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The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries #4
Преследвачът
Август 1888 г., Лондон.
Стефан Салваторе се е установил в тихите покрайнини на Лондон с надеждата, че тук най-накрая ще намери спокойствие. Но когато се появява един ужасен убиец, наречен Джак Изкормвача, Стефан осъзнава, че мракът винаги ще го преследва. Въвлечен в разследването, Стефан допуска най-лошото: това е работа на вампир. И колкото повече научава, толкова повече се засилва убедеността му, че убиецът е някой, когото той познава много добре, както и че никога няма да може да избяга от миналото си.
Базирани на хитовия ТВ сериал, книгите от поредицата „Дневниците на Стефан“ описват случилото се преди събитията в епизодите и разкриват неизвестни досега истории от миналото на братята Салваторе.
Стефан Салваторе се е установил в тихите покрайнини на Лондон с надеждата, че тук най-накрая ще намери спокойствие. Но когато се появява един ужасен убиец, наречен Джак Изкормвача, Стефан осъзнава, че мракът винаги ще го преследва. Въвлечен в разследването, Стефан допуска най-лошото: това е работа на вампир. И колкото повече научава, толкова повече се засилва убедеността му, че убиецът е някой, когото той познава много добре, както и че никога няма да може да избяга от миналото си.
Базирани на хитовия ТВ сериал, книгите от поредицата „Дневниците на Стефан“ описват случилото се преди събитията в епизодите и разкриват неизвестни досега истории от миналото на братята Салваторе.
204 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
203 people are currently reading
20639 people want to read
About the author
L.J. Smith
337 books112k followersSmith was born in Villa Park, Orange County, California. In interviews, she has said she realized she wanted to be a writer sometime between kindergarten and first grade, “when a teacher praised a horrible poem I’d written”, and began writing in earnest in elementary school. Smith received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Experimental Psychology from the University of California at Santa Barbara in 1987, followed by teaching credentials in Elementary education and Special education from San Francisco State University.
She taught kindergarten and special education for several years before becoming a full-time writer. Her first book, The Night of the Solstice, was published by MacMillan in 1987, followed by, Heart of Valor in 1990, and the 4-volume Vampire Diaries series in 1991-2. Three trilogies followed: The Secret Circle (1992), The Forbidden Game (1994), and Dark Visions (1995). The first installment of her popular Night World series was published in 1996, followed by eight more over the next two years. In 1998, Smith began a decade-long hiatus from writing, returning in 2008 with a new Web site and a series of new short stories. The Vampire Diaries series was reissued in 2007, followed by re-printings of The Secret Circle trilogy and Night World series in 2008/2009. The Night of the Solstice and Heart of Valor was also reissued in 2008. Three new Vampire Diaries installments were published in 2009 and 2010.
Smith lived in the San Francisco Bay area “with one dog, three cats, and about ten thousand books.”
She passed away on March 8th, 2025, after a lengthy illness.
She taught kindergarten and special education for several years before becoming a full-time writer. Her first book, The Night of the Solstice, was published by MacMillan in 1987, followed by, Heart of Valor in 1990, and the 4-volume Vampire Diaries series in 1991-2. Three trilogies followed: The Secret Circle (1992), The Forbidden Game (1994), and Dark Visions (1995). The first installment of her popular Night World series was published in 1996, followed by eight more over the next two years. In 1998, Smith began a decade-long hiatus from writing, returning in 2008 with a new Web site and a series of new short stories. The Vampire Diaries series was reissued in 2007, followed by re-printings of The Secret Circle trilogy and Night World series in 2008/2009. The Night of the Solstice and Heart of Valor was also reissued in 2008. Three new Vampire Diaries installments were published in 2009 and 2010.
Smith lived in the San Francisco Bay area “with one dog, three cats, and about ten thousand books.”
She passed away on March 8th, 2025, after a lengthy illness.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 256 reviews
April 11, 2012
YEAH CAN'T WAIT TO READ THIS!!!!
--—-——
Now that I have read the book I must say that I'm slightly disappointed. Mainly because they didn't finish the whole story in this one book but that the second half is in the next book coming out in January I believe. Also the title, The Ripper, made me think we were going to learn about Stefan's days when he was called that (at least the current season of the show says he was called that sometime, when he was is boston sometime or was it Chicago during the 50's when he was friends with klaus. I'm just waiting for the books to catch up with what past we have already seen on the show. The first book was on the dot. We haven't seen stuff about new Orleans on the show, but we know a little about Lexi. I look forward to the next one. Keep 'em coming.
--—-——
Now that I have read the book I must say that I'm slightly disappointed. Mainly because they didn't finish the whole story in this one book but that the second half is in the next book coming out in January I believe. Also the title, The Ripper, made me think we were going to learn about Stefan's days when he was called that (at least the current season of the show says he was called that sometime, when he was is boston sometime or was it Chicago during the 50's when he was friends with klaus. I'm just waiting for the books to catch up with what past we have already seen on the show. The first book was on the dot. We haven't seen stuff about new Orleans on the show, but we know a little about Lexi. I look forward to the next one. Keep 'em coming.
January 14, 2012
The cover:
If you didn’t know this before, then here you go; this cover is created using the promo photo of season two of the hit TV series The Vampire Diaries . Yep, this is why this cover is gorgeous and I had no idea how beautiful Stefan’s eyes are until now .
The storyline:
I am a huge fan of L.J. Smith’s writing style although I recently knew that Stefan’s Diaries aren’t entirely written by her, but I still like it.
I have read the previous 3 books in the series and you can find my review of them on Goodreads .
Anyways, the story begins in a slow pace, everything is cool and Stefan finally has a new life in England with a family who trusts and loves him.
Then, along with Mr. Abbott, the man he works for, Stefan goes to the city side of England, London. While not 5 minutes in London, he hears the news of a serial killer named Jack The Ripper who’s killing young girls in London with their throats slit. Of course, the first one he suspects is Damon.
And since we all know Stefan by now, if you read the previous one which you should before getting into this one, he decides to find his brother and stop him. Nothing is simple. He finds a nice girl whose working in a bar and saves her from her mean boss then he hunts Damon down.
When he finds him, things start getting ugly and the real action begins.
To sum things up, the ending is not happy but it is satisfying. If there’s anything I adore about these books (Stefan’s Diaries) is the way they end, it’s amazing!
What I loved:
Things started slow and clean and then very fast we were in action! I love this type of writings and I love how clean her writing is, there’s totally no cursing!! <333
The story was just awesome and surprisingly not over explaining things which was cool because it left some part for the imagination ^_^ Although there are parts completely well described and explained which is needed in bloody scenes <3
The characters. All of them, even Samuel.
The mentioning of Klaus!! I can’t wait to see him as a full character in a book although I think he was present in this one…
There are only 19 chapters which perfect. I don’t think the story would have been better it there were more.
The ending and the epilogue.
What I hated:
Nothing!!!
What I missed from the previous books:
I missed Lexi. I’m a huge fan of hers, she’s just a good friend.
The characters:
Stefan: He’s been thru a lot and still found a way to be strong and caring. I keep hoping he’ll think being a vampire is not a curse because you identify who you are or what you are in this case.
Damon: Oh count DeSangue! I was completely blank in the first few chapters until Damon showed up! He adds this amazing scent and taste to the story. And when reading about him or him saying things, I totally picture Ian Somerhalder and think of how perfectly he suits the role ^_^.
Violet: The poor girl who ended up…. well, you’ll have to read to find out what happened to her but let me tell you that she loves Stefan as a friend and she really trusted him. I’m hoping to see her in The Asylum.
Samuel: I’m having mixing thoughts about him, but, could he be Klaus?! He seemed too vengeful for a misunderstanding with Damon.
Favorite quotes:
No matter what came, be it murderer, demon, or Damon, I was ready. – Chapter 2.
I followed her gaze, the sliver of the moon providing just enough light that I could see red letters written on the side of the building, each oxidized character standing out against the muted brick as if it were illuminated from behind by candlelight:
SALVATORE—I SHALL HAVE MY REVENGE. --- Chapter 4.
I heard a rustle coming from the far end of the forest. I whirled around, half-expecting to see Klaus, ready for a fight. Nothing. --- Chapter 6.
“See you in hell,” I murmured. To anyone else, it would be a curse. But for me, it was a promise. --- Chapter 14.
But what I also felt was regret, anger, sorrow, and relief. It truly was as if a lifetime were passing before my eyes.
Or rather, both my lifetimes. --- Chapter 18.
We didn’t trust each other. We didn’t like each other. But we were each other, reflecting our shadow, secret selves in the other’s identity. --- Epilogue.
And here is a wonderful quote from The Asylum excerpt:
“They could have run a better picture of me, at the very least. That illustration doesn’t do me justice at all,” he said sulkily as he settled on the bench next to me and crumpled the paper up into a ball. Excerpt from The Asylum, coming January 17, 2012.
Conclusion:
It was a wonderful read and a great peek at the old Stefan who’s now back in the TV series .
If you didn’t know this before, then here you go; this cover is created using the promo photo of season two of the hit TV series The Vampire Diaries . Yep, this is why this cover is gorgeous and I had no idea how beautiful Stefan’s eyes are until now .
The storyline:
I am a huge fan of L.J. Smith’s writing style although I recently knew that Stefan’s Diaries aren’t entirely written by her, but I still like it.
I have read the previous 3 books in the series and you can find my review of them on Goodreads .
Anyways, the story begins in a slow pace, everything is cool and Stefan finally has a new life in England with a family who trusts and loves him.
Then, along with Mr. Abbott, the man he works for, Stefan goes to the city side of England, London. While not 5 minutes in London, he hears the news of a serial killer named Jack The Ripper who’s killing young girls in London with their throats slit. Of course, the first one he suspects is Damon.
And since we all know Stefan by now, if you read the previous one which you should before getting into this one, he decides to find his brother and stop him. Nothing is simple. He finds a nice girl whose working in a bar and saves her from her mean boss then he hunts Damon down.
When he finds him, things start getting ugly and the real action begins.
To sum things up, the ending is not happy but it is satisfying. If there’s anything I adore about these books (Stefan’s Diaries) is the way they end, it’s amazing!
What I loved:
Things started slow and clean and then very fast we were in action! I love this type of writings and I love how clean her writing is, there’s totally no cursing!! <333
The story was just awesome and surprisingly not over explaining things which was cool because it left some part for the imagination ^_^ Although there are parts completely well described and explained which is needed in bloody scenes <3
The characters. All of them, even Samuel.
The mentioning of Klaus!! I can’t wait to see him as a full character in a book although I think he was present in this one…
There are only 19 chapters which perfect. I don’t think the story would have been better it there were more.
The ending and the epilogue.
What I hated:
Nothing!!!
What I missed from the previous books:
I missed Lexi. I’m a huge fan of hers, she’s just a good friend.
The characters:
Stefan: He’s been thru a lot and still found a way to be strong and caring. I keep hoping he’ll think being a vampire is not a curse because you identify who you are or what you are in this case.
Damon: Oh count DeSangue! I was completely blank in the first few chapters until Damon showed up! He adds this amazing scent and taste to the story. And when reading about him or him saying things, I totally picture Ian Somerhalder and think of how perfectly he suits the role ^_^.
Violet: The poor girl who ended up…. well, you’ll have to read to find out what happened to her but let me tell you that she loves Stefan as a friend and she really trusted him. I’m hoping to see her in The Asylum.
Samuel: I’m having mixing thoughts about him, but, could he be Klaus?! He seemed too vengeful for a misunderstanding with Damon.
Favorite quotes:
No matter what came, be it murderer, demon, or Damon, I was ready. – Chapter 2.
I followed her gaze, the sliver of the moon providing just enough light that I could see red letters written on the side of the building, each oxidized character standing out against the muted brick as if it were illuminated from behind by candlelight:
SALVATORE—I SHALL HAVE MY REVENGE. --- Chapter 4.
I heard a rustle coming from the far end of the forest. I whirled around, half-expecting to see Klaus, ready for a fight. Nothing. --- Chapter 6.
“See you in hell,” I murmured. To anyone else, it would be a curse. But for me, it was a promise. --- Chapter 14.
But what I also felt was regret, anger, sorrow, and relief. It truly was as if a lifetime were passing before my eyes.
Or rather, both my lifetimes. --- Chapter 18.
We didn’t trust each other. We didn’t like each other. But we were each other, reflecting our shadow, secret selves in the other’s identity. --- Epilogue.
And here is a wonderful quote from The Asylum excerpt:
“They could have run a better picture of me, at the very least. That illustration doesn’t do me justice at all,” he said sulkily as he settled on the bench next to me and crumpled the paper up into a ball. Excerpt from The Asylum, coming January 17, 2012.
Conclusion:
It was a wonderful read and a great peek at the old Stefan who’s now back in the TV series .
March 20, 2013
Nail-bitingly intense and exciting this is a book with bite!
As a huge fan of the extremely popular Vampire Diaries television drama series, I was also keen to get ‘stuck-into’ L.J Smith’s book series (of the Vampire diaries and Stefan’s diaries). Beautifully blending paranormal themes with a fresh, contemporary feel ‘The Vampire Diaries’ books are current and classy within this highly competitive genre. If you enjoy Young Adult fiction with a darkly sinister, spinechilling twist then I highly recommend both the TV series and the books that began the world-wide love affair with Vampirism!
Volume four of Stefan’s Diaries (the ripper) focuses on his relationship with his brother, whom he last saw over twenty-years ago along with haunting memories of mystic falls. However, when news from London reaches Stefan about a brutal killer on the loose (aka. Jack the Ripper), the only suspect in Stefan’s mind is that of a Vampire…and one with a deadly bite and lust for blood…this is an intense, heartrending tale of brotherly bonds amid electric tension and heated conflict. It is certainly reminiscent of those family tensions and dramas, for as the saying goes...
“Blood runs thicker than water”
Full of shocking drama, unfolding secrets and suspense this has to be one of my favorites of Stefan’s Diaries (Origins, Bloodlust & the craving). With a touch of the danger similar to that from Twilight Saga: in the form of Nomadic Vampires, with a creepy feeling of foreboding as the tension rises, this is a book that will have you glued to the pages with anticipation. I love how the books have covers of the television series and those actors whom we see as those distinctive characters within the books, which make it all the more striking.
The Vampire Diaries are an exceptional series and so I cannot praise them enough!!
As a huge fan of the extremely popular Vampire Diaries television drama series, I was also keen to get ‘stuck-into’ L.J Smith’s book series (of the Vampire diaries and Stefan’s diaries). Beautifully blending paranormal themes with a fresh, contemporary feel ‘The Vampire Diaries’ books are current and classy within this highly competitive genre. If you enjoy Young Adult fiction with a darkly sinister, spinechilling twist then I highly recommend both the TV series and the books that began the world-wide love affair with Vampirism!
Volume four of Stefan’s Diaries (the ripper) focuses on his relationship with his brother, whom he last saw over twenty-years ago along with haunting memories of mystic falls. However, when news from London reaches Stefan about a brutal killer on the loose (aka. Jack the Ripper), the only suspect in Stefan’s mind is that of a Vampire…and one with a deadly bite and lust for blood…this is an intense, heartrending tale of brotherly bonds amid electric tension and heated conflict. It is certainly reminiscent of those family tensions and dramas, for as the saying goes...
“Blood runs thicker than water”
Full of shocking drama, unfolding secrets and suspense this has to be one of my favorites of Stefan’s Diaries (Origins, Bloodlust & the craving). With a touch of the danger similar to that from Twilight Saga: in the form of Nomadic Vampires, with a creepy feeling of foreboding as the tension rises, this is a book that will have you glued to the pages with anticipation. I love how the books have covers of the television series and those actors whom we see as those distinctive characters within the books, which make it all the more striking.
The Vampire Diaries are an exceptional series and so I cannot praise them enough!!
March 29, 2012
This was a good read, however it feels like these books is just a way to make money for the publishers. Dont get me wrong, I love the Stefan diaries books BUT except for the first and the second one I think that they dont really bring so much to the story about the two brothers. It´s more like they want to create new adventures of the blue to make money.
And one fact that I really dont like is that they change the storyline from the book to the series even though it is clear on the cover that this book series is based on the tv series.
In the tv series Stefan and Damon parted ways in 1864 and didnt meet again until 1912. Meanwhile in the book they meet only twenty years later (in 1888) after their transformation.
And that is just one of the many things that is different from the series.
Like I said, I love the Stefan diaries books but I just find it weird that specially Julie Plec and Kevin Williamson writes the history of the Salvatores so differantly in the books. It just makes it so much harder so keep track on what happens where. Because now we dont only have a original book series of soon 10 books and a soon to be 3 season long tv show loosely based on those books, now we have another 6 books, book series that is based on the tv show.
I´m more than okey with the series not being like the original books because the tv show is so much better but i just dont understand why they have to make changes in the Stefan diaries aswell. The Stefan diaries should reflect the tv series and be a filler to all the blanks in the Salvatores past, not just another confusion.
That is why I dont give it 5 *stars
And one fact that I really dont like is that they change the storyline from the book to the series even though it is clear on the cover that this book series is based on the tv series.
In the tv series Stefan and Damon parted ways in 1864 and didnt meet again until 1912. Meanwhile in the book they meet only twenty years later (in 1888) after their transformation.
And that is just one of the many things that is different from the series.
Like I said, I love the Stefan diaries books but I just find it weird that specially Julie Plec and Kevin Williamson writes the history of the Salvatores so differantly in the books. It just makes it so much harder so keep track on what happens where. Because now we dont only have a original book series of soon 10 books and a soon to be 3 season long tv show loosely based on those books, now we have another 6 books, book series that is based on the tv show.
I´m more than okey with the series not being like the original books because the tv show is so much better but i just dont understand why they have to make changes in the Stefan diaries aswell. The Stefan diaries should reflect the tv series and be a filler to all the blanks in the Salvatores past, not just another confusion.
That is why I dont give it 5 *stars
March 26, 2024
2,5/5
March 23, 2018
Stefans Diaries #4 The Ripper
I have already watched TVD The TVshow and from the title of the book I expected to read more about Stefan being called 'The Ripper' back in the days.
This book has nothing to do with that. Stefan is still the same old good guy. It would have been more interesting if it was about the notorious Ripper - Stefan.
Note: the book takes of 20! years later. I know they can't write a book about every year that has past. But I was suprised in a way to see the we skipt 20years. It felt like the story had more to it.
The beginning with all the girls in the bar was a bit, meh. But it did get better with every pages turned. Overal it was an entertaining read. Def. better dan part 1&2. I think I will rate it three or Three and a half stars.
I loved the fact that most of The Ripper took place in London! I've been to London and I absolutely love the city and everything that comes with it. Also how lovely was The Abbott family Manor at the country side. It is discribes as a peacefull family house. So lovely!
Voilet was an interersting character. I love the way Stefan takes good care of her. I missed Lexi. I had hope she would be with Stefan as friends. Still no Klaus - starting to think he is hiding. Who would hide for the Salvatore Brothers? I surtently would not.Damon! Daaaamon, I'm here, come and find me where ever you are!
And thé plot twist on the end. Finally admitting they are brothers. And they need to be on the same team. It is going to get better and better! I hope to read more about Damon in The Asylum
I have already watched TVD The TVshow and from the title of the book I expected to read more about Stefan being called 'The Ripper' back in the days.
This book has nothing to do with that. Stefan is still the same old good guy. It would have been more interesting if it was about the notorious Ripper - Stefan.
Note: the book takes of 20! years later. I know they can't write a book about every year that has past. But I was suprised in a way to see the we skipt 20years. It felt like the story had more to it.
The beginning with all the girls in the bar was a bit, meh. But it did get better with every pages turned. Overal it was an entertaining read. Def. better dan part 1&2. I think I will rate it three or Three and a half stars.
I loved the fact that most of The Ripper took place in London! I've been to London and I absolutely love the city and everything that comes with it. Also how lovely was The Abbott family Manor at the country side. It is discribes as a peacefull family house. So lovely!
Voilet was an interersting character. I love the way Stefan takes good care of her. I missed Lexi. I had hope she would be with Stefan as friends. Still no Klaus - starting to think he is hiding. Who would hide for the Salvatore Brothers? I surtently would not.
And thé plot twist on the end. Finally admitting they are brothers. And they need to be on the same team. It is going to get better and better! I hope to read more about Damon in The Asylum
February 2, 2025
I was so excited for this book. The Ripper? Finally, we’d get to dive into Stefan’s dark, bloodthirsty past and see his thought process as a true ripper, right? Wrong. The title much like the other books in this series is completely misleading. Instead of a deep dive into his most savage years, we get… well, something else. That being said, the writing in this one is actually better than the previous books.
Despite the misleading title, I did enjoy the storyline. This book felt way more engaging than the others with mysteries and plot twists that kept things interesting. Some parts were repetitive but overall this was an entertaining read.
Despite the misleading title, I did enjoy the storyline. This book felt way more engaging than the others with mysteries and plot twists that kept things interesting. Some parts were repetitive but overall this was an entertaining read.
August 8, 2018
Mi-a plăcut și nu pot nega asta! Cu toate acestea, îmi displace faptul ca volumele încep să semene intre ele ca fir narativ. Nu e neaparat ceva grav, dar devine oarecum previzibil tot ce se întâmpla, de la un punct încolo. Still, o serie destul de buna și ușor de citit, numai buna pentru nopțile de vara!
July 21, 2012
I read 4 0f these books last year, so don't remmber all,but ganna try.Kathernturns Stefan&Damon into vampires in Fells Church when she was visiting.Damon got mad at Stefan for making him drink form a human.Stefan goes to New Oeleans because he's a ripper, until he meets Lexi. She teaches him how to live off of animal blood.He goes from there to Boston,where he marries,but somebody kills her&all her family.Then he goes to London,where someone is killing a lot of people.Damon follows him to London& the killer makes it look like damon is killing all these people.It's Jack the Ripper.With some help from a prostatut,they do find Samual,the ripper.Stefan is always having to save Damon from the ripper,& finally able to get home.
February 7, 2017
I thought the book was good for sure but it confused me a little when it began. I had no idea 20 years had passed by between Stefan and Damon. I thought it would've been just a few days or weeks at that. I ended up finding out later on, a few chapters ahead. The only thing that kept me going with reading was the fact that it's part of the series and the story continues no matter what. I'm still excited to read the next book though!
October 3, 2022
Stephan was always meant to be the best friend. Team Damon for life xD
August 4, 2023
This book really had me on the edge of my seat , and I actually cried !
October 2, 2023
this wasn’t the acc book i read but i can’t find the actual one
July 8, 2024
1.75 ⭐
I had every expectation of a season 3 Stefan running rampant through the South. This did not deliver and was just another story of his moral quandaries and Damon taking care of problems of the real problems. We've had this story before, about three different times now.
I had every expectation of a season 3 Stefan running rampant through the South. This did not deliver and was just another story of his moral quandaries and Damon taking care of problems of the real problems. We've had this story before, about three different times now.
January 5, 2023
I really liked this book, the other Stefan’s diary were okay but this one was the best by far. I don’t really know why but I guess it’s because of that whole detective thing Stefan had going on. I would definitely recommend this book but then you would have to read the one’s that came before and I didn’t find them quite as good.
November 13, 2011
Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries #4
This is book 4 in the STEFAN'S DIARIES series. This series is not penned by LJ SMITH but by 2 other authors. 1 of whom works on the tv series (Julie Plec). Many are and are not fans. They feel it is an insult and sell out to the actual VD series by LJ Smith. I actually love this series & prefer it to TVD by LJ. LJ's books are rather good I just did not "connect" to them. I guess it could be because I watched an entire season on tv BEFORE reading them so Stefans Diaries felt more "real" to me.
It is a light series based on the show itself and it is supposed to fill in the gaps. The before Elena years gaps. That appealed to me. One thing I love on TVD show is the history flashbacks.
So, in book 4 we have followed Stefan & Damon from human to vampire and every place in between. Stefan has moved to England and is working on a farm. He is on the "bunny diet" as Damon affectionately calls it. He travels into London with his boss one day & decides to look up Damon. Stefan has heard via newspaper of a few grisly murders that he thinks may be connected to Damon.
After a dramatic reunion & Stefan saves a human girl & takes her under his wing (again) the brothers try to figure out who is committing these grisly murders. Stefan believes it could be Damon & is going to stop him before he is caught. He wants to save him. Damon is Damon & while he is flagrantly abusing his "vampire powers" he assures Stefan he is NOT "The Ripper".
A bloody message left on a wall leads Stefan to believe Klaus or another "Original" is after them yet once again.
After a bit of bumbling around the inevitable showdown happens back at the farm Stefan has worked on for over a year.
The ACTUAL "Ripper" is a complete surprise to both of the brothers. Yes, he is a vampire. Lives are lost. Tears are shed. Hands are wrung. Damon swears vengeance. Stefan falls in line.
It was a very fast and entertaining read. If you like the show you will enjoy this series. Some may not like "The Ripper" being turned into a vampire & history twisted to make this happen. If you're not super concerned about that you will further enjoy the twists this story takes and the different view on "Jack the Ripper".
The series does give us insight into the tv characters and their hundred some odd year long contentious relationship. We run into characters from the show that we love & hate and learn more about them. Basically the gaps are filled, in an entertaining way.
This is book 4 in the STEFAN'S DIARIES series. This series is not penned by LJ SMITH but by 2 other authors. 1 of whom works on the tv series (Julie Plec). Many are and are not fans. They feel it is an insult and sell out to the actual VD series by LJ Smith. I actually love this series & prefer it to TVD by LJ. LJ's books are rather good I just did not "connect" to them. I guess it could be because I watched an entire season on tv BEFORE reading them so Stefans Diaries felt more "real" to me.
It is a light series based on the show itself and it is supposed to fill in the gaps. The before Elena years gaps. That appealed to me. One thing I love on TVD show is the history flashbacks.
So, in book 4 we have followed Stefan & Damon from human to vampire and every place in between. Stefan has moved to England and is working on a farm. He is on the "bunny diet" as Damon affectionately calls it. He travels into London with his boss one day & decides to look up Damon. Stefan has heard via newspaper of a few grisly murders that he thinks may be connected to Damon.
After a dramatic reunion & Stefan saves a human girl & takes her under his wing (again) the brothers try to figure out who is committing these grisly murders. Stefan believes it could be Damon & is going to stop him before he is caught. He wants to save him. Damon is Damon & while he is flagrantly abusing his "vampire powers" he assures Stefan he is NOT "The Ripper".
A bloody message left on a wall leads Stefan to believe Klaus or another "Original" is after them yet once again.
After a bit of bumbling around the inevitable showdown happens back at the farm Stefan has worked on for over a year.
The ACTUAL "Ripper" is a complete surprise to both of the brothers. Yes, he is a vampire. Lives are lost. Tears are shed. Hands are wrung. Damon swears vengeance. Stefan falls in line.
It was a very fast and entertaining read. If you like the show you will enjoy this series. Some may not like "The Ripper" being turned into a vampire & history twisted to make this happen. If you're not super concerned about that you will further enjoy the twists this story takes and the different view on "Jack the Ripper".
The series does give us insight into the tv characters and their hundred some odd year long contentious relationship. We run into characters from the show that we love & hate and learn more about them. Basically the gaps are filled, in an entertaining way.
April 27, 2015
I swear the titles are so misleading, it is not even funny anymore.
I struggle a lot more with this, not because it has some heavy, interesting content, but because I am stressed out on project making.
We are in London. As much as I love this city. No. No. No. I am not interested.
Did you expect a Ripper Stefan, cause I did. And did I get it? Of course...NOT.
*you get this for an entire novel.*
I truly hated the female protagonist, Violet. From all my heart. It is not even funny. I am starting to hate all this human characters. Stefan and his humans, new title for the prequels.
We find out that Damon has a soul. Good God. Did not see that coming.
And we find out Stefan is an ass. And blames his brother for fucking everything. Not funny. I am starting to dislike his character, very much. After 20 years, Stefan is the same. Like the same. Why? No. He is way to annoying, sometimes. And he is a bad detective. The worse.
And the Klaus references. Don't even get me started on those. For real now. If Klaus wanted them dead, what the fuck happened in the '20. It's like everybody knows nothing on the previous years.
*they don't actually mean this. they are lying.*
And the villan in this has the worse motive to kill. It is not reveal in this one, but I read the synopsis on the other two. The most shitty motive ever. I am not kidding.
I wanted to discover more about Stefan's past. But this is bullshit. And it's getting annoying. Because Stefan doesn't seem like Stefan. He's acting like an idiot, an I know everything. Not fucking funny.
This one gets two stars for Damon. Because Stefan pissed me off really badly.
And it's not about the Ripper. I hate this.
I struggle a lot more with this, not because it has some heavy, interesting content, but because I am stressed out on project making.
We are in London. As much as I love this city. No. No. No. I am not interested.
Did you expect a Ripper Stefan, cause I did. And did I get it? Of course...NOT.
*you get this for an entire novel.*I truly hated the female protagonist, Violet. From all my heart. It is not even funny. I am starting to hate all this human characters. Stefan and his humans, new title for the prequels.
We find out that Damon has a soul. Good God. Did not see that coming.
And we find out Stefan is an ass. And blames his brother for fucking everything. Not funny. I am starting to dislike his character, very much. After 20 years, Stefan is the same. Like the same. Why? No. He is way to annoying, sometimes. And he is a bad detective. The worse.
And the Klaus references. Don't even get me started on those. For real now. If Klaus wanted them dead, what the fuck happened in the '20. It's like everybody knows nothing on the previous years.
*they don't actually mean this. they are lying.*And the villan in this has the worse motive to kill. It is not reveal in this one, but I read the synopsis on the other two. The most shitty motive ever. I am not kidding.
I wanted to discover more about Stefan's past. But this is bullshit. And it's getting annoying. Because Stefan doesn't seem like Stefan. He's acting like an idiot, an I know everything. Not fucking funny.
This one gets two stars for Damon. Because Stefan pissed me off really badly.
And it's not about the Ripper. I hate this.
November 11, 2011
This is not the Ripper you think of from the Vampire Diaries show... Nope, this is THEE ripper. And the brothers are wrapped up in the middle of it. Stefan has made a nice little life for himself outside of London. He knows it cannot last for long, but he'll enjoy it while he can. A trip to London threatens to shatter it all when he finds Damon's alias in the society pages and a horrific murder on the front page. Of course he needs to stick around, find his brother, and save London and the girl he's become fond of from the demon that is his brother - who else could do such a thing but a vampire.
But is it Damon? Or is there another vampire behind it all? An ominous message in blood does point to the fact that someone could be after Damon or Stefan, or both.
The good? If you've been reading the Stefan Diaries, you won't be disappointed. And yes, the brothers do find each other and we get the love / hate scenes between them that we've come to love.
The bad? This really is half of a story. Which I hate, hence the 4 stars instead of 5. As in so much of a cliffhanger that the preview for Stefan's Diaries #5 reads like the next chapter. It truly will just pick up right where this book left off. You might be ahead to wait for the next one and read them together. Also if you're a history buff who doesn't appreciate real life stuff being twisted into fictional stories - well keep in mind, yeah they're turning Jack the Ripper into a vampire storyline here.
But is it Damon? Or is there another vampire behind it all? An ominous message in blood does point to the fact that someone could be after Damon or Stefan, or both.
The good? If you've been reading the Stefan Diaries, you won't be disappointed. And yes, the brothers do find each other and we get the love / hate scenes between them that we've come to love.
The bad? This really is half of a story. Which I hate, hence the 4 stars instead of 5. As in so much of a cliffhanger that the preview for Stefan's Diaries #5 reads like the next chapter. It truly will just pick up right where this book left off. You might be ahead to wait for the next one and read them together. Also if you're a history buff who doesn't appreciate real life stuff being twisted into fictional stories - well keep in mind, yeah they're turning Jack the Ripper into a vampire storyline here.
March 23, 2013
It was alright but not the best in series so far. The story wasnt completed and continues in the next book. This is not about Stefans ripper stage that is mentioned in the tv show it is about the real life Jack the Ripper in London. This was a bit of a disappointment because ripper Stefan is much more intriguing to find out about rather than the mopey miserable Stefan. He really is quite the whiner actually and I think that Damons Diaries would have been much more of an exciting read if he had written them. Despite this I will read on with the series but mainly because I am such a fan of the tv show. My only hope is that if Klaus makes an appearance he is every bit as thrilling as Joseph Morgans portrayal of him in the show. Hints about Klaus have been popping up in these books and I hope he gets a worthy plotline.
December 17, 2011
Love reading these books, really help to bring more of the show to life! Like others, I thought this book was about how Stefan was the ripper but after seeing the series makes sense why they didn't do it b/c they already told us that story, why waste a book on it?
Anyways, this is about the originals vampires. I really enjoyed it, reading these books are always a quick read and very much enjoyable. Stefan is in London to get away from Damon as well as the originals like Klaus that he was dealing w/before but of course, vampires follow him so he got followed. We don't know if its Damon or not so you'll have to read this book to find out on ur own.
very well written kept me wanting to read this book every day!
Anyways, this is about the originals vampires. I really enjoyed it, reading these books are always a quick read and very much enjoyable. Stefan is in London to get away from Damon as well as the originals like Klaus that he was dealing w/before but of course, vampires follow him so he got followed. We don't know if its Damon or not so you'll have to read this book to find out on ur own.
very well written kept me wanting to read this book every day!
December 21, 2011
I have read the first three in this series. I liked the first two, got a bit annoyed with the third. This one....just ticked me off! I cannot read anymore. I found the story was jumping around. Some things were different then before. It just did not make since.
Oh, and if you think it has ANYTHING to do with the show (I mean come on, it has one of the actor's face on the cover), you are so wrong! Do not make the mistake and think it will give you insight as to what is going on TVD. It has none!
I gave it two stars. And no, it has nothing to do with the fact of it being different from the show. It has to do with the story line itself, from one book to the next. I just expected more considering the authors deal with the show. (not L.J. Smith, the other two)
Oh, and if you think it has ANYTHING to do with the show (I mean come on, it has one of the actor's face on the cover), you are so wrong! Do not make the mistake and think it will give you insight as to what is going on TVD. It has none!
I gave it two stars. And no, it has nothing to do with the fact of it being different from the show. It has to do with the story line itself, from one book to the next. I just expected more considering the authors deal with the show. (not L.J. Smith, the other two)
October 12, 2014
When I bought this book I didn't know what to think, as I've seen the TV series and read all the other books from L.J.Smith that had been released at the time. But once I started I was hood, If you love the TV series like me then you would love these books as it give you a bit of back ground into the characters if you haven't read the other books.
December 14, 2011
What can I say?? I'm a sucker for Stefan & Damon. Stefan fears that Damon may be the Whitechapel murderer who's been dubbed "The Ripper". But even though Damon is in London, it turns out someone from their past is wreaking havoc. If you love the show (like I do!) these are for you!
December 26, 2011
Best book of Stefan's Diaries thus far. Loved that it takes place in London, and I love that the book ends on a cliffhanger for The Asylum to pick up. Good story with a lot of mystery and twists.
February 23, 2013
Review coming soon!
December 7, 2023
violet screaming at a message in blood that has nothing to do with her like yeah that would be spooky but it had someone's name that wasn't hers i think she could just be like "that's not my business" and run away
it really was like. stefan. you have terrible luck with women in your life dying. it was nice that you wanted to protect violet but if you had just left her alone she probably would've just lived a normal life
so i was wrong since she technically lived but also she did still die. so. hey she was obsessed with that bright green dress anyway she might've died from arsenic poisoning instead
and why would she wear that fancy dress to work like yeah she's excited to have nice clothes but she's already worn it girl just wear your regular clothes to your job at the TAVERN not a fucking evening gown ya weirdo
stefan was so dumb being like this isn't the dude bc he has dark hair and the man described had blonde hair and four minutes later meeting a blonde and not meeting his suspicious and similarly meeting his brother and not being suspicious then either
and he basically told violet what decision to make like i know he's miserable as a vampire but he could point out the positives and instead of just being like "ya it's a horrible existence you should just die <3"
AND okay they need human blood to transform couldn't he compel someone to let him draw blood and then give that to her it doesn't sound like there's a certain amount needed so you wouldn't even have to take much and she wouldn't have had to kill anyone
i was like aw damon brought stefan a fox because he doesn't drink human blood but couldn't damon have just given his own blood lol
so the family might still be alive and they took the kid and buried him instead of letting them do it like at least pull the body from the cabin so he doesn't burn up and the family can find him
ALSO if i remember from the show isn't the ripper what they call it when stefan is like uncontrollable bc i thought that's what this would be about, i wasn't expecting the jack the ripper aspect. and like of course lol make it so he was a vampire instead of just a truly evil human
anyway ummm despite all the complaints some of it was a little more interesting than the previous books, i like that it jumped ahead in time bc it's a long time between stefan becoming a vampire and tv show canon
it really was like. stefan. you have terrible luck with women in your life dying. it was nice that you wanted to protect violet but if you had just left her alone she probably would've just lived a normal life
so i was wrong since she technically lived but also she did still die. so. hey she was obsessed with that bright green dress anyway she might've died from arsenic poisoning instead
and why would she wear that fancy dress to work like yeah she's excited to have nice clothes but she's already worn it girl just wear your regular clothes to your job at the TAVERN not a fucking evening gown ya weirdo
stefan was so dumb being like this isn't the dude bc he has dark hair and the man described had blonde hair and four minutes later meeting a blonde and not meeting his suspicious and similarly meeting his brother and not being suspicious then either
and he basically told violet what decision to make like i know he's miserable as a vampire but he could point out the positives and instead of just being like "ya it's a horrible existence you should just die <3"
AND okay they need human blood to transform couldn't he compel someone to let him draw blood and then give that to her it doesn't sound like there's a certain amount needed so you wouldn't even have to take much and she wouldn't have had to kill anyone
i was like aw damon brought stefan a fox because he doesn't drink human blood but couldn't damon have just given his own blood lol
so the family might still be alive and they took the kid and buried him instead of letting them do it like at least pull the body from the cabin so he doesn't burn up and the family can find him
ALSO if i remember from the show isn't the ripper what they call it when stefan is like uncontrollable bc i thought that's what this would be about, i wasn't expecting the jack the ripper aspect. and like of course lol make it so he was a vampire instead of just a truly evil human
anyway ummm despite all the complaints some of it was a little more interesting than the previous books, i like that it jumped ahead in time bc it's a long time between stefan becoming a vampire and tv show canon
March 30, 2024
Calificación: ⭐(1.2)
Opinión:
"The Ripper" se sumerge en las profundidades de los clichés vampíricos con una notable falta de originalidad. A pesar de los intentos por inyectar nueva vida a la trama, el resultado es una historia predecible y deslucida que deja mucho que desear. 🧛♂️💤
La búsqueda de la hermana desaparecida de una camarera local podría haber sido intrigante, pero en cambio, se convierte en una excusa conveniente para llevar a los personajes a situaciones forzadas y poco convincentes. Los giros de la trama son tan previsibles que podrían ser vistos venir desde una milla de distancia. 🔍💼
Además, la dinámica entre Stefan y Damon, que alguna vez fue el punto focal de la serie, se siente cansada y repetitiva en esta entrega. En lugar de explorar nuevas facetas de su relación, los hermanos Salvatore caen en los mismos patrones de comportamiento una y otra vez, lo que resulta en una falta de crecimiento significativo para ambos personajes. 💔
Los nuevos personajes introducidos carecen de profundidad y desarrollo, lo que los hace sentir como simples peones en un juego que ya está bastante desgastado. La falta de conexión emocional con estos personajes dificulta aún más la inmersión en la historia y hace que sea difícil sentir empatía por sus luchas y triunfos. 🎭
En resumen, "The Ripper" es una entrega decepcionante que no logra capturar la magia de las primeras entregas de la serie. Con una trama predecible, personajes planos y una falta general de originalidad, esta novela deja mucho que desear para los aficionados más exigentes del género paranormal. 📉📖
Opinión:
"The Ripper" se sumerge en las profundidades de los clichés vampíricos con una notable falta de originalidad. A pesar de los intentos por inyectar nueva vida a la trama, el resultado es una historia predecible y deslucida que deja mucho que desear. 🧛♂️💤
La búsqueda de la hermana desaparecida de una camarera local podría haber sido intrigante, pero en cambio, se convierte en una excusa conveniente para llevar a los personajes a situaciones forzadas y poco convincentes. Los giros de la trama son tan previsibles que podrían ser vistos venir desde una milla de distancia. 🔍💼
Además, la dinámica entre Stefan y Damon, que alguna vez fue el punto focal de la serie, se siente cansada y repetitiva en esta entrega. En lugar de explorar nuevas facetas de su relación, los hermanos Salvatore caen en los mismos patrones de comportamiento una y otra vez, lo que resulta en una falta de crecimiento significativo para ambos personajes. 💔
Los nuevos personajes introducidos carecen de profundidad y desarrollo, lo que los hace sentir como simples peones en un juego que ya está bastante desgastado. La falta de conexión emocional con estos personajes dificulta aún más la inmersión en la historia y hace que sea difícil sentir empatía por sus luchas y triunfos. 🎭
En resumen, "The Ripper" es una entrega decepcionante que no logra capturar la magia de las primeras entregas de la serie. Con una trama predecible, personajes planos y una falta general de originalidad, esta novela deja mucho que desear para los aficionados más exigentes del género paranormal. 📉📖
August 12, 2025
🧛 Dans ce nouveau tome, on se retrouve 20 ans après les dernières aventures de Stefan et Damon. Cela a été bien écrit et bien amené. Toutefois, je trouve cela dommage car à la fin du tome 3, ils partent à San Francisco et là on se retrouve à Londres sans vraiment trop savoir ce qu'il s'est passé à San Francisco.
🧛 Stefan est toujours hanté par le souvenir de Callie, mais aussi celui de Katherine. Cela m'amène à me demander si Katherine ne serait pas toujours en vie ? Mais je ne pense pas que ce soit le cas, je pense simplement que Katherine reste inconsciemment présente car elle est au centre de toutes ces aventures. Je pense aussi que je me laisse influencer par la série.
🧛 J'ai beaucoup apprécié ce tome comme les précédents. En effet, l'aventure y est toujours aussi enivrante et exaltante. Néanmoins, je regrette qu'il y ait un peu moins de Damon dans ce tome. J'entends par là, d'interactions entre Stefan et Damon. Par ailleurs, je suis déçue que Stefan voit toujours Damon comme un monstre, certes cela a été le cas avec la mort de Callie mais de nombreux moments depuis ont prouvé qu'il y avait quand même une once d'humanité en Damon. Même si d'un autre côté, je comprends aussi les réticences et les doutes de Stefan. En effet, Damon n'aide pas son frère à avoir confiance en lui avec ses réponses cinglantes !
🧛 Néanmoins, la fin de ce tome est forte en rebondissement et promet de nouvelles aventures folles et dangereuses. Enfin, je crois toujours possible une fin heureuse entre Stefan et Damon. On croise les doigts !
🧛 Stefan est toujours hanté par le souvenir de Callie, mais aussi celui de Katherine. Cela m'amène à me demander si Katherine ne serait pas toujours en vie ? Mais je ne pense pas que ce soit le cas, je pense simplement que Katherine reste inconsciemment présente car elle est au centre de toutes ces aventures. Je pense aussi que je me laisse influencer par la série.
🧛 J'ai beaucoup apprécié ce tome comme les précédents. En effet, l'aventure y est toujours aussi enivrante et exaltante. Néanmoins, je regrette qu'il y ait un peu moins de Damon dans ce tome. J'entends par là, d'interactions entre Stefan et Damon. Par ailleurs, je suis déçue que Stefan voit toujours Damon comme un monstre, certes cela a été le cas avec la mort de Callie mais de nombreux moments depuis ont prouvé qu'il y avait quand même une once d'humanité en Damon. Même si d'un autre côté, je comprends aussi les réticences et les doutes de Stefan. En effet, Damon n'aide pas son frère à avoir confiance en lui avec ses réponses cinglantes !
🧛 Néanmoins, la fin de ce tome est forte en rebondissement et promet de nouvelles aventures folles et dangereuses. Enfin, je crois toujours possible une fin heureuse entre Stefan et Damon. On croise les doigts !
April 15, 2023
The themes of family are strong in this book and the series. The Vampire Diaries television series and book spin-offs are ultimately about family, the enduring and everlasting bonds of family regardless of time, place, or personal preference.
I am an only child with a relatively small family, so the ride-or-die family philosophy fascinates me. Like a researcher studying their relationship, I observe and understand Stefan and Damon’s family dynamics from afar. It asks whether this intense family bond exists in real life or only persists in fiction. Idealized the same way intimate relationships between partners are overly romanticized and put on a pedestal.
I enjoy the Stefan’s Diaries series for the character dynamics between the brothers. It is interesting to see how their lives evolve as they learn to be vampires in their respective and shared worlds.
I assume the writer is a ghostwriter as the style is drastically different and more organized than the other Vampire Diaries books by L. J. Smith. The story is smoother, clearly communicated, and simple to follow. It builds upon itself without bringing in random plot functions and characters to solve problems mid-story, as the other VD book series tend to do.
This book is a quick and entertaining vampire read you can sink your teeth into. 😉
I am an only child with a relatively small family, so the ride-or-die family philosophy fascinates me. Like a researcher studying their relationship, I observe and understand Stefan and Damon’s family dynamics from afar. It asks whether this intense family bond exists in real life or only persists in fiction. Idealized the same way intimate relationships between partners are overly romanticized and put on a pedestal.
I enjoy the Stefan’s Diaries series for the character dynamics between the brothers. It is interesting to see how their lives evolve as they learn to be vampires in their respective and shared worlds.
I assume the writer is a ghostwriter as the style is drastically different and more organized than the other Vampire Diaries books by L. J. Smith. The story is smoother, clearly communicated, and simple to follow. It builds upon itself without bringing in random plot functions and characters to solve problems mid-story, as the other VD book series tend to do.
This book is a quick and entertaining vampire read you can sink your teeth into. 😉
October 22, 2017
Was really predictable. The way the story is unfolding it isn't much different from the first 3 in the set either. Kind of getting the idea that Stefan isn't all that bright in this series. Boy completely forgets the basics that he should have learned about the first time around.
Are some things that just aren't matching up in the story. Seems a lot of vampires know what happened in Mystic Falls despite it having been a small town in the 1800's when news moved out of there slowly. Nevermind that these unknown vamps somehow know the that the Salvatore boys were involved even though the real story was buried. Kind of confused how those who hadn't met the guys before know who they are. Photography wasn't really a common thing back then, so not likely that their picture would have been floating around. Some jargon used was also not of that time period. As in it was modern slang.
Needless to say the writing is lack luster at best. Really have lost interest in the books, and to the point that I could care less what came of the two main characters. Was able to figure out how the ending was going to unfold fairly quickly. It really is a surprise that either of them survived 20 yrs given that they aren't even clued into the basics such as someone lacking a heartbeat.
Are some things that just aren't matching up in the story. Seems a lot of vampires know what happened in Mystic Falls despite it having been a small town in the 1800's when news moved out of there slowly. Nevermind that these unknown vamps somehow know the that the Salvatore boys were involved even though the real story was buried. Kind of confused how those who hadn't met the guys before know who they are. Photography wasn't really a common thing back then, so not likely that their picture would have been floating around. Some jargon used was also not of that time period. As in it was modern slang.
Needless to say the writing is lack luster at best. Really have lost interest in the books, and to the point that I could care less what came of the two main characters. Was able to figure out how the ending was going to unfold fairly quickly. It really is a surprise that either of them survived 20 yrs given that they aren't even clued into the basics such as someone lacking a heartbeat.
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