TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- The University of Alabama Sarah Moody Gallery of Art will host a reading by new and upcoming artist/author Jonathan Santlofer on Monday, Oct. 28, in 203 Garland Hall at 7 p.m.

A reception and book signing will immediately follow the reading.

The New York-based artist and author will read from his debut novel “The Death Artist” at UA as a part of his book tour.

Santlofer’s novel is a about a savvy art historian who is put up against a brutal murderer. The story is set in the contemporary art world that features scenes from the streets of New York, in artist’s studios, galleries, museums, and international fairs.

Critics have called “The Death Artist” “stylish, scary, and very, very smart.” USA Today said the book is “a crime novel that is savage and erudite, layered in wit, satire and psychosis-in short, a chilling read.”

This artist’s award-wining work has been featured in exhibits all over the country. He also has written for “Art News” and has held art lectures at several institutions.

His awards include two National Endowment for the Arts painting grants and a Skowhegan scholarship.

The UA department of art and College of Arts and Sciences provide funding support for the Sarah Moody Gallery of Art. The Sarah Moody Gallery of Art’s operating hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and on Sunday 2-5 p.m.