The Falcon's Malteser

The Falcon's Malteser is the first book in Anthony Horowitz's humorous Diamond Brothers mystery series. It introduces readers to the unlikely detective duo: the brilliant younger brother, Nick, and his bumbling, self-proclaimed private eye older brother, Tim. When Tim is hired to protect a mysterious box of Maltesers, the client is soon found dead, and Nick is left to unravel the true crime, outsmarting a host of dangerous criminals who are all after the package. Parents should be aware of themes of peril, violence, and character death, though these are handled with a humorous and often absurd tone, making it suitable for middle-grade readers who enjoy fast-paced, witty detective stories.

After his older brother, a fledgling private detective, agrees to safeguard a package for a dwarf who does not live long, thirteen-year-old Nick scampers to solve the mystery while also trying to stay one step ahead of an assortment of thugs.