It has been described by the Los Angeles Review of Books as featuring "a band of Depression-era hobo vigilantes who trek across the Dust Bowl after the supernatural boogeyman, a metaphorical specter who haunts the starved nation".

While he faces several setbacks – as well as several warnings to leave the killer alone – Connelly finds support via other travelers who are also looking to bring about the Shiver Man's death.

[5] The titular character of Mr. Shivers was partially based on an incident from Bennett's childhood, when he came across a man smoking a cigarette under a bridge.

"[5] Critical reception for Mr. Shivers has been generally positive, with The Guardian stating that the book was "a startling début, a deft amalgam of thriller, cerebral horror and American gothic, written with a stark and artful simplicity that complements the examination of struggling humanity pushed to its limits.

[7] The setting was also frequently highlighted favorably in reviews, as Michael Dirda of The Washington Post felt that it was "convincingly bleak" while also praising the titular character and comparing him to Hannibal Lecter.