Reviews: Artistic License
Leave your review on Amazon for Wayne Clark’s latest novel, Artistic License.
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers’ Favorite
Immerse yourself in a captivating crime thriller with Wayne Clark’s Artistic License. Humph Barstal is a former NYPD cop-turned-private investigator. When a wealthy client dies by being bludgeoned to death with a seventeenth-century axe, Humph immediately suspects her husband, Mr. Jones, who had been scheming to get his hands on her valuable paintings for quite some time. With the help of his best friend, Duffy, his fiancee Rebecca, and the NYPD, Humph delves into the investigation and soon finds himself embroiled in a grander conspiracy involving art fraud. Meanwhile, Mr. Jones’ partner, Mr. Barrington, and England’s notorious art forger, Benji Borasco, have been hatching schemes of their own. Humph follows the trail of clues to Cuba, where he gets married to Rebecca. But can he blow the lid off the entire art fraud operation?
Artistic License is a crime caper laced with mystery, romance, and intrigue. One of the most impressive aspects of Wayne Clark’s writing is that his stories always feel realistic, no matter how audacious the premise is. And this one is no different. The story opens with a seemingly simple murder case that slowly turns into a full-blown international art fraud conspiracy, taking the reader by surprise with each turn of the page along the way. Clark’s character work is simply phenomenal. The relationship dynamics in Humph’s life, be it with his fiancée Rebecca, his stepdaughter Eve, his friend Duffy, or his pals at the NYPD, seem so natural and organic. It makes the reader become invested in Humph’s role as the protagonist. All in all, this book is tailor-made for readers of crime thrillers.
V.E.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great Read
Reviewed in the United States on December 21, 2024
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In Artistic License, the third novel in Wayne Clark’s NY PI series, investigator Humph Barstal investigates a high-stakes art robbery at a national gallery. Clark expertly combines crime, psychology, and moral quandaries, creating a fascinating narrative full of twists, unscrupulous characters, and deception. With crisp language and evocative imagery, the narrative brings New York’s art scene to life. This fast-paced thriller is ideal for mystery aficionados and art fans, providing tension, dimension, and unique suspense. Highly recommended.
Carlitas
5.0 out of 5 stars
An unputdownable mystery
Reviewed in the United States on December 21, 2024
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When it comes to captivating thriller novels, I can assure that “Artistic License” is a clear example of it. Wayne Clark has come up with a story that will keep you at the edge of your seat from the start.
The story revolves around Hump Barstal, a veteran New York PI who gets involved in a delicate murder that puts him into action with the help of his fiancee Rebecca and best friend Duffy. They will try to come to grips with the mystery that surrounds the crime.
It’s a captivating novel that will invite readers to put themselves in the characters’ shoes and minds to solve the mystery. I liked the way every event is portrayed and the details that the author uses to help readers get a whole picture of the case. I enjoyed reading it and I definitely recommend it.
Stainless Steel
5.0 out of 5 stars
Exciting story!
Reviewed in the United States on December 21, 2024
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This fast-paced crime thriller explores the intriguing realm of art theft and is set around 1940. A straightforward investigation soon devolves into a convoluted web of international intrigue and greed. All things considered, if you enjoy crime thrillers, I heartily suggest this book!
SA_ostrich
5.0 out of 5 stars
Suspenseful art crime novel
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Artistic Licence by Wayne Clark is an entertaining andl suspenseful novel that delves into the little-known world of art theft and organised crime as its central premise. The protagonist, Humph Barstal, is a matter-of-fact investigator who is a lot better at handling criminal cases than he is at handling women. Nevertheless, he has to cope with both and recover some invaluable paintings to boot.
- Reviewed in the United States on December 21, 2024
Like in his previous books, the author does a great job of setting the scene and conjuring up the distinctive atmosphere of his stories. There is plenty of description, but the author retains a good balance of showing and telling in his writing, keeping readers engaged and on edge to discover the next twist in the plot.
PI Humph on the prowl
Reviewed in the United States on November 16, 2024
In this book, PI Humph is called in to help in an art robbery. While he is hiding the clues for that, his personal life gets infinitely now complicated when the women in his life demand more from him. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading another. I really like mysteries and the author did a great job of keeping me guessing how it was all connected.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Reviewed in the United States on November 12, 2024
In Artistic License, the third book in Wayne Clark’s NY PI series, readers are plunged into the shadowy world of art crime, where a seemingly routine art theft unfolds into a gripping tale of deception and international fraud. The protagonist, an unyielding PI, navigates a web of intrigue, shady collectors, and high-stakes players in the art world.
Clark blends suspense with the luxurious allure of priceless artworks, keeping readers on edge with every twist. The novel’s meticulous attention to detail and compelling characters makes it an exhilarating read, perfect for fans of both crime thrillers and fine art.
‘I haven’t had a big case in six months’ – And that is about to change!
Reviewed in the United States on November 9, 2024
Canadian author Wayne Clark has been around – as a journalist, a reporter, and editor, a freelance writer and translator, a copywriter, and an astute observer of life in all its permutations. He travels (all over Canada, across the pond to Germany and Holland, and down in the third American level of Mexico), he sees, probably fantasizes, a lot. Stir that pot and out comes a novelist who takes risks and makes them pan out for him. His books to date – HE & SHE, THAT WOMAN, HOLLYWOOD VIA ORCHARD STREET, VINEGAR HILL BLUES, and his popular NY PI series ONE MURDER TOO MANY, BUSTED ON BROADWAY, and now Book 3 – ARTISTIC LICENSE. Having read all of his novels, this reader can comfortably recommend Wayne’s artistic achievements!
Bringing back his now famous former cop turned PI Humphrey Barstal, Clark continues his preoccupation with New York City, once again creating an absorbing mystery. His ability to capture attention is evident in the opening lines: ‘Humph wasn’t sure where to turn, but two women, the ones he most loved in this world, had strong opinions about what he should do at various, often unpredictable, times in his life. He could handle conflict when it involved scoundrels, murderers, rapists, ruffians and anarchists, but not women, Two women were coming to visit him that evening…’ The interplay of the major characters in this fascinating mystery include his fiancée Rebecca, his stepdaughter Eve, his friend Duffy, and his cadre of pals in the NYPD, and the theme of this episode deals with the subterfuge of the art market. Clark condenses the action as follows: ‘Love or art? Love of money? Veteran New York PI Humph Barstal discovers that the motive for a cunning theft of irreplaceable paintings from the nation’s biggest gallery can be driven by both.’
Clark – and Humph! – get better with every installment of this immensely entertaining mystery series. This is a perfect book for satisfying reading, especially on winter evenings!
Reviewed in the United States on November 16, 2024
I love a good crime thriller book, and this book is one of those that I definitely enjoyed. Written by Wayne Clark, Artistic License takes us to the world of intrigue when the main character, New York PI Humph Barstal, was hired to investigate an art robbery. I love how unpredictable the book was. It got me really curious as to where the story would take us and as to what conclusions it’s going to lead us. The book was well-written, and I especially loved the conversations between the characters and how they made the story more interesting. The writing style was engaging. It was also a straightforward novel and very easy to get into. Overall, this is a highly recommended book if you are into crime thrillers!
PI Humph on the prowl
Reviewed in the United States on November 16, 2024
In this book, PI Humph is called in to help in an art robbery. While he is hiding the clues for that, his personal life gets infinitely now complicated when the women in his life demand more from him. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading another. I really like mysteries and the author did a great job of keeping me guessing how it was all connected.
A book for lovers of art and mystery
Reviewed in the United States on November 13, 2024
Artistic License is an exciting story that combines deception and intrigue with art, set in New York City. This book introduces the character of Humph Barstal who is an expert private investigator working for the most important art gallery in the country. He soon encounters a case that initially seems straightforward, but as time goes on, it reveals that there is a voracious desire for wealth involved.
The author masterfully builds the mind of the protagonist and the other characters whose behaviors show their character full of intrigue and seeking their own benefit. As he investigates the theft, Barstal discovers what people are capable of doing to cover up their pet peeves. It is a very interesting book with several exciting twists and turns.
Katie Combot
An ex-cop turned PI has another case, this time to find out why art may be worth killing for
5.0 out of 5 stars
Reviewed in Canada on November 25, 2024
The mystery case itself was very well written. The web of connections was well thought out. It all made sense yet I couldn’t guess what would happen next. The story keeps you on your toes.
I love the pace of the book. I was never bored or left wanting.
Although it is a mystery book, I loved the small moments between Rebecca and Humph. I wouldn’t call this a romance novel, but there were enough slice-of-life aspects wonderfully intertwined with the mystery that made me feel like I got both worlds.
Humph, who has emotional wounds from his last love, Eve’s mother, but heals them slowly and realistically as he commits more and more with Rebecca. Humph continues to grow as a man emotionally. Personally, I value seeing character growth, especially in a series.
The bad guys have interesting backstories. and I can understand why they did the awful things they did. The motives were realistic, given their character. Nothing was far-fetched.
With it being the 3rd book in the series, I was happy to see returning characters I’ve grown attached to.
All in all, this is a great read for anyone who likes mysteries or a romance reader looking to try a new genre.
Iker
5.0 out of 5 stars
Artistic License: Love, Greed, and the Perfect Heist
Reviewed in the United States on December 14, 2024
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Wayne Clark’s suspenseful and brilliantly written criminal thriller Artistic License (NY PI Book 3) will hold readers’ attention to the very end. The theft of valuable artworks from the biggest gallery in the country presents a challenging and crafty case for seasoned New York private investigator Humph Barstal in this third episode of the NY PI series.
As Barstal proceeds to study, he gets tangled in a confusing web of desire for art and the pull of fortune in dangerous ways.This is a thrilling and fast-moving novel because Clark’s language is incisive, precise, and forceful. The plot is skilfully woven, and at the center of it, the mystery of the artwork theft contains many twists. Adding to the interest is the way Clark analyzes the opposing impulses of want and avarice.
Where Clark excels in his writing is the recording of a gritty, true-to-form New York atmosphere; this book has an almost brilliant pace with twists and turns that make it hard to put down.
Artistic License is a must-read for fans of crime fiction, art lovers, and anyone who enjoys a thrilling mystery filled with unexpected depth. Even if you haven’t read the previous books in the series, this novel stands on its own and will surely leave you eager for more. An excellent addition to the NY PI series!
GM Reads
4.0 out of 5 stars
A Thrilling Mix of Art and Mystery
Reviewed in the United States on December 17, 2024
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Wayne Clark’s Artistic License is a fast-paced crime thriller that dives into the fascinating world of art theft. PI Humph Barstal takes readers on an unpredictable journey filled with deception, shady characters, and shocking twists that keep you hooked.
What starts as a simple investigation quickly turns into a complex web of greed and international intrigue. Clark’s writing style is sharp, engaging, and easy to follow, with clever dialogue and vivid descriptions that bring both the characters and the art world to life.
This book is perfect for fans of crime thrillers and mystery lovers. With its gripping plot and well-crafted suspense, Artistic License delivers both excitement and depth, making it a highly enjoyable and satisfying read.
Phil Bolos
5.0 out of 5 stars
Fast and addicting
Reviewed in the United States on December 15, 2024
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Artistic License (NY PI Book 3) by Wayne Clark takes the reader to New York City and dives deep into the world of crime and art. The book follows private investigator Humph Barstal as he tries to solve a crime and track down the perpetrators. Little does he know just how deep this crime goes and the lengths to which he will have to go to stop it from happening again. The crime is well thought up and the characters are fleshed out nicely. The narrative moves along at a fast pace and does a great job of getting the reader hooked and pulled into the investigation.
Katherine Gaibor
Piaras
5.0 out of 5 stars
A masterwork of art world intrigue
Reviewed in the United States on December 16, 2024
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In “Artistic License,” the third installment of Wayne Clark’s NY PI series, seasoned investigator Humph Barstal tackles a sophisticated art heist at a major national gallery. The author masterfully weaves together the complexities of high-stakes art theft with deeper questions about human motivation, exploring whether love of art or money drives people to cross moral boundaries. The intricate plot development keeps readers guessing while showcasing Barstal’s investigative prowess. The story stands out for its well-crafted dialogue and richly developed characters that bring New York’s art world to life and richly developed characters that bring New York’s art world to life.
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Masterpiece of Deception: A New Mystery from Humph Barstal
Reviewed in the United States on December 18, 2024
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“Artistic License” is the third installment in the thrilling Humph Barstal mystery series. This time, the enigmatic detective is tasked with recovering stolen masterpieces from one of the nation’s most prestigious art galleries. As Barstal delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of deceit and greed, where art and money intertwine in a dangerous game.
Ian J. Miller
5.0 out of 5 stars
Well-written police story
Reviewed in the United States on December 18, 2024
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Humph is ex NYPD and is setting up private consulting. He is commissioned by a woman who needs protection from a violent husband, and who has desires on her art collection. That night she is murdered, and Humph has a case. The story is set about 1940, so it has certain historical aspects to it as well. What ensues is solid police work to settle the issue of art theft, and then it moves on to art fraud.
It is a well-written story, and the characters are believable. The descriptions of a small part of New York at the time are vivid. The story progresses methodically with a touch of romance, although the ending tends to just happen. Well worth reading.
Jeyran M
4.0 out of 5 stars
Intrigue, art, and suspense perfectly combined.
Reviewed in the United States on December 17, 2024
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Artistic License (NY PI Book 3) by Wayne Clark is a sharp and engaging mystery where veteran PI Humph Barstal investigates the cunning theft of irreplaceable paintings. Blending themes of art, greed, and love, Wayne Clark delivers a fast-paced, twist-filled story with rich characters and an authentic New York setting. A must-read for fans of classic detective fiction.
SA_ostrich
5.0 out of 5 stars
Suspenseful art crime novel
Reviewed in the United States on December 21, 2024
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Artistic Licence by Wayne Clark is an entertaining andl suspenseful novel that delves into the little-known world of art theft and organised crime as its central premise. The protagonist, Humph Barstal, is a matter-of-fact investigator who is a lot better at handling criminal cases than he is at handling women. Nevertheless, he has to cope with both and recover some invaluable paintings to boot.
Like in his previous books, the author does a great job of setting the scene and conjuring up the distinctive atmosphere of his stories. There is plenty of description, but the author retains a good balance of showing and telling in his writing, keeping readers engaged and on edge to discover the next twist in the plot.
George
4.0 out of 5 stars
Quick but very enjoyable read.
Reviewed in the United States on December 21, 2024
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The book is a combination of suspense, humor and crime drama. People who enjoy reading suspense novels would enjoy this book; it is short but full of delightful action scenes. The author uses vivid narration and cinematic descriptions to tell the story, drawing in readers like me. The book is well-paced as a story with intense action scenes and thought-provoking moments in a quieter atmosphere. The author used sharp and witty dialogue for the characters, making them more interesting. Humph is a great protagonist; he is loyal, resourceful, and determined, moving the story along quickly. Readers like me who enjoy crime novels can easily be immersed and enjoy this character-driven novel.
Guy Wheatley
5.0 out of 5 stars
A period piece reminiscent of “The Maltese Falcon”, or “Casa Blanca.”
Reviewed in the United States on December 22, 2024
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This is a period piece reminiscent of “The Maltese Falcon”, or “Casa Blanca.” It takes place in pre-WW2 New York. In the first few pages, I found the attitudes of the characters a bit offense. As I continued to read I came to understand that this was a period piece about a time and place I have no personal experience with. My reading of history seems to pretty well agree with the portrayals in the book.
The plot is International involving high art. With no personal experience in this world, I was fascinated reading about it. I would very much like to visit Cuba or Mexico of that period. Reading this book is about as close as I’ll get.
It’s well worth the time a effort to read
V.E.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great Read
Reviewed in the United States on December 21, 2024
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In Artistic License, the third novel in Wayne Clark’s NY PI series, investigator Humph Barstal investigates a high-stakes art robbery at a national gallery. Clark expertly combines crime, psychology, and moral quandaries, creating a fascinating narrative full of twists, unscrupulous characters, and deception. With crisp language and evocative imagery, the narrative brings New York’s art scene to life. This fast-paced thriller is ideal for mystery aficionados and art fans, providing tension, dimension, and unique suspense. Highly recommended.
Carlitas
5.0 out of 5 stars
An unputdownable mystery
Reviewed in the United States on December 21, 2024
Verified Purchase
When it comes to captivating thriller novels, I can assure that “Artistic License” is a clear example of it. Wayne Clark has come up with a story that will keep you at the edge of your seat from the start.
The story revolves around Hump Barstal, a veteran New York PI who gets involved in a delicate murder that puts him into action with the help of his fiancee Rebecca and best friend Duffy. They will try to come to grips with the mystery that surrounds the crime.
It’s a captivating novel that will invite readers to put themselves in the characters’ shoes and minds to solve the mystery. I liked the way every event is portrayed and the details that the author uses to help readers get a whole picture of the case. I enjoyed reading it and I definitely recommend it.
Darwin Veliz
5.0 out of 5 stars
Intrigue and Mystery in ‘Artistic License’
Reviewed in the United States on December 22, 2024
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Wayne Clark’s ‘Artistic License’ is a gripping crime thriller that grabs the reader from the first page. Humph Barstal, a former NYPD detective turned private investigator, has to attend a shocking case in which one of his millionaire clients is hacked to death with a 17th century axe. With the help of his best friend, Duffy, his fiancée Rebecca, and the New York police, Humph is able to follow the trail, which soon takes him from New York to Havana, where he is able to make decisions he would not have dared to make otherwise.
One of Clark’s main virtues is his ability to create complex characters, as well as the relationships they establish with each other: the relationship between Humph and his fiancée, Rebecca, and especially the relationship with her stepdaughter, Eve, the relationship with his friends from the NYPD; because these relationships are convincing, real, in such a way that the reader feels caught up in the story.
The novel surprises the reader as it follows its main character, thanks to the unexpected twists and Clark’s masterful narration, which moves between a mystery novel, a love story and intrigue.