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You're Gone
Meet Arthur Widower, Son, Brother, Friend, Serial killer.
A murderously dark comedic thriller.
A murderously dark comedic thriller.
282 pages, ebook
Published November 8, 2022
35 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
About the author
J.S. Morton
11 books46 followersJ.S. Morton is an award-winning fiction writer renowned for his darkly comedic storytelling. His works often explore real-life issues and delve into human psychology. He is best known for his book "You're Gone," which received a Red Ribbon in the Wishing Shelf Book Competition, a bronze medal in the Readers' Favourite awards, and was reviewed with a 'Get it' by Kirkus Reviews.
AMAZON.COM
Morton's writing style is characterized by a blend of humour and suspense, engaging readers with unpredictable plots and relatable characters. His notable works include:
"You're Gone": A darkly comedic thriller that follows Arthur Norman, a widower grappling with grief and his own sinister inclinations.
"Arthur": A continuation of Arthur Norman's story, exploring his return after 25 years in absentia.
BOOKSHOP.ORG
"Tabula Rasa": A thriller that delves into themes of identity and self-discovery.
As a reader, Morton enjoys gritty dystopian narratives and dark, humorous reads, citing "The Handmaid's Tale," "1984," and "You" among his favourites.
REEDSY.COM
Outside of writing, Morton is passionate about live music, particularly punk and metal genres, cars, reading, cinema, and snow. He is also a staunch believer in kindness and that it is never too late to start anew in life.
AMAZON.COM
For more information about J.S. Morton and his works, you can visit his Amazon author page.
AMAZON.COM
Morton's writing style is characterized by a blend of humour and suspense, engaging readers with unpredictable plots and relatable characters. His notable works include:
"You're Gone": A darkly comedic thriller that follows Arthur Norman, a widower grappling with grief and his own sinister inclinations.
"Arthur": A continuation of Arthur Norman's story, exploring his return after 25 years in absentia.
BOOKSHOP.ORG
"Tabula Rasa": A thriller that delves into themes of identity and self-discovery.
As a reader, Morton enjoys gritty dystopian narratives and dark, humorous reads, citing "The Handmaid's Tale," "1984," and "You" among his favourites.
REEDSY.COM
Outside of writing, Morton is passionate about live music, particularly punk and metal genres, cars, reading, cinema, and snow. He is also a staunch believer in kindness and that it is never too late to start anew in life.
AMAZON.COM
For more information about J.S. Morton and his works, you can visit his Amazon author page.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
December 13, 2022
When the reader meets Arthur Norman, he is deep in despair over the apparent suicide death of his beloved attorney wife, Melissa. He cannot function, do even simple tasks, or leave the house. Unfortunately, his very cold family is of no help to him, and for about eight months he is wildly adrift, drinking heavily to dull the pain. When he finally leaves the house, it’s for the “birthday party” being thrown at his parents large estate. He is criticized for his gaunt appearance (he forgets to eat), his lack of haircut, his drinking, and an attempt is made to match him with Jenny, the very dull neighbor that lives across the street. He is understandably sorry he came. He hasn’t even partaken in his favorite hobby since Melissa died; Arthur is a serial killer (he only kills evil people who deserve it). This part of him, acknowledged as part of who he is by his late attorney wife, was known only to her alone, and she loved him in spite of his compulsion. Even his best friend Abdul (an endearing person) knows nothing about Arthur’s secret compulsion. One day he runs into Ophelia Christos, who is in line in the store lot, waiting to pay for parking as well. Ophelia is a paralegal and former client of Melissa’s who knew her very well, and as he slowly allows the beautiful Ophelia into his life, Arthur begins to let go of Melissa, a little at a time.
J.S. Morton clearly writes about grief and depression from the prospective of someone who has suffered and come out on the other side. “The problem with trauma, grief, and pain is that whatever made you feel that way becomes almost irrelevant…But you can’t outrun your feelings, and you cannot begin to heal until you admit you are hurting…Trust is a big issue, whether you are recovering from abuse, trauma, heartbreak, or failure…You no longer trust your mind, your instincts, or your decisions…The good news is that it gets better…Time doesn’t necessarily heal wounds, what does is how you use that time.” (page 209) The book is well-written, the reader is made to feel so deeply for Arthur, the vigilante, the good-hearted, depressed, almost despondent serial killer, through Morton’s words. Much of the book is the bumbling Arthur; it’s tongue-in-cheek and sprinkled with dark humor. It’s also a page-turner, captivating from page one, with enough left turns to be a professional auto race, and a mind-blowing ending that I hope leads to a sequel.
I’d like to thank Reedsy Discovery, J.S. Morton, and Dystopic Publishing, Ltd., for the ability to read and review this ARC.
J.S. Morton clearly writes about grief and depression from the prospective of someone who has suffered and come out on the other side. “The problem with trauma, grief, and pain is that whatever made you feel that way becomes almost irrelevant…But you can’t outrun your feelings, and you cannot begin to heal until you admit you are hurting…Trust is a big issue, whether you are recovering from abuse, trauma, heartbreak, or failure…You no longer trust your mind, your instincts, or your decisions…The good news is that it gets better…Time doesn’t necessarily heal wounds, what does is how you use that time.” (page 209) The book is well-written, the reader is made to feel so deeply for Arthur, the vigilante, the good-hearted, depressed, almost despondent serial killer, through Morton’s words. Much of the book is the bumbling Arthur; it’s tongue-in-cheek and sprinkled with dark humor. It’s also a page-turner, captivating from page one, with enough left turns to be a professional auto race, and a mind-blowing ending that I hope leads to a sequel.
I’d like to thank Reedsy Discovery, J.S. Morton, and Dystopic Publishing, Ltd., for the ability to read and review this ARC.
February 7, 2026
What a ride of a book..... I thoroughly enjoyed it. Arthur is depressed and grieving following the death of his wife Melissa. It's the story of him overcoming grief and learning to move on. So far so normal, except he is serial killer who's not on top of his game, although he only kills "badies" or those that are thoroughly unpleasant. I gradually fell in love with Arthur, and the supporting characters as they are wonderfully developed. It's dark and somehow very funny, although I'm sure not for those that like fluffy bunny reads. There are some great insights into grieving sensitvely written, but its also very engaging. I loved the setting and I enjoyed recognising the Southampton sites as I read. The only negative is the cliff hanger of the ending, but I certainly now have to read the others and get drawn back into Arthur's world. It's a fantastic read.
January 8, 2024
I didn't know what to expect when I started reading YOU'RE GONE by J.S. Morton, though I anticipated I might not like it very much. A story about a serial killer, told from his perspective? That sounded hard to warm up to.
But wow, was I ever wrong!
This novel is one of the best I've read in a long time and is utterly brilliant. YOU'RE GONE is in equal measures funny, fantastic, scary/creepy, mystifying and (while so implausible) utterly believable.
You see, the main character, Arthur is a serial killer in London, recently widowed after the love of his life, Melissa, mysteriously committs suicide. Melissa knew EVERYTHING about Arthur, both the good and especially all the bad, but accepted Arthur for who he is. Yes, the killing 'hobby' was awful, but he only offed bad people who deserved it. At one point, he draws an analogy between himself and Batman. After Bruce Wayne's parents were murdered during his youth, he goes on to spend the rest of his life wandering Gotham and wreaking vengeance on any citizens doing anything even remotely bad.
This story is written in first person, so readers venture way inside Arthur's thoughts. And believe it or not, before long one can't help but start to like the guy, a lot. He is funny and smart and his indefensible actions even start to feel defensible. And once he meets the stunning and sexy Ophelia, he starts coming out from his post-Melissa-death depression and life becomes extremely interesting for the reader as he tries to right a final wrong.
John Morton, the author, is extremely talented. His writing is smooth and crisp and just flows along like good conversation, never stretching things to add special words. It all totally resonates for the reader, who can almost hear this story effortlessly playing out in his mind. One is not conscious of having to read.
His treatment of Arthur is reminiscent of AMERICAN PSYCHO by Brett Easton Ellis, except that Morton's character almost always remains sympathetic, whereas Ellis's creation was a monster.
If there is anything to criticize in the entire work, I'd say I didn't care for the very short, final scene. I won't say anymore, other than that it felt like after 99.9% of the time delighting the reader, he cheated us a little.
But the book nevertheless is magnificent! A big-time publishing house should grab this indie novel.
But wow, was I ever wrong!
This novel is one of the best I've read in a long time and is utterly brilliant. YOU'RE GONE is in equal measures funny, fantastic, scary/creepy, mystifying and (while so implausible) utterly believable.
You see, the main character, Arthur is a serial killer in London, recently widowed after the love of his life, Melissa, mysteriously committs suicide. Melissa knew EVERYTHING about Arthur, both the good and especially all the bad, but accepted Arthur for who he is. Yes, the killing 'hobby' was awful, but he only offed bad people who deserved it. At one point, he draws an analogy between himself and Batman. After Bruce Wayne's parents were murdered during his youth, he goes on to spend the rest of his life wandering Gotham and wreaking vengeance on any citizens doing anything even remotely bad.
This story is written in first person, so readers venture way inside Arthur's thoughts. And believe it or not, before long one can't help but start to like the guy, a lot. He is funny and smart and his indefensible actions even start to feel defensible. And once he meets the stunning and sexy Ophelia, he starts coming out from his post-Melissa-death depression and life becomes extremely interesting for the reader as he tries to right a final wrong.
John Morton, the author, is extremely talented. His writing is smooth and crisp and just flows along like good conversation, never stretching things to add special words. It all totally resonates for the reader, who can almost hear this story effortlessly playing out in his mind. One is not conscious of having to read.
His treatment of Arthur is reminiscent of AMERICAN PSYCHO by Brett Easton Ellis, except that Morton's character almost always remains sympathetic, whereas Ellis's creation was a monster.
If there is anything to criticize in the entire work, I'd say I didn't care for the very short, final scene. I won't say anymore, other than that it felt like after 99.9% of the time delighting the reader, he cheated us a little.
But the book nevertheless is magnificent! A big-time publishing house should grab this indie novel.
January 15, 2026
Mary’s personal review, not a book club read:
We meet Arthur, a depressed recluse who is mourning the recent loss of his wife. As a reader, we initially feel very sorry for him, and really root for him to get his life back on track.
Fast forward a few chapters, we get to know Arthur’s true self, and his dark secrets and desires, all whilst trying to integrate himself back into society (but in what way?)
Arthur is a loveable character, as are all of the main characters in the book. Shout out to Abdul, the bro we all need in our lives.
Based in and around Southampton, the book is very relatable to locals, who can easily imagine where Arthur is, what he is up to, and how his environment looks.
A dark humour thriller, which is a real page turner. If you love Grady Hendrix, Bret Easton Ellis and Mona Awad as authors, you will love J.S.Morton.
A fantastically written book by a local talented author. I have already purchased the next two books in the series, and cannot wait to follow Arthur’s journey.
We meet Arthur, a depressed recluse who is mourning the recent loss of his wife. As a reader, we initially feel very sorry for him, and really root for him to get his life back on track.
Fast forward a few chapters, we get to know Arthur’s true self, and his dark secrets and desires, all whilst trying to integrate himself back into society (but in what way?)
Arthur is a loveable character, as are all of the main characters in the book. Shout out to Abdul, the bro we all need in our lives.
Based in and around Southampton, the book is very relatable to locals, who can easily imagine where Arthur is, what he is up to, and how his environment looks.
A dark humour thriller, which is a real page turner. If you love Grady Hendrix, Bret Easton Ellis and Mona Awad as authors, you will love J.S.Morton.
A fantastically written book by a local talented author. I have already purchased the next two books in the series, and cannot wait to follow Arthur’s journey.
September 30, 2025
It just ended….
The ending wasn’t an ending, it just ended. Abruptly. One question was answered but another major question was raised at the very end giving no closure on any part of the story.I liked Arthur, believe it or not even though he was a killer. You always think of killers as unemotional psychopaths whereas Arthur was a broken man after the death of his wife. Broken and trying to pick up the pieces, he continues to talk to his wife, Melissa, even after he meets and falls in love with Ophelia.The ending just pissed me off. I understand wanting to leave enough so readers will get the next book, but I don’t feel this was a complete book as you HAVE to read the next one to get any answers.
The ending wasn’t an ending, it just ended. Abruptly. One question was answered but another major question was raised at the very end giving no closure on any part of the story.I liked Arthur, believe it or not even though he was a killer. You always think of killers as unemotional psychopaths whereas Arthur was a broken man after the death of his wife. Broken and trying to pick up the pieces, he continues to talk to his wife, Melissa, even after he meets and falls in love with Ophelia.The ending just pissed me off. I understand wanting to leave enough so readers will get the next book, but I don’t feel this was a complete book as you HAVE to read the next one to get any answers.
February 11, 2026
4.5 stars overall
I really enjoyed this book. I thought Arthur was hilarious while being a bit of a dick. I think the humour in this book just matches my bland dry dark sarcastic kind of humour and I think it was captured so well in such a British fashion. I really enjoyed those elements. Also a reason I ranked it so high is the author is local ish to me so having certain areas in Southampton where I go shopping was fun and knowing certain car parks because I've been on the bus on the way past them was a really fun part of reading it being able to picture it so clearly.
I also loved the way there were so many funny popular culture references that I appreciated.
A really good Thriller I highly recommend especially to any of my local people in Southampton and Winchester.
I really enjoyed this book. I thought Arthur was hilarious while being a bit of a dick. I think the humour in this book just matches my bland dry dark sarcastic kind of humour and I think it was captured so well in such a British fashion. I really enjoyed those elements. Also a reason I ranked it so high is the author is local ish to me so having certain areas in Southampton where I go shopping was fun and knowing certain car parks because I've been on the bus on the way past them was a really fun part of reading it being able to picture it so clearly.
I also loved the way there were so many funny popular culture references that I appreciated.
A really good Thriller I highly recommend especially to any of my local people in Southampton and Winchester.
April 24, 2025
You're Gone by J.S. Morton
The cover caught my eye. From there, the book kept me entertained. I look for male authors because there aren't many good ones out there. This author blended this book so well with death and humor, that I'll be seeking more from him. I love a good thriller, but it must draw me in. This one did.
The cover caught my eye. From there, the book kept me entertained. I look for male authors because there aren't many good ones out there. This author blended this book so well with death and humor, that I'll be seeking more from him. I love a good thriller, but it must draw me in. This one did.
April 26, 2025
Very good
I enjoyed this book it was really interesting and quirky definitely worth a read it was different from my usual stuff but I really enjoyed the way the story was told so yeah five star's from me I'll probably get the next book as it definitely left me wondering what happens next
I enjoyed this book it was really interesting and quirky definitely worth a read it was different from my usual stuff but I really enjoyed the way the story was told so yeah five star's from me I'll probably get the next book as it definitely left me wondering what happens next
January 6, 2026
The last few chapters dragged. Loved the dark comedic humour and how it was written. Struggled with the last few chapters as in 🥱. Disappointing ending and I feel I need to read Arthur. I don’t really like to wait like this to read the next one. I also didn’t know how Magnus came about. Was I missing something?
July 10, 2023
A good read
It's been a while since I've read a book like this and I'm pleased this one was brought to my attention. It was a little slow to begin with but soon picked up the pace. A good dark, humorous read.
It's been a while since I've read a book like this and I'm pleased this one was brought to my attention. It was a little slow to begin with but soon picked up the pace. A good dark, humorous read.
October 20, 2023
A bit of a quirky book. Not for everyone but I enjoyed it and am reading the sequel.
Narrator is a murderer and is married ........... I won't tell any more except to say
that the narrator is not only an odd character but humorous as well which added
to the book's "charm".
Narrator is a murderer and is married ........... I won't tell any more except to say
that the narrator is not only an odd character but humorous as well which added
to the book's "charm".
March 16, 2025
Hilariously dark!
Absolutely loved this serial killer with many layers !ist of them good! Laughed out loud more than I expected! genuinely relatable.
Absolutely loved this serial killer with many layers !ist of them good! Laughed out loud more than I expected! genuinely relatable.
November 10, 2025
Amazing! This made me laugh out loud and if I thought my day wasn't going well Arthur's was worse.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
January 4, 2026
Brilliant - dark, funny, serial killer, brilliantly written
What more could you want !
What more could you want !
June 24, 2025
BOOK REVIEW
“You’re Gone” is a darkly comedic thriller centered on Arthur Norman, a British widower and serial killer who only targets “bad people.” The story picks up eight months after the death of Arthur’s wife, Melissa, with Arthur mired in grief, anxiety, and depression. His killing spree has been on hold, but a home robbery and stolen computer data pull him back into a world of secrets and danger. As Arthur navigates his emotional turmoil, he meets Ophelia Christos, a new love interest, which further complicates his life and moral struggles.
Arthur Norman is a complex antihero—average-looking, able to blend into crowds, and skilled in disguise. Morton excels at first-person narration, immersing the reader in Arthur’s mind, making his twisted logic and emotional pain both understandable and, at times, oddly sympathetic. The novel explores profound themes: grief, isolation, the search for connection, and the blurred lines between good and evil. Arthur’s grief is depicted with raw honesty, and his struggle with his murderous urges is both chilling and darkly humorous.
Morton’s writing is praised for its sharp wit, emotional depth, and originality. The narrative balances visceral thrills with psychological insight, using dark comedy to offset the story’s more disturbing elements. The humor is never gratuitous but serves to highlight Arthur’s humanity and the absurdities of his situation. The book’s pacing is brisk, with clever twists and a shock ending that leaves a lasting impression.
OVERALL “You’re Gone” is a standout in the dark comedy thriller genre, offering a unique, character-driven exploration of grief, morality, and the human psyche. Morton’s deft storytelling, dark humor, and emotional honesty create a compelling, unforgettable read. Highly recommended for fans of psychological thrillers and anyone fascinated by the complexities of good and evil.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND
“You’re Gone” is a darkly comedic thriller centered on Arthur Norman, a British widower and serial killer who only targets “bad people.” The story picks up eight months after the death of Arthur’s wife, Melissa, with Arthur mired in grief, anxiety, and depression. His killing spree has been on hold, but a home robbery and stolen computer data pull him back into a world of secrets and danger. As Arthur navigates his emotional turmoil, he meets Ophelia Christos, a new love interest, which further complicates his life and moral struggles.
Arthur Norman is a complex antihero—average-looking, able to blend into crowds, and skilled in disguise. Morton excels at first-person narration, immersing the reader in Arthur’s mind, making his twisted logic and emotional pain both understandable and, at times, oddly sympathetic. The novel explores profound themes: grief, isolation, the search for connection, and the blurred lines between good and evil. Arthur’s grief is depicted with raw honesty, and his struggle with his murderous urges is both chilling and darkly humorous.
Morton’s writing is praised for its sharp wit, emotional depth, and originality. The narrative balances visceral thrills with psychological insight, using dark comedy to offset the story’s more disturbing elements. The humor is never gratuitous but serves to highlight Arthur’s humanity and the absurdities of his situation. The book’s pacing is brisk, with clever twists and a shock ending that leaves a lasting impression.
OVERALL “You’re Gone” is a standout in the dark comedy thriller genre, offering a unique, character-driven exploration of grief, morality, and the human psyche. Morton’s deft storytelling, dark humor, and emotional honesty create a compelling, unforgettable read. Highly recommended for fans of psychological thrillers and anyone fascinated by the complexities of good and evil.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND
October 21, 2023
Brilliant
Just brilliant. A story like no other. Plenty of laughs even as he kills. You will never see the ending coming.
Just brilliant. A story like no other. Plenty of laughs even as he kills. You will never see the ending coming.
June 19, 2023
A good read
I liked this "couldn't put it down" book with a great surprise ending
Great characters, I love learning a little bit about life in the UK
I liked this "couldn't put it down" book with a great surprise ending
Great characters, I love learning a little bit about life in the UK
June 2, 2023
THE WISHING SHELF BOOK AWARDS
8th December 2022
TITLE: You´re Gone
AUTHOR: J S Morton
Star Rating: 4
‘The author is talented at offering readers a totally abhorrent character and getting them to root for him!’
REVIEW
This book has a plot. But that´s not what I enjoyed the most. What I enjoyed most was getting to know the protagonist who – as the blurb puts it - is not only a widower, a son, a brother, etc. He´s also a psychopathic killer. Now that´s a hook! So I settled down and got to know Arthur and, if I had to sum him up in a word, I´d say he´s a bit of a git. But he´s funny too – or possibly it´s the author who´s funny, don´t know – but anyway, his way of looking at life is sort of sick. A perfect example of this is when his mother is telling him ´to get back to doing what you love´. Ironic, he thinks, as what he loved most was stabbing people angrily.
As I enjoyed this novel, I couldn´t help being reminded of Ted Bundy, the American psychopath, who always seemed such a decent, charismatic sort of fellow who very much enjoyed washing his car. As the world later discovered, he washed his car so often to get all the blood off the carpets! Well, Arthur Norman is sort of Ted Bundy – or he seems so to me anyway. The sort of person you would trust, until he kidnapped, raped, and murdered you.
This novel is, in every way, a character study. And I thought the author did a fantastic job of delving into his sick personality and – I don´t know how – making it all rather funny too. In a way, it´s like the film, The Departed, when Jack Nicolson shoots the woman and says, “She fell funny.” There´s nothing funny about shooting a woman, but it´s still hilarious!
So, if you fancy a novel that´s a little bit shocking, that´s a little bit different; and you like the thought of getting to know the inner workings of a psychopath´s mind, this story is for you. At the end of the novel, there´s a promise from the author that Arthur will be back – I do hope so!
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: You´re Gone
Author: J.S. Morton
Star Rating: 4 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 7/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Content: 8/10
Cover: 2/5
Of the 15 readers:
11 would read another book by this author.
6 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
11 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 8 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the protagonist’.
Of all the readers, 3 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
12 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
11 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“This is the second novel I have enjoyed by this author, this being the better of the two. I must say, the author’s ability to make you feel sorry for a murderer is impressive. Interesting character study.” Male reader, aged 58
“Sort of slow but still a compelling story with a FAB ending. It’s such a clever premise: a psychopath as the protagonist of the book and seeing him trying to get through the loss of his wife. Although the cover is amateurish and the title is not so sparkling, the book is a gem. Dark, funny, gritty, sad – there’s a lot going on here.” Female reader, aged 52
“I’m very impressed by this novel and the author’s ability to balance humour with developing such a sick character. I even started to like Arthur, although I wouldn’t want to bump into him in a dark alley.” Male reader, aged 69
“The author successful shows how a psycho can act so normally and feel so normally and yet be so messed up.” Female reader, aged 44
To Sum It Up:
‘A powerful, character-led novel with a dark, and very clever, premise. A RED RIBBON WINNER and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
8th December 2022
TITLE: You´re Gone
AUTHOR: J S Morton
Star Rating: 4
‘The author is talented at offering readers a totally abhorrent character and getting them to root for him!’
REVIEW
This book has a plot. But that´s not what I enjoyed the most. What I enjoyed most was getting to know the protagonist who – as the blurb puts it - is not only a widower, a son, a brother, etc. He´s also a psychopathic killer. Now that´s a hook! So I settled down and got to know Arthur and, if I had to sum him up in a word, I´d say he´s a bit of a git. But he´s funny too – or possibly it´s the author who´s funny, don´t know – but anyway, his way of looking at life is sort of sick. A perfect example of this is when his mother is telling him ´to get back to doing what you love´. Ironic, he thinks, as what he loved most was stabbing people angrily.
As I enjoyed this novel, I couldn´t help being reminded of Ted Bundy, the American psychopath, who always seemed such a decent, charismatic sort of fellow who very much enjoyed washing his car. As the world later discovered, he washed his car so often to get all the blood off the carpets! Well, Arthur Norman is sort of Ted Bundy – or he seems so to me anyway. The sort of person you would trust, until he kidnapped, raped, and murdered you.
This novel is, in every way, a character study. And I thought the author did a fantastic job of delving into his sick personality and – I don´t know how – making it all rather funny too. In a way, it´s like the film, The Departed, when Jack Nicolson shoots the woman and says, “She fell funny.” There´s nothing funny about shooting a woman, but it´s still hilarious!
So, if you fancy a novel that´s a little bit shocking, that´s a little bit different; and you like the thought of getting to know the inner workings of a psychopath´s mind, this story is for you. At the end of the novel, there´s a promise from the author that Arthur will be back – I do hope so!
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: You´re Gone
Author: J.S. Morton
Star Rating: 4 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 7/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Content: 8/10
Cover: 2/5
Of the 15 readers:
11 would read another book by this author.
6 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
11 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 8 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the protagonist’.
Of all the readers, 3 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
12 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
11 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“This is the second novel I have enjoyed by this author, this being the better of the two. I must say, the author’s ability to make you feel sorry for a murderer is impressive. Interesting character study.” Male reader, aged 58
“Sort of slow but still a compelling story with a FAB ending. It’s such a clever premise: a psychopath as the protagonist of the book and seeing him trying to get through the loss of his wife. Although the cover is amateurish and the title is not so sparkling, the book is a gem. Dark, funny, gritty, sad – there’s a lot going on here.” Female reader, aged 52
“I’m very impressed by this novel and the author’s ability to balance humour with developing such a sick character. I even started to like Arthur, although I wouldn’t want to bump into him in a dark alley.” Male reader, aged 69
“The author successful shows how a psycho can act so normally and feel so normally and yet be so messed up.” Female reader, aged 44
To Sum It Up:
‘A powerful, character-led novel with a dark, and very clever, premise. A RED RIBBON WINNER and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
June 6, 2025
Meet Arthur Norman: grieving… awkward… and casually murdering people. 😳🔪
You’re Gone by J.S. Morton is the kind of book that has you gasping one minute and laughing the next — a darkly delicious thriller with a seriously clever twist of humor.
Arthur is your typical quiet guy… except for the part where he’s a serial killer. But this isn’t your average slasher tale. It’s deeply character-driven, strangely relatable, and packed with dry wit that’ll make you feel guilty for laughing — but you’ll do it anyway 😅🖤
Morton masterfully balances grief, absurdity, and tension in a way that keeps you flipping pages, wondering what Arthur’s going to do (or kill) next. The writing is sharp, the pacing is tight, and the dark comedy? Chef’s kiss.
It’s part thriller, part tragicomedy, and all-around unputdownable. If you like your fiction twisted, witty, and a little bit wrong — this one’s calling your name.
You’re Gone is smart, brutal, and surprisingly emotional. Just don’t get too attached…
You’re Gone by J.S. Morton is the kind of book that has you gasping one minute and laughing the next — a darkly delicious thriller with a seriously clever twist of humor.
Arthur is your typical quiet guy… except for the part where he’s a serial killer. But this isn’t your average slasher tale. It’s deeply character-driven, strangely relatable, and packed with dry wit that’ll make you feel guilty for laughing — but you’ll do it anyway 😅🖤
Morton masterfully balances grief, absurdity, and tension in a way that keeps you flipping pages, wondering what Arthur’s going to do (or kill) next. The writing is sharp, the pacing is tight, and the dark comedy? Chef’s kiss.
It’s part thriller, part tragicomedy, and all-around unputdownable. If you like your fiction twisted, witty, and a little bit wrong — this one’s calling your name.
You’re Gone is smart, brutal, and surprisingly emotional. Just don’t get too attached…
February 27, 2023
I loved this book. It made me laugh—regularly—but without taking away too much from the plot. The protagonist is a murderer, yes. But he's a troubled individual trying to do his best with his pain—trying to make it into something good.
The book has a plot, a good one. It isn't just a dark comedy, it tackles real issues of the mind. Comparison is the thief of joy, so I won't compare it. But if you like Dexter or You, then you're in the right territory with this book.
In the end, the author teases the return of Arthur Norman (the protagonist) and I do hope that's true.
The book has a plot, a good one. It isn't just a dark comedy, it tackles real issues of the mind. Comparison is the thief of joy, so I won't compare it. But if you like Dexter or You, then you're in the right territory with this book.
In the end, the author teases the return of Arthur Norman (the protagonist) and I do hope that's true.
February 26, 2024
This was a great example of a first-person POV dark comedy. There aren't too many books like this out there, and, of course, you end up rooting for the anti-hero Arthur Norman.
If you enjoyed books like Dexter, You, and How to Kill Your Family, then I feel that you will enjoy this, too.
If you enjoyed books like Dexter, You, and How to Kill Your Family, then I feel that you will enjoy this, too.
November 14, 2022
Dark, funny, brilliant.
December 19, 2022
good read
I enjoyed reading this book and feel that any one else who reads it will also appreciate it
As well
I enjoyed reading this book and feel that any one else who reads it will also appreciate it
As well
July 6, 2025
The metronome of this book is how it moves from murder to mundanity with everyday ease. One minute he’s dodging an arterial spurt, so his clothes don’t get covered in blood. Next minute he’s choosing the right clothes to wear for his aerobics class at the gym.
Unlike American Psycho where you are given a serial killer and just watch him go, this is a much more nuanced affair, with a murderer who gets stage fright, who’s riddled with self-doubt, and who almost has to negotiate with himself sometimes in order to carry out his acts.
This is a serial killer who’s lost someone he loved. So, that immediately messes with perceptions as we’re supposed to see serial killers as one-dimensional killing machines without feelings.
The book also presents contradictions as here is someone who understands the pain of having lost someone but is at the same time willing to visit that pain on the families of his victims.
The book is well plotted and moves forward at pace. There are good questions posed from the start. Who or what really killed Melissa? And there are also people tracking the serial killer, so the predator in pursuit of prey is also potential prey himself to other predators. This keeps the intrigue to a maximum throughout but the real feat here is that the writer forces us to feel for a psychopath. You’re rooting for this guy and that’s what makes the gear changes into murder all the more visceral, as after getting to know him, you somehow feel slightly shocked that he could do this.
The book has brilliantly drawn characters and genuine moments that make you laugh. The killer’s father being potentially culpable for the forthcoming AI uprising, the idea of a serial killer contemplating advertising his services on Gumtree.
Then there are the moments we’re forced to see the human in the monster with a panic attack in ASDA as he runs from a 12-year-old.
Ease of dialogue is a particular strength. There’s even a romance running through the spine of the novel to balance the gore.
This is a subtle clever book. It’s not telling you what to think. It’s testing what you think and asking why.
Unlike American Psycho where you are given a serial killer and just watch him go, this is a much more nuanced affair, with a murderer who gets stage fright, who’s riddled with self-doubt, and who almost has to negotiate with himself sometimes in order to carry out his acts.
This is a serial killer who’s lost someone he loved. So, that immediately messes with perceptions as we’re supposed to see serial killers as one-dimensional killing machines without feelings.
The book also presents contradictions as here is someone who understands the pain of having lost someone but is at the same time willing to visit that pain on the families of his victims.
The book is well plotted and moves forward at pace. There are good questions posed from the start. Who or what really killed Melissa? And there are also people tracking the serial killer, so the predator in pursuit of prey is also potential prey himself to other predators. This keeps the intrigue to a maximum throughout but the real feat here is that the writer forces us to feel for a psychopath. You’re rooting for this guy and that’s what makes the gear changes into murder all the more visceral, as after getting to know him, you somehow feel slightly shocked that he could do this.
The book has brilliantly drawn characters and genuine moments that make you laugh. The killer’s father being potentially culpable for the forthcoming AI uprising, the idea of a serial killer contemplating advertising his services on Gumtree.
Then there are the moments we’re forced to see the human in the monster with a panic attack in ASDA as he runs from a 12-year-old.
Ease of dialogue is a particular strength. There’s even a romance running through the spine of the novel to balance the gore.
This is a subtle clever book. It’s not telling you what to think. It’s testing what you think and asking why.
November 14, 2022
This is a wonderful comedy/thriller. I love the first person dialogue, and I love the humour involved in a depressed killer trying to find his rhythm again.
Arthur Norman has lost his wife, he is depressed, he is anxious and he cannot do the things he used to.
The killing is an allegory to his bad habits, and he fears that he'll never be able to be himself with anyone ever again all while trying to integrate himself back into society following a long depressive episode.
This book is brimming with personality and is definitely worth a read for fans of the Dexter/You genre of books.
Arthur Norman has lost his wife, he is depressed, he is anxious and he cannot do the things he used to.
The killing is an allegory to his bad habits, and he fears that he'll never be able to be himself with anyone ever again all while trying to integrate himself back into society following a long depressive episode.
This book is brimming with personality and is definitely worth a read for fans of the Dexter/You genre of books.
December 13, 2025
I enjoyed getting to know Arthur as a character. His inner narrative is ‘oh so relatable’ at times. It made me laugh, it pulled at the heart strings and I kept turning the pages!
If you like your serial killers with a dry sense
of humour, want a storyline with enough ‘I knew it!!’ moments to feel a bit smug, but also unexpected twists to keep it interesting, then go get it! I’m looking forward to getting the next in the series 🖤
If you like your serial killers with a dry sense
of humour, want a storyline with enough ‘I knew it!!’ moments to feel a bit smug, but also unexpected twists to keep it interesting, then go get it! I’m looking forward to getting the next in the series 🖤
April 14, 2023
This book is very different, but in a good way. It was a little show to start, but this was expected as it has to get the story going. I feel I would have liked to see more bloodshed from the main character, but also felt a little frustrating sometimes as to why he was doing it. I couldn't put the book down in the run up to the end, and the shock ending makes me want to read the next.
October 25, 2025
I came across You’re Gone at The Book Buffet gathering yesterday, and it completely grabbed my attention. Dark, funny, and surprisingly emotional, Arthur Norman is a character you can’t forget. J.S. Morton blends humor and horror so well that I couldn’t put it down.
October 25, 2025
I never expected to feel for a serial killer! Brilliant writing, J.S. Morton.
Discussing about your book was really great. Quick question, did you always plan for Arthur to be this strangely sympathetic, or did that evolve as you wrote?
Discussing about your book was really great. Quick question, did you always plan for Arthur to be this strangely sympathetic, or did that evolve as you wrote?
November 14, 2022
Hilarious, dark comedy.
For fans of Dexter, or You.
For fans of Dexter, or You.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews