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The Art of Killing
"I can honestly say that this is the best crime thriller I have ever read..." TN Traynor – Author A chance discovery of something unimaginable will steer Detective Patrick Gutteridge’s life down a path littered with memories of his past, memories he’s spent a decade trying to forget. For two years, Gloucester’s provincial streets have glowed to the media interest gifted by the works of an anonymous graffiti artist ― Tick-Tock. But the art is changing, distorting, each piece becoming more perverse and contentious than the last. Only DI Gutteridge sees a pattern forming which points to something far more sinister looming on the horizon. Can he decipher it in time to prevent the impending storm, or will the city be forced to wear the infamy of a series of events so shocking, it threatens to stain its streets forever. Who is the artist turned killer? What malevolent force drives them? And who can decode their warping message in time to stop the bloodshed? Only time will tell, but time is fast running out!
312 pages, Paperback
Published July 21, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
May 18, 2024
A wickedly good detective novel to keep you up at night, with ferocious murders (you need a strong stomach) and a dynamic duo of detectives on the case!
For two years, Tick-Tock, a graffiti artist with an anonymous identity, has been sharing his Art on the streets of Gloucester, each getting more macabre and disturbing. A chance encounter leads DI Gutteridge and his partner, DS Keaton, to discover a sinister pattern linked with some local missing residents. Can the team find the perpetrator in time it will more blood be shed?
Do not let me fool you into thinking this book is purely a detective novel. There are so many layers that make this such a great read and C R Clarke has done a inspiring job of weaving them together seamlessly to create a dark book that you will not want to put down. We are met with suspense, a deep psychological depth that puts you in the mind of our killer, a surprising amount of erotic tension, and hints of characters back story throughout that make you feel as though you understand and know the characters.
I was hooked from the very first STRONG chapter and found myself tearing through the rest.
A must read for any crime/thriller fans that like dark, gruesome storylines that keep you entranced until the very last page. I can't wait to read more of this series.
For two years, Tick-Tock, a graffiti artist with an anonymous identity, has been sharing his Art on the streets of Gloucester, each getting more macabre and disturbing. A chance encounter leads DI Gutteridge and his partner, DS Keaton, to discover a sinister pattern linked with some local missing residents. Can the team find the perpetrator in time it will more blood be shed?
Do not let me fool you into thinking this book is purely a detective novel. There are so many layers that make this such a great read and C R Clarke has done a inspiring job of weaving them together seamlessly to create a dark book that you will not want to put down. We are met with suspense, a deep psychological depth that puts you in the mind of our killer, a surprising amount of erotic tension, and hints of characters back story throughout that make you feel as though you understand and know the characters.
I was hooked from the very first STRONG chapter and found myself tearing through the rest.
A must read for any crime/thriller fans that like dark, gruesome storylines that keep you entranced until the very last page. I can't wait to read more of this series.
June 18, 2026
The Art of Killing by C.R. Clarke is a dark and atmospheric crime thriller that blends investigative tension, psychological depth, and a chilling exploration of an anonymous artist whose work evolves into something far more sinister.
One of the novel’s strongest elements is Detective Patrick Gutteridge himself. His personal history and unresolved past add emotional weight to the investigation, shaping a character who is not only trying to solve a case but also confront the memories he has long attempted to suppress.
The evolving graffiti art of the mysterious “Tick-Tock” creates a compelling narrative device. What begins as urban expression gradually transforms into a disturbing pattern, building suspense while suggesting a deeper and more dangerous intention behind the artwork.
The investigative structure is particularly engaging, as the detective gradually uncovers connections that point toward a larger and more disturbing truth. The pacing steadily increases as the case shifts from isolated incidents to a looming threat that could impact the entire city.
For readers who enjoy gritty crime fiction, psychological thrillers, serial mystery investigations, and stories where art and violence intersect, The Art of Killing offers a tense and immersive reading experience.
One of the novel’s strongest elements is Detective Patrick Gutteridge himself. His personal history and unresolved past add emotional weight to the investigation, shaping a character who is not only trying to solve a case but also confront the memories he has long attempted to suppress.
The evolving graffiti art of the mysterious “Tick-Tock” creates a compelling narrative device. What begins as urban expression gradually transforms into a disturbing pattern, building suspense while suggesting a deeper and more dangerous intention behind the artwork.
The investigative structure is particularly engaging, as the detective gradually uncovers connections that point toward a larger and more disturbing truth. The pacing steadily increases as the case shifts from isolated incidents to a looming threat that could impact the entire city.
For readers who enjoy gritty crime fiction, psychological thrillers, serial mystery investigations, and stories where art and violence intersect, The Art of Killing offers a tense and immersive reading experience.
September 14, 2023
I had read Chris' first book 'The Puppet Tears' and loved it and was very curious if it was a "lightening in bottle" book, as it was very different to anything I'd read previously. So when this was published and a crime thriller, I wanted to know if his writing style would work in this popular genre...
I've just finished it, reluctantly having to put it down last night to sleep, as I would've read it completely to the end and I had an early start.
It's not for the faint hearted, the story takes you to some extremely dark places, but the flow of the narrative and great character development is so stunning, I'd be very surprised is this isn't optioned for TV eventually.
I'd worked with Chris when I was still a Special Effects tech, what feels like eons ago and we all knew he was talented, his animatronic work is some of the best you'll ever see on film and TV, but his writing - I'm in awe and couldn't be prouder. This book is on another level, if you enjoy a crime thriller, with exceptional attention to detail and suspense that causes your heart to actually race, then this is one of the best. Well done Chris, can't wait for your next one.
I've just finished it, reluctantly having to put it down last night to sleep, as I would've read it completely to the end and I had an early start.
It's not for the faint hearted, the story takes you to some extremely dark places, but the flow of the narrative and great character development is so stunning, I'd be very surprised is this isn't optioned for TV eventually.
I'd worked with Chris when I was still a Special Effects tech, what feels like eons ago and we all knew he was talented, his animatronic work is some of the best you'll ever see on film and TV, but his writing - I'm in awe and couldn't be prouder. This book is on another level, if you enjoy a crime thriller, with exceptional attention to detail and suspense that causes your heart to actually race, then this is one of the best. Well done Chris, can't wait for your next one.
September 27, 2023
The Art of Killing is my first book that I have read by the author C.R. Clarke and won’t be my last. This is a story where you can connect with the police about their lives behind the job, and their police work. Detective Inspector Gutteridge and Detective Sergeant Keaton are on a sad case when a child’s body has been found, by a distressed dog walker.
My heart ached for a poor little boy, when a bus driver sees a boy with bruises and limping but he can’t do anything about it. The poor little boy has lost his mother and now living alone with his drunken dad who doesn’t appreciate the boy’s painting, considering the teacher said it was the best painting he had done.
The media are printing about art work being found around Gloucester. There’s some more art by the one who calls themselves Tick-Tock, on the side of a Lidl store, but there’s something quite disgusting with what the painting has been painted with.
Top marks to the author who has done a splendid job writing a novel that’s so completely unique. To be honest I hope we can watch this space, as I can quite easily see this book being made into a TV series, or a film.
My heart ached for a poor little boy, when a bus driver sees a boy with bruises and limping but he can’t do anything about it. The poor little boy has lost his mother and now living alone with his drunken dad who doesn’t appreciate the boy’s painting, considering the teacher said it was the best painting he had done.
The media are printing about art work being found around Gloucester. There’s some more art by the one who calls themselves Tick-Tock, on the side of a Lidl store, but there’s something quite disgusting with what the painting has been painted with.
Top marks to the author who has done a splendid job writing a novel that’s so completely unique. To be honest I hope we can watch this space, as I can quite easily see this book being made into a TV series, or a film.
May 22, 2024
"The Art of Killing" by C.R. Clarke is an enthralling crime thriller that captivates from the first page. The story follows Detective Patrick Gutteridge, whose life is upended by the discovery of a chilling secret that dredges up painful memories from his past.
In the city of Gloucester, an anonymous graffiti artist known as Tick-Tock has fascinated the public for two years. However, the nature of the graffiti is becoming increasingly dark and disturbing. Detective Gutteridge is the only one who perceives a sinister pattern in Tick-Tock's evolving artwork, suggesting that a series of gruesome events is imminent.
Clarke's writing is gripping and atmospheric, effectively building suspense as Gutteridge races against time to unravel the mystery. The narrative delves deep into the psyche of both the detective and the artist-turned-killer, creating a complex and engaging plot.
"The Art of Killing" stands out for its intricate storyline and well-developed characters, making it a must-read for fans of crime thrillers. Clarke's novel is a masterful blend of tension and psychological depth, ensuring it leaves a lasting impression.
In the city of Gloucester, an anonymous graffiti artist known as Tick-Tock has fascinated the public for two years. However, the nature of the graffiti is becoming increasingly dark and disturbing. Detective Gutteridge is the only one who perceives a sinister pattern in Tick-Tock's evolving artwork, suggesting that a series of gruesome events is imminent.
Clarke's writing is gripping and atmospheric, effectively building suspense as Gutteridge races against time to unravel the mystery. The narrative delves deep into the psyche of both the detective and the artist-turned-killer, creating a complex and engaging plot.
"The Art of Killing" stands out for its intricate storyline and well-developed characters, making it a must-read for fans of crime thrillers. Clarke's novel is a masterful blend of tension and psychological depth, ensuring it leaves a lasting impression.
August 17, 2023
I can honestly say that this is the best crime thriller I have ever read. What’s more, it is easy to give you reasons why. Firstly, the prose, wow! In some places, I had to stop and reread passages again just to let the ingenious descriptions sink in. Secondly, the unforgettable characters—both protagonist and antagonist—were vibrantly brought to life. Lastly, Clarke’s masterful command of pacing and awareness of the reader’s needs means he deftly follows scenes of outright horror to blissful peace, giving the reader time to catch their breath and take in what they’ve just witnessed. Every page is infused with authenticity. In this suspenseful thriller, we discover a new crime-battling hero in DI Patrick Gutteridge, a tempered veteran of both life and the police force. The author takes us behind the hardened exterior of this life-worn cop and into the inner sanctuary of both his haven and his hopes. When we discover his past, we begin to fear for his future—lightning wouldn’t strike in the same place twice—would it?
December 3, 2023
There is an artist with an important message and they are keen for everyone to understand it. There is a killer on the loose in Gloucestershire, are they working alone or is there an accomplice.
DI Gutteridge is tasked with finding the killer (s), but he has his own demons and questions to contend with. Gutteridge and his partner DS Keaton are in a race against time to stop the killings, a race they feel they’re losing as the body count mounts
I throughly enjoyed this book from the first page to the last, and as I live locally to where some of the book is set, there are places I will never look at in the same way again. It’s a very clever storyline which shows the lasting impact of childhood experiences and its later consequences. I always like a book to have a tidy end and this has a relatively tidy end, but with enough of a taster of what we might see if Gutteridge and Keaton make a comeback, which I hope they do.
A warning though book is not for the faint hearted, there are plenty of bodies and some very imaginative ‘artistic installations’
Well worth a read
DI Gutteridge is tasked with finding the killer (s), but he has his own demons and questions to contend with. Gutteridge and his partner DS Keaton are in a race against time to stop the killings, a race they feel they’re losing as the body count mounts
I throughly enjoyed this book from the first page to the last, and as I live locally to where some of the book is set, there are places I will never look at in the same way again. It’s a very clever storyline which shows the lasting impact of childhood experiences and its later consequences. I always like a book to have a tidy end and this has a relatively tidy end, but with enough of a taster of what we might see if Gutteridge and Keaton make a comeback, which I hope they do.
A warning though book is not for the faint hearted, there are plenty of bodies and some very imaginative ‘artistic installations’
Well worth a read
March 17, 2025
This is the first book in the DI Gutteridge series &, to be honest, I don’t know how they’ve passed me by. Definitely a combination of the things I love - a police procedural, crime thriller, serial killer with plenty of graphic description & even a smattering of romance (not too much, I haven’t gone that soft).
DI Gutteridge & his team are in a quiet spell of major crimes & are asked to look at some graffiti which keeps being daubed in various places in & around Gloucester. He can’t believe he has been sent to investigate but does as instructed & soon his copper’s nose is twitching. The artist has much to say for themselves & often in a distinctly brutal way.
Fast paced with punchy chapters, this book had me gripped (although I did find the other voices a tad overdone). I can’t stress it enough, the crime scenes are vividly detailed but, if you can handle Chris Carter, you’ll be ok. As with the majority of crime thrillers, a touch of humour is a necessity & there is just the right amount & as for the ending… I need to read book 2 now.
DI Gutteridge & his team are in a quiet spell of major crimes & are asked to look at some graffiti which keeps being daubed in various places in & around Gloucester. He can’t believe he has been sent to investigate but does as instructed & soon his copper’s nose is twitching. The artist has much to say for themselves & often in a distinctly brutal way.
Fast paced with punchy chapters, this book had me gripped (although I did find the other voices a tad overdone). I can’t stress it enough, the crime scenes are vividly detailed but, if you can handle Chris Carter, you’ll be ok. As with the majority of crime thrillers, a touch of humour is a necessity & there is just the right amount & as for the ending… I need to read book 2 now.
August 17, 2023
The Art of Killing by C. R. Clarke is a 5-star, chilling, thoroughly compelling, British detective crime thriller. Suspense from beginning to end! ★★★★★
When a madman believes a vindictive God is guiding him—the result is a string of horrendous murders.
When Detective Inspector Gutteridge discovers the latest graffiti by the famous Tick-Tock artist has been created using blood, he’s repulsed. Instinct or twenty-plus years on the job—something—prompts him to take a sample. Never in his wildest thoughts did he think the blood would belong to a missing child. When the remains of another child are strung out for the world to see, the dark truth that a serial killer is on the prowl sends chills throughout the neighborhood.
When a madman believes a vindictive God is guiding him—the result is a string of horrendous murders.
When Detective Inspector Gutteridge discovers the latest graffiti by the famous Tick-Tock artist has been created using blood, he’s repulsed. Instinct or twenty-plus years on the job—something—prompts him to take a sample. Never in his wildest thoughts did he think the blood would belong to a missing child. When the remains of another child are strung out for the world to see, the dark truth that a serial killer is on the prowl sends chills throughout the neighborhood.
June 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Dark, intelligent, and completely gripping — I couldn’t put it down.”
C.R. Clarke’s The Art of Killing is a masterclass in psychological suspense. From the first page, I was hooked by the sharp prose, the chilling atmosphere, and the sheer intelligence behind the plot. This isn’t just a thriller — it’s an exploration of obsession, morality, and the fine line between genius and madness.
The killer is terrifyingly compelling, and the way Clarke weaves art and murder into a single, twisted narrative is both disturbing and brilliant. The characters are layered, the tension never lets up, and the writing is rich without ever feeling overdone.
It’s rare to find a thriller that’s this stylish and thought-provoking — I absolutely devoured it. Five stars, without hesitation.
“Dark, intelligent, and completely gripping — I couldn’t put it down.”
C.R. Clarke’s The Art of Killing is a masterclass in psychological suspense. From the first page, I was hooked by the sharp prose, the chilling atmosphere, and the sheer intelligence behind the plot. This isn’t just a thriller — it’s an exploration of obsession, morality, and the fine line between genius and madness.
The killer is terrifyingly compelling, and the way Clarke weaves art and murder into a single, twisted narrative is both disturbing and brilliant. The characters are layered, the tension never lets up, and the writing is rich without ever feeling overdone.
It’s rare to find a thriller that’s this stylish and thought-provoking — I absolutely devoured it. Five stars, without hesitation.
April 12, 2024
A Taut Crime Thriller
This is a thought provoking read. It is a detective story but a little more than that. There’s this interesting world with complicated characters that keep you turning the pages trying to figure out whodunnit. Enjoyed the pacing of the read. Short and snappy chapters. There are some red herrings in the story. So beware. This was a fun read because it had all these layers to the story and the characters. Great work. Fun and terse writing keeps the story rolling. Tightly packed effort that ties art and crime together to create a relatable main character embroiled in a twisted plot.
This is a thought provoking read. It is a detective story but a little more than that. There’s this interesting world with complicated characters that keep you turning the pages trying to figure out whodunnit. Enjoyed the pacing of the read. Short and snappy chapters. There are some red herrings in the story. So beware. This was a fun read because it had all these layers to the story and the characters. Great work. Fun and terse writing keeps the story rolling. Tightly packed effort that ties art and crime together to create a relatable main character embroiled in a twisted plot.
August 18, 2023
I managed to fit this book in in between some blogtours I had, after the author asked me if I would like to read it, knowing it was the type of book I love and being keen to support a new author I managed to squeeze this in. And I am so glad I did. All thoughts and opinions are my own and have not been influenced in any way.
From the minute I picked up my kindle and started reading I was completely hooked, I literally couldn’t put my kindle down I had to know how the story would end, who was the serial killer? If you like your crime thrillers dark and gritty, involving a serial killer then grab yourself a copy of this, it’s available now on kindle and hopefully at the end of August as a paperback.
Introducing DI Pat Gutteridge and his partner DS Jane Keaton. Gutteridge and Keaton had only been partners for around a year. I love a good partnership where the characters can bounce off each other. It’s clear that Keaton has a thing for Gutteridge, As a reader I like the way you gradually learn what makes each character tick, having read this book I need more of these character’s, especially with that ending.
Chris has this way of describing things vividly I found myself picturing some of the scenes, whether that be through the killer’s eyes or the detectives, it wasn’t just the scenes of the crimes but also outside of the characters working environments. The people, the emotions everything is there, Gutteridge has his own backstory which gradually bits come out but I think there is even more that could be disclosed in future books.
A lot of crime fiction we have no idea who the killer is but this one is slightly different, the chapters throughout alternate between the investigation team trying to find out who the killer is, but with no DNA, or fingerprints left at the scenes it’s a difficult case to work, the crime scenes are gruesome even for the older detectives. The killers chapters cover why he is doing what he’s doing, initially he is meticulous and very clever, until things begin to unravel, which can lead to mistakes. What had led to the murders?, why did he kill who he killed? Who is he talking to? Dubbed by the press as The Spatchcock Killer, he is fighting the demons inside, but which is the strongest voice, the voice to kill or the conscience telling him it’s wrong?
The more I read the more engrossed I became, it’s difficult to say much more on this without giving the plot away. But I guarantee lovers of a good police procedural, serial killer thriller will be hooked completely by this one, and will be left wanting more. This could be the start of a good crime series. I for one would buy it the minute it was released.
A gripping ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read not to be missed, this is a writer to be watching out for.
From the minute I picked up my kindle and started reading I was completely hooked, I literally couldn’t put my kindle down I had to know how the story would end, who was the serial killer? If you like your crime thrillers dark and gritty, involving a serial killer then grab yourself a copy of this, it’s available now on kindle and hopefully at the end of August as a paperback.
Introducing DI Pat Gutteridge and his partner DS Jane Keaton. Gutteridge and Keaton had only been partners for around a year. I love a good partnership where the characters can bounce off each other. It’s clear that Keaton has a thing for Gutteridge, As a reader I like the way you gradually learn what makes each character tick, having read this book I need more of these character’s, especially with that ending.
Chris has this way of describing things vividly I found myself picturing some of the scenes, whether that be through the killer’s eyes or the detectives, it wasn’t just the scenes of the crimes but also outside of the characters working environments. The people, the emotions everything is there, Gutteridge has his own backstory which gradually bits come out but I think there is even more that could be disclosed in future books.
A lot of crime fiction we have no idea who the killer is but this one is slightly different, the chapters throughout alternate between the investigation team trying to find out who the killer is, but with no DNA, or fingerprints left at the scenes it’s a difficult case to work, the crime scenes are gruesome even for the older detectives. The killers chapters cover why he is doing what he’s doing, initially he is meticulous and very clever, until things begin to unravel, which can lead to mistakes. What had led to the murders?, why did he kill who he killed? Who is he talking to? Dubbed by the press as The Spatchcock Killer, he is fighting the demons inside, but which is the strongest voice, the voice to kill or the conscience telling him it’s wrong?
The more I read the more engrossed I became, it’s difficult to say much more on this without giving the plot away. But I guarantee lovers of a good police procedural, serial killer thriller will be hooked completely by this one, and will be left wanting more. This could be the start of a good crime series. I for one would buy it the minute it was released.
A gripping ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read not to be missed, this is a writer to be watching out for.
October 27, 2024
A Gripping Start to a Dark Thriller Series
This book had me hooked from the first chapter. The plot is intense and full of twists, keeping the suspense high throughout. The characters are complex and well-developed, adding depth to the dark and gritty storyline. If you enjoy thrillers that keep you guessing and challenge your perceptions, this is a fantastic start to what promises to be a captivating series. Looking forward to the next book already!
This book had me hooked from the first chapter. The plot is intense and full of twists, keeping the suspense high throughout. The characters are complex and well-developed, adding depth to the dark and gritty storyline. If you enjoy thrillers that keep you guessing and challenge your perceptions, this is a fantastic start to what promises to be a captivating series. Looking forward to the next book already!
November 30, 2023
Murals with human blood are found. DI Gutteridge and DS Keaton are on the hunt for a serial killer. I loved the book. It's a nice police procedural story with well defined characters. There were even moments I felt sorry for the killer.
I received an advance review copy of this book and I'm leaving a voluntary and honest review.
I received an advance review copy of this book and I'm leaving a voluntary and honest review.
May 17, 2024
Chilling & Suspensful
This book is a chilling exploration of humanity's darkest corners while blurring love and murder. Clarke pulls no punches portraying depravity through a tormented protagonist's tension-laden narrative. With a powerful female lead delving into a killer's psyche, this gritty psychological thriller will leave you at the edge of your seat. Fans of dark, suspense books will love this!
This book is a chilling exploration of humanity's darkest corners while blurring love and murder. Clarke pulls no punches portraying depravity through a tormented protagonist's tension-laden narrative. With a powerful female lead delving into a killer's psyche, this gritty psychological thriller will leave you at the edge of your seat. Fans of dark, suspense books will love this!
August 17, 2023
C. R. Clarke with his superb prose presents a plot crafted by unforgettable characters. The Art of Killing by C. R. Clarke is a gritty fast-paced page-turner and is a must-read novel for all crime fiction fans. I highly suggest this read to all crime abd thriller lovers!!
May 19, 2024
An original, fast-paced plot unlike any crime novel I've read before. The writing is descriptive yet poetic and paints a picture of each setting as seen and felt by the characters. Unique and powerful storytelling.
July 4, 2024
Great story, edgy thriller
I grabbed this book as I love thrillers. I found this book to be edgy and vivid. The characters were well thought out. The relationships were relatable. Great read.
I grabbed this book as I love thrillers. I found this book to be edgy and vivid. The characters were well thought out. The relationships were relatable. Great read.
January 24, 2025
Despite not particularly liking aspects of the MC, this was a well written police procedural. The characters had depth and the crime was interesting - taking a slightly different tack from the usual serial killer fare we are usually dished up.
September 5, 2023
Great read! Read The art of killing in two sittings. C R Clarke does it again, with a thrilling, exciting, erotic novel. Highly recommended !
September 10, 2025
Good story line could have gone without the soppy romance blurbs at what felt inappropriate times.
February 27, 2026
I loved this book, very good thriller
May 5, 2026
Audio book
Wow this is so dark and the narrator is a perfect fit.
Wow this is so dark and the narrator is a perfect fit.
January 2, 2026
Thank you Chris for gifting me this book. I loved it! The relationship between Gutteridge and Keaton laid firm foundations for what I hope will be a series of books. I loved their backstory and how their relationship developed. The gory description of the crimes are definitely not for the faint hearted. Looking forward to reading more of your work
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews