To the best of my recollection, I’ve never read a Graham Masterton book before Ghost Virus. However, I have heard his name time and again, so when I saw Ghost Virus on Netgalley, I thought it’d be a perfect time to check him out. There was a line or two in the synopsis that sounded a bit silly, but given how positively everyone talks about this “Master of Horror” I was willing to trust he’d weave a bit of a terror tale for me. It wasn’t too long into the book before I cottoned on to the fact that apart from a nice dose of violence and gore, there wasn’t any real horror waiting to crepe up on me.

Not that that’s necessarily a bad thing. I mean, I love a bit of silly now and again. Else I wouldn’t read as many creature features as I do. Masterton’s Ghost Virus has, to a certain extent, the delightful appeal of a silkscreened horror novelty t-shirt.  By the end of the book, I felt a lot friendlier toward the novel than I had initially thought I would. Really, there were only two things that held me back from appreciating the bad-good B-movie plot and dialogue that Ghost Virus has.

Firstly, can we please – for the love of whatever deity you think exists – move past this idea that non-religious people are evil? I, personally, find it quite possible to judge people based on their actions, and not their beliefs or lack thereof. So, to be deemed evil because I don’t kowtow rubs me the wrong way. But, all things considered, I'm not surprised to find the presence of beliefs that are rapidly falling out of fashion. At the same time, I also do respect that the author tried to partake of a bit of the current path forward of inclusivity by including a character that was of a non-WASPish religion. Baby steps, and all that, don’t chino?

Secondly, this was a perfectly good book in terms of guts and gore and whatnot, so why the cliché horror prop? I mean, a ‘there-to-die’ got her womb ripped out via her lady bits. In terms of cringe-worthy scenes that make you cross your legs and eye your half-eaten slice with dismay, Masterton earns top marks. So why was it necessary to pull the dead child card? It doesn't happen often, but two kids are being shown horribly killed, and then near the end we get the usual dramatic shot of dead child. Just...why?

(I would apologize for all the clothing related puns, but everyone knows I'm just wrapped a bit wrong.)

“After Reading ‘Ghost Virus’ you’re never going to feel the
same about your favourite jumper again!”

I’ve read plenty of crazy books in my time, many so ridiculous I’ve almost lost the will to live. And let’s say right from the start: Graham Masterton’s latest novel “Ghost Virus” is more ridiculous than almost all of them. It’s bat-shit crazy. However, within the insanity the book was a weird internal logic that makes perfect sense. It’s stupid, violent, crazily over the top, but it also flows incredibly well into a narrative which is the perfect blend of horror, crime and a mysterious ingredient concocted by the author which makes it all hang together. I read it over three nights and found it very difficult to put down and that’s high praise. In various parts I could barely believe what I was reading, and even though the levels of brutality were extreme, I could not tear my eyes away from this most bonkers of horror novels.

Graham Masterton has been writing this sort of horror pot-boiler for years, and I thought this was an incredibly fine return to form after a few years where he has very successfully concentrated upon writing crime fiction. The fact that Masterton has been working in another genre really shines through in this work. The two central characters are detectives Pardow and Patel who begin to investigate a seemingly random collection of murders in south London, initially with what looks like a straight forward honour killing. Patel is British Pakistani and an expert in this type of crime. However, as the investigation continues the pair realise something much more unpleasant is at foot, a supernatural plague. Prepare for some very nasty goings on. 

As their investigation continues you might think you have strayed straight into a detective, or police procedural, novel. Masterton plays this with a very straight bat, which works very well as the two detectives begin to link the clues. The police force simply cannot believe (and why would they?) something supernatural is at work, even as the bodies begin to pile up.

Along the way we are introduced to various characters who encounter the ‘Ghost Virus’ of the title and this allows the author to throw in some terrifically gruesome and shocking kill scenes. Masterton probably had a lot of fun writing some of these executions. Many are particularly nasty due to the everyday life situations in which many of them occur. For example, a primary school teacher starts throwing kids out an upper floor window, a guy gets nails hammered into his eyes (and then disembowelled) for snoring, a little girl eats her dog and a guy gets his arms and legs twisted off whilst walking home after a night on the town. It’s explicit stuff, but balances particularly well with the police investigation and some very dark humour.

The book is set very close to where I live in south London. If you read our accompanying interview Graham Masterton answers some questions about this. There is something particularly entertaining about reading a novel set on the streets you know very well, especially in the closing sequences which are wildly creative and over the top and right on the door step of some of my favourite curry houses Tooting is famous for.        
“Ghost Virus” is loaded with a full tank of horrors, ranging from the insidious paranoia when the virus begins to creep upon various characters, to the full-blown adrenalin fear rush, such as when the entities try to break into one of the police officer’s car to get at his little girl. I was probably more terrified than his daughter and was willing them on to fight another day.

And the ending…. Again, I ask Graham about this in the interview. The level of carnage, destruction, death and violence is so far over the top of the mountain it is half-way down the other side. I could visualise the mass destruction of the local area very easily as the ‘big bad’ tightened its grip on the unsuspecting London suburb. Yes, it was dumb beyond belief, but this author is the master of making a plot which could be laughed out of town by many, into a tale which was a terrific read.

Ginger Nuts of Horror does not grade book reviews, but if we did “Ghost Virus” would get 6/5. This was the first of Graham’s book I’ve read in a while, so I’m soon going to dip back into his extensive back-catalogue for another treat. But first I’m going to throw out my favourite suede jacket, if you ever read this novel you’ll know why. And I’m not sure where I left my green cardigan…. Blast… Should I be worried Graham????

Well.. that was different! I'll say that for it.
The cringe factor starts immediately as a young woman melts her face off with a bottle of acid purposely poured over herself, and dies a grisly painful death all due to wearing a jacket from a second hand shop. Oddly she seemed to be the only one affected in this way by the "ghost virus." The others who tried on the second hand clothes developed murderous and cannibalistic traits against others instead of themselves. I guess the story could have been too easily wrapped up if everyone had only killed themselves.
This was a gruesome, gore fest of a read, and whether or not you like  it may depend on your willingness to sacrifice logic and realism for the sake of enjoyment.

First of all, if you are at all squeamish, don't try reading this book. There are a number of highly violent, gory scenes that really don't hold back. These are a hallmark of a master of horror, but my overall impression of the book is mixed.
The concept is original and unusual. To begin with, I was excited to be reading the book. The initial instances made a degree of sense and I was intrigued as to where the plot would lead. The later parts didn't make the same sort of sense, even though there was an explanation. And the ending? Well, what was going on there?
It has the feel of a usual crime novel to begin with, which makes what happens feel even more weird. This was done well, but the sections between the gory scenes didn't really maintain the sense of menace they should have. Lighter moments are good for pacing in dark fiction, but it felt like a different book.
Nuggets of research sat exposed upon the ground of the plot instead of being realistically buried in
the story. The ethnic diversity of characters was a lot better than in many books, but it at times felt forced. The impression I'm left with is that the gory scenes were well thought out and worked on, but that most of the remainder didn't get the polishing and work it needed. It fell flat from my initial expectations.
Overall, the book does hold the reader's interest, due to the unusual story. It's definitely not for everyone, but it will certainly find some fans.
I received my copy through NetGalley. My views here are my own.

disappointed with this book, seemed like it should have been in a comic book, I've read many of Graham Masterton's books so have come to expect more,sorry,not for me

So, it kind of pains me to write this review because I like and respect the author’s other work so much, but I really did not like this book.  

Ghost Virus…the Attack of the Killer Coats – and One Seriously Warped Anorak!

So, not a spoiler because it’s mentioned in the book’s description, but it’s really hard to take seriously a book about killer clothing.     The really hard part is that, when trousers and sweaters aren’t killing people, it’s clear what a good writer Masterson is.  The scenes in which people are doing bad things are genuinely scary.    The atmosphere is so dark and the deaths so depraved that you’re on the edge of your seat…and then a raincoat runs down the street.

As I read, I kept looking for something that would show the author was doing this tongue in cheek.  While there were a few flashes of humor, you also got a serious look into Pakistani culture, a rather grim look at how Muslims are treated in Britain, and even a biting commentary on racism.  It’s all good and the….LOOK OUT FOR THAT SWEATER!

As I write this review, I’m hoping that someone pops up and tells me that it was all in fun.   That the author was just having us on.  But for now, good writer – terrible plot.

This book is true Masterton! Balls to the wall horror from the very first line!!!! Not for the feint of heart or anyone of a queasy disposition. 
They say horror is not a genre, it is an emotion, the fear, disgust or shock that the reader feels as they absorb the words from the page. If you ever needed an example of what is meant by that, read this book. After the first few pages you will know real horror!

Oh my goodness, I am hooked on this book. I haven't read a truly scary horror novel in such a long time and every chapter just leaves you speechless. 

I do not want to give anything away as this book is truly scary and will make you think about buying second hand clothes ever again. I need to read more from this author and I need to have more stories about the two detectives! 

Brilliant book, will 100% be buying this for my Auntie who is a huge horror fiction fan as I think this book is right up her street! 

Thank you Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read it!

I would like to thank Head of Zeus and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read ‘Ghost Virus’ written by Graham Masterton in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
DS Jamila Patel and DC Jerry Pardoe of Tooting Police are called to investigate the suspected suicide of Samira Wazir, a young Asian woman who’s had sulphuric acid poured over her head.  But when people start killing those closest to them and mutilating their victims, Jamila and Jerry fear there’s something unspeakable happening in London.  
This novel can almost be included in the science fiction genre with the ‘criminals’ being inanimate objects, flying clothes, groups of rioters with no arms, legs or heads.  The descriptions of the death of innocent bystanders is gruesome, the cannibalism horrific, but it all fits very nicely into the story.  I found the attitude of Jerry Pardoe a bit flippant in places but the plot was strong, well-written and very scary, with an extremely grisly ending.  This is the first novel I’ve read of Graham Masterton’s but it won’t be the last.

The book, set in Britain and dealing with clothes that seem to come to life and either influence their wearers to attack others or attack people themselves, is bloody and gory as all get-out. The writing is a little flat, and the characters are never developed enough to make you care that much about them, but the story moves along at a fast clip. While the whole explanation for the 'ghost virus' is a little too pat for my tastes, the denouement is satisfying. A good-enough read for a lazy afternoon.

Warning: This book features cannibalism, children's death and a dog's death. I'm usually a fan of horror stories and movies, but I had to stop reading this book. A child eating her pet dog was a line I didn't want to cross.

I've been reading Graham Masterton books for decades now, and one of my favorite things about his horror is that it's weird and wonderfully scary. No matter that sometimes when I start a story by him I think to myself "self, this time it's too crazy." Usually within a short about of time I believe whatever insanity he's come up with. This time was bad. Really bad. Haunted, possessed clothes? Well, sure. Seriously, I can almost believe it. I loved the idea, and since its Masterton I know it's going to be filled with ooey, gooey blood and guts! Sometimes I like blood and guts. But.....the damn book was just ridiculous. By the end I was mentally screaming for a flame thrower. Not just for the infected clothes, but well, I really do need a flamethrower. I hated this book..My thanks to the publisher's and Netgalley for allowing me to read and review this Arc.

A glorious gore soaked horror story from this wonderful author. From the concept of murderous clothing to the comment' the Tooting Chainsaw Massacre ' this entertains and appals as one , terrifying in its detail as good as the late James Herbert at his best!

Oh wow i was so excited to read the latest Graham Masterton novel, I have been reading his books for 30 years and through this time his writing styles have changed especially with his wonderful Katie Maguire books, but the Ghost Virus is pure vintage Graham Masterton, It is a terrific romp of unbelievable horror, It is violent and gory and I loved every minute. It starts with a no holds barred suicide of a beautiful Indian girl who has everything to live for as she is due to get married, after the suicide which her family can not understand why she has done it, Her coat goes missing, where could it of gone?? This book will definitely make you think again about buying second hand clothes.  Thank you to net galley and Head of Zeus for letting me read this book.

5 stars

DC Jeremy “Jerry” Pardoe and DS Jamila Patel of Tooting Police Force respond to the call of a young woman who has been burned with acid. At first they suspect an honor killing, for the seventeen-year old was originally from Pakistan. She was just engaged to be married. But something bothers Jerry about the scene. A grey coat is missing and the pathologist finds strange fibers embedded in her skin. 

Meanwhile another woman viciously murders her boyfriend after trying on a jacket that came into her thrift shop. Another man tries on a sweater that his father never wore and he begins to have strange thoughts. Violence is taking place all over London with no apparent motive. 

Jerry gets an idea and follows it along with Jamila. Another report comes in from the hospital about a strange occurrence between a woman and her jacket. A man kills his wife and begins to eat her. A junkie hears a woman’s voice. A school teacher throws two children out of a window. More people apparently go crazy and claim they didn’t do the heinous crime of which they are accused. They claim that they can’t take the article of clothing off.  If they finally rip the piece of clothing off, the clothing moves of its own accord. 

The events are getting more and more vicious and odd; the frequency of attacks is increasing. Soon, the city will be overtaken if the police cannot stop them. DI Saunders, Jamila and Jerry are overwhelmed and unable to tell the public what is really going on. Who would believe them? 

The tension and speed of the story ratchet up when all hell breaks loose on the streets. London is under siege and no one seems to know how to stop it. 

DI Saunders is a curmudgeonly character, but he seems to support his officers and has an open mind about what is really going on in his city. His nickname (not to his face), is “Smiley.” Jerry is a curious and intelligent police officer. He takes the initiative to pursue his ideas and Jamila gets along well with him. Jamila has another talent. She can tell when people are lying. They make a great pair for sorting out this truly odd and terrifying series of events.

This book is very well written and plotted. Each event follows another logically and linearly. 
The tension in the story begins immediately and continues throughout the story at a breakneck speed. This reader had trouble with the creepy crawlies. I had brief moments when I wondered if my clothes were going to go rogue on me. It was a little funny, but very creepy at the same time. I thought about the book even when I wasn’t reading it. While violent, it is nothing that shouldn’t be expected when reading a horror novel. I like Jamila and Jerry, and even DI Saunders. I appreciated his ability to be open-minded. I am not sure how he got the reputation of being hard-nosed and difficult to get along with. As with all of Graham Masterton’s novels, both the Katie MacGuire and his horror, I really liked this one. I wouldn’t mind seeing the protagonists Jerry and Jamila in another novel. (Hint, hint Mr. Masterton…) 

This novel is very well done, sir and keep writing! I love your books! 

I want to thank NetGalley and Head of Zeus for forwarding to me a copy of this absolutely great book to read, enjoy and review.

overall the premise of the story was interesting,  However i didn't like the character Jamila i found her to be very stereotypical of what a Pakistani girl should be like, This really irritated me,i wish the author had undertook some research into Pakistani culture and modern Pakistani girls we don't all eat and smell of curry

Review: GHOST VIRUS by Graham Masterton

(Release May 1)

A master never fails, and Graham Masterton has been an acknowledged Master of Horror for decades. GHOST VIRUS is a breathless, breathtaking, read, with horror so implacable the reader can't believe there will ever be any escape alive, nor any end. Caught up with the characters--both local police and citizens--readers are immediately immersed in the tale, a particular gift of this author's. From the explosive and compelling first chapter (which had me shouting "No! No! No! Stop!") racing through to the end (a feat in a 400-page novel), I could not stop nor could I consider reading anything else. Mr. Masterton not only delivers horror, he also serves up history, medicine, psychiatry, culture, and folklore.

For Graham Masterton fans, this is a must. For those who haven't met the Master, come on in. Prepare for the run of your life.

Is there anything Masterton can’t write? From his Katie Maguire series to his literate horror novels, Masteron truly is a master. In his latest, London police are working on a sudden uptick in violent crimes, murders more awful than anything they’ve seen before. It would appear the cause is a virus, inciting people to kill. The only known commonality is the clothing the killers were wearing, all secondhand, used clothing. Is it a virus, or something supernatural? While this may seem like an inconceivable plot, Masterton will have you believing, and taking a second look at those clothes you bought at a yard sale