📖 Overview
A killer in modern-day London is recreating the murders of Jack the Ripper, following the same locations and timing as the original 1888 killings. DC Lacey Flint discovers the first victim and finds herself drawn into the investigation, despite being a junior detective who specializes in rape cases.
The police race against time to prevent more deaths, knowing the Ripper killer's precise historical schedule. Lacey must confront her own extensive knowledge of the original Ripper murders while working with DI Dana Tulloch and Ripper expert DI Mark Joesbury to track down the copycat before more women die.
The story moves between the investigation, Lacey's personal connection to the case, and the mounting pressure on the police force as media attention intensifies. The contemporary London setting provides a stark backdrop as old and new collide in this hunt for a killer.
This police procedural explores themes of identity, truth, and how the past echoes into the present. The novel questions whether anyone can truly know another person - or themselves.
👀 Reviews
Readers describe this thriller as fast-paced with twists that keep them guessing. Many found the Jack the Ripper connection and London police procedural elements compelling.
Likes:
- Complex, well-developed protagonist Lacey Flint
- Atmospheric London setting
- Unpredictable plot turns
- Detailed research into Jack the Ripper history
- Strong character relationships and dialogue
Dislikes:
- Some found the violence too graphic
- A few readers thought the ending felt rushed
- Several mentioned the romantic subplot felt forced
- Multiple readers noted plot holes in police procedures
Ratings:
Goodreads: 4.02/5 (30,000+ ratings)
Amazon: 4.4/5 (2,000+ ratings)
"Could not put it down. The twists kept me reading late into the night." - Goodreads reviewer
"Great atmosphere but the violence was sometimes gratuitous." - Amazon reviewer
"Lacey Flint is a fascinating character with real depth." - LibraryThing review
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🤔 Interesting facts
🔍 The book draws heavily on London's history with Jack the Ripper, featuring a modern-day copycat killer who recreates the infamous murders on their exact anniversary dates.
🖋️ Author Sharon Bolton originally published this novel and several others under the name S.J. Bolton before switching to her full name.
🚔 The protagonist, Lacey Flint, was not originally meant to be a series character, but readers' positive response led Bolton to write three more books featuring the detective.
🌊 Many crucial scenes take place on or near the River Thames, which Bolton researched extensively, including spending time with the Thames River Police to ensure accuracy.
💀 The novel's intricate plot connects to real historical events from 1888, incorporating actual witness statements and contemporary accounts from the original Ripper investigation.