When it comes to historical fiction mixed with a dash of mystery, I’m all in. So, when I stumbled upon “Stalking Jack the Ripper” by Kerri Maniscalco, I couldn’t resist diving headfirst into the dark and gritty streets of Victorian London. This novel promised to unravel the secrets behind the infamous Jack the Ripper murders while featuring a young and fearless female protagonist. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint.
| Title | Stalking Jack the Ripper |
| Author | Kerri Maniscalco |
| Genre | Fantasy, Fiction, Mystery, Thriller |
| Language | English |
| Publication Date | September 20, 2016 |
| Length | 352 pages |
Where to Purchase
An Immersive Journey Through Victorian London
Set against the backdrop of 19th-century London, the story follows the adventures of Audrey Rose Wadsworth, a brilliant and unconventional young woman with a passion for forensic science. Audrey Rose defies societal norms by working alongside her enigmatic and charming partner, Thomas Cresswell, in her uncle’s forensic laboratory. Her ultimate goal? To unmask the elusive and gruesome killer known as Jack the Ripper.
A Gripping Start: Unearthing the First Victim
The plot kicks off with a bang, quite literally, as Audrey Rose and Thomas stumble upon the first victim of the Ripper’s brutal spree. From that moment on, I was hooked. Maniscalco masterfully weaves a tale of suspense and intrigue, leaving readers on the edge of their seats as Audrey Rose delves deeper into the twisted world of the Ripper.
Historical Authenticity: A Victorian London You Can Almost Touch
One of the things that struck me about this novel is the attention to historical detail. Maniscalco’s vivid descriptions transport you straight into the gloomy streets of Victorian London. You can practically smell the fog in the air and feel the cobblestones under your feet. This level of immersion adds an extra layer of authenticity to the story, making it all the more captivating.
Audrey Rose: A Heroine to Root For
Audrey Rose herself is a character worth rooting for. She’s intelligent, resourceful, and determined to pursue her passion for forensic science in a time when women were expected to be anything but independent. Her unwavering spirit and refusal to conform to societal expectations make her a modern feminist icon trapped in the past.
Character Depth and Development
But what truly sets Audrey Rose apart is her complex and believable character development. As the story progresses, we see her struggle with the darkness she confronts as she investigates the Ripper’s crimes. Her inner conflict adds depth to her character, making her feel all the more real.
Thomas Cresswell: The Dashing Partner in Crime
Now, let’s talk about Thomas Cresswell, the dashing and enigmatic partner in Audrey Rose’s crime-solving escapades. He’s the kind of character that will have you swooning on one page and then furrowing your brow on the next. Thomas’s wit, charm, and undeniable chemistry with Audrey Rose provide some much-needed relief from the grim subject matter of the novel. Their banter and budding romance add a delightful layer of complexity to the story, making it even more enjoyable.
Unraveling the Mystery: A Puzzle Worth Solving
The mystery at the heart of “Stalking Jack the Ripper” is a puzzle worthy of any armchair detective. Maniscalco keeps readers guessing until the very end, throwing in enough twists and turns to leave your head spinning. I found myself constantly trying to piece together the clues alongside Audrey Rose and Thomas, eager to uncover the Ripper’s true identity.
Pacing and Introspection
While the pacing of the novel is generally spot-on, there were moments when I wished for a bit more action. The story’s focus on forensic science and investigation sometimes leads to slower, more introspective moments. However, these quieter moments also provide insight into the characters’ motivations and inner struggles, so they’re not without their merits.
Unflinching Portrayal of Darkness
Maniscalco’s writing style is elegant and immersive, but it may not be for everyone. She doesn’t shy away from the graphic and gruesome details of the Ripper’s crimes, which might be unsettling for some readers. Personally, I appreciated the unflinching portrayal of the era’s brutality as it added to the novel’s overall authenticity.
A Satisfying Conclusion: Tying Up Loose Ends
As I reached the climax of “Stalking Jack the Ripper,” I was equal parts excited and nervous. The tension had been building steadily throughout the book, and I couldn’t wait to see how it would all unfold. Without giving away any spoilers, I can say that the resolution did not disappoint. Maniscalco ties up loose ends in a satisfying manner while leaving room for future adventures with Audrey Rose and Thomas.
Final Thoughts
“Stalking Jack the Ripper” is a gripping and atmospheric historical mystery that kept me captivated from start to finish. Kerri Maniscalco’s meticulous research and attention to detail shine through in every aspect of the novel, from the vivid setting to the complex characters. Audrey Rose Wadsworth is a heroine worth cheering for, and her partnership with the charismatic Thomas Cresswell adds depth and charm to the story. If you’re a fan of historical fiction with a dark twist, I highly recommend picking up this book. Just be prepared to lose a few nights of sleep as you follow Audrey Rose on her quest to unmask one of history’s most notorious killers.
