THE KILLING ART is the third novel in the Kate McKinnon thriller series of acclaimed author and artist Jonathan Santlofer.  His first novel, THE DEATH ARTIST, was published in 2002, and his follow up book, COLOR BLIND, followed in 2004. THE KILLING ART is a rare treat for Mr. Santlofer's fans, since it
not only features his writings but also includes original artwork.  Those who may not be familiar with this gifted writer will be astounded to know that he is a graduated artist who actually taught  drawing, painting, and art history on the college level.

THE KILLING ART reacquaints the reader with ex-cop turned art historian and aficionado Kate McKinnon who has suffered greatly due to tragedies close to home. Widowed young she now shares her living space with her former prodigy and the girl's child. But just when she is ready to move on and put the pieces of her life back together, she is again drawn into the dark circles
of crimes and passions as desecrations of priceless artwork and the deaths of many artists occur that appear to get closer and closer to her.

Kate is beginning to wonder if she is somehow triggering the events, and it does not take long for her to persuade an ever-grateful police department to allow her to volunteer her time and expertise again.  As she investigates she realizes that the art world is as sordid in its dealings as any other business, and soon she understands that a dark and well-kept secret lies at the root of all the killings.  Will she be able to uncover the secret?

Jonathan Santlofer has outdone himself with this latest work.  The combination of visual artwork and literary skill is unsurpassed, and it leaves the reader wondering what will be next.  There are enough gentle cliffhangers in the text to suggest that there will be a next time, while not taking away any of the gripping power of this novel.  The author's knowledge of the art world, its workings, its foibles as well as its greatness shine through, and his ability to put pen to paper and create a story that is imaginative, interesting, and without equal is nothing short of brilliant.  

THE KILLING ART is a wonderful book, and anyone who enjoys suspense novels will do well to add this to their collection. A couple of the scenes in the book are extremely adult in content, so it is best to keep this in mind when giving the book as a gift.