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Art
WARNING: The following book has some scenes which some readers may find distressing. This novel is intended for a mature audience only.
Martin Andrews is in a rut. Tired of the daily grind of life as a police officer and with a heavily pregnant wife, he is disillusioned, desperate to give his unborn child a chance in a world in which he has lost all faith.
Little does Andrews know that amid the petty crimes and muggings, robbery and prostitution, a new threat is looming, one which will push Andrews to the very edges of his sanity.
His nemesis is a man without limits. A man with a grand idea for a great work; a masterpiece which will give him the recognition he craves, no matter the cost.
From the minds of Matt Shaw (Sick B*stards, Happy Ever After, The Cabin) & Michael Bray (Whisper, Funhouse, MEAT) comes ART. Told from the viewpoint of both killer (Shaw) and Detective (Bray), ART is a journey into the darkest, most twisted part of the human psyche.
Two authors. One ending.
Martin Andrews is in a rut. Tired of the daily grind of life as a police officer and with a heavily pregnant wife, he is disillusioned, desperate to give his unborn child a chance in a world in which he has lost all faith.
Little does Andrews know that amid the petty crimes and muggings, robbery and prostitution, a new threat is looming, one which will push Andrews to the very edges of his sanity.
His nemesis is a man without limits. A man with a grand idea for a great work; a masterpiece which will give him the recognition he craves, no matter the cost.
From the minds of Matt Shaw (Sick B*stards, Happy Ever After, The Cabin) & Michael Bray (Whisper, Funhouse, MEAT) comes ART. Told from the viewpoint of both killer (Shaw) and Detective (Bray), ART is a journey into the darkest, most twisted part of the human psyche.
Two authors. One ending.
232 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 17, 2014
88 people are currently reading
510 people want to read
About the author
Matt Shaw
529 books2,194 followersBiography
MATT SHAW was born, quite by accident (his mother tripped, he shot out) September 30th 1980 in Winchester hospital where he was immediately placed on the baby ward and EBay. Some twelve years later (wandering the corridors of the hospital and playing with road kill when he was on day release), the listing closed and he remained unsold, he was booted out of the hospital to start his life as a writer and hobbit – beginning with writing screenplays and short stories for his own amusement before finally getting published when he was twenty-seven years and forty-five seconds old.
Once Published weekly in a lad's magazine with his photography work, Matt Shaw is also a published author and cartoonist. Has to be said, can be a bit of a flirt and definitely, without a shadow of a doubt, somewhat of a klutz.
Favourite books
"Roald Dahl's Collection of Short Stories"
Tim Burton's Melancholy Death of Oyster Boy
Anything, really, written by himself. Because he is that good.
MATT SHAW was born, quite by accident (his mother tripped, he shot out) September 30th 1980 in Winchester hospital where he was immediately placed on the baby ward and EBay. Some twelve years later (wandering the corridors of the hospital and playing with road kill when he was on day release), the listing closed and he remained unsold, he was booted out of the hospital to start his life as a writer and hobbit – beginning with writing screenplays and short stories for his own amusement before finally getting published when he was twenty-seven years and forty-five seconds old.
Once Published weekly in a lad's magazine with his photography work, Matt Shaw is also a published author and cartoonist. Has to be said, can be a bit of a flirt and definitely, without a shadow of a doubt, somewhat of a klutz.
Favourite books
"Roald Dahl's Collection of Short Stories"
Tim Burton's Melancholy Death of Oyster Boy
Anything, really, written by himself. Because he is that good.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
December 15, 2020
Well... I should just stop reading this year. Seriously. This is the perfect representation of my reading this year. With few exceptions I’ve been in reading survival mode, not wanting to think. Wanting to escape the year. I’ve read several books that were the literary equivalent of a bad horror movie, and this... this is the perfect example of that. I say that with something approaching awe. Before I begin the review proper, I point to the warning on the cover image. See where it says the content could disturb readers? Yeah, that's not an exaggeration.
(In this case... it's a bad thing)
The plot of this one follows a serial killer who who considers himself an artist. He want to inspire by his art, but most importantly be adored for it. He uses his victims as pieces, posing them, removing pieces, making them more aesthetically pleasing. It also follows a detective named Andrews chasing him. His wife is pregnant and he sees the horrors of the world every day, but he still hopes to make it a better place despite his cynical nature. Now in this battle between them, who will win? The killer who wants his crimes to spread far and wide or the officer determined to make sure the press doesn't even find out?
So, the most compelling aspect of this novel is the different voices. We get point of views of both killer and cop, and this was cleverly done by the two authors writing only one of the view points. Shaw (the killer) and Bray (the detective) both do a commendable job at this. Bray's is certainly the more layered, with his character showing some depth and quite frequently presenting a sadly realistic outlook on his cynical nature. Shaw in contrast is more comedic, but also much more graphic. I've never read either author before, but Bray looks to be a little more of a traditional horror author, whereas Shaw seems to go on the extreme side.
The book is... deranged would be a kind description. As would disgusting. Compelling? Yes, I confess I found it that too. I question if I'm a terrible person, but I'll still go with compelling. This is an extreme horror novel and I cannot stress this enough. I cannot suggest it to anyone really, but those of you who enjoy such material, well, at least it's pretty well written and entertaining. That... I guess is enough. 3/5 stars... and yes, I know, I'm a monster.
*Really feels like he needs to question his reading after this one.*
(In this case... it's a bad thing)
The plot of this one follows a serial killer who who considers himself an artist. He want to inspire by his art, but most importantly be adored for it. He uses his victims as pieces, posing them, removing pieces, making them more aesthetically pleasing. It also follows a detective named Andrews chasing him. His wife is pregnant and he sees the horrors of the world every day, but he still hopes to make it a better place despite his cynical nature. Now in this battle between them, who will win? The killer who wants his crimes to spread far and wide or the officer determined to make sure the press doesn't even find out?
So, the most compelling aspect of this novel is the different voices. We get point of views of both killer and cop, and this was cleverly done by the two authors writing only one of the view points. Shaw (the killer) and Bray (the detective) both do a commendable job at this. Bray's is certainly the more layered, with his character showing some depth and quite frequently presenting a sadly realistic outlook on his cynical nature. Shaw in contrast is more comedic, but also much more graphic. I've never read either author before, but Bray looks to be a little more of a traditional horror author, whereas Shaw seems to go on the extreme side.
The book is... deranged would be a kind description. As would disgusting. Compelling? Yes, I confess I found it that too. I question if I'm a terrible person, but I'll still go with compelling. This is an extreme horror novel and I cannot stress this enough. I cannot suggest it to anyone really, but those of you who enjoy such material, well, at least it's pretty well written and entertaining. That... I guess is enough. 3/5 stars... and yes, I know, I'm a monster.
*Really feels like he needs to question his reading after this one.*
January 31, 2015
This book is written by two points of view. You have the master of gore..Matt Shaw as a artist. Well if you can call it that. Be warned.
Then Michael Bray writes as the burned out detective hunting him down.
This worked perfectly.
These two authors worked so well together that the story was perfectly styled.
This book reminded me of the movie Seven. So I had to break out the gifs. It completely was original though. Bravo.
I did participate in a group read of this book and was given my copy. In no way did that change my review.
Then Michael Bray writes as the burned out detective hunting him down.
This worked perfectly.
These two authors worked so well together that the story was perfectly styled.
This book reminded me of the movie Seven. So I had to break out the gifs. It completely was original though. Bravo.
I did participate in a group read of this book and was given my copy. In no way did that change my review.
June 9, 2018
This collaboration between two very talented writers worked out beautifully.
The story is told from two perspectives – the policeman (written by Bray) and the killer (written by Shaw). What that means is that Bray wrote the more passive part (meeker just didn’t feel right to me in this sentence), while Shaw took on the dark mind of the killer – his specialty.
Martin Andrews is a disillusioned cop with a cynical outlook on the world, which cuts him off emotionally from his pregnant wife. Bray does a very good job of writing this man with his internal struggles and makes him feel very ‘normal’ – perhaps ‘relatable’ is a better word – and human.
The killer, on the other hand, is a product of his environment. Unwanted by his parents and constantly filled with toxic shame – you’re worthless, you won’t amount to anything, nobody will remember you – this is all run-of-the-mill psychopath stuff. Nothing new, probably nothing you haven’t read or heard before. Where Shaw’s particular genius comes in, is with the transformation of the killer. He writes it so well, everything feels believable, which makes it scary as hell.
And the warning at the beginning about the graphic content is not to be ignored – if you don’t know Shaw’s reputation by now, this is NOT the book you should start with.
To be in the mind of this writer might be a truly scary thought. You have two ways of looking at it:
Either the ideas he comes up with become so vivid, that’s it is almost the same as the way some FBI profilers need to think to get into the heads of the people they are hunting.
Or…
There is something severely wrong with this person. He might be dangerous. I mean who else comes up with such sick shit all the time?
For those who fall in the second category, you can relax. Matt Shaw is probably the most well-balanced individual you’ll ever meet. Would I go camping with him? Hell, no. Probably is not good enough when you’re paranoid…
Sooooo…why not five stars?
It might just be a personal thing, but about a third through this book, one of my favourite movies popped into my head. I kind of suspected that this story might be going in the same direction and I was right. It still makes a stunning ending if you DON’T see it coming, though.
The story is told from two perspectives – the policeman (written by Bray) and the killer (written by Shaw). What that means is that Bray wrote the more passive part (meeker just didn’t feel right to me in this sentence), while Shaw took on the dark mind of the killer – his specialty.
Martin Andrews is a disillusioned cop with a cynical outlook on the world, which cuts him off emotionally from his pregnant wife. Bray does a very good job of writing this man with his internal struggles and makes him feel very ‘normal’ – perhaps ‘relatable’ is a better word – and human.
The killer, on the other hand, is a product of his environment. Unwanted by his parents and constantly filled with toxic shame – you’re worthless, you won’t amount to anything, nobody will remember you – this is all run-of-the-mill psychopath stuff. Nothing new, probably nothing you haven’t read or heard before. Where Shaw’s particular genius comes in, is with the transformation of the killer. He writes it so well, everything feels believable, which makes it scary as hell.
And the warning at the beginning about the graphic content is not to be ignored – if you don’t know Shaw’s reputation by now, this is NOT the book you should start with.
To be in the mind of this writer might be a truly scary thought. You have two ways of looking at it:
Either the ideas he comes up with become so vivid, that’s it is almost the same as the way some FBI profilers need to think to get into the heads of the people they are hunting.
Or…
There is something severely wrong with this person. He might be dangerous. I mean who else comes up with such sick shit all the time?
For those who fall in the second category, you can relax. Matt Shaw is probably the most well-balanced individual you’ll ever meet. Would I go camping with him? Hell, no. Probably is not good enough when you’re paranoid…
Sooooo…why not five stars?
It might just be a personal thing, but about a third through this book, one of my favourite movies popped into my head. I kind of suspected that this story might be going in the same direction and I was right. It still makes a stunning ending if you DON’T see it coming, though.
February 25, 2022
very predictable. wasn't impressed.
June 18, 2025
A very gripping thriller by Matt Shaw. We have a serial killer, Damon Benton, looking to make his mark. To set him a part from the others. To make his own, unique mark on the world. To showcase his 'art.' And Detective Martin is hot on his tail, as they play cat and mouse, akin to John doe and David Mills from the film Seven. And there were a lot of similar concepts here from that movie, including the extremely comparable ending, which I foresaw from the first few pages in. So there can be some strong arguments over the amount of creativity here. But it was a good concept to to get the point of view from both the protagonist and antagonist here, as we get to experience their mindsets throughout this torrid affair. However, the hard shifting from chapter to chapter and section to section between the two was consistently jarring. A simple fix of just naming whose POV it was would have been easy. Or even italicizing Benton's sections would suffice, but there needed to be something there to differentiate. I also caught a few spots where the POV shifted from the characters to a more of a narrator voice, which was confusing. But beyond all that, it's a bloody thrill ride that fans of Shaw will find some good takeaways from.
August 4, 2014
Art is the collaboration between horror authors Matt Shaw & Michael Bray, both take on the first person viewpoint roles of two very different characters, a seriously twisted killer and the detective trying to catch him.
Both roles are superbly written but I think Matt Shaw must have had the most fun as his killer, who likes to present his kills in artistic poses and craves the fame that he believes his work should guarantee. He finds both sexual fulfilment from his macabre work and also at the same time discovers a target that will give him the ultimate end and a place in history.
Both characters are fleshed out nicely the detective who struggles to express his feelings for his wife and worries about the world they’ll be bringing their child up in and the sick mind of a killer who seems to have all the angles covered. A man who puts on a happy face, a mask for when it’s needed and his only hope, that the world is ready for him whilst his biggest fear is that of being ignored. People will remember both the art and the person who created it, it will make him immortal, yep a proper nutcase that only Matt Shaw could create.
Art is an enjoyably sick and twisted ride that can only possibly end in one way and it’s gripping to see how we get there.
http://paulnelson.booklikes.com/post/...
Both roles are superbly written but I think Matt Shaw must have had the most fun as his killer, who likes to present his kills in artistic poses and craves the fame that he believes his work should guarantee. He finds both sexual fulfilment from his macabre work and also at the same time discovers a target that will give him the ultimate end and a place in history.
Both characters are fleshed out nicely the detective who struggles to express his feelings for his wife and worries about the world they’ll be bringing their child up in and the sick mind of a killer who seems to have all the angles covered. A man who puts on a happy face, a mask for when it’s needed and his only hope, that the world is ready for him whilst his biggest fear is that of being ignored. People will remember both the art and the person who created it, it will make him immortal, yep a proper nutcase that only Matt Shaw could create.
Art is an enjoyably sick and twisted ride that can only possibly end in one way and it’s gripping to see how we get there.
http://paulnelson.booklikes.com/post/...
March 18, 2015
**5 "2 wicked minds are better than 1"** STARS** 
Yeah, I'm back with another one of my Matt Shaw fix ... and this time Matt introduced me to his friend Michael Bay. Now, I've read a few author collaborations and well, I've been unimpressed as one author tends to blatantly outshine the other, causing the story to be choppy and inconsistent. THAT IS NOT THE CASE HERE. Both Matt and Michael's writing read in equal footing. Their story turned out flawlesslyfucked up.
ART is a story of a struggling artist named Arthur Benton . Art would kill to be famous... I mean that literally . He's proud of his work, aroused by his work and believes his work will astound the massses .
Now onto our "its a fucked up world we live in" Po-Po extraordinaire, Martin Andrews. Years of viewing one brutal crime scene after the other has taken its toll on Officer Andrews. His pregnant wife is in her last trimester and what should be a joyous time in his life, is anything but for him . You see, Martin doesn't want to bring a child into a world so royally fucked up. Such thoughts take a toll on him both personally and professionally, especially once he gets of glimpse of Arthur's newest masterpiece.
A frantic game of cat and mouse takes place and folks, this competition isn't over until the fat lady sings..
... and even then one of them gets the last say.
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE consider the warning. Both authors are brilliant but if you haven't t dipped your toe into the murky horror waters this is probably NOT the best book to start with.. Now for those whom have gotten their feet wet, all I can say is " PICK UP THE DAMN BOOK ! " ........ MWAH!
** side note** Matt Shaw will be conducting a BR on Aug 1st and he's giving all participants a free copy of ART. If you think you might be interested click here : https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
For more reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Yeah, I'm back with another one of my Matt Shaw fix ... and this time Matt introduced me to his friend Michael Bay. Now, I've read a few author collaborations and well, I've been unimpressed as one author tends to blatantly outshine the other, causing the story to be choppy and inconsistent. THAT IS NOT THE CASE HERE. Both Matt and Michael's writing read in equal footing. Their story turned out flawlessly
ART is a story of a struggling artist named Arthur Benton . Art would kill to be famous... I mean that literally . He's proud of his work, aroused by his work and believes his work will astound the massses .
Now onto our "its a fucked up world we live in" Po-Po extraordinaire, Martin Andrews. Years of viewing one brutal crime scene after the other has taken its toll on Officer Andrews. His pregnant wife is in her last trimester and what should be a joyous time in his life, is anything but for him . You see, Martin doesn't want to bring a child into a world so royally fucked up. Such thoughts take a toll on him both personally and professionally, especially once he gets of glimpse of Arthur's newest masterpiece.
A frantic game of cat and mouse takes place and folks, this competition isn't over until the fat lady sings..
... and even then one of them gets the last say.
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE consider the warning. Both authors are brilliant but if you haven't t dipped your toe into the murky horror waters this is probably NOT the best book to start with.. Now for those whom have gotten their feet wet, all I can say is " PICK UP THE DAMN BOOK ! " ........ MWAH!
** side note** Matt Shaw will be conducting a BR on Aug 1st and he's giving all participants a free copy of ART. If you think you might be interested click here : https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
For more reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
August 8, 2014
Who's to say there isn't beauty in death? Damon Benton seems to think so...and goes to great lengths to work on his unique art gallery. He cares little for whether people praise his artwork or curse it, so long as he gets the recognition and attention he craves. People will remember his name because he is the daring artist who will expose them to a macabre collection of human art.
Detective Martin Andrews meets Benton while investigating a gruesome murder. Benton becomes obsessed with the detective and decides to honor him by making him famous--by including him in his display as his "best piece."
Author Michael Bray wrote the scenes from Detective Andrews' perspective, while Matt Shaw wrote from Benton's perspective. In the beginning, I got a bit confused as the perspective changed from one character to the next without warning. However, I quickly caught on to the changing perspectives and think having both viewpoints greatly enhanced the story. Bray and Shaw's talents combine brilliantly to create an immersing and horrific thriller. Gory and brutal, fans of horror and dark fiction will undoubtedly have their appetites sated by this incredible story. And though I had a terrible feeling where the story was headed, it wasn't diminished by predictability. On the contrary, the dread and anticipation I felt served to enhance the story and I found myself reading faster to find out if my suspicions were correct. No spoilers from me--go read this great book! Highly recommended!!!
August 1, 2014
From the Description:
WARNING: The following book has some scenes which some readers may find distressing. This novel is intended for a mature audience only.
Martin Andrews is in a rut. Tired of the daily grind of life as a police officer and with a heavily pregnant wife, he is disillusioned, desperate to give his unborn child a chance in a world in which he has lost all faith.
Little does Andrews know that amid the petty crimes and muggings, robbery and prostitution, a new threat is looming, one which will push Andrews to the very edges of his sanity.
His nemesis is a man without limits. A man with a grand idea for a great work; a masterpiece which will give him the recognition he craves, no matter the cost.
From the minds of Matt Shaw (Sick B*stards, Happy Ever After, The Cabin) & Michael Bray (Whisper, Funhouse, MEAT) comes ART. Told from the viewpoint of both killer (Shaw) and Detective (Bray), ART is a journey into the darkest, most twisted part of the human psyche.
Two authors. One ending.
When I was invited to join the group reading of Art on Goodreads in exchange for a free book I thought I knew what to expect. Having read and reviewed books for both of the authors previously I thought I had a handle on what I would find in this work. All I can say is I was so wrong!! This book is so much bleaker and more disturbing than what I expected. This book sank to new levels of intense depravity than any I had read by either writer. Great Job!! I may have nightmares from this one. If you enjoy your horror extreme GRAB THIS BOOK! Not for the squeamish!! A solid 4.5 stars!
WARNING: The following book has some scenes which some readers may find distressing. This novel is intended for a mature audience only.
Martin Andrews is in a rut. Tired of the daily grind of life as a police officer and with a heavily pregnant wife, he is disillusioned, desperate to give his unborn child a chance in a world in which he has lost all faith.
Little does Andrews know that amid the petty crimes and muggings, robbery and prostitution, a new threat is looming, one which will push Andrews to the very edges of his sanity.
His nemesis is a man without limits. A man with a grand idea for a great work; a masterpiece which will give him the recognition he craves, no matter the cost.
From the minds of Matt Shaw (Sick B*stards, Happy Ever After, The Cabin) & Michael Bray (Whisper, Funhouse, MEAT) comes ART. Told from the viewpoint of both killer (Shaw) and Detective (Bray), ART is a journey into the darkest, most twisted part of the human psyche.
Two authors. One ending.
When I was invited to join the group reading of Art on Goodreads in exchange for a free book I thought I knew what to expect. Having read and reviewed books for both of the authors previously I thought I had a handle on what I would find in this work. All I can say is I was so wrong!! This book is so much bleaker and more disturbing than what I expected. This book sank to new levels of intense depravity than any I had read by either writer. Great Job!! I may have nightmares from this one. If you enjoy your horror extreme GRAB THIS BOOK! Not for the squeamish!! A solid 4.5 stars!
August 2, 2014
Teamwork is underestimated in the literary world. True, collections and anthologies are common, with the authors involved working to a set theme. This sets the pace for the book. However, working in collaboration - as a tight unit - is a different beast altogether. You can't just select two authors and put them together. You have to share goals, opinions and taste in horror for this to work. It requires chemistry. Art is such a book, a double act from the cream of British horror, Matt Shaw and Michael Bray. As a fan of both authors, and a Brit myself, this book was a must read. And I wasn't disappointed.
Art details two characters, one per author, and weaves two tales of confrontation together: Police officer Martin Andrews (Bray) is disillusioned and in a rut, fearing for his pregnant wife and his unborn child in a world descending into darkness. Surrounded by crime and the depraved, he wants better for his family. Meanwhile, Benton (Shaw), a psychopath who craves attention for his 'art', ramps up his crusade to become notorious. When the two cross paths, it ignites a feud that soon becomes obsessive and personal.
First of all, this book is unique. Effortlessly flitting between two very different perspectives, Shaw and Bray create a dark, murky, very sinister portrayal of everyday Britain. Anyone based in good ol' Blighty - or any nameless city for that matter - will automatically identify with this book. The crime takes place in a world that's beyond the control of the law. Rainy streets and dingy alleyways are the backdrop for an intelligent psychopath with a plan, a plan that will lead to his downfall. Benton doesn't care, which lends him credibility and the fear factor. If he doesn't care, what is he capable of? The lack of the moral compass keeps you guessing. Every act he performs escalates his agenda and his behaviour and you really realise he has no boundaries. Meanwhile, Andrews is in a constant struggle with his personal life which affects his work. The last thing he needs is a care-free Benton pulling his strings.
Each author has a unique voice, it's always clear who is who and there's no confusion. The great thing about this book was the process. Shaw explained that he would write his chapter, email it to Michael and await its return, which resulted in story arcs, character development and twists galore. If the results are this good, more people should do it. Art is a sick, depraved and very grotesque thriller which reminded me of murder mystery books in the vein of Lee Child, Agatha Christie and the like. Add a splash - no, a gallon - of blood and you have a intricate, flawlessly executed horror book that should appease all levels of horror fans.
5* - Absolutely. Horror fans and thriller fans unite. This is one of those books that pays attention to both sub-genres. It's clear the authors respect their chosen genre. At times, I felt I'd sat down next to the characters and watched them chatting away. The detail is vivid and dark, at times you feel grimy just being involved. However, you can't tear your eyes away. Brutal, gory and very addictive, you'll be hard pressed to find a better thriller with the rare trait of co-authors. It really is a work of 'art'. Sorry, I couldn't resist. This is a must for horror fans. Essential.
Art details two characters, one per author, and weaves two tales of confrontation together: Police officer Martin Andrews (Bray) is disillusioned and in a rut, fearing for his pregnant wife and his unborn child in a world descending into darkness. Surrounded by crime and the depraved, he wants better for his family. Meanwhile, Benton (Shaw), a psychopath who craves attention for his 'art', ramps up his crusade to become notorious. When the two cross paths, it ignites a feud that soon becomes obsessive and personal.
First of all, this book is unique. Effortlessly flitting between two very different perspectives, Shaw and Bray create a dark, murky, very sinister portrayal of everyday Britain. Anyone based in good ol' Blighty - or any nameless city for that matter - will automatically identify with this book. The crime takes place in a world that's beyond the control of the law. Rainy streets and dingy alleyways are the backdrop for an intelligent psychopath with a plan, a plan that will lead to his downfall. Benton doesn't care, which lends him credibility and the fear factor. If he doesn't care, what is he capable of? The lack of the moral compass keeps you guessing. Every act he performs escalates his agenda and his behaviour and you really realise he has no boundaries. Meanwhile, Andrews is in a constant struggle with his personal life which affects his work. The last thing he needs is a care-free Benton pulling his strings.
Each author has a unique voice, it's always clear who is who and there's no confusion. The great thing about this book was the process. Shaw explained that he would write his chapter, email it to Michael and await its return, which resulted in story arcs, character development and twists galore. If the results are this good, more people should do it. Art is a sick, depraved and very grotesque thriller which reminded me of murder mystery books in the vein of Lee Child, Agatha Christie and the like. Add a splash - no, a gallon - of blood and you have a intricate, flawlessly executed horror book that should appease all levels of horror fans.
5* - Absolutely. Horror fans and thriller fans unite. This is one of those books that pays attention to both sub-genres. It's clear the authors respect their chosen genre. At times, I felt I'd sat down next to the characters and watched them chatting away. The detail is vivid and dark, at times you feel grimy just being involved. However, you can't tear your eyes away. Brutal, gory and very addictive, you'll be hard pressed to find a better thriller with the rare trait of co-authors. It really is a work of 'art'. Sorry, I couldn't resist. This is a must for horror fans. Essential.
July 23, 2014
I have read several of Matt Shaw's books and thoroughly enjoyed them all, I have to say though, that this is my favorite so far.
As for Michael Bray, this is my first time reading any of his work, and I have to say I was impressed. Several of his books are on my TBR and I will be reading them soon.
Matt does an excellent job of portraying Art, and his sick, twisted mind. He makes him feel like such a genuine person, but then the morbid thoughts and details come into play and make you realize that this "artist" is one terrifying individual. There were parts that made me go...ewwww!!! Nasty!
Michael Bray also does a fine job, with the character of Detective Andrews. Andrews has some issues and is trying to deal with them throughout the book. His hard nose cop attitude spills over into his personal life and I just wanted to scream at him...Just tell her!
I was not expecting that ending exactly, but knew it would be something extreme, and it sure was. It pulled everything into a nice little package and was well done.
This book was hard to put down and it really pulled at me and put me into the stories of these two main characters. I highly recommend it.
5 stars for sure. These two authors did an excellent job of collaboration on this book and I was extremely pleased. I will be reading more from both.
I was given a copy of this book by Matt, as a part of a buddy read on Goodreads. Thanks, Matt.
As for Michael Bray, this is my first time reading any of his work, and I have to say I was impressed. Several of his books are on my TBR and I will be reading them soon.
Matt does an excellent job of portraying Art, and his sick, twisted mind. He makes him feel like such a genuine person, but then the morbid thoughts and details come into play and make you realize that this "artist" is one terrifying individual. There were parts that made me go...ewwww!!! Nasty!
Michael Bray also does a fine job, with the character of Detective Andrews. Andrews has some issues and is trying to deal with them throughout the book. His hard nose cop attitude spills over into his personal life and I just wanted to scream at him...Just tell her!
I was not expecting that ending exactly, but knew it would be something extreme, and it sure was. It pulled everything into a nice little package and was well done.
This book was hard to put down and it really pulled at me and put me into the stories of these two main characters. I highly recommend it.
5 stars for sure. These two authors did an excellent job of collaboration on this book and I was extremely pleased. I will be reading more from both.
I was given a copy of this book by Matt, as a part of a buddy read on Goodreads. Thanks, Matt.
February 23, 2016
Wow. This book was a whopper! I mean, as hard as it was to read, I only continued to read because I cared for detective Andrews. Definitely not something I truly enjoyed but it certainly let me in to the mind of a sicker than sick psychopath. This book was graphic but I thank my lucky stars that he didn't go into too much detail at the end. Phew! Not sure if I'll revisit Matt shaw. He definitely can write and make u care so we'll see. 3 grisly, gruesome stars for me.
July 8, 2025
This wasn't one of my favourite books by Matt Shaw,I have read much better work from him...it wasn't as gruesome and shocking as I thought it was going to be and it was quite predictable as far as the storyline goes. I found some chapters were a little repetitive and slow...and unfortunately I guessed the ending about half way through the book...so not much of a surprise there!!
3.5 Stars
A touch disappointing 😞
3.5 Stars
A touch disappointing 😞
July 26, 2014
Matt Shaw and Michael Bray talents for horror and psychological thrillers come together to form a page turner!
Written from the perspective of the killer and the detective trying to solve the case, both authors can be heard through out the book.
Shaw and Bray are not afraid to dive deep into the mind of a psychotic and expose the reader to all the dirty, horrifying, and inhuman thoughts and actions of the serial killer.
Written from the perspective of the killer and the detective trying to solve the case, both authors can be heard through out the book.
Shaw and Bray are not afraid to dive deep into the mind of a psychotic and expose the reader to all the dirty, horrifying, and inhuman thoughts and actions of the serial killer.
July 2, 2017
This tried too hard and at the end of the day was just the childish attempt to outgore the reader.
June 4, 2019
OMG!!!
Did not see that ending coming at all, what a sick bas@#rd. Given the author and other titles I have read by Matt I should have known.
The book uses the anxiety and angst an artist, author, dancer, musician...feels when they create a piece to push the story forward adding the serial killer motif and gruesome presentation of the victim as his mode of art. One doesn't really understand his depravity till the last scenario.
Matt Shaw has clearly continued to mark himself as a true sicko but with excellent writing skills.
Did not see that ending coming at all, what a sick bas@#rd. Given the author and other titles I have read by Matt I should have known.
The book uses the anxiety and angst an artist, author, dancer, musician...feels when they create a piece to push the story forward adding the serial killer motif and gruesome presentation of the victim as his mode of art. One doesn't really understand his depravity till the last scenario.
Matt Shaw has clearly continued to mark himself as a true sicko but with excellent writing skills.
February 1, 2023
My gosh… this book left me speechless!
I enjoyed every single chapter.
Told from two perspectives, which I always enjoy… it was a wild ride!
100% recommend to all horror lovers.
I enjoyed every single chapter.
Told from two perspectives, which I always enjoy… it was a wild ride!
100% recommend to all horror lovers.
April 17, 2014
Matt is at the top of his game writing as our friendly, neighborhood serial killer – Arthur, (just Art – for pals like us). Michael is penning the role of Officer Martin Andrews, the cop who catches Art’s interest, and becomes involved in his ‘game’, and his quest for notoriety.
I couldn’t stop reading this! The authors worked so well together, it was seamless.
It’s suspenseful, it’s gross, it’s emotional. It’s perfect.
It’s SE7EN, if SE7EN were written by Shaw & Bray.
Full review/discussion @ BBB -
http://beckisbookblog.wordpress.com/2...
I couldn’t stop reading this! The authors worked so well together, it was seamless.
It’s suspenseful, it’s gross, it’s emotional. It’s perfect.
It’s SE7EN, if SE7EN were written by Shaw & Bray.
Full review/discussion @ BBB -
http://beckisbookblog.wordpress.com/2...
September 4, 2015
That was awful. & not in the way it should have been. Horror? Really? If that's the case then I must be dead inside. Because i'd be more frightened if I were in a enclosed space with a moth... Moths are scary! Winged things give me the creeps. It was all just shock value. Weak shock value at that.
If you took all the repeated information out of this book you'd have yourself a short story. Constant. Maybe two, or three sentences in a paragraph telling you the same thing. Both writers were guilty of this too. Most annoying.
Anyway, yeah. I wasn't a fan.
If you took all the repeated information out of this book you'd have yourself a short story. Constant. Maybe two, or three sentences in a paragraph telling you the same thing. Both writers were guilty of this too. Most annoying.
Anyway, yeah. I wasn't a fan.
June 11, 2014
Matt Shaw at his best.... He never lets me down. Brilliant.
August 31, 2019
Not really impressed with this one. I usually love Matt Shaw. Wasn’t the normal gore I was expecting (although there were some vile scenes). I felt kind of a Se7en vibe going on here.
May 19, 2020
Actually I didn't like this one, was being bored with the reading and plot. The setup of this story not much has its profound concept (this my only personal thoughts nothing else as I didn't enjoyed the book)...
There's a murderer, a psychopath looming into the town who wants to be famous by killing innocent people. While detective Martin Andrews who got his pregnant wife who yet to deliver an unborn child tired of everything about his job. This job which he was doing made him bored. Now while he knew there's massacre going on by someone unknown he needed to focus this time and find out the prime suspect of this case...
Throughout the story I didn't find any single moment which could be scare me, gore horror? Any sign? Ah, I don't know if the crime scence of this book give you the gore feelings that certainly this one is for you, no doubt. But for me it was a boring read. With the collaboration between Matt Shaw and Michael Brey together they wrote this psychological horror book. That's it and going into my next reading...
There's a murderer, a psychopath looming into the town who wants to be famous by killing innocent people. While detective Martin Andrews who got his pregnant wife who yet to deliver an unborn child tired of everything about his job. This job which he was doing made him bored. Now while he knew there's massacre going on by someone unknown he needed to focus this time and find out the prime suspect of this case...
Throughout the story I didn't find any single moment which could be scare me, gore horror? Any sign? Ah, I don't know if the crime scence of this book give you the gore feelings that certainly this one is for you, no doubt. But for me it was a boring read. With the collaboration between Matt Shaw and Michael Brey together they wrote this psychological horror book. That's it and going into my next reading...
January 1, 2024
Martin Andrews sees all the bad in the world, and is terrified of bringing his unborn child into it. Dealing with crime and criminals on a daily basis is tough, but when a new murderer comes around, leaving crime scenes worse than anything Martin has seen before, it just gets worse. Worse still, when the murderer takes a special interest in Martin - and Martin has to focus on catching him before he strikes again.
Oh wow, I could not have seen this book coming. This was a shocker above all shockers, with an ending that left me shook, literal mouth open in shock. There are so many emotions that ran through me reading this book. This is extreme horror at its best.
Oh wow, I could not have seen this book coming. This was a shocker above all shockers, with an ending that left me shook, literal mouth open in shock. There are so many emotions that ran through me reading this book. This is extreme horror at its best.
January 18, 2024
4.5 stars. Probably my favorite book of the genre so far. Incredible story with great graphic horror.
September 15, 2025
I am a big Matt Shaw fan and this did not disappoint
April 13, 2014
Review of ART, Matt Shaw & Michael Bray.
Having being an avid follower of Michael Bray I was excited to read this collaboration of his with the talented Matt Shaw (Sick B*stards, Consumed and many more.)
The cover alone is awesome and gives the reader a sneak peek to what may lie inside, the warning makes horror lovers like myself want to explore the book as soon as!
The story begins immediately and grips the reader’s throat from the very first chapter. Continuing throughout the book with added pace towards the final ejaculation of gore, blood and mind a blowing twist. The characters are few, but don’t let this deceive you! their personalities more than make up for the lack of characters. Each character is well set for their role in the tale and have been superbly written with myself feeling a slight emotion of empathy towards both of them strangely enough!
The plot is a incredible and insane but Shaw and Bray make it work and the authors compliment each other remarkably. There are twists aplenty, maximum description, and enough gore and blood to keep the most blood thirsty among us happy for the duration.
The warning is in place for a reason! if easily offended this book is NOT for you! so do authors a favour don't buy and then leave a negative review because you found scenes "offending". The warning is there!!
This has been one of the best horror books I have read in a long time, up there with the best, it would not be out of place next to a King or Laymon novel.
These authors are outstanding and deserve to be in the top ten of Kindle sales every time a book of theirs is released. If you are considering this book, don’t consider, buy it and feed the horror monster inside its first three course meal of graphic horror and macabre.
Having being an avid follower of Michael Bray I was excited to read this collaboration of his with the talented Matt Shaw (Sick B*stards, Consumed and many more.)
The cover alone is awesome and gives the reader a sneak peek to what may lie inside, the warning makes horror lovers like myself want to explore the book as soon as!
The story begins immediately and grips the reader’s throat from the very first chapter. Continuing throughout the book with added pace towards the final ejaculation of gore, blood and mind a blowing twist. The characters are few, but don’t let this deceive you! their personalities more than make up for the lack of characters. Each character is well set for their role in the tale and have been superbly written with myself feeling a slight emotion of empathy towards both of them strangely enough!
The plot is a incredible and insane but Shaw and Bray make it work and the authors compliment each other remarkably. There are twists aplenty, maximum description, and enough gore and blood to keep the most blood thirsty among us happy for the duration.
The warning is in place for a reason! if easily offended this book is NOT for you! so do authors a favour don't buy and then leave a negative review because you found scenes "offending". The warning is there!!
This has been one of the best horror books I have read in a long time, up there with the best, it would not be out of place next to a King or Laymon novel.
These authors are outstanding and deserve to be in the top ten of Kindle sales every time a book of theirs is released. If you are considering this book, don’t consider, buy it and feed the horror monster inside its first three course meal of graphic horror and macabre.
August 1, 2022
This is the story of a serial killer bent on creating a gallery of gruesome displays, and the detective assigned to catch him. Before too long the chase starts to become personal. Can Detective Andrews catch him before anyone else dies, and before his family are at risk?
This was an all out no holds barred serial killer thriller/horror. I loved it, and read it in two sittings, and loved it so much I read it twice! Written equally by Matt and Michael, it wasn't difficult to tell whose role was whose, and they clearly had great fun writing the book. The characters were solid, and I love a flawed hero, and Detective Andrews was certainly that! The pace rocketed along, the level of gore was just right. The ending was unexpected and shocking and fitted in well with the story. I recommend this for fans of serial killer thriller or horror fans.
This was an all out no holds barred serial killer thriller/horror. I loved it, and read it in two sittings, and loved it so much I read it twice! Written equally by Matt and Michael, it wasn't difficult to tell whose role was whose, and they clearly had great fun writing the book. The characters were solid, and I love a flawed hero, and Detective Andrews was certainly that! The pace rocketed along, the level of gore was just right. The ending was unexpected and shocking and fitted in well with the story. I recommend this for fans of serial killer thriller or horror fans.
August 2, 2014
I'm a fan of Matt's previous work and this has opened up my eyes to the world of Bray too.
The idea of writing in the first person, from two different characters, using two different authors works really well.
The story has a Se7en-esque vibe to it that grips you from the start and doesn't let go.
As events transpire, the difference between Detective and his nemesis becomes blurred as the story pulls you to its shocking conclusion.
The idea of writing in the first person, from two different characters, using two different authors works really well.
The story has a Se7en-esque vibe to it that grips you from the start and doesn't let go.
As events transpire, the difference between Detective and his nemesis becomes blurred as the story pulls you to its shocking conclusion.
August 6, 2014
What can you say, Matt Shaw is the master of gore-horror. This book was so intense in places that I had to put it down to get my mind to stop spinning. This is my second book by this author and I am looking forward to reading the rest of his works of "Art" :)
July 4, 2022
Art is a really good example of how two writers can work on one book. One author writes for the character of Detective Martin Andrew's, and the other writes for The sinister man who has many names. (You even find out his real one!!)
I really enjoyed this, as I found it slightly different to Shaws other work. I've not read even a portion of all the books he has written, but this compared to the ones I have, this seems alot more fleshed out in terms of story.
Of course that doesn't mean it lacks plenty of gore and extreme descriptions. This doesnt surprise me though as both authors do amazingly at this!! Both characters were well thought out and it's really useful being able to read both perspectives.
An interesting read and the ending was truly horrifying and sad too! Definitely recommend if you usually read Matt Shaw or Michael Bray's work, or prefer a more extreme horror or thriller read.
(If you have watched a play through, or played The evil within 2, this reminded me a little bit of one of the storylines!!)
I really enjoyed this, as I found it slightly different to Shaws other work. I've not read even a portion of all the books he has written, but this compared to the ones I have, this seems alot more fleshed out in terms of story.
Of course that doesn't mean it lacks plenty of gore and extreme descriptions. This doesnt surprise me though as both authors do amazingly at this!! Both characters were well thought out and it's really useful being able to read both perspectives.
An interesting read and the ending was truly horrifying and sad too! Definitely recommend if you usually read Matt Shaw or Michael Bray's work, or prefer a more extreme horror or thriller read.
(If you have watched a play through, or played The evil within 2, this reminded me a little bit of one of the storylines!!)
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