A Murder Is Going Down

A Murder Is Going Down

Book • 2025

"This is what happens when you put a pair of unemployed teenagers in charge of a sudden death investigation. What we lack in investigative skills we make up for in free time. Heidi's meant to be having the time of her life on exchange in Switzerland, but instead she's cold, alone and on an involuntary dairy-free diet. So when she hears the news of her brother Felix's death, she jumps on the first plane home to Perth. To be completely honest, Felix wasn't that much of a brother, so Heidi's not crying buckets - but she's not exactly happy either. Thanks to an epic betrayal by her (ex) best friend and (ex) boyfriend, Heidi has absolutely nothing to do and no one to talk to. That's until Patrick, the wisecracking younger brother of Felix's widow, convinces her that they need to investigate her brother's mysterious death. Will Heidi and Patrick get to the bottom of Felix's death - and do they really want to?"--Provided by publisher.

Bara says...

Ages 14+, but every child is different

The themes of sudden death, betrayal, and amateur criminal investigation require a level of emotional maturity typically found in mid-teens. The narrative focuses on complex interpersonal conflicts and grief that younger audiences may not be prepared to navigate.

Content Safety Breakdown

Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content

Sex & Nudity

1/5

The premise suggests teenage romantic subplots involving an ex-boyfriend, which may include brief romantic tension or longing. There is no indication of explicit content, focusing instead on character relationship dynamics.

Violence & Gore

2/5

The story centers on a death investigation for a teenager, implying some focus on the aftermath of a death rather than active combat. Any depictions of investigations are likely to be investigative and non-graphic in nature.

Profanity

2/5

Given the teenage protagonists and the 'wisecracking' nature of the dialogue, mild profanity is expected, such as calling situations 'cr*p' (frequently) or 's*cks' (occasionally), used in casual, frustration-based contexts.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

1/5

The setting involves unemployed teenagers and young adult life, where occasional social references to drinking or casual substance use might appear in the background of social gatherings.

Frightening Scenes

2/5

The mystery surrounding a sudden, suspicious death adds a layer of suspense and emotional intensity. While not overtly scary, the thematic focus on grief and questioning the truth surrounding a family member's death creates a tense atmosphere.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

A teenager tries to make sense of a family tragedy by solving a mystery, learning about the importance of asking tough questions and moving forward after difficult life changes.

Content Warnings

Sudden death of a relative
Emotional abandonment

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

The story centers on a homicide investigation led by unlicensed minors. Expect themes of alienation, betrayal, and the emotional toll of sudden family loss.

What Kids Can Learn

Teens can explore themes of self-reliance, the complexities of sibling relationships, and how to manage anger or feelings of abandonment productively.

Key Topics Discussed

Loss and grief
Interpersonal betrayal
Amateur investigation

Why Parents Might Like It

The narrative offers a grounded exploration of teenage isolation and the search for closure, providing common ground for conversations about processing difficult life transitions.

Positives & Learning

What makes this content valuable for children

Positive Messages

3/5

Encourages pursuing truth and resilience following personal betrayal. It emphasizes the importance of independent thinking and taking initiative in difficult life situations.

Positive Role Models

2/5

Heidi and Patrick exhibit determination and agency, though their choice to conduct an unsanctioned investigation into a death reflects impulsive decision-making rather than maturity.

Diverse Representations

1/5

No diverse representation indicated in available information.

Educational Value

2/5

Provides a foundation for discussions regarding emotional intelligence, processing grief, and the potential risks of impulsive behavior.

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