The Margin Book Review: Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco

Every fortnight, the girls of Margin will be reviewing a new book that's available at our Frances Compton Library. This week, Emily reviews creepy horror/mystery story Stalking Jack the Ripper.

Review by Emily Innes

Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco was recommended to me by one of my friends. I initially put it off for a while as the description of mystery and adventure did not particularly appeal to me at that time. However, when I finally picked it up, it only took an hour of reading to be sucked into the four book series. 

Stalking Jack the Ripper is the perfect combination of mystery, romance, and adventure. Set in 1800s London, our main character Audrey Rose Wadsworth who apprentices under her uncle, a mortician, becomes wrapped up in the investigation of a series of murders. 

Maniscalo’s ability to make the setting come to life is definitely one of the strong suits of the book. It made me feel as if I was actually there. There is a fine line between no description of the surroundings and too much, which slows the plot down, but this book sat perfectly in the middle.

The story demonstrates the gender inequalities of the time, while also giving the reader a powerful and brave main character who refuses to let social norms stop her from achieving what she wants - a contrast I found to be inspiring. 

In addition, the subplot of romance is so adorable! It quite honestly had me kicking and squealing at points, simply because of how cute it was. Although the enemies to lovers is a bit slow in the beginning, it certainly increases throughout the series. 

The way the books are interconnected is also incredibly well thought through how they follow historic events in a unique and exciting way. I never once felt like I was being taught history, and it also interested me enough to do my own research into the real events the story was based on.

The only warning  I have to give about the book is that it can be a little graphic with gore at times, as the books revolve around dead bodies which earns it a 14+ rating, however there is no unnecessary gore. If this does not seem like an issue for you, I can guarantee you will enjoy this book. It has to be one of my all time favourites. 

Rating:
5♥️/5♥

Want to read? Coming soon to Frances Compton Library!