowitz), which still works for me every time, there are always at least a handful of moments that get an actual laugh out of me.
The mystery here does spiral a bit, landing in that eye-squinting territory where I may not be entirely convinced by it. And yet, it didn’t really matter all that much in the end.
Once again, what I especially loved this time was that delightful meta layer. The behind-the-scenes look at adapting the first book of this series into a film — the headaches, the egos, the collaboration struggles, the general chaos of it all — added such a fun twist on the usual texture Horowitz brings to the story. That insider angle is something he just does so well, and is definitely one of the things that makes this series stand out for me. And honestly, at this point, it would take more than a slightly wobbly mystery to pull me away from these characters.
What keeps me coming back is the voice. Between that dry humor and the dynamic between Hawthorne and Horowitz (as Horowitz), which still works for me every time, there are always at least a handful of moments that get an actual laugh out of me.
The mystery here does spiral a bit, landing in that eye-squinting territory where I may not be entirely convinced by it. And yet, it didn’t really matter all that much in the end.
Once again, what I especially loved this time was that delightful meta layer. The behind-the-scenes look at adapting the first book of this series into a film — the headaches, the egos, the collaboration struggles, the general chaos of it all — added such a fun twist on the usual texture Horowitz brings to the story. That insider angle is something he just does so well, and is definitely one of the things that makes this series stand out for me. And honestly, at this point, it would take more than a slightly wobbly mystery to pull me away from these characters.
May 4, 2026
The first book based on PI Daniel Hawthorne and written by novelist Anthony Horowitz is being made into a feature film, and the duo are visiting the set. Things are tense: the screenwriter is an eco-warrior, the director is full of himself, and the two stars don't get along. When one of the lead actors is murdered in his trailer, Hawthorne and Horowitz try to get to the bottom of things.
Horowitz is one of my favorite mystery writers and I enjoy both of his series, but this one fell a little flat for me. The plot seems somewhat forced, and while Hawthorne's mysterious past has always been part of his character, this time his shadowy history is more irritating than usual. A little more information about it would have gone a long way. Recommended for those who enjoy the series.
*Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
Horowitz is one of my favorite mystery writers and I enjoy both of his series, but this one fell a little flat for me. The plot seems somewhat forced, and while Hawthorne's mysterious past has always been part of his character, this time his shadowy history is more irritating than usual. A little more information about it would have gone a long way. Recommended for those who enjoy the series.
*Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
May 9, 2026
Anthony Horowitz is once again a character in his own book, using the meta-fictional wit he is so good at writing to make this a strong addition to the series. The first 25% of the book is slow, but it eventually becomes Hawthorne’s most personal case yet. It is the closest that Horowitz and the readers come to learning the truth about Hawthorne’s past.
The story focuses on the murder of actor David Caine and a past case that is Hawthorne’s greatest regret. The motives are plentiful because nearly everyone had a reason to dislike the victim.
The story builds to a Hawthorne finale. Hawthorne delivers a meticulous breakdown of the evidence to the investigating police, proving once again that he never misses a detail. It’s a reveal that brings closure to a long-hidden set of secrets.
The story focuses on the murder of actor David Caine and a past case that is Hawthorne’s greatest regret. The motives are plentiful because nearly everyone had a reason to dislike the victim.
The story builds to a Hawthorne finale. Hawthorne delivers a meticulous breakdown of the evidence to the investigating police, proving once again that he never misses a detail. It’s a reveal that brings closure to a long-hidden set of secrets.
May 4, 2026
I have the same reaction to every new book in this series...
I wait for the release because we hardly get new well- written murder mysteries-
My enthusiasm dips as I finish the first 20-25% because the book starts to become repetitive-
I still stick with it-
then comes a subplot and I am again invested-
But, the subplot has something to do with Howothrone's past and I start to loose patience-
I am at 75% mark, I have solved the case and I am ready with my 3 stars-
The authors flips it and now I am surprised and end up giving 4 stars.
And, now I am gonna wait for the next book.
I wait for the release because we hardly get new well- written murder mysteries-
My enthusiasm dips as I finish the first 20-25% because the book starts to become repetitive-
I still stick with it-
then comes a subplot and I am again invested-
But, the subplot has something to do with Howothrone's past and I start to loose patience-
I am at 75% mark, I have solved the case and I am ready with my 3 stars-
The authors flips it and now I am surprised and end up giving 4 stars.
And, now I am gonna wait for the next book.
May 5, 2026
Anthony Horowitz is a go to author for me so it pains me to say this but it may be time to pack it in with this series. The last 3 have been just okay and this one especially is not up to AH’s usual standard. Of course I will continue to read the series but, sadly, with less enthusiam.
December 29, 2025
This latest instalment in the series is an entertaining enough read, with Horowitz’s familiar blend of literary in-jokes, metafictional playfulness and a neatly engineered mystery. The central premise is intriguing, and there is plenty to enjoy in the sharp dialogue and the author’s evident ease with the form.
That said, I found this one a little more difficult to get into than earlier books in the series. The opening takes time to settle, and some of the twists and turns feel more clever than convincing. While the plotting is busy and inventive, it does not always feel entirely natural, and the resolution lacks the satisfying inevitability that has marked Horowitz at his best.
That said, I found this one a little more difficult to get into than earlier books in the series. The opening takes time to settle, and some of the twists and turns feel more clever than convincing. While the plotting is busy and inventive, it does not always feel entirely natural, and the resolution lacks the satisfying inevitability that has marked Horowitz at his best.
April 28, 2026
Po Marble Hall Murders ir šios Hawthorne'o nuotykių dalies imu linkti link Horowitzo nemėgimo. Gėdingiausias šios knygos dalykas - tikėjausi, kad jis, apie tiek daug ką rašęs adekvačiai, bus supratingesnis, - tai naratyvinė diskriminacija dėl negalios / stereotipizavimas kaip iš blogesnių XX a. laikų.
Antras liūdnesnis - kad Horowitzas lipa ant to paties grėblio, dėl kurio pats taip elegantiškai perspėjo Magpie Murders, kalbėdamas apie tai, kad nusikaltimai nėra kažkas linksmo ir smagaus ar tuo labiau "įdomaus". Gal ten kalbėjo tik adekvatus personažas? Nes štai čia visi jau tiesiog seiles varvindami laukia, kol kas nors ką nors nudobs, pilna užuominų, kad buvo nužudytas ne tas, o kitas, ir tt. Kita vertus, būtent Horowitzo ir būtent šios knygos dėka supratau elementarų dalyką - kad detektyvo žanro pagrindas yra žmogžudystė, ne koks kitas nusikaltimas, o dar geriau - kai būna kelios žmogžudystės, jos tada jau beveik būtinai siejasi. Taip ir šioje serijos dalyje (kaip ir Susan Reyland serijoje), kad išspręstum šiandienos žmogžudystę, turi susitvarkyti su nužudymu iš praeities. Labai terapiška (metaforiškai), bet sykiu ir labai ciniška? Jei nužudymas tampa tiek žanro pagrindu, esminiu - dargi būtinu! - tam tikrų pasakojimų įvykiu, o čia pat - ir metafora, ką tai sako apie mūsų vaizduotę? Suprantu susitelkimą į tai, ko tiesiog neįmanoma aprėpti protu, kas yra Pats Baisiausias Dalykas. (Suprantu ir abejones, ar tikrai būtent tai yra Baisiausia.) Bet jau mažiau suprantu, kodėl tas Baisiausias Dalykas staiga tampa siužeto plyta ar perkeltinės reikšmės pagražinimu.
Trečias juokingesnis - VISKAS VYKSTA DĖL KERŠTO AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA. VISI NUSIKALTIMAI VYKSTA IŠ KERŠTOOOOOOOOO. Čia gal jau savotiškas žanrinis idiolektas, nes Puaro seriale, pavyzdžiui, viskas vykdavo dėl pinigų. Pas Horowitzą tai kažkaip labai dažnai atsiranda neadekvačios, su savo jausmais nesusitvarkančios moterys.
Ketvirtas užknisantis - jau biški atsibodo, kaip mums prieš nosį pakabintas mataruoja klausimas TAI KAS GI NUTIKO HAWTHORNE'UI REETH MIESTELYJE??? Kiekvienoj knygoj vis numeta dar porą detalių, ir šįkart tai buvo smarkiai nemalonu - negana to, kad nuolat seilėjamasi dėl nusikaltimų, bet dar ir serijos pagrindu ir varomąja jėga tampa didelė žmogaus trauma, kurią mums taip cekava būtinų būtiniausiai išsiaiškinti.
Horowitzas knygose kartais užsimena, kaip rašė Holmso pastišus, ir nors visai nenoriu jų prisiminti (baisiai nepatiko), bet tenka, ir vėl iš naujo prisiminiau ryškiausią jų bruožą - kad iš abiejų tekstų vos ne prikišamai matėsi, kaip vienodai jam yra Holmsas, kaip jis visiškai nemyli to pasaulio. Gal ir teisingai tada supykusi nusprendžiau, kad nelabai ką gero jis gali parašyti. Nežinau, iš kokios vaizduotės dviem puikioms knygoms buvo išlindęs nuostabusis Atticus Pundas, bet ima atrodyti, kad tik šmėkštelėjo kaip mielas šešėlis ir vėl pradingo, ir paliko gana neįdomų literatūrinį pasauliuką.
Antras liūdnesnis - kad Horowitzas lipa ant to paties grėblio, dėl kurio pats taip elegantiškai perspėjo Magpie Murders, kalbėdamas apie tai, kad nusikaltimai nėra kažkas linksmo ir smagaus ar tuo labiau "įdomaus". Gal ten kalbėjo tik adekvatus personažas? Nes štai čia visi jau tiesiog seiles varvindami laukia, kol kas nors ką nors nudobs, pilna užuominų, kad buvo nužudytas ne tas, o kitas, ir tt. Kita vertus, būtent Horowitzo ir būtent šios knygos dėka supratau elementarų dalyką - kad detektyvo žanro pagrindas yra žmogžudystė, ne koks kitas nusikaltimas, o dar geriau - kai būna kelios žmogžudystės, jos tada jau beveik būtinai siejasi. Taip ir šioje serijos dalyje (kaip ir Susan Reyland serijoje), kad išspręstum šiandienos žmogžudystę, turi susitvarkyti su nužudymu iš praeities. Labai terapiška (metaforiškai), bet sykiu ir labai ciniška? Jei nužudymas tampa tiek žanro pagrindu, esminiu - dargi būtinu! - tam tikrų pasakojimų įvykiu, o čia pat - ir metafora, ką tai sako apie mūsų vaizduotę? Suprantu susitelkimą į tai, ko tiesiog neįmanoma aprėpti protu, kas yra Pats Baisiausias Dalykas. (Suprantu ir abejones, ar tikrai būtent tai yra Baisiausia.) Bet jau mažiau suprantu, kodėl tas Baisiausias Dalykas staiga tampa siužeto plyta ar perkeltinės reikšmės pagražinimu.
Trečias juokingesnis - VISKAS VYKSTA DĖL KERŠTO AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA. VISI NUSIKALTIMAI VYKSTA IŠ KERŠTOOOOOOOOO. Čia gal jau savotiškas žanrinis idiolektas, nes Puaro seriale, pavyzdžiui, viskas vykdavo dėl pinigų. Pas Horowitzą tai kažkaip labai dažnai atsiranda neadekvačios, su savo jausmais nesusitvarkančios moterys.
Ketvirtas užknisantis - jau biški atsibodo, kaip mums prieš nosį pakabintas mataruoja klausimas TAI KAS GI NUTIKO HAWTHORNE'UI REETH MIESTELYJE??? Kiekvienoj knygoj vis numeta dar porą detalių, ir šįkart tai buvo smarkiai nemalonu - negana to, kad nuolat seilėjamasi dėl nusikaltimų, bet dar ir serijos pagrindu ir varomąja jėga tampa didelė žmogaus trauma, kurią mums taip cekava būtinų būtiniausiai išsiaiškinti.
Horowitzas knygose kartais užsimena, kaip rašė Holmso pastišus, ir nors visai nenoriu jų prisiminti (baisiai nepatiko), bet tenka, ir vėl iš naujo prisiminiau ryškiausią jų bruožą - kad iš abiejų tekstų vos ne prikišamai matėsi, kaip vienodai jam yra Holmsas, kaip jis visiškai nemyli to pasaulio. Gal ir teisingai tada supykusi nusprendžiau, kad nelabai ką gero jis gali parašyti. Nežinau, iš kokios vaizduotės dviem puikioms knygoms buvo išlindęs nuostabusis Atticus Pundas, bet ima atrodyti, kad tik šmėkštelėjo kaip mielas šešėlis ir vėl pradingo, ir paliko gana neįdomų literatūrinį pasauliuką.
May 3, 2026
Sixth in the Hawthorne and Horowitz series, this is as delicious as its predecessors. Plus, the narration by Rory Kinnear is superlative.
May 4, 2026
I LOOOOOOVE the series! But did I love this book? Not so much. Horowitz spends it being put up and sidelined, and Horowitz is just being his arrogant self. They are at the scene of "the word is murder" which is being filmed for a mini series. Then the actor playing Horowitz is murdered. Who did it, and why? And was it the actor or the actual Horowitz that was the target?
In the middle of the book, we're led down a very long side track of a wrongful conviction that ultimately does have relevance to the present case. In the mean time, Horowitz is also trying to discover who Hawthorne really is and where he comes from. Not very successfully I'd say.
Of course I will continue to read the series, but I found this installment a bit disjointed and conceited.
In the middle of the book, we're led down a very long side track of a wrongful conviction that ultimately does have relevance to the present case. In the mean time, Horowitz is also trying to discover who Hawthorne really is and where he comes from. Not very successfully I'd say.
Of course I will continue to read the series, but I found this installment a bit disjointed and conceited.
May 8, 2026
3.5⭐️
Audiobook
I’m not sure why, but I didn’t connect as much to this novel as I have the others in the series. It felt a little disjointed, and I found it easy to be distracted while listening.
Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Loved it. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = Glad I read it. Will probably read more by this author.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed others so much more.
1🌟 = I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.
Audiobook
I’m not sure why, but I didn’t connect as much to this novel as I have the others in the series. It felt a little disjointed, and I found it easy to be distracted while listening.
Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Loved it. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = Glad I read it. Will probably read more by this author.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed others so much more.
1🌟 = I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.
May 13, 2026
Bene mylimiausio detektyvų autoriaus mylimiausia serija.
Tai turbūt net neverta aiškint, kad naujausios knygos laukiau net spirgėdamas.
Autorius šioje serijoje ir toliau meistriškai supina fikciją su realybe, o realybę – su pseudorealybe.
Tai, kad vienas pagrindinių herojų šioje serijoje – pats autorius, atveria galimybes puikiems žaidimams su aliuzijom ir kontekstais.
Štai ir čia – šeštojoje serijos knygoje rašoma apie tai, kaip ekranizuojama pirmoji. Scenarijus parašytas, aktoriai parinkti, operatorius jau prie kameros, režisierius šaukia į megafoną „Aaaaaand action!“
Bet mums gi reikia detektyvo, ne? Reikia – bus. Aktorius, vaidinantis Hawthorne‘ą randamas nužudytas. Beieškant, kas turėjo motyvų tam nusikaltimui, iškyla papildoma dvejonė – o žudikas tikrai norėjo nužudyti aktorių, vaidinantį Hawthorne‘ą? O kas, jei jo taikinys – tikrasis Hawthorne‘as, dabar tiriantis nusikaltimą.
Žodžiu, spirgėjimas pasiteisino. Gavau savo malonumo porciją.
Tiesa, su senuoju nusikaltimu (yra knygoje ir toks) daug klausimų nebuvo – labai anksti supratau, kur šuo (literaliai tai ten ne šuo) pakastas. Va, su šviežiuoju... Ir juk buvo aišku, kur įkalčiai, į ką žiūrėt. Nepamačiau. Nors pasiteisinimui pasakysiu – šįsyk jau taip labai ant siūlų viskas sukabinta.
Bet užvertus paskutinį puslapį kankino tik vienas jausmas – liūdesys. Liūdna, kad baigėsi. Liūdna, kad kitos vėl teks laukt. Bet smagu, kad jų dar bus (berods desietką serijoje Horowitzas žadėjo).
Ir galų gale – mes juk turime sužinoti, kas nutiko Reethe?
Tai turbūt net neverta aiškint, kad naujausios knygos laukiau net spirgėdamas.
Autorius šioje serijoje ir toliau meistriškai supina fikciją su realybe, o realybę – su pseudorealybe.
Tai, kad vienas pagrindinių herojų šioje serijoje – pats autorius, atveria galimybes puikiems žaidimams su aliuzijom ir kontekstais.
Štai ir čia – šeštojoje serijos knygoje rašoma apie tai, kaip ekranizuojama pirmoji. Scenarijus parašytas, aktoriai parinkti, operatorius jau prie kameros, režisierius šaukia į megafoną „Aaaaaand action!“
Bet mums gi reikia detektyvo, ne? Reikia – bus. Aktorius, vaidinantis Hawthorne‘ą randamas nužudytas. Beieškant, kas turėjo motyvų tam nusikaltimui, iškyla papildoma dvejonė – o žudikas tikrai norėjo nužudyti aktorių, vaidinantį Hawthorne‘ą? O kas, jei jo taikinys – tikrasis Hawthorne‘as, dabar tiriantis nusikaltimą.
Žodžiu, spirgėjimas pasiteisino. Gavau savo malonumo porciją.
Tiesa, su senuoju nusikaltimu (yra knygoje ir toks) daug klausimų nebuvo – labai anksti supratau, kur šuo (literaliai tai ten ne šuo) pakastas. Va, su šviežiuoju... Ir juk buvo aišku, kur įkalčiai, į ką žiūrėt. Nepamačiau. Nors pasiteisinimui pasakysiu – šįsyk jau taip labai ant siūlų viskas sukabinta.
Bet užvertus paskutinį puslapį kankino tik vienas jausmas – liūdesys. Liūdna, kad baigėsi. Liūdna, kad kitos vėl teks laukt. Bet smagu, kad jų dar bus (berods desietką serijoje Horowitzas žadėjo).
Ir galų gale – mes juk turime sužinoti, kas nutiko Reethe?
May 3, 2026
More meta-fictional fun from Horowitz and Hawthorne.
Clever, as always.
Clever, as always.
April 30, 2026
Makes me sad to say, but I don't think this is Horowitz usual peak - the plot is a little meandering, and the two timeline plots meant that neither were fleshed out as much as I would have liked.
Still extremely well written and I still devoured it, so it's much closer to a 4 than a 2.
Still extremely well written and I still devoured it, so it's much closer to a 4 than a 2.
May 8, 2026
Weak
I generally like Horowitz but this is not his best writing. The Foss Hall solution is completely absurd, and the final twist in the main case is a huge stretch. Admittedly, it's borderline impossible to get together a truly original murder mystery plot nowadays, with everything that has been tried and is published every day, but nevertheless, this attempt has not been successful. Character-wise, there has been no progress, and the pair's dynamic is the getting repetitive. The supposed mystery of Hawthorne's past is not really suspenseful either, because we don't really have a question there — he's just a guy who doesn't want to talk about his past, so what? All in all, a bit disappointing.
I generally like Horowitz but this is not his best writing. The Foss Hall solution is completely absurd, and the final twist in the main case is a huge stretch. Admittedly, it's borderline impossible to get together a truly original murder mystery plot nowadays, with everything that has been tried and is published every day, but nevertheless, this attempt has not been successful. Character-wise, there has been no progress, and the pair's dynamic is the getting repetitive. The supposed mystery of Hawthorne's past is not really suspenseful either, because we don't really have a question there — he's just a guy who doesn't want to talk about his past, so what? All in all, a bit disappointing.
May 12, 2026
I just love this book series. I devoured this one in no time! It was really a treat to be back with Horowitz and Hawthorne again. The banter between them, the laughs, I loved every bit of it. I was sad when the book finished and I have to wait for the next one.
May 12, 2026
As always deeply readable. I could’ve used even more Studio-esque parodying of a movie set but enjoyable due to the double murder
May 4, 2026
little slow to start, but once the action picked up, i couldn't put it down. i would read another dozen books in this series. pls write more anthony horowitz.
May 6, 2026
i adore these books. horowitz is such a consistent writer, i never seem to question whether i’ll enjoy these because they’re always such a treat.
if agatha christie is the queen of mystery, anthony horowitz holds the crown for the modern whodunnit!
if agatha christie is the queen of mystery, anthony horowitz holds the crown for the modern whodunnit!
May 6, 2026
This series has definitely reached the point where I’m no longer here purely for the mystery and A Deadly Episode kind of confirmed that. The plot didn’t quite hit five-star level for me and at times felt a bit wobbly but oddly, that didn’t bother me as much as it usually would. What keeps working is the voice. The dry humour is still very much intact, and the dynamic between Hawthorne and Horowitz continues to do most of the heavy lifting.
Their back-and-forth remains the real highlight, with that slightly tense, chaotic partnership carrying the story. Because the mystery does spiral into some questionable territory for me, mainly in the flashbacks, where it definitely began to feel a little like a mystery that has been done before. A lot. And Hawthorne’s ever-mysterious past, which is usually intriguing, leaned more towards frustrating this time. A little more pay-off there would have gone a long way. I mean, we are six books in by now, we deserve something.
That said, the film set was a genuinely fun angle. The behind-the-scenes drama, the clashing egos, and the general chaos of adapting their own story added a fresh, meta layer that kept things entertaining. So while this wasn’t the strongest instalment plot-wise, it was still an enjoyable read. At this point, I’m clearly invested enough in these characters to keep wanting another book.
Their back-and-forth remains the real highlight, with that slightly tense, chaotic partnership carrying the story. Because the mystery does spiral into some questionable territory for me, mainly in the flashbacks, where it definitely began to feel a little like a mystery that has been done before. A lot. And Hawthorne’s ever-mysterious past, which is usually intriguing, leaned more towards frustrating this time. A little more pay-off there would have gone a long way. I mean, we are six books in by now, we deserve something.
That said, the film set was a genuinely fun angle. The behind-the-scenes drama, the clashing egos, and the general chaos of adapting their own story added a fresh, meta layer that kept things entertaining. So while this wasn’t the strongest instalment plot-wise, it was still an enjoyable read. At this point, I’m clearly invested enough in these characters to keep wanting another book.
April 26, 2026
Rating: 4.0/5
Anthony Horowitz is one of my "must read" authors. He invariably produces highly entertaining, skilfully plotted stories. "A Deadly Episode" is the sixth book in the Hawthorne & Horowitz series and while there is clearly some benefit to to the reader in being familiar with earlier books in the series, it is by no means a necessity.
If you are unfamiliar with the series, here is a quick background précis: Anthony Horowitz has applied a neat little twist on the genre and appears in his own novels as the sleuthing sidekick to ex-police detective Daniel Hawthorne. Hawthorne now works privately as a consultant to the investigating police force on certain problematic crimes. Anthony Horowitz has been employed by Hawthorne to write up his cases, much as Dr Watson was tasked with chronicling the adventures of Sherlock Holmes. The duo do, at times, exhibit characteristics similar to those found in other literary detective teams such as Hercule Poirot and Captain Hastings, but it is the comparison with a latter day Holmes & Watson that is generally most fitting.
In "A Deadly Episode" Hawthorne and Horowitz find themselves on a movie set. The first book the pair worked on together, "The Word is Murder" is in the process of being made into a film, but when the actor portraying Hawthorne in the movie is murdered, the "real" Hawthorne and Horowitz find themselves having to be more than merely consultants and observers.
As ever, there is a keen sense of a "Golden Age" whodunnit about this mystery. The cast and crew working on the production essentially provide a closed community of suspects for the case. However, as it transpires, there is also an unexpected link to an earlier investigation that Daniel Hawthorne was involved in when he was still with the police force. The author again weaves aspects of his real life into the fictional narrative, which works extremely well and serves as a vehicle for some humorous asides.
With "A Deadly Episode" Anthony Horowitz has delivered another engaging and clever murder mystery in the "locked room" style. As you can expect from this author, there is ample misdirection with false trails being deliberately laid. However, the clues are all there - you just need to piece them together.
Anthony Horowitz is one of my "must read" authors. He invariably produces highly entertaining, skilfully plotted stories. "A Deadly Episode" is the sixth book in the Hawthorne & Horowitz series and while there is clearly some benefit to to the reader in being familiar with earlier books in the series, it is by no means a necessity.
If you are unfamiliar with the series, here is a quick background précis: Anthony Horowitz has applied a neat little twist on the genre and appears in his own novels as the sleuthing sidekick to ex-police detective Daniel Hawthorne. Hawthorne now works privately as a consultant to the investigating police force on certain problematic crimes. Anthony Horowitz has been employed by Hawthorne to write up his cases, much as Dr Watson was tasked with chronicling the adventures of Sherlock Holmes. The duo do, at times, exhibit characteristics similar to those found in other literary detective teams such as Hercule Poirot and Captain Hastings, but it is the comparison with a latter day Holmes & Watson that is generally most fitting.
In "A Deadly Episode" Hawthorne and Horowitz find themselves on a movie set. The first book the pair worked on together, "The Word is Murder" is in the process of being made into a film, but when the actor portraying Hawthorne in the movie is murdered, the "real" Hawthorne and Horowitz find themselves having to be more than merely consultants and observers.
As ever, there is a keen sense of a "Golden Age" whodunnit about this mystery. The cast and crew working on the production essentially provide a closed community of suspects for the case. However, as it transpires, there is also an unexpected link to an earlier investigation that Daniel Hawthorne was involved in when he was still with the police force. The author again weaves aspects of his real life into the fictional narrative, which works extremely well and serves as a vehicle for some humorous asides.
With "A Deadly Episode" Anthony Horowitz has delivered another engaging and clever murder mystery in the "locked room" style. As you can expect from this author, there is ample misdirection with false trails being deliberately laid. However, the clues are all there - you just need to piece them together.
May 13, 2026
When I heard that Anthony Horowitz had a contract for 12 books in this series, I was thrilled. I love these two weirdos who live in Meta Metaland. We have the curmudgeonly detective, Hawthorne, and the fictional Anthony Horowitz off on another case.
This time, the meta mania gets even more bizarre. The two are on the set of the movie about their first case together, The Word is Murder. There is a murder, and then a whole lot of things come to light.
I love this series.
This time, the meta mania gets even more bizarre. The two are on the set of the movie about their first case together, The Word is Murder. There is a murder, and then a whole lot of things come to light.
I love this series.
May 11, 2026
This is a good page turner. The relationship between Horowitz and Hawthorne moves on slightly during the solving of the murder.
I heard Horowitz speak about this case at a book signing. He also revealed some aspects of his own life. Horowitz comes across in reality as he does in character in the book.
I'm already looking forward to book number 7 which is currently being written.
I heard Horowitz speak about this case at a book signing. He also revealed some aspects of his own life. Horowitz comes across in reality as he does in character in the book.
I'm already looking forward to book number 7 which is currently being written.
May 14, 2026
I believe that I have a love/hate relationship with Hawthorne and Horowitz! Hawthorne can be so aggravating and Horowitz so passive. A great concept for a series and always a great read though!
May 1, 2026
Good, not great. Pacing much more disjointed than previous books.
May 3, 2026
3.5 rounding down. This is unfortunately my least favorite Horowitz book. I’d rate this lower except that I love this author too much to do so and the writing is well done as always. The plot is meandering, the characters are distant, the dual plot didn’t work well at all and the ending was wrapped but unsatisfying.
Anthony and Hawthorne are at the scene of the movie that is being produced based on their joint books when the actor depicting Hawthorne is found murdered. They’ll have to figure out which of the people who hated the man were responsible or if it was someone from Hawthornes own past who made a mistaken identity.
I was intrigued by the first part but when the whole story shifted to a totally new mystery and then so poorly tried to connect the two I was done. It was attempting a book in a book on a much smaller scale with disappointing results. Too many characters and too little depth and not what I have come to expect from Horowitz
Anthony and Hawthorne are at the scene of the movie that is being produced based on their joint books when the actor depicting Hawthorne is found murdered. They’ll have to figure out which of the people who hated the man were responsible or if it was someone from Hawthornes own past who made a mistaken identity.
I was intrigued by the first part but when the whole story shifted to a totally new mystery and then so poorly tried to connect the two I was done. It was attempting a book in a book on a much smaller scale with disappointing results. Too many characters and too little depth and not what I have come to expect from Horowitz
May 6, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ I love this series. Still hoping for a more in depth of Hawthorne's background.
May 2, 2026
A thoroughly enjoyable read.
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