What do you think?
The Art of Getting Hammered
Claire and her hammer are back in this hotly anticipated sequel to the award-winning You'd Look Better as a Ghost.
352 pages, Unknown Binding
First published August 6, 2026
About the author
Joanna Wallace
3 books238 followersJoanna Wallace studied law at Birmingham University before working as a commercial litigation solicitor in London, during which time she represented litigants in many fascinating cases and became remarkably proficient at unjamming photocopiers.
Joanna lives near London with her husband, four children and two dogs.
Joanna lives near London with her husband, four children and two dogs.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
August 14, 2026
I had so much fun with this one! For lovers of dark comedy, this is sure to make you chuckle many many times! I just cannot fault this book. Its funny and ridiculous in the best way. What happens when a seemingly ordinary person, who is hiding in plain sight is actually a serial killer. She enjoys the killing but has her reasons why she kills (petty as they may be). What happens when suddenly there is another killer in town? Is this other killer on to her too? Are they a threat or do they have the same motivation? But who are they?
A super easy listen. The narrator was perfection! Setting the atmosphere and the ridiculousness in a way that made it believable from both POVs. The suspense was palpable but always keeping the fun!
And that twist was freaking fantastic to then be elaborated and explained in the best way, from their POV and NOT in a killer confesses everything way which ive never been a fan of and always seemed comical so this was so refreshing.
Please check this book out!
Many thanks to profile book and Viper for providing me with a copy of the audiobook via NetGalley for review.
A super easy listen. The narrator was perfection! Setting the atmosphere and the ridiculousness in a way that made it believable from both POVs. The suspense was palpable but always keeping the fun!
And that twist was freaking fantastic to then be elaborated and explained in the best way, from their POV and NOT in a killer confesses everything way which ive never been a fan of and always seemed comical so this was so refreshing.
Please check this book out!
Many thanks to profile book and Viper for providing me with a copy of the audiobook via NetGalley for review.
August 17, 2026
This book is hilarious! I opted for the audiobook and I'll just say now it is a must for this book! I have not listened to anything by Imogen Church before, but will definitely keep an eye out in the future!
The voices of some of Claire's annoyances are so on point and really help her case. Granted she is a serial killer, but she really believes she is providing a service. Does this make me a sociopath??
Joanna has crafted a darkly comical thriller that immediately sucks you in and doesn't let you go till the very end. I was thinking about this book when I wasnt reading it, wondering about Claire and her oddities and who would be the next to meet an unfortunate end with her hammer.
Claire as a main character is brilliant. She's dry and sarcastic and even though she claims to feel nothing, I am sure I spied a little heart under that tough exterior. Even though what she is doing is wrong I couldn't help but root for her!
All the characters play a part in building up this story. I particularly liked Natasha, the hairdresser. Although not in it for very long I couldn't help but chuckle through the interactions. Note to self - always wash your hands and say thank you if someone lets you out whilst driving.
The pacing is spot on throughout. The story is multilayered and all the connecting stories were interesting and had my mind whirring trying to pick up clues. Joanne is great at leading you one way and then absolutely flipping the script. I was spectacularly wrong when it came to the other serial killer.
I can't praise this book enough. So, if you are looking for a thriller that has dark humour, a main character who is so morally grey you'll think you've gone colourblind, a motley crew of characters, and an unravelling mystery with a side of sociopath and vigilante justice, this is the book for you!
Thank you to Joanna Wallace, Imogen Church and Viper books for this advanced complimentary listening copy via Netgalley. This review is being left voluntarily and all opinions expressed are my own.
The voices of some of Claire's annoyances are so on point and really help her case. Granted she is a serial killer, but she really believes she is providing a service. Does this make me a sociopath??
Joanna has crafted a darkly comical thriller that immediately sucks you in and doesn't let you go till the very end. I was thinking about this book when I wasnt reading it, wondering about Claire and her oddities and who would be the next to meet an unfortunate end with her hammer.
Claire as a main character is brilliant. She's dry and sarcastic and even though she claims to feel nothing, I am sure I spied a little heart under that tough exterior. Even though what she is doing is wrong I couldn't help but root for her!
All the characters play a part in building up this story. I particularly liked Natasha, the hairdresser. Although not in it for very long I couldn't help but chuckle through the interactions. Note to self - always wash your hands and say thank you if someone lets you out whilst driving.
The pacing is spot on throughout. The story is multilayered and all the connecting stories were interesting and had my mind whirring trying to pick up clues. Joanne is great at leading you one way and then absolutely flipping the script. I was spectacularly wrong when it came to the other serial killer.
I can't praise this book enough. So, if you are looking for a thriller that has dark humour, a main character who is so morally grey you'll think you've gone colourblind, a motley crew of characters, and an unravelling mystery with a side of sociopath and vigilante justice, this is the book for you!
Thank you to Joanna Wallace, Imogen Church and Viper books for this advanced complimentary listening copy via Netgalley. This review is being left voluntarily and all opinions expressed are my own.
June 9, 2026
The Art of Getting Hammered is a crime fiction novel full of dark humour about a hammer wielding serial killer who lost her mojo and somehow ends up in a situation where people are dropping like flies, but this time she's not the one doing the killing!
Essentially you get exactly that. It was quite a fun and easy read. However, it ultimately didn't stand out much to me (neither the story nor the main character intrigued me enough), so I am rating it 3 stars.
Still a good pick, if you want to pick up a book with an unusual protagonist whose answer to everything is killing people.
Essentially you get exactly that. It was quite a fun and easy read. However, it ultimately didn't stand out much to me (neither the story nor the main character intrigued me enough), so I am rating it 3 stars.
Still a good pick, if you want to pick up a book with an unusual protagonist whose answer to everything is killing people.
June 26, 2026
Claire the serial killer is back!! 🩷
Thank you so much @viperbooks for sending us an arc of one of my most anticipated reads of 2026!!! My review of The Art of Getting Hammered by Joanna Wallace, here we go! 🌈
Seriously, this must be my favorite subgenre EVER!! There is something about female serial killers that intrigues me and if she has the name Claire (my name omg) it's even better!
Please note that this is the sequel to You'd Look Better as a Ghost. So if you end up reading this book you should check out the first part of Claire's journey. 🤭
Claire is a part-time serial killer who hates most people. They are just annoying and rude. When she sees someone who looks a bit transparent, she needs to kill that person. That's just how it works. Both books turn out to be a story full of feminine rage and gore but also a lot of funny moments 🫶🏼
The sequel might be ever better than the first part?! I really loved getting back to reading about Claire and her slightly crazy habit. 🤭 Joanna Wallace really knows her character building. We've got to known Claire even better in this book and I really appreciated this.
I really loved how characters from the previous book made an appearance but also a lot of new ones were introduced. In the beginning I had a hard time keeping up because there were a lot of people, but once you'll get it all figured out it's easy to follow. The pacing of this book was really nice. You know your girl loves herself some short chapters. 🤣
I have to tell you the amount of humor in this book is really good. The story could get really dark but because of the amusing way it's written, it gets really easy to read this book.
P.s. I still can't over the fact that her name is Claire?! 🥹 My friends keep making jokes that they will watch out for me now, lol
Thank you so much @viperbooks for sending us an arc of one of my most anticipated reads of 2026!!! My review of The Art of Getting Hammered by Joanna Wallace, here we go! 🌈
Seriously, this must be my favorite subgenre EVER!! There is something about female serial killers that intrigues me and if she has the name Claire (my name omg) it's even better!
Please note that this is the sequel to You'd Look Better as a Ghost. So if you end up reading this book you should check out the first part of Claire's journey. 🤭
Claire is a part-time serial killer who hates most people. They are just annoying and rude. When she sees someone who looks a bit transparent, she needs to kill that person. That's just how it works. Both books turn out to be a story full of feminine rage and gore but also a lot of funny moments 🫶🏼
The sequel might be ever better than the first part?! I really loved getting back to reading about Claire and her slightly crazy habit. 🤭 Joanna Wallace really knows her character building. We've got to known Claire even better in this book and I really appreciated this.
I really loved how characters from the previous book made an appearance but also a lot of new ones were introduced. In the beginning I had a hard time keeping up because there were a lot of people, but once you'll get it all figured out it's easy to follow. The pacing of this book was really nice. You know your girl loves herself some short chapters. 🤣
I have to tell you the amount of humor in this book is really good. The story could get really dark but because of the amusing way it's written, it gets really easy to read this book.
P.s. I still can't over the fact that her name is Claire?! 🥹 My friends keep making jokes that they will watch out for me now, lol
July 11, 2026
HA! What a great book this was!The perfect combination of dark humor and crime fiction, so relatable from a main character perspective (obviously apart from the hammering heads part, although the urge exists 😂🫠).
Claire makes it a mission to “penalise” people who don’t meet social standards (which, again, changed a lot in this century). In the middle of losing her mojo, she’s found herself a mundane job and another presence who is always a step ahead of the hammering game.
Easy, funny and engaging, this book perfectly hammers some human typologies.
My triggers
* To what level are we defined by our parents actions?
* I totally believe in good upbringing and the first 7 years of your life being your foundation of your good manners.
* I’ll forever have a fear of hospitals and doctors appointments.
* The easiness of stalking someone in this day and age is absolutely terrifying.
* Human masks and their ability to fall and be picked up depending on the circumstances.
* Embarrassment, in my case, eats a lot of my energy. I get SO consumed pronouncing a word incorrectly.
* The urge of correcting behaviours has always been one of my red flags 🫠 I used to suffer of “I’ll fix you” syndrome.
* Sometimes I wish my brain would lack in common sense. I’d save myself a lot of energy. Not to mention, I genuinely believe that stupid people are happier 🫠😭
July 31, 2026
A comedic thriller narrated from the point of view of a serial killer set in a small town. The humour really reminded me of Hot Fuzz, but from a female perspective. The plot is fantastically stupid in the best possible way… Ridiculous, dark and entertaining.
The main protagonist, Claire, has the best inner monologue, and her thoughts about the locals are hilariously relatable. While this isn't a thriller that takes itself too seriously, it still kept me guessing with the clues we were given, and I was really satisfied with how everything wrapped up.
The narrator was a perfect fit for the tone of the book. Her character voices, especially for the locals, were hilarious, and she kept the energy and humour going from start to finish.
The main protagonist, Claire, has the best inner monologue, and her thoughts about the locals are hilariously relatable. While this isn't a thriller that takes itself too seriously, it still kept me guessing with the clues we were given, and I was really satisfied with how everything wrapped up.
The narrator was a perfect fit for the tone of the book. Her character voices, especially for the locals, were hilarious, and she kept the energy and humour going from start to finish.
May 24, 2026
4.5 stars** I read Joanna’s first book in the series and absolutely loved it so I was super happy to be sent an arc copy of this one.
It was so good to see how Claire’s been getting on and meeting some characters from the previous book. However it had been a while since I read it and forgot some stuff but don’t feel like it affected my reading of this book so definitely think this one could be read as a standalone too.
Despite there being so many characters, I was able to keep track of who was who and they didn’t get muddled at all. I really enjoyed the addition of the pub as a setting. My only reason not giving this 5 stars was because I feel like the humour wasn’t as good or funny as the first book but that’s my only criticism.
It was so good to see how Claire’s been getting on and meeting some characters from the previous book. However it had been a while since I read it and forgot some stuff but don’t feel like it affected my reading of this book so definitely think this one could be read as a standalone too.
Despite there being so many characters, I was able to keep track of who was who and they didn’t get muddled at all. I really enjoyed the addition of the pub as a setting. My only reason not giving this 5 stars was because I feel like the humour wasn’t as good or funny as the first book but that’s my only criticism.
August 4, 2026
The Art Of Getting Hammered follows Claire, a part-time serial killer who’s lost her taste for murder. Then, a lucky break and a new job in the local pub gives her the perfect target when someone starts spiking drinks and causing mayhem. But as bodies start to pile up, Claire realizes another killer is working her patch. Claire has questions. And she's not afraid to use her hammer to get answers...
The Art of Getting Hammered is a satirical thriller packed with dark humour, sharp wit, and an unforgettable protagonist.
The story is told primarily from Claire’s perspective, and she was easily my favourite part of the whole book. She’s completely unhinged, and I enjoyed every minute spent inside her head. Her running commentary on everyone around her was absolutely hilarious, bringing the other characters to life through her brutally honest observations of all their awful habits and personalities. Her inner monologue was also surprisingly relatable at times… although I definitely wouldn’t go as far as murdering anyone!😂
The short chapters, combined with the dark humour, sarcasm, and witty writing made this such an entertaining and engaging read. I laughed out loud more than once and ended up reading the whole thing in one sitting. The occasional chapters from the other killer’s perspective had me suspicious of absolutely everyone, and while the mystery isn’t overly complex, it’s still twisty enough to keep you guessing - and that’s all that this story needed!
I read this quite happily as a standalone, but it’s definitely made me want to go back and read You’d Look Better as a Ghost!
Thank you so much to Viper for sending me this copy to read and review, and for having me along for the blog tour. My opinions are my own.
The Art of Getting Hammered is a satirical thriller packed with dark humour, sharp wit, and an unforgettable protagonist.
The story is told primarily from Claire’s perspective, and she was easily my favourite part of the whole book. She’s completely unhinged, and I enjoyed every minute spent inside her head. Her running commentary on everyone around her was absolutely hilarious, bringing the other characters to life through her brutally honest observations of all their awful habits and personalities. Her inner monologue was also surprisingly relatable at times… although I definitely wouldn’t go as far as murdering anyone!😂
The short chapters, combined with the dark humour, sarcasm, and witty writing made this such an entertaining and engaging read. I laughed out loud more than once and ended up reading the whole thing in one sitting. The occasional chapters from the other killer’s perspective had me suspicious of absolutely everyone, and while the mystery isn’t overly complex, it’s still twisty enough to keep you guessing - and that’s all that this story needed!
I read this quite happily as a standalone, but it’s definitely made me want to go back and read You’d Look Better as a Ghost!
Thank you so much to Viper for sending me this copy to read and review, and for having me along for the blog tour. My opinions are my own.
August 9, 2026
Deliciously dark, hilarious, and filled to the brim with relatable situations (apart from being a hammer wielding psycho obvs) this book had me howling with laughter from the very start.
I listened to the audio version of The Art Of Getting Hammered, and at first I wasnt entirely sure I liked the narration, but that soon changed and I was enamoured with Imogen Church's ability to bring absolutely every character to life. The accents, the different tones and pitches make absolutely every character distinguishable and the angry Welsh man had me in hysterics every time.
I absolutely loved the myriad of characters that bring this book together - Rich Runner, Mrs Davis, Helen the Heron and so forth absolutely bring a strange kind of found family angle to this novel, but also added even more hilarity to what in real life would probably be rather mundane moments.
I loved mystery angle where this time around Claire is not the main killer, but instead there is another murderer in the midst! I kept guessing and trying to work out who it was but I never managed to actually figure it out before the Reveal.
I haven't read the other books in this series, but the blurb for this had me intrigued as lately I have discovered a thorough enjoyment for these kinds of crime comedies. It didn't seem to affect my experience with this installment, but I'll definitely be adding the other two books in the series to my TBR and am eager to read more books in the future from Joanna Wallace.
Thank you to the publisher for allowing me access to this audiobook via Netgalley.
I listened to the audio version of The Art Of Getting Hammered, and at first I wasnt entirely sure I liked the narration, but that soon changed and I was enamoured with Imogen Church's ability to bring absolutely every character to life. The accents, the different tones and pitches make absolutely every character distinguishable and the angry Welsh man had me in hysterics every time.
I absolutely loved the myriad of characters that bring this book together - Rich Runner, Mrs Davis, Helen the Heron and so forth absolutely bring a strange kind of found family angle to this novel, but also added even more hilarity to what in real life would probably be rather mundane moments.
I loved mystery angle where this time around Claire is not the main killer, but instead there is another murderer in the midst! I kept guessing and trying to work out who it was but I never managed to actually figure it out before the Reveal.
I haven't read the other books in this series, but the blurb for this had me intrigued as lately I have discovered a thorough enjoyment for these kinds of crime comedies. It didn't seem to affect my experience with this installment, but I'll definitely be adding the other two books in the series to my TBR and am eager to read more books in the future from Joanna Wallace.
Thank you to the publisher for allowing me access to this audiobook via Netgalley.
July 9, 2026
Thank you to Viper Books and NetGalley for the DRC of The Art of Getting Hammered that enabled me to write this review. All opinions my own.
What a breath of fresh air this book was! I was completely consumed by Joanna Wallace's The Art of Getting Hammered, obsessed even. Short but sweet, Wallace places us inside of the mind of Claire, an unfeeling serial killer going through something of a dry spell. Claire is an absolute hoot, she sucks as a person in an incredibly funny and compelling fashion. A misanthrope through and through, she delivers scathing critique (at least internally) of the people she considers "ordinary", and I absolutely fell in love with her.
The pacing is spot on, fast paced enough to keep things exciting, but not so quick as to not allow events room to breathe. The other characters besides Claire are clearly parodies of certain archetypes - Samira for example being the stereotypical person with 250 Instagram followers who thinks she's now a social media and marketing expert. They're all over the top depictions, but just grounded and believable enough that I only rolled my eyes at character dialogue a few times, and found their believability as characters to be satisfactory - although the teenage slang could've used a bit more of a modern flair.
All in all, I found The Art of Getting Hammered to be a true delight, and I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys a dark comedy. So good on its own you wouldn't even notice it was a sequel (I certainly didn't until looking it up later!) 4.5 stars.
What a breath of fresh air this book was! I was completely consumed by Joanna Wallace's The Art of Getting Hammered, obsessed even. Short but sweet, Wallace places us inside of the mind of Claire, an unfeeling serial killer going through something of a dry spell. Claire is an absolute hoot, she sucks as a person in an incredibly funny and compelling fashion. A misanthrope through and through, she delivers scathing critique (at least internally) of the people she considers "ordinary", and I absolutely fell in love with her.
The pacing is spot on, fast paced enough to keep things exciting, but not so quick as to not allow events room to breathe. The other characters besides Claire are clearly parodies of certain archetypes - Samira for example being the stereotypical person with 250 Instagram followers who thinks she's now a social media and marketing expert. They're all over the top depictions, but just grounded and believable enough that I only rolled my eyes at character dialogue a few times, and found their believability as characters to be satisfactory - although the teenage slang could've used a bit more of a modern flair.
All in all, I found The Art of Getting Hammered to be a true delight, and I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys a dark comedy. So good on its own you wouldn't even notice it was a sequel (I certainly didn't until looking it up later!) 4.5 stars.
July 28, 2026
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 @𝐯𝐢𝐩𝐞𝐫.𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐫!
Quirky, packed with dark humour and a unique spin on your typical murder mystery. Claire is a brilliant character and her inner monologue is witty, sarcastic and my favourite part. However, it didn’t grip me like I’d have hoped, it was tedious and repetitive in parts. It needed more action and more twists~⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quirky, packed with dark humour and a unique spin on your typical murder mystery. Claire is a brilliant character and her inner monologue is witty, sarcastic and my favourite part. However, it didn’t grip me like I’d have hoped, it was tedious and repetitive in parts. It needed more action and more twists~⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 9, 2026
What a fun read! I loved getting to hang out with Claire again. Her deadpan humor is EVERYTHING, and I found myself genuinely laughing out loud more than once.
I absolutely love the way this author writes. The pacing is fast without feeling rushed. It’s definitely a thriller, but the humor is what makes it stand out. Somehow this book manages to be suspenseful and hilarious all at the same time.
I absolutely love the way this author writes. The pacing is fast without feeling rushed. It’s definitely a thriller, but the humor is what makes it stand out. Somehow this book manages to be suspenseful and hilarious all at the same time.
August 14, 2026
I LOVE Joanna’s writing! I’m so glad Claire is back with her unusual hobby! A great dark, funny addictive book, who knew crime and comedy go hand in hand. Highly recommend
September 23, 2026
Just as good as the first book! I loved it! I really hope we get a 3rd one! 😍❤️
July 23, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. Packed with chortle-worthy narrative, characters you can both love and loathe, and a serial killer intent of setting things right by uncovering a serial drink spiker and, potential, fellow serial killer. Given protagonist Claire's propensity for shortening the future of those she finds irksome, is it possible that this time around she may have met her match? Can a job in a pub really lead to a renewal of her recently lost murderous tendencies? And is Claire really the kind of person you should lean on to help find a missing dog...?
Well, to find out the answer to any of those questions, it really would be a good idea to read this book as I'm not going to tell you. What I will tell you is that the book brought a smile to my face from the very start, a kind of tee-hee glee from knowing that in her own, understated and yet ultimately final way, Claire was going to find her own unique brand of entertainment and inspiration in untimely, and often quite messy, death. Yes, Claire is an artist, with a side line in murder by way of blunt force trauma utilising an very common place, but effective, household object. I'll let you draw your own conclusions here if you haven;t read the first book, You'd Look Better As A Ghost, but I think the title, and the cover, speak volumes.
It's not essential that you have read the first book to appreciate Claire's raison d'être, but I do think you are missing out on a real treat if you haven't because it's a cracking read in its own right, and it does go someway to explaining the unlikely, and somewhat complex, friendship with Helen. It also gives a little more context to Claire's 'hobby', and her very unique artistry. The book launches right into the middle of one of Claire's sessions with her first muse/victim of the book, and you can get a real feel for how the remainder of the book will go from here. It's not a book that takes itself too seriously, and yet one that actually covers some pretty important subjects in a way that doesn't seek to make light of them - ie drink spiking - but which doesn't leave you feeling overly depressed either, if only because you know Claire is there with her own brand of justice.
I really liked the portrayal of the characters in this book, even if not all were actually likeable in themselves. Claire is an obvious winner, so wonderfully drawn, unable to really understand the simplest of social clues and so dry in her observations it's almost impossible to laugh. She says and thinks everything we probably all do too, but are too polite to give voice to. Helen is so positive and so oblivious to the fact that Claire is of an exceedingly dark mind that they compliment each other in the way of all the best comedy duos, but with a few less cracking one liners (although never dismiss Claire for the chance of pithy observations).
Then you have Claire's neighbour, and owner of the aforementioned missing dog, Mrs Davis, her Nephew, the eternally put upon publican, Angus, his irrepressible marketing obsessed fiancée, Samira, and his partner in business, the very grumpy and dissatisfied, Mac. They, and the other customers of The Red Lion make for a cracking cast who kept me amused, and waiting with great patience to see who might be the next victim of the potential killer(s), Claire included. They all help to keep the story fresh, and had me completeky invested in their story.
The book is perfectly paced, and brilliantly narrated by the wonderful Claire. There are moments when we get to experience the perspective of the 'other' killer in their midst, but largely it is Claire's point of view we share and this determines how quickly we are able to uncover the identity of other ne'er-do-wells. There are plenty of surprises along the way, and a few less surprising moments too where I arrived at certain conclusions just a shade ahead of Claire. But that is no issue in this book. You are not meant to be a budding Hercule Poirot or Miss Marple, although mystery is rife should you wish to play that role. This is a book that has that element of investigation, but is heavy on entertainment value, with witty dialogue that hits the mark as surely as Claire's weapon of choice.
If you enjoyed book one, then you are in for a real treat with this trip back into Claire's world. I ate it up, tearing through the pages at quite the clip, wondering if Claire could make like a Canadian Mountie and 'get her man'. A brilliantly entertaining read perfect for a summers day, and for anyone who has ever envisioned 'dealing' with those people who try your patience, but lack the psychotic and amoral tendencies to do so.
Well, to find out the answer to any of those questions, it really would be a good idea to read this book as I'm not going to tell you. What I will tell you is that the book brought a smile to my face from the very start, a kind of tee-hee glee from knowing that in her own, understated and yet ultimately final way, Claire was going to find her own unique brand of entertainment and inspiration in untimely, and often quite messy, death. Yes, Claire is an artist, with a side line in murder by way of blunt force trauma utilising an very common place, but effective, household object. I'll let you draw your own conclusions here if you haven;t read the first book, You'd Look Better As A Ghost, but I think the title, and the cover, speak volumes.
It's not essential that you have read the first book to appreciate Claire's raison d'être, but I do think you are missing out on a real treat if you haven't because it's a cracking read in its own right, and it does go someway to explaining the unlikely, and somewhat complex, friendship with Helen. It also gives a little more context to Claire's 'hobby', and her very unique artistry. The book launches right into the middle of one of Claire's sessions with her first muse/victim of the book, and you can get a real feel for how the remainder of the book will go from here. It's not a book that takes itself too seriously, and yet one that actually covers some pretty important subjects in a way that doesn't seek to make light of them - ie drink spiking - but which doesn't leave you feeling overly depressed either, if only because you know Claire is there with her own brand of justice.
I really liked the portrayal of the characters in this book, even if not all were actually likeable in themselves. Claire is an obvious winner, so wonderfully drawn, unable to really understand the simplest of social clues and so dry in her observations it's almost impossible to laugh. She says and thinks everything we probably all do too, but are too polite to give voice to. Helen is so positive and so oblivious to the fact that Claire is of an exceedingly dark mind that they compliment each other in the way of all the best comedy duos, but with a few less cracking one liners (although never dismiss Claire for the chance of pithy observations).
Then you have Claire's neighbour, and owner of the aforementioned missing dog, Mrs Davis, her Nephew, the eternally put upon publican, Angus, his irrepressible marketing obsessed fiancée, Samira, and his partner in business, the very grumpy and dissatisfied, Mac. They, and the other customers of The Red Lion make for a cracking cast who kept me amused, and waiting with great patience to see who might be the next victim of the potential killer(s), Claire included. They all help to keep the story fresh, and had me completeky invested in their story.
The book is perfectly paced, and brilliantly narrated by the wonderful Claire. There are moments when we get to experience the perspective of the 'other' killer in their midst, but largely it is Claire's point of view we share and this determines how quickly we are able to uncover the identity of other ne'er-do-wells. There are plenty of surprises along the way, and a few less surprising moments too where I arrived at certain conclusions just a shade ahead of Claire. But that is no issue in this book. You are not meant to be a budding Hercule Poirot or Miss Marple, although mystery is rife should you wish to play that role. This is a book that has that element of investigation, but is heavy on entertainment value, with witty dialogue that hits the mark as surely as Claire's weapon of choice.
If you enjoyed book one, then you are in for a real treat with this trip back into Claire's world. I ate it up, tearing through the pages at quite the clip, wondering if Claire could make like a Canadian Mountie and 'get her man'. A brilliantly entertaining read perfect for a summers day, and for anyone who has ever envisioned 'dealing' with those people who try your patience, but lack the psychotic and amoral tendencies to do so.
July 31, 2026
I actually cannot believe that it's been almost exactly 2 whole years since I read The Dead Friend Project by this author.
It honestly feels like yesterday.
I loved it so much that I can still remember it vividly!
Now, given that I never read their first book - You'd Look Better As A Ghost - despite having it on my shelves since release day! - I still pounced on this new release so fast.
I hadn't quite put together that these two books might be connected (especially as TDFP was independent) - but I actually feel like this worked perfectly well as a standalone anyway.
I'm sure there were some character developments that I missed out on - but the introduction to Claire and her foibles was well written to make me feel quite at home and not missing anything drastic.
However, poor Claire has lost her killing mojo and despite trying hard to find victims, it seems that the only killing around there is being done by someone else!
As you can imagine, this really doesn't go down very well with Claire and she's determined to discover who the killer is and get her mojo back too.
I absolutely loved Claire - I hope that doesn't say too much about me - she was so relatable ...apart from the killing obviously.
I loved her general views on society and the fact that when she did kill, it was to improve the world a little.
I was completely hooked from start to finish and what started out as a simple missing dog issue, escalated fast to become a much more complex web of kills.
This was packed with humour and I found myself laughing so much - I loved all the banter in the pub, all the locals who were such a diverse bunch and all the different story threads that kept me guessing right to the end.
I absolutely need to go back and discover Claire's origin story - and I'm not mad that I'll be reading them wrong way round, I'm sure that it'll work just fine.
This was another brilliant read that I devoured in 2 sittings and I can't wait to see what's next ....something completely different or will we be revisiting some old friends again?
It honestly feels like yesterday.
I loved it so much that I can still remember it vividly!
Now, given that I never read their first book - You'd Look Better As A Ghost - despite having it on my shelves since release day! - I still pounced on this new release so fast.
I hadn't quite put together that these two books might be connected (especially as TDFP was independent) - but I actually feel like this worked perfectly well as a standalone anyway.
I'm sure there were some character developments that I missed out on - but the introduction to Claire and her foibles was well written to make me feel quite at home and not missing anything drastic.
However, poor Claire has lost her killing mojo and despite trying hard to find victims, it seems that the only killing around there is being done by someone else!
As you can imagine, this really doesn't go down very well with Claire and she's determined to discover who the killer is and get her mojo back too.
I absolutely loved Claire - I hope that doesn't say too much about me - she was so relatable ...apart from the killing obviously.
I loved her general views on society and the fact that when she did kill, it was to improve the world a little.
I was completely hooked from start to finish and what started out as a simple missing dog issue, escalated fast to become a much more complex web of kills.
This was packed with humour and I found myself laughing so much - I loved all the banter in the pub, all the locals who were such a diverse bunch and all the different story threads that kept me guessing right to the end.
I absolutely need to go back and discover Claire's origin story - and I'm not mad that I'll be reading them wrong way round, I'm sure that it'll work just fine.
This was another brilliant read that I devoured in 2 sittings and I can't wait to see what's next ....something completely different or will we be revisiting some old friends again?
June 13, 2026
3.5 stars
Thanks to NetGalley and Viper for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
This is the second of Joanna's books for me - I read The Dead Friend Project, and I have a copy of You'd Look Better as a Ghost which I haven't read yet. And even after just one book she has become an author I look out for for funny and bloody thrillers and I highly recommend her.
This one is less murder and more chat, which is fine as that's what it says in the synopsis, but I would have liked a bit more murder - because I'm weird like that. Or maybe it's not that. I think it might be because the murdery bits don't really kick in until the second half and that made the first half feel rather slow.
It is surprisingly funny and felt more personable; we spent more time with Claire and got to know her as a person before knowing her as the murderer.
Now, this is a sequel to You'd Look Better as a Ghost, which as stated above, is the one book of hers I haven't read, which is a bit annoying as I didn't know this was a sequel. Now I can't say whether I missed anything obviously, because I'm not aware of what I could miss. But I never felt like I was at too much of a disadvantage reading it. But I'm sure there will be aspects of it or characters that are familiar to readers who have read the first one.
There are quite a lot of characters in this one and I'm not great at keeping on top of names, but I know that's a me problem rather than a problem with the book itself. But they did feel distinct enough and interesting to read about.
I definitely preferred The Dead Friend Project to this and it does have some flaws, in my opinion, but I still really enjoyed it. She's got this talent for writing recognisable characters, giving us blood and murder and thrill, whilst keeping it humerous and lighthearted.
The genre of dark-humour-female-serial-killer is a saturated one at the moment and whilst I did enjoy this, I'm not sure it would stand out currently. But I will definitely find that copy of the first book and maybe once I've read that I may return to this one to see if I get any more out of it.
Thanks to NetGalley and Viper for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
This is the second of Joanna's books for me - I read The Dead Friend Project, and I have a copy of You'd Look Better as a Ghost which I haven't read yet. And even after just one book she has become an author I look out for for funny and bloody thrillers and I highly recommend her.
This one is less murder and more chat, which is fine as that's what it says in the synopsis, but I would have liked a bit more murder - because I'm weird like that. Or maybe it's not that. I think it might be because the murdery bits don't really kick in until the second half and that made the first half feel rather slow.
It is surprisingly funny and felt more personable; we spent more time with Claire and got to know her as a person before knowing her as the murderer.
Now, this is a sequel to You'd Look Better as a Ghost, which as stated above, is the one book of hers I haven't read, which is a bit annoying as I didn't know this was a sequel. Now I can't say whether I missed anything obviously, because I'm not aware of what I could miss. But I never felt like I was at too much of a disadvantage reading it. But I'm sure there will be aspects of it or characters that are familiar to readers who have read the first one.
There are quite a lot of characters in this one and I'm not great at keeping on top of names, but I know that's a me problem rather than a problem with the book itself. But they did feel distinct enough and interesting to read about.
I definitely preferred The Dead Friend Project to this and it does have some flaws, in my opinion, but I still really enjoyed it. She's got this talent for writing recognisable characters, giving us blood and murder and thrill, whilst keeping it humerous and lighthearted.
The genre of dark-humour-female-serial-killer is a saturated one at the moment and whilst I did enjoy this, I'm not sure it would stand out currently. But I will definitely find that copy of the first book and maybe once I've read that I may return to this one to see if I get any more out of it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5 ⭐️ (4⭐️ story. 5⭐️narration)
When I requested this book on NetGalley, I didn't realise it was the sequel to another novel. Thankfully, it works perfectly well as a standalone, with enough clever recaps woven into the story that I never felt lost. That said, I'll definitely be heading to Audible for the first book as my next listen!
The Art of Getting Hammered is a darkly humorous crime novel with plenty of heart, and I genuinely didn't want to put it down. Claire is a part-time serial killer who's lost her mojo. She longs to bash some heads in, but just can't seem to bring down the hammer like she used to. Even when she encounters some thoroughly irritating people, she can't quite bring herself to kill them. Then a lucky break and a new job at the local pub give her the perfect excuse to hunt again, someone is spiking drinks and causing chaos, and to make matters worse, unbeknownst to her, another killer is operating on her turf.
I loved the dark humour and Claire's personality. Despite being a serial killer, she finds herself growing attached to the people she meets at the pub and starts questioning whether she actually wants to kill them after all (at least not yet!) Watching her unexpectedly do good things while trying to make sense of her changing instincts made her a surprisingly likeable and entertaining protagonist.
The audiobook narration by Imogen Church was outstanding and was actually the reason I requested the book in the first place. She brings so much personality and emotion to every character, and her range of voices and accents is superb. Her performance perfectly complements the book's witty, dark humour and made for a thoroughly enjoyable listen.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this audio arc in exchange for an honest review.
When I requested this book on NetGalley, I didn't realise it was the sequel to another novel. Thankfully, it works perfectly well as a standalone, with enough clever recaps woven into the story that I never felt lost. That said, I'll definitely be heading to Audible for the first book as my next listen!
The Art of Getting Hammered is a darkly humorous crime novel with plenty of heart, and I genuinely didn't want to put it down. Claire is a part-time serial killer who's lost her mojo. She longs to bash some heads in, but just can't seem to bring down the hammer like she used to. Even when she encounters some thoroughly irritating people, she can't quite bring herself to kill them. Then a lucky break and a new job at the local pub give her the perfect excuse to hunt again, someone is spiking drinks and causing chaos, and to make matters worse, unbeknownst to her, another killer is operating on her turf.
I loved the dark humour and Claire's personality. Despite being a serial killer, she finds herself growing attached to the people she meets at the pub and starts questioning whether she actually wants to kill them after all (at least not yet!) Watching her unexpectedly do good things while trying to make sense of her changing instincts made her a surprisingly likeable and entertaining protagonist.
The audiobook narration by Imogen Church was outstanding and was actually the reason I requested the book in the first place. She brings so much personality and emotion to every character, and her range of voices and accents is superb. Her performance perfectly complements the book's witty, dark humour and made for a thoroughly enjoyable listen.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this audio arc in exchange for an honest review.
August 3, 2026
The Art of Getting Hammered is a humourous crime novel with heart and I just didn’t want to put it down! Claire is a part-time serial killer who has lost her mojo. She longs to bash some heads in, but she can’t quite bring down the hammer like she used to. And despite meeting some very irritating people, she just can’t take them out. But a lucky break and a new job in the local pub give her the perfect reason to hunt that kill… someone is spiking drinks and causing mayhem. And there’s another killer on the loose… Who is murdering on her turf?!
The dark humour in this book is everything I love, and I especially loved Claire’s hilarious inner monologue; it’s clear she wants to kill someone, no matter how difficult she’s finding it. I compared her to Dexter, how she can’t seem to comprehend human emotion, her awkwardness around others, that urge to kill. But I guess they’re big traits of your standard serial killer! She is an excellent character that you can’t help but love, despite what she does.
There are quite a few characters to keep on top of which always muddles me up, but as time went on it became easier to place them. They are quite a mad bunch and so entertaining, and Claire’s nicknames for them, her thoughts and how she sometimes disassociates when they talk was just brilliantly done! It’s witty, so clever, and (dare I say it?) relatable. I would never bash someone with a hammer, but some of Claire’s thoughts about people have definitely passed through my head too 😂
A brilliant read, one I’d definitely recommend if you need a lighter crime novel or something a little different in the genre!
The dark humour in this book is everything I love, and I especially loved Claire’s hilarious inner monologue; it’s clear she wants to kill someone, no matter how difficult she’s finding it. I compared her to Dexter, how she can’t seem to comprehend human emotion, her awkwardness around others, that urge to kill. But I guess they’re big traits of your standard serial killer! She is an excellent character that you can’t help but love, despite what she does.
There are quite a few characters to keep on top of which always muddles me up, but as time went on it became easier to place them. They are quite a mad bunch and so entertaining, and Claire’s nicknames for them, her thoughts and how she sometimes disassociates when they talk was just brilliantly done! It’s witty, so clever, and (dare I say it?) relatable. I would never bash someone with a hammer, but some of Claire’s thoughts about people have definitely passed through my head too 😂
A brilliant read, one I’d definitely recommend if you need a lighter crime novel or something a little different in the genre!
July 21, 2026
Claire and her hammer are back in this hotly anticipated sequel to the award-winning ‘You'd Look Better as a Ghost’.
Once again Jo’s writing had me regularly chuckling amongst the murder and mayhem. I loved Claire’s inner-monologue and the sarcasm and wit made me laugh so much throughout this sequel. It was an absolute highlight for me. I think the humour is something many reviewers will comment on because it really was brilliant and possibly even funnier than the first.
In this new story, Claire is still handy with her hammer and isn’t afraid to fill her flower beds with anyone who gets on her nerves. (I wish she’d take a few middle lane drivers from the motorway, but that’s just me!) After rescuing her neighbours dog from a local dognapper, the subsequent events find her embroiled in some mysterious deaths that she hasn’t committed herself (for once!).
The mystery felt lighter than its former story, but it’s still worthy, engaging and kept me guessing. The character building here is fantastic - the web of diverse characters ranged from mysterious, hilarious, annoying and outright unlikeable (Rich-Runner, I’m talking about you!).
Amongst the dark humour is a brilliant crime story and one I thoroughly enjoyed. Whilst some of the earlier chapters with lots of dialogue and characters in the pub felt a little long-winded, this was quickly expelled as the story gets going.
Whilst it’s a sequel I absolutely feel that you could read this as a standalone too. You don’t need to know much about the former story as it’s not a direct-continuation as such.
Once again Jo’s writing had me regularly chuckling amongst the murder and mayhem. I loved Claire’s inner-monologue and the sarcasm and wit made me laugh so much throughout this sequel. It was an absolute highlight for me. I think the humour is something many reviewers will comment on because it really was brilliant and possibly even funnier than the first.
In this new story, Claire is still handy with her hammer and isn’t afraid to fill her flower beds with anyone who gets on her nerves. (I wish she’d take a few middle lane drivers from the motorway, but that’s just me!) After rescuing her neighbours dog from a local dognapper, the subsequent events find her embroiled in some mysterious deaths that she hasn’t committed herself (for once!).
The mystery felt lighter than its former story, but it’s still worthy, engaging and kept me guessing. The character building here is fantastic - the web of diverse characters ranged from mysterious, hilarious, annoying and outright unlikeable (Rich-Runner, I’m talking about you!).
Amongst the dark humour is a brilliant crime story and one I thoroughly enjoyed. Whilst some of the earlier chapters with lots of dialogue and characters in the pub felt a little long-winded, this was quickly expelled as the story gets going.
Whilst it’s a sequel I absolutely feel that you could read this as a standalone too. You don’t need to know much about the former story as it’s not a direct-continuation as such.
August 3, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Thank you to Rosie @viper.books for sending me this book and inviting me to take part in the Book Tour. My review stop is today 👇🏼
•••••
This book was such a hilariously fun, wild ride.
Darkly funny, sartorial, and so addictive. I flew through this book. It was the perfect
holiday read 🔨 🍸 🩸.
Claire, what can I say about Claire? It’s quite worrying how often I absolutely love the
morally grey character. She was so funny and, in some ways, very relatable. For example, When people don’t thank me after I’ve let them out on the road, I see red too. Nothing requiring a hammer, but I see where Claire is coming from! 😂🤭😅
I loved Claire’s inner monologue. Witty, dry, sarcastic. I was completely there for it and i
think this is what made the story for me.
We meet an array of characters. Each with their own unique personality and comedic
moments. Everyone added a new dynamic to the story and left me guessing whether I
could trust them or not.
I loved the small community feeling of this story. It gave off Midsomer Murders with chaotic, humorous vibes.
Short chapters and a fast pace kept the story flowing seamlessly, and the chapters from
the murderers POV, peppered through the story, kept me intrigued and entertained.
Overall, a fabulous story I highly recommend. A perfect blend of humour and darkness. Unputdownable.
And the moral to the story ... Always thank the people who give way to you on the roads 🚗🤭.
Thank you to Rosie @viper.books for sending me this book and inviting me to take part in the Book Tour. My review stop is today 👇🏼
•••••
This book was such a hilariously fun, wild ride.
Darkly funny, sartorial, and so addictive. I flew through this book. It was the perfect
holiday read 🔨 🍸 🩸.
Claire, what can I say about Claire? It’s quite worrying how often I absolutely love the
morally grey character. She was so funny and, in some ways, very relatable. For example, When people don’t thank me after I’ve let them out on the road, I see red too. Nothing requiring a hammer, but I see where Claire is coming from! 😂🤭😅
I loved Claire’s inner monologue. Witty, dry, sarcastic. I was completely there for it and i
think this is what made the story for me.
We meet an array of characters. Each with their own unique personality and comedic
moments. Everyone added a new dynamic to the story and left me guessing whether I
could trust them or not.
I loved the small community feeling of this story. It gave off Midsomer Murders with chaotic, humorous vibes.
Short chapters and a fast pace kept the story flowing seamlessly, and the chapters from
the murderers POV, peppered through the story, kept me intrigued and entertained.
Overall, a fabulous story I highly recommend. A perfect blend of humour and darkness. Unputdownable.
And the moral to the story ... Always thank the people who give way to you on the roads 🚗🤭.
August 4, 2026
3.5 rounded to 4 ⭐
Murder is her masterpiece …
Artist Claire has lost her murderous mojo. Previously, the terror of rude and irritating people would have driven her to get out the zip ties and begin righting people’s wrongs. She previously was ‘improving the world a little’.
Then, a new job in the local pub gives Claire the perfect target. Someone is spiking drinks and causing mayhem in her small town. But as she is closing in on the culprit, her patrons start dropping like flies. For once, she isn’t the one doing the killing.
Who is the other murderer on her patch? Claire has questions and she isn’t afraid to use her hammer to get the answers she needs …
Packed with dark and sarcastic humour, this story takes a different approach to the standard ‘serial killer’ storyline. A complex web of kills and lies, Claire’s inner thoughts and monologue are the best part of the book. Her naming people by their actions, materials or emotions is unique; ‘bored’, ‘mortified’, the ‘rich runner’. The characters - whether we like them or not - are all well placed and I was able to picture each and every one of them when they were in the pub, each with their own issues and complaints.
Plenty of surprises are within these pages and if you are looking for a bit of comedic fun within an easy to read thriller, then this one is for you! 🔨
Thank you to NetGalley, Viper Books and Joanna Wallace for the ARC in return for an honest review.
Murder is her masterpiece …
Artist Claire has lost her murderous mojo. Previously, the terror of rude and irritating people would have driven her to get out the zip ties and begin righting people’s wrongs. She previously was ‘improving the world a little’.
Then, a new job in the local pub gives Claire the perfect target. Someone is spiking drinks and causing mayhem in her small town. But as she is closing in on the culprit, her patrons start dropping like flies. For once, she isn’t the one doing the killing.
Who is the other murderer on her patch? Claire has questions and she isn’t afraid to use her hammer to get the answers she needs …
Packed with dark and sarcastic humour, this story takes a different approach to the standard ‘serial killer’ storyline. A complex web of kills and lies, Claire’s inner thoughts and monologue are the best part of the book. Her naming people by their actions, materials or emotions is unique; ‘bored’, ‘mortified’, the ‘rich runner’. The characters - whether we like them or not - are all well placed and I was able to picture each and every one of them when they were in the pub, each with their own issues and complaints.
Plenty of surprises are within these pages and if you are looking for a bit of comedic fun within an easy to read thriller, then this one is for you! 🔨
Thank you to NetGalley, Viper Books and Joanna Wallace for the ARC in return for an honest review.
August 3, 2026
Imogen Church narrates Claire perfectly in the audiobook, capturing the dark humour and fantastic internal monologue that I really enjoyed. Claire, our part-time serial killer, has lost her murderous mojo, despite the fact that people are dropping like flies all around her, so this time she's trying to find the killer rather than being the killer. Female serial killers are always fascinating, and there's often lots of humour in these types of books, which I really enjoy. I haven't read the first book in the series, but this does work as a standalone. It made me laugh how easily Claire's patience snaps - anyone who's rude to her, or even just mildly grating, risks finding themselves on the wrong end of her hammer. When she lands a new job at the local pub, she spots what looks like the perfect case: someone's been spiking drinks and stirring up trouble. But once she starts digging, people around her start dying too, and for once, it isn't down to her. I didn't work out who the killer was - that was a brilliant twist. So as well as lots of humour, there's a clever mystery too. I read a lot of thrillers, and some of them are really dark, so the comedy really lightens up the read. There's lots of quirky personalities, and the plot is quite unique and fast-paced. Really enjoyable.
4 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Joanna Wallace and Profile Books for an ARC of this book.
4 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Joanna Wallace and Profile Books for an ARC of this book.
July 7, 2026
The Art of Getting Hammered is the follow up to You’d Look Better as a Ghost, and I would strongly recommend reading that book first, as several threads from book one run over into this new instalment. Once again, we join Claire, who is an artist and part time serial killer, and this time, she has lost her mojo for killing! However, she slowly becomes aware of another killer operating on her patch…
The pacing slips between slow and fast. For much of the first part we are observing Claire’s day-to-day life: dealing with neighbours, other road users and working – not very engrossing. Thankfully, these routine events are accompanied by her inner thoughts, and I will admit to laughing out loud on more than one occasion at her observations! The pace does pick up in the second part and there are some gripping events to enjoy. There are a number of characters to get to know, and this author has a great skill for creating authentic, well-rounded and, in some cases, infuriating people (yes, I’m looking at you Rich Runner!). On the whole, I do feel that the ‘humour-related female serial killer’ genre is flooded right now and, for me, whilst I did enjoy this book, I feel it falls short of standing out in such a market.
The pacing slips between slow and fast. For much of the first part we are observing Claire’s day-to-day life: dealing with neighbours, other road users and working – not very engrossing. Thankfully, these routine events are accompanied by her inner thoughts, and I will admit to laughing out loud on more than one occasion at her observations! The pace does pick up in the second part and there are some gripping events to enjoy. There are a number of characters to get to know, and this author has a great skill for creating authentic, well-rounded and, in some cases, infuriating people (yes, I’m looking at you Rich Runner!). On the whole, I do feel that the ‘humour-related female serial killer’ genre is flooded right now and, for me, whilst I did enjoy this book, I feel it falls short of standing out in such a market.
July 7, 2026
This was dark, witty and just the right amount of ridiculous.
Claire is such an entertaining narrator. Her inner monologue is wonderfully sarcastic, completely unhinged at times, and had me laughing far more than I expected from a book involving a hammer-wielding serial killer.
I did find the pacing a little mixed. The first half spends quite a bit of time following Claire's everyday life, neighbours, pub regulars and local dramas, so it felt slightly slower to begin with. But once the mystery really gets going, I found myself much more invested in what was happening.
Joanna Wallace has a real talent for creating characters that feel incredibly vivid, whether they're hilarious, suspicious or just deeply irritating. There were definitely a few people I immediately side-eyed throughout.
The mystery itself was fun, twisty enough to keep me engaged and balanced nicely with the humour running underneath it all. While I don't think this completely reinvented the darkly funny thriller genre, it was still a genuinely entertaining read and Claire is such a memorable protagonist that I happily spent a few days inside her chaotic little world.
Dark, quirky, funny and slightly bonkers in the best possible way. 🔨🖤📚
Claire is such an entertaining narrator. Her inner monologue is wonderfully sarcastic, completely unhinged at times, and had me laughing far more than I expected from a book involving a hammer-wielding serial killer.
I did find the pacing a little mixed. The first half spends quite a bit of time following Claire's everyday life, neighbours, pub regulars and local dramas, so it felt slightly slower to begin with. But once the mystery really gets going, I found myself much more invested in what was happening.
Joanna Wallace has a real talent for creating characters that feel incredibly vivid, whether they're hilarious, suspicious or just deeply irritating. There were definitely a few people I immediately side-eyed throughout.
The mystery itself was fun, twisty enough to keep me engaged and balanced nicely with the humour running underneath it all. While I don't think this completely reinvented the darkly funny thriller genre, it was still a genuinely entertaining read and Claire is such a memorable protagonist that I happily spent a few days inside her chaotic little world.
Dark, quirky, funny and slightly bonkers in the best possible way. 🔨🖤📚
July 25, 2026
This book is so much fun!
We first met serial killer Claire in You'd Look Better As A Ghost where she joined a grief group following her father's death. I remember loving that so much so I was excited to see what happened next with Claire.
Although it's been a couple of years since I read the first book, I instantly found myself loving being back in Claire's world. Although you don't need to have read that one, I highly recommend it to get more of a feel for her character.
In The Art Of Getting Hammered, Claire seems to have lost her killing mojo. Her one rule is that she will only kill someone if they look like a ghost but that seems to be happening less and less.
She gets herself a job at the local pub, getting to observe the punters but when people start dying and it isn't her doing it, she worries that there is someone on her patch.
Claire's inner monologue is my favourite thing about this book. I laughed so much and you can tell that Wallace has such a great sense of humour. It feels like a satirical thriller so while I'm giggling at some parts, I'm also trying to work out who is doing the murdering.
A fun, easy read that I think a lot of people will enjoy!
We first met serial killer Claire in You'd Look Better As A Ghost where she joined a grief group following her father's death. I remember loving that so much so I was excited to see what happened next with Claire.
Although it's been a couple of years since I read the first book, I instantly found myself loving being back in Claire's world. Although you don't need to have read that one, I highly recommend it to get more of a feel for her character.
In The Art Of Getting Hammered, Claire seems to have lost her killing mojo. Her one rule is that she will only kill someone if they look like a ghost but that seems to be happening less and less.
She gets herself a job at the local pub, getting to observe the punters but when people start dying and it isn't her doing it, she worries that there is someone on her patch.
Claire's inner monologue is my favourite thing about this book. I laughed so much and you can tell that Wallace has such a great sense of humour. It feels like a satirical thriller so while I'm giggling at some parts, I'm also trying to work out who is doing the murdering.
A fun, easy read that I think a lot of people will enjoy!
August 12, 2026
Thank you Viper Books for the arc copy
This was a 3.5/4 stars for me. I’d say it sits comfortably between the two!
I did enjoy this book, I really did. It was fun, had short chapters, and was so easy to read. I absolutely loved that. It was witty, had all kinds of interesting characters, and I really enjoyed the overall setting.
I just think the story itself wasn’t quite there for me. I loved the serial killer vibes, and I really did vibe with Claire. I understood her, which I probably shouldn’t admit considering she’s a serial killer, but there we are. 😂
I was a tad thrown off by the sections of ‘murder’ at first, but they soon started to take shape. By the end, I actually really enjoyed how they were placed throughout the story. Having those alongside Claire’s POV deepened the mystery for me and kept me guessing about who it was.
I would definitely recommend this for anyone looking for a witty, easy-to-read thriller. It was good, don’t get me wrong, I just found it a little repetitive in places, and I think the overall story could have been stronger.
But overall, a fun read with a great writing style. I’d definitely read something by Jo again, 100%! 🖤
This was a 3.5/4 stars for me. I’d say it sits comfortably between the two!
I did enjoy this book, I really did. It was fun, had short chapters, and was so easy to read. I absolutely loved that. It was witty, had all kinds of interesting characters, and I really enjoyed the overall setting.
I just think the story itself wasn’t quite there for me. I loved the serial killer vibes, and I really did vibe with Claire. I understood her, which I probably shouldn’t admit considering she’s a serial killer, but there we are. 😂
I was a tad thrown off by the sections of ‘murder’ at first, but they soon started to take shape. By the end, I actually really enjoyed how they were placed throughout the story. Having those alongside Claire’s POV deepened the mystery for me and kept me guessing about who it was.
I would definitely recommend this for anyone looking for a witty, easy-to-read thriller. It was good, don’t get me wrong, I just found it a little repetitive in places, and I think the overall story could have been stronger.
But overall, a fun read with a great writing style. I’d definitely read something by Jo again, 100%! 🖤
August 3, 2026
Claire is redefining her killer urges, she seems to have lost her enthusiasm for her deadly art, and has now become engrossed in painting, mainly abstract art, portraits of people that reveal their hidden secrets and the face that they prefer to keep hidden from the world at large.
Not until she gets a part time job at her local pub, does her suppressed urges start to surface, there are so many people who don’t deserve life, drunk drivers, drug pushers and dognappers, where to start?
But there is a hitch, Claire is finding out that she sets the plan in motion, the victim is chosen , but someone else is quietly finishing off the job!!! Is there another killer about, and what do they know about Claire?.
The conclusion takes both the reader and Claire by surprise. Will the meek inherit a certain patch of earth?.
A darkly comedic read, and some fantastic characters, a typical pub group. Claire remains a fascinating person, yes, she has rules, but is flexible if the need arrives. She is also trying to be a more measured and reflective person, but this only goes so far.
Not until she gets a part time job at her local pub, does her suppressed urges start to surface, there are so many people who don’t deserve life, drunk drivers, drug pushers and dognappers, where to start?
But there is a hitch, Claire is finding out that she sets the plan in motion, the victim is chosen , but someone else is quietly finishing off the job!!! Is there another killer about, and what do they know about Claire?.
The conclusion takes both the reader and Claire by surprise. Will the meek inherit a certain patch of earth?.
A darkly comedic read, and some fantastic characters, a typical pub group. Claire remains a fascinating person, yes, she has rules, but is flexible if the need arrives. She is also trying to be a more measured and reflective person, but this only goes so far.
August 7, 2026
The Art of Getting Hammered by Joanna Wallace.
OK, let’s start this book review by pointing out that @jowallaceauthor & @imogenchurchgobshite are an author/narrator combination at the level of @mattdinniman & @jeffhaysofficial & deserve just as much attention & adulation. The narration elevates the gorgeous prose, leaving them both gloriously unanchored & flowing through the world like a lost ghost, always one tiny sliver away from panic.
Lines such as “carcasses disguised as dinner” & “a corpse will never inspire as much as a ghost” are just an unhinged delight & have been added to my quotes book alongside Dickens & Wodehouse.
My concern amongst the dark humour & British thriller wonder is that, as with You’d Look Better as a Ghost, Claire should in no way be quite as relatable as she is, nor should she be the most normal person in a dysfunctional family type cast of chaotic character.
Dark crime comedy at its absolute finest.
Highly, highly recommended & best enjoyed as a purchase made with rainy day money & in the safety of your own home where you can see all the exits.
OK, let’s start this book review by pointing out that @jowallaceauthor & @imogenchurchgobshite are an author/narrator combination at the level of @mattdinniman & @jeffhaysofficial & deserve just as much attention & adulation. The narration elevates the gorgeous prose, leaving them both gloriously unanchored & flowing through the world like a lost ghost, always one tiny sliver away from panic.
Lines such as “carcasses disguised as dinner” & “a corpse will never inspire as much as a ghost” are just an unhinged delight & have been added to my quotes book alongside Dickens & Wodehouse.
My concern amongst the dark humour & British thriller wonder is that, as with You’d Look Better as a Ghost, Claire should in no way be quite as relatable as she is, nor should she be the most normal person in a dysfunctional family type cast of chaotic character.
Dark crime comedy at its absolute finest.
Highly, highly recommended & best enjoyed as a purchase made with rainy day money & in the safety of your own home where you can see all the exits.
May 23, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Penguin for my ARC of this.
Gloriously hilarious dark humour.
We follow Claire a part time serial killer who just isn’t finding satisfaction in her hobby anymore - or life for that matter. Until a spark of mystery brings back her love for things as she tries to find out who has been killing on her turf!
This book was a little mixture of fast and slow paced for me because although not that much happened when you think about it, just Claire’s rundown of day to day life, being in her head and reading her view of ‘normal people’ in ‘normal situations’ was laugh out loud funny and kept you wanting to read more.
There were some fun twists and unexpected turns in this book that I really didn’t see coming.
Overall, it was a nice easy to read comedy.
3.5 stars.
I have just seen as I have been posting this review that this is actually book 2 which goes to show how well it stood on its own.
Gloriously hilarious dark humour.
We follow Claire a part time serial killer who just isn’t finding satisfaction in her hobby anymore - or life for that matter. Until a spark of mystery brings back her love for things as she tries to find out who has been killing on her turf!
This book was a little mixture of fast and slow paced for me because although not that much happened when you think about it, just Claire’s rundown of day to day life, being in her head and reading her view of ‘normal people’ in ‘normal situations’ was laugh out loud funny and kept you wanting to read more.
There were some fun twists and unexpected turns in this book that I really didn’t see coming.
Overall, it was a nice easy to read comedy.
3.5 stars.
I have just seen as I have been posting this review that this is actually book 2 which goes to show how well it stood on its own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews