Hi Cara,
Today on my blog I am reviewing David Fennell debut novel, The Art of Death.
The Art of Death was published on the 4th of February 2021.
AN INTENSELY CREEPY SERIAL KILLER THRILLER DEBUT, FOR FANS OF CHRIS CARTER, M. W. CRAVEN AND THE WHISPER MAN.
London’s latest art installation is a real killer . . . An underground artist leaves three glass cabinets in Trafalgar Square that contain a gruesome installation: the corpses of three homeless men. With the artist promising more to follow, newly-promoted Detective Inspector Grace Archer and her caustic DS, Harry Quinn, must race against time to follow what few clues have been left by a savvy killer. As more bodies are exhibited at London landmarks and live streamed on social media, Archer and Quinn’s pursuit of the elusive killer becomes a desperate search. But when Archer discovers that the killer might be closer than she originally thought – she realises that he has his sights set firmly on her . . . He is creating a masterpiece. And she will be the star of his show.
(Synopsis from Goodreads.com)
The Art of Death is a great introduction to Detective Inspector Grace Archer and her team at the Charing Cross Police Station.
It is interesting that the book opens up by following the killer, knowing that his “Art” is going to be displayed adds the drama to the story straight away.
The reason that D.I Grace Archer has ended up at Charing Cross Police Station is something I am interested to find out. Maybe in a novella?
The case and investigation are entertaining. It only takes place over several days. This keeps up the pace of the story. As there is no break for Grace within the investigation and her personal life.
Murders and motive behind the crimes are creative and interesting. I did figure out who was behind it all. But that might be because I am paranoid and watch/ read crime stories.
D.I Grace Archer is a likeable leading lady. I like how she handles herself and expects people to work to the best of their abilities. She also supports an LGBTQ+ team member. But her focus for that person is they are great at their job. It’s also interesting as other team member treat them differently, showing the old boy club is still sadly in effect.
Finally, The Art of Death is a great read for any fans of British Crime fiction who like complex female lead.
My Rating for The Art of Death is 4 out of 5.
Thank you to Zaffre Books for gifting my a copy of The Art of Death for review.
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Thanks for reading,
