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The Women in the Shadows
The world's most famous unsolved serial killer mystery, told from the perspective of a gang of women. PRE-ORDER NOW!'I can honestly say it was the most thrilling, page turning book I've read this year. I literally could not put it down.' HELEN PHIFER
'I wasn't really sure there were any more takes to be had on the story of Jack the ripper. But I was wrong.' Reader review⭐⭐⭐⭐
London, 1888. A monster prowls the gaslit streets, and the police are looking in all the wrong places, at all the wrong suspects. But three women refuse to stay silent.
Emma, the chief detective’s sharp-witted wife, sees the investigation failing. Maggie, a private investigator, exposes men’s darkest secrets. Bet, a police station cleaner, overhears what others ignore.
Together, they form an alliance to hunt down the killer dubbed Jack the Ripper. But as the women weave through the slums, brothels, and smoke-filled parlours of London’s underworld, they uncover corruption more sinister than they ever imagined.
The city belonged to men – until now.
Readers are hooked by The Women in the Shadows:'A fantastic reimaging' ⭐⭐⭐⭐
'I can’t even begin to describe how many Jack the Ripper books I’ve read. But there are no books like this, and I’m so in love with the premise of it'⭐⭐⭐⭐
'If Emma, Bet and Maggie popped up again in some other historical mystery… I would not be mad. I would in fact be asking the bookseller to take my money.'⭐⭐⭐⭐
'This book grabbed me from the start and I couldn't stop reading'⭐⭐⭐⭐
'I wasn't really sure there were any more takes to be had on the story of Jack the ripper. But I was wrong.' Reader review⭐⭐⭐⭐
London, 1888. A monster prowls the gaslit streets, and the police are looking in all the wrong places, at all the wrong suspects. But three women refuse to stay silent.
Emma, the chief detective’s sharp-witted wife, sees the investigation failing. Maggie, a private investigator, exposes men’s darkest secrets. Bet, a police station cleaner, overhears what others ignore.
Together, they form an alliance to hunt down the killer dubbed Jack the Ripper. But as the women weave through the slums, brothels, and smoke-filled parlours of London’s underworld, they uncover corruption more sinister than they ever imagined.
The city belonged to men – until now.
Readers are hooked by The Women in the Shadows:'A fantastic reimaging' ⭐⭐⭐⭐
'I can’t even begin to describe how many Jack the Ripper books I’ve read. But there are no books like this, and I’m so in love with the premise of it'⭐⭐⭐⭐
'If Emma, Bet and Maggie popped up again in some other historical mystery… I would not be mad. I would in fact be asking the bookseller to take my money.'⭐⭐⭐⭐
'This book grabbed me from the start and I couldn't stop reading'⭐⭐⭐⭐
428 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2025
93 people are currently reading
203 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
October 2, 2025
As soon as I heard about this book I knew I had to read it. A story set in Victorian times, in Whitechapel when Jack The Ripper was at large. Fascinating.
But this book is not so much about the killer, but about the victims, and 3 women who wanted justice for them where the police were failing them. Emma, the wife of the lead detective, Bet, a young cleaner with a good eye and Maggie , a female private detective. These women worked together to stop the Ripper, finding themselves in danger along the way.
What I loved about this book was the friendship between these woman, they were strong, independent women which was not the norm at this time. They wanted better for women, for those that had been murdered.3 women who would not normally be friends found each other formed a strong bond. It was interesting to see some real life people from the time in the story as well, the author captured the time so well, the fear that the women were feeling, the way the community banded together to protect each other.
Yes it is fiction and of course we need an ending. I throughly enjoyed reading The Women in the Shadows, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough.
Thank you so much to HQ on NetGalley for my early copy of this book to read. Out October 1st.
But this book is not so much about the killer, but about the victims, and 3 women who wanted justice for them where the police were failing them. Emma, the wife of the lead detective, Bet, a young cleaner with a good eye and Maggie , a female private detective. These women worked together to stop the Ripper, finding themselves in danger along the way.
What I loved about this book was the friendship between these woman, they were strong, independent women which was not the norm at this time. They wanted better for women, for those that had been murdered.3 women who would not normally be friends found each other formed a strong bond. It was interesting to see some real life people from the time in the story as well, the author captured the time so well, the fear that the women were feeling, the way the community banded together to protect each other.
Yes it is fiction and of course we need an ending. I throughly enjoyed reading The Women in the Shadows, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough.
Thank you so much to HQ on NetGalley for my early copy of this book to read. Out October 1st.
October 24, 2025
Really enjoyed this book. It's not my usual genre of reading, I'm more of a psychological thriller reader but I thought I'd give this one a go and glad I did. Loved each of the three women characters and the setting descriptions made me feel like I was there with them. Only thing I didn't like was that I felt the ending was a bit abrupt, I would have liked it to have gone on a bit longer. Other than that a great read. Thanks to NetGalley for my ARC.
December 1, 2025
1888, Whitechapel London and women are being murdered. Three women join forces to investigate who is doing the murders.
I have always had an interest in Jack the Ripper so was looking forward to reading this book. It follows three woman, Emma Abberline wife to Fred the inspector, Maggie a private detective and Bet who cleans the police station. All three start to investigate the Ripper killings and have a few mishaps along the way.
I liked the concept of the story although I did feel that the it was edging on the cozy crimes. I thought the relationship between the women was done quite well and could easily see more books featuring the characters.
There are the real life facts and characters in the story but of course it is a work of fiction. I'm on the fence with the ending but it being a fictional account of true events I suppose it can be gotten away with.
My first time reading a book by the author and I would give another book ago if there were to be one in the future. It would be fun to see the three women again investigating another real life crime.
I had received a copy from the publisher via Netgalley so thank you.
I have always had an interest in Jack the Ripper so was looking forward to reading this book. It follows three woman, Emma Abberline wife to Fred the inspector, Maggie a private detective and Bet who cleans the police station. All three start to investigate the Ripper killings and have a few mishaps along the way.
I liked the concept of the story although I did feel that the it was edging on the cozy crimes. I thought the relationship between the women was done quite well and could easily see more books featuring the characters.
There are the real life facts and characters in the story but of course it is a work of fiction. I'm on the fence with the ending but it being a fictional account of true events I suppose it can be gotten away with.
My first time reading a book by the author and I would give another book ago if there were to be one in the future. It would be fun to see the three women again investigating another real life crime.
I had received a copy from the publisher via Netgalley so thank you.
October 29, 2025
The book is based on the Jack the Ripper murders, Mixture of fact and fiction however the overall story is fiction.
We meet Bet, Maggie and Emma who all come together to try and solve the murders as they believe the police aren’t doing what they should.
There are some close shaves for the ladies and some blunders along the way however they get there in the end.
The 5 victims are portrayed well by author, they have a chapter just to themselves leading up to their awful fate which allows us to empathise, the last murder for me was the one that hit the hardest.
It was a good read, keeps you guessing.
We meet Bet, Maggie and Emma who all come together to try and solve the murders as they believe the police aren’t doing what they should.
There are some close shaves for the ladies and some blunders along the way however they get there in the end.
The 5 victims are portrayed well by author, they have a chapter just to themselves leading up to their awful fate which allows us to empathise, the last murder for me was the one that hit the hardest.
It was a good read, keeps you guessing.
November 12, 2025
A female detective book about Jack the Ripper was something that I knew I would be interested in. A mixture of true facts and some fictional female characters made for a really fascinating take on the well known story. Bet,Maggie and Emma were really well written and all from different ways of life. I’ve read lots about the 1888 serial killer and found this ranks well amongst them.
October 21, 2025
A new take on the “Jack the Ripper” murders in Whitechapel in 1888, presenting an alternative history where three women — police station cleaner Bet, private detective Maggie, and Emma, the wife of the senior investigating officer — band together to find the killer. Imagining the stories of the real-life victims, the novel shows women taking a stand, albeit making a few false turns on the way.
October 24, 2025
3.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Overview
The Women in the Shadows is a historical crime fiction novel that blends real-life history specifically the Jack the Ripper case with a fictional narrative centered around three female detectives determined to uncover the truth behind the murders terrorizing London. Drawing inspiration from the infamous unsolved crimes, Fox imagines a version of the story in which women step forward to investigate, challenge the system, and seek justice where men have failed.
The novel sits at the intersection of historical mystery and women-led detective fiction, featuring tropes such as multiple POV investigation, feminist detective work, and true-crime inspired fiction. While the Ripper murders remain unsolved in real history, this book aims to present a more conclusive outcome, offering narrative closure that the real case never had.
My thoughts
I found The Women in the Shadows to be an interesting and engaging take on the Jack the Ripper narrative particularly in the way it weaves together real events and people with fictional detectives shaping the outcome. The multiple perspectives made for a dynamic reading experience, and I really enjoyed how the story gave voice to women during a time when they were rarely acknowledged in criminal investigations.
However, certain elements did stretch believability for me. The fact that the three women detectives repeatedly and accidentally caused the deaths of men they suspected, four times in total throughout the story, felt a little unrealistic, especially for a genre that often leans on gritty authenticity and procedural logic. As a reader who loves historical fiction specifically for its grounded nature, I would have preferred a more plausible investigative process.
That said, the book was well written, with consistent pacing and strong atmosphere, and I genuinely enjoyed the story overall. It offers a bold reimagining of one of history’s darkest mysteries with a satisfying sense of resolution that true crime lovers may appreciate.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Overview
The Women in the Shadows is a historical crime fiction novel that blends real-life history specifically the Jack the Ripper case with a fictional narrative centered around three female detectives determined to uncover the truth behind the murders terrorizing London. Drawing inspiration from the infamous unsolved crimes, Fox imagines a version of the story in which women step forward to investigate, challenge the system, and seek justice where men have failed.
The novel sits at the intersection of historical mystery and women-led detective fiction, featuring tropes such as multiple POV investigation, feminist detective work, and true-crime inspired fiction. While the Ripper murders remain unsolved in real history, this book aims to present a more conclusive outcome, offering narrative closure that the real case never had.
My thoughts
I found The Women in the Shadows to be an interesting and engaging take on the Jack the Ripper narrative particularly in the way it weaves together real events and people with fictional detectives shaping the outcome. The multiple perspectives made for a dynamic reading experience, and I really enjoyed how the story gave voice to women during a time when they were rarely acknowledged in criminal investigations.
However, certain elements did stretch believability for me. The fact that the three women detectives repeatedly and accidentally caused the deaths of men they suspected, four times in total throughout the story, felt a little unrealistic, especially for a genre that often leans on gritty authenticity and procedural logic. As a reader who loves historical fiction specifically for its grounded nature, I would have preferred a more plausible investigative process.
That said, the book was well written, with consistent pacing and strong atmosphere, and I genuinely enjoyed the story overall. It offers a bold reimagining of one of history’s darkest mysteries with a satisfying sense of resolution that true crime lovers may appreciate.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2025
Set during the time of the Ripper murders, this novel sees three women band together to investigate the crimes. Emma is the wife of Inspector Abberline, a good detective who's doing his damnedest to find the killer, while Maggie is a private detective and Bet is a cleaner at the police station. I loved the blend of real and fictional characters and the bond between the women. The author chooses her own solution for the killer and avoids any of the men actually suspected. An excellent work of historical fiction.
July 26, 2025
Thank you to the author and publishers for allowing me to read an e-ARC via NetGalley. That hasn’t influenced my review and all opinions are my own!
I’ve recently been reading more historical fiction books, and I can’t even begin to describe how many Jack the Ripper books I’ve read. But there are no books like this, and I’m so in love with the premise of it.
A lot of people know about Jack the Ripper, but a lot of focus seems to go to him instead of the victims. My favourite thing about this book is that it humanises the women. The author’s note at the end reports that Harriet did some research about the women and what their lives were like, and that’s reflected throughout the book. There’s a good mix of ‘real events’ as well as some embellishment of fiction which really gives the reader a glimpse into those women before the atrocities. As a society, we are so obsessed with crime but we don’t really spend time thinking about the victims. So this book really put that idea into perspective for me. The use of the different chapters *as* the women is so clever; a lot of those chapters end very quickly which is an accurate representation of how quickly and unexpectedly the crimes happened. I also love the 3 main women, and their courage and outgoing nature is inspirational.
Overall, this is a great historical fiction novel that dives into the lives of all the women affected by this tragedy, and it is both heartbreaking and entertaining.
Rating: 4/5 stars (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)
I’ve recently been reading more historical fiction books, and I can’t even begin to describe how many Jack the Ripper books I’ve read. But there are no books like this, and I’m so in love with the premise of it.
A lot of people know about Jack the Ripper, but a lot of focus seems to go to him instead of the victims. My favourite thing about this book is that it humanises the women. The author’s note at the end reports that Harriet did some research about the women and what their lives were like, and that’s reflected throughout the book. There’s a good mix of ‘real events’ as well as some embellishment of fiction which really gives the reader a glimpse into those women before the atrocities. As a society, we are so obsessed with crime but we don’t really spend time thinking about the victims. So this book really put that idea into perspective for me. The use of the different chapters *as* the women is so clever; a lot of those chapters end very quickly which is an accurate representation of how quickly and unexpectedly the crimes happened. I also love the 3 main women, and their courage and outgoing nature is inspirational.
Overall, this is a great historical fiction novel that dives into the lives of all the women affected by this tragedy, and it is both heartbreaking and entertaining.
Rating: 4/5 stars (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)
September 14, 2025
Loosely based on the serial killer known as Jack the Ripper this is a fascinating look at this infamous killer through the eyes of three women, Emma, Bet and Maggie. A Victorian murder mystery with a twist. It’s 1888 and women are being viciously murdered on the streets of Whitechapel, East London. The police, led by Inspector Fred Abberline, are getting nowhere. Well researched with many characters from the actual case, including all the victims and some of the police, included in the story.
Briefly, Emma Abberline sees how her husband is struggling with this case, bored at home she thinks she can do better. Bet is a local 19 year old who knew the victims and Emma hires her as a cleaner. Bet also cleans at the police station. Maggie runs a detective agency. The three hook up and decide they can put their individual skills together to help the police. Unfortunately they have a knack of leaving dead bodies in their wake! All accidental. But bit by bit they start uncovering clues which they believe could lead them to the killer.
One of many historical fiction stories written around the factual story of Jack the Ripper but this is told from a different perspective and makes for a very enjoyable read. The treatment of the victims was inexcusable, based largely on their lives as prostitutes, I wonder whether the killer would have been caught had he chosen more ‘respectable’ victims? An engaging thriller with a remarkable twist. It would be good to see the 3 ladies in action again.
Briefly, Emma Abberline sees how her husband is struggling with this case, bored at home she thinks she can do better. Bet is a local 19 year old who knew the victims and Emma hires her as a cleaner. Bet also cleans at the police station. Maggie runs a detective agency. The three hook up and decide they can put their individual skills together to help the police. Unfortunately they have a knack of leaving dead bodies in their wake! All accidental. But bit by bit they start uncovering clues which they believe could lead them to the killer.
One of many historical fiction stories written around the factual story of Jack the Ripper but this is told from a different perspective and makes for a very enjoyable read. The treatment of the victims was inexcusable, based largely on their lives as prostitutes, I wonder whether the killer would have been caught had he chosen more ‘respectable’ victims? An engaging thriller with a remarkable twist. It would be good to see the 3 ladies in action again.
October 8, 2025
There are endless conspiracy theories around Jack the Ripper and many books, both fictional and non-fictional, have been written about him. Women in the Shadows takes what is already known about the murders and weaves them into a very readable fictional story about three women, from different backgrounds, who come together to try and solve the murders. Emma is the wife of Inspector Abberline who is in charge of the Ripper investigation, Maggie is a clever female private detective, and Bet is a feisty young woman for whom the streets of Whitechapel are achingly familiar.These intrepid women are a great bunch of characters, brought to life so clearly that you walk the streets alongside them as they do what they can in order to bring a killer to justice. However, I did suspend belief a little at some of the outcomes of their investigations but that added to the overall dynamic of the story.
The Women in the Shadows is a fascinating story which keeps true to the murder victims without sharing any of the more gruesome details and yet gives a plausible explanation for could have happened during the Ripper’s killing spree in the latter part of 1888. Well written, and with a realistic sense of time and place, the dark, and shadowy streets, around Whitechapel come alive, highlighting the poverty of its inhabitants, the desperate nature of those who seek comfort in a gin bottle and of the true vulnerability of those women who walked the streets at nights in fear of their lives.
September 28, 2025
I am in awe of authors who seemlessly blend historical fact with fiction. I know the basics of the Jack the Ripper murders but not enough to recognise the actual facts in this story. Did it matter? Not a bit. Three ladies from completely different backgrounds come together and all have one aim - to stop the killings. As women were totally undermined in Victorian times, their investigations were unnoticed or even ridiculed. This helped them to observe and discover evidence that meant they were often ahead of the police. It wasn’t all plain sailing, of course and they found themselves in extremely dangerous circumstances more than once. Devious twists meant suspicion fell on more than one person and trust was something that was hard to come by as absolute fear gripped the deprived Whitechapel area. As the murder count increased, the ladies felt under pressure to find this evil man who brought terror to this devastated community. An excellent story that highlighted the extreme poverty of the era and the desperate lengths women have to go to just to survive. The characters were a great representation of the different classes but friendship was more important than the financial disparities. A well researched book that cleverly told the story from a completely different angle. I would be very interested in reading more from this talented author.
November 25, 2025
wow!!!
What a clever, atmospheric, and refreshingly different take on the Jack the Ripper mystery. Harriet Fox drops you straight into the gaslit, grimy streets of 1888 London, but instead of following the usual suspects, she hands the narrative over to the women who were never allowed a voice and I loved every second of it.
Emma, Maggie, and Bet are three women who should’ve been invisible in their time, yet Fox makes them the true force of the story. Their courage and resilience shine through as they navigate corruption, danger, and the suffocating limitations of their world.
I adored how each woman brought her own strength: Emma with her sharp observations, Maggie with her grit and investigative instinct, and Bet with her access to secrets no one else notices.
The book blends historical detail with tension filled mystery beautifully. The atmosphere is vivid, the pacing keeps you hooked, and I couldn’t help rooting for these women as they tackle a case the men around them continuously mishandle.
A feminist, clever, compelling twist on one of history’s most infamous murder cases. Dark, immersive, and so well done.
What a clever, atmospheric, and refreshingly different take on the Jack the Ripper mystery. Harriet Fox drops you straight into the gaslit, grimy streets of 1888 London, but instead of following the usual suspects, she hands the narrative over to the women who were never allowed a voice and I loved every second of it.
Emma, Maggie, and Bet are three women who should’ve been invisible in their time, yet Fox makes them the true force of the story. Their courage and resilience shine through as they navigate corruption, danger, and the suffocating limitations of their world.
I adored how each woman brought her own strength: Emma with her sharp observations, Maggie with her grit and investigative instinct, and Bet with her access to secrets no one else notices.
The book blends historical detail with tension filled mystery beautifully. The atmosphere is vivid, the pacing keeps you hooked, and I couldn’t help rooting for these women as they tackle a case the men around them continuously mishandle.
A feminist, clever, compelling twist on one of history’s most infamous murder cases. Dark, immersive, and so well done.
October 18, 2025
The book's main strength was the dynamic between the three main characters. I love stories of female solidarity, so this was right in my alley.
I liked that the story didn't make the obvious choice regarding the identity of the culprit and how it highlighted the contributions of Victorian women detectives.
That being said, the writing style was pretty generic and the story didn't feel as immersive as it should have. Sometimes, the dialogue was a little childish.
This was also very bleak, with a lot of violence against women. I know this should be expected given the topic, but it was really everywhere. During their investigation, the protagonists are confronted to many violent and deranged suspects Thankfully, there's nothing too graphic, especially as far as the murders are concerned.
I liked that the story didn't make the obvious choice regarding the identity of the culprit and how it highlighted the contributions of Victorian women detectives.
That being said, the writing style was pretty generic and the story didn't feel as immersive as it should have. Sometimes, the dialogue was a little childish.
This was also very bleak, with a lot of violence against women. I know this should be expected given the topic, but it was really everywhere. During their investigation, the protagonists are confronted to many violent and deranged suspects Thankfully, there's nothing too graphic, especially as far as the murders are concerned.
October 12, 2025
⭐3.75- thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this before the release date.
This was my second ever historical fiction book and also about Jack the Ripper.
I really enjoyed having a different perspective into this, and the whole story being led by the 3 main women. It was very cool to see them trying to solve the case and finding themselves in rather unfortunate situations.
It felt almost as if I was there with them, in Whitechapel witnessing it all firsthand.
I appreciated that the language used wasn't too old fashioned that it would get me lost and confused while following along.
I don't think I've realised the twist as early as I thought but also I knew that it was pretty obvious as soon as it got discovered.
The ending seemed quite abrupt as well, I found myself wanting to keep reading.
Nonetheless, a very interesting and captivating read from the genre I wouldn't normally pick.
This was my second ever historical fiction book and also about Jack the Ripper.
I really enjoyed having a different perspective into this, and the whole story being led by the 3 main women. It was very cool to see them trying to solve the case and finding themselves in rather unfortunate situations.
It felt almost as if I was there with them, in Whitechapel witnessing it all firsthand.
I appreciated that the language used wasn't too old fashioned that it would get me lost and confused while following along.
I don't think I've realised the twist as early as I thought but also I knew that it was pretty obvious as soon as it got discovered.
The ending seemed quite abrupt as well, I found myself wanting to keep reading.
Nonetheless, a very interesting and captivating read from the genre I wouldn't normally pick.
December 20, 2025
AN INTERESTING FICTITIOUS TAKE ON JACK THE RIPPER
It took me a while to get through this book. It was well written and the author did do homework on the facts of the case. But having a lifelong interest in the subject made me find fault with some of her characters. It was necessary to make Aberline sympathetic and competent to carry the story forward. Unfortunately he was not. He botched the case very badly, so it was hard to suspend that knowledge while reading. The three women characters were likable, well drawn out, smart and amusing. It was just very sad the way women were treated and dismissed back then. Nothing more than second class citizens. The atmosphere of Whitechapel was well captured and accurate. I wish I didn’t, but I knew who the Ripper was right from the beginning, so there was no tension or surprise. Still, the premise was quite different and made the story interesting.
It took me a while to get through this book. It was well written and the author did do homework on the facts of the case. But having a lifelong interest in the subject made me find fault with some of her characters. It was necessary to make Aberline sympathetic and competent to carry the story forward. Unfortunately he was not. He botched the case very badly, so it was hard to suspend that knowledge while reading. The three women characters were likable, well drawn out, smart and amusing. It was just very sad the way women were treated and dismissed back then. Nothing more than second class citizens. The atmosphere of Whitechapel was well captured and accurate. I wish I didn’t, but I knew who the Ripper was right from the beginning, so there was no tension or surprise. Still, the premise was quite different and made the story interesting.
September 21, 2025
I read an eARC of this book on NetGalley so thank you to the author and the publisher. This was an intriguing lens on the Jack the Ripper investigation told from the perspective of women adjacent to the case. The female camaraderie was what made this book feel special as we see these women supporting each other and looking out for one another even though they are from different walks of life and face derision and dismissal from some male characters. That said, there were some helpful men who showed genuine concern and care making this feel fairly balanced. I particularly liked the portrayal of Frank Abberline and his genuine love and admiration for his wife Emma.
This book is putting a fictional spin on real life crimes and I did feel the author has shown respect to the women affected, treating them as real human beings and not just victims. There were some references to the grisly details of the crimes, but largely this steered away from revelling in horror and visceral details. The focus is on the women in the community and how they felt they had to step up to protect each other when the males in authority were not treating this predator with enough seriousness and concern.
This did run a little long, there were a few moments that required suspension of belief but overall it was an intriguing mystery, with characters you can root for, that was considerately written.
This book is putting a fictional spin on real life crimes and I did feel the author has shown respect to the women affected, treating them as real human beings and not just victims. There were some references to the grisly details of the crimes, but largely this steered away from revelling in horror and visceral details. The focus is on the women in the community and how they felt they had to step up to protect each other when the males in authority were not treating this predator with enough seriousness and concern.
This did run a little long, there were a few moments that required suspension of belief but overall it was an intriguing mystery, with characters you can root for, that was considerately written.
November 16, 2025
📚 Book Review 📚
Set during the time of the heinous Ripper murders, this book is a historical fiction and describes the result of three women; Emma, Maggie and Bet and their fight to uncomfortable er the identity of one of the worst and most viscous, serial killers in history.
This is a great read, the characters are well written and very likeable. You want the women to succeed and I really enjoyed reading about their thoughts, ideas and journey to try and find the identity of the illusive murderer. There were a couple of occasions where it lost it slightly for me, but not enough to stop me reading or spoil my enjoyment.
This is a great, all rounder and I really loved the female characters.
I’d like to thank HQ Digital, NetGalley and the author for the arc and the fantastic opportunity, in exchange for my honest feedback 😊
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Set during the time of the heinous Ripper murders, this book is a historical fiction and describes the result of three women; Emma, Maggie and Bet and their fight to uncomfortable er the identity of one of the worst and most viscous, serial killers in history.
This is a great read, the characters are well written and very likeable. You want the women to succeed and I really enjoyed reading about their thoughts, ideas and journey to try and find the identity of the illusive murderer. There were a couple of occasions where it lost it slightly for me, but not enough to stop me reading or spoil my enjoyment.
This is a great, all rounder and I really loved the female characters.
I’d like to thank HQ Digital, NetGalley and the author for the arc and the fantastic opportunity, in exchange for my honest feedback 😊
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 10, 2025
Absolutely brilliant book! Really enjoyed this one, it was very interesting, written in a lovely way and really captivated me.
I love reading about Jack the Ripper as it is such a fascinating mystery, this book really was satisfying and a good idea to write.
I love Bet, Emma and Maggie as characters. They were strong, independent and full of character which is nice to see for women in the Victorian era. The book was nicely paced, written in a clear and concise way and the descriptions of streets and places really made me feel like I was part of the story as an observer.
I would definitely recommend this book!
Thank you HQ publishing for sending me a copy of the ARC in exchange of an honest review.
I love reading about Jack the Ripper as it is such a fascinating mystery, this book really was satisfying and a good idea to write.
I love Bet, Emma and Maggie as characters. They were strong, independent and full of character which is nice to see for women in the Victorian era. The book was nicely paced, written in a clear and concise way and the descriptions of streets and places really made me feel like I was part of the story as an observer.
I would definitely recommend this book!
Thank you HQ publishing for sending me a copy of the ARC in exchange of an honest review.
October 10, 2025
Set in Whitechapel 1888 I really enjoyed this version of the famed Jack the Ripper a serial killer .This was different from the usual stories as it is told from the POV of the victims. There are three main voices Maggie who runs a Detective Agency ,Emma who is married to Detective Abberline and Bet who cleans the Police Station .These three women come together to try and solve the murders by finding Jack the Ripper. Very atmospheric gas lit streets brothels and dark dirty alleys I almost could believe I was there with these women in Victorian times they were truly remarkable when women were almost invisible to men and certainly couldn't join the Police Force .A fast past exciting read Thank you to NetGalley for my ARC.
November 12, 2025
This was such a different take on a murder mystery! While based in arguably the most infamous true crime case of all, this encapsulated the camaraderie of female friendship, mischief and all the while kept the victims at its heart.
I really enjoyed Emma, Bet and Maggie’s characters, they felt so real to me and their banter together kept the grim themes of the crime plot from dominating the whole story. Their story as a group of three women stepping out of their traditionally assigned roles also created space for the victim’s reality and humanity.
While I really enjoyed aspects of this, I also found the twist to be a bit too predictable for me and some elements repetitive, hence 3 stars.
I really enjoyed Emma, Bet and Maggie’s characters, they felt so real to me and their banter together kept the grim themes of the crime plot from dominating the whole story. Their story as a group of three women stepping out of their traditionally assigned roles also created space for the victim’s reality and humanity.
While I really enjoyed aspects of this, I also found the twist to be a bit too predictable for me and some elements repetitive, hence 3 stars.
November 23, 2025
A historical murder mystery set in Whitechapel a retelling of the Jack the Ripper case investigated from the perspective of three determined woman who form an allowance that shows you should never underestimate the strength and resilience of the female species.
The characters are just a delight, the author has written them with detailed description so they come to life from the pages showing their individual personalities and more importantly we hear their voice, the voices of those that truly matter.
The atmospheric setting added to the drama and intensity of the story.
I have my fingers crossed that Emma, Bet and Maggie make a resurgence at some point in the future.
The characters are just a delight, the author has written them with detailed description so they come to life from the pages showing their individual personalities and more importantly we hear their voice, the voices of those that truly matter.
The atmospheric setting added to the drama and intensity of the story.
I have my fingers crossed that Emma, Bet and Maggie make a resurgence at some point in the future.
July 25, 2025
I wasn't really sure there were any more takes to be had on the story of Jack the ripper.
But I was wrong.
This takes three characters somewhat connected to the story and turns them into detectives.
It was really enjoyable.
It weaves in the facts as I know them (I'm no expert) of Jack, and builds a story nicely around them.
There's also a couple of moments I almost laughed out loud.
I have to be honest, if Emma,Bet and Maggie popped up again in some other historical mystery, real or fictional, I would not be mad.
I would in fact be asking the bookseller to take my money.
But I was wrong.
This takes three characters somewhat connected to the story and turns them into detectives.
It was really enjoyable.
It weaves in the facts as I know them (I'm no expert) of Jack, and builds a story nicely around them.
There's also a couple of moments I almost laughed out loud.
I have to be honest, if Emma,Bet and Maggie popped up again in some other historical mystery, real or fictional, I would not be mad.
I would in fact be asking the bookseller to take my money.
August 12, 2025
This is a unique perspective on Jack the Ripper, the story of three women trying to hunt him down and stop him. All three women were likeable and you felt like you knew them, an unlikely trio who join forces and become friends.
I liked the way it was written, you felt like you were in the East End of London in 1888 but unlike some I've read the language didn't feel too old-fashioned, which personally I find hard to read and get in to.
I had worked out who it was reasonably early on but I didn't feel that took away from my enjoyment of the book.
I liked the way it was written, you felt like you were in the East End of London in 1888 but unlike some I've read the language didn't feel too old-fashioned, which personally I find hard to read and get in to.
I had worked out who it was reasonably early on but I didn't feel that took away from my enjoyment of the book.
October 5, 2025
Harriet Fox has written one of my favourite historical fiction books ever, such a great read!
The story follows three women from very different backgrounds as they find themselves drawn into the world of the Jack the Ripper murders.
I loved how the book gave a voice to the women usually left in the shadows — not just the investigators, but the victims too.
The portrayal of London at the time is so vivid you can almost smell it.
A fascinating mix of mystery, history, and strong female characters — a real page-turner!
The story follows three women from very different backgrounds as they find themselves drawn into the world of the Jack the Ripper murders.
I loved how the book gave a voice to the women usually left in the shadows — not just the investigators, but the victims too.
The portrayal of London at the time is so vivid you can almost smell it.
A fascinating mix of mystery, history, and strong female characters — a real page-turner!
October 8, 2025
I really enjoyed this historical novel set while the Jack the Ripper murders were happening in Whitechapel, London.
The novel is centred on three women - Emma, the wife of the main detective, Bet, a police station cleaner and Maggie, a female detective - who want justice or the victims. Justice they do not feel will be forthcoming if left to the Met Police.
This book humanises the victims and highlights their plight and their vulnerability.
I enjoyed the three strong female characters - their friendship as the wicked women of Whitechapel, their courage and tenacity.
A gripping read.
The novel is centred on three women - Emma, the wife of the main detective, Bet, a police station cleaner and Maggie, a female detective - who want justice or the victims. Justice they do not feel will be forthcoming if left to the Met Police.
This book humanises the victims and highlights their plight and their vulnerability.
I enjoyed the three strong female characters - their friendship as the wicked women of Whitechapel, their courage and tenacity.
A gripping read.
November 9, 2025
In The Women in the Shadows, a gang of women team up to solve the Jack the Ripper case. This historical fiction is focused more on the mystery and the victims than on the graphic nature of the murders. Because of this, the slightly lighter tone is mostly successful. The three main characters are all unique, and the victims' stories are well written. The story also aptly outlines the challenges that women faced in that era as well as the inexperience of and blunders made by various characters including the police.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins Canada for the e-ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins Canada for the e-ARC.
November 12, 2025
This book is based on the Jack the Ripper murders but from female detective point of view which is a different take to the normal stories and because of that it gave it a fresh perspective. Maggie,Emma and Bet all get involved in various ways because the police aren’t doing enough so they set out to solve the murders. I really enjoyed this different take on a famous real crime mystery although I did think it ended a bit quickly for me. That being said a great book to get your mind working about who was Jack the Ripper ?
December 1, 2025
2.5 stars, rounded up. It was a smooth read in terms of prose, but the historical inaccuracies and lack of development of the setting were both quite jarring. A lot of the information about the women murdered by “Jack” was directly based on Hallie Rubenhold’s research, which was refreshing, but outside of those tidbits Spitalfields was left totally undeveloped within the narrative, and some baffling choices were made regarding the investigations. All three women, despite two being middle-aged, acted like children throughout, and the “good” police detectives were even worse.
December 2, 2025
An entertaining although quite simplistic telling of the Ripper killings. This time Emma Abberline, wife of Inspector Abbeline, teams up with Bet, a young cleaner, and Maggie, a lady who runs a detective agency, and attempt to solve who is the infamous Ripper. It was an enjoyable read but a bit flippant with some things that happen. I actually had no idea that Inspector Abberline was married until now.
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