The Whitechapel Full Moon Society

by Elizabeth DeLozier

Set in Victorian London during Jack the Ripper’s reign of terror, this gripping, original novel is perfect for fans of V. E. Schwab, Dana Schwartz, and Sarah Penner.

When Caroline Foster arrives at the Whitechapel Full Moon Society in search of her missing brother, she finds a dilapidated façade belying an interior as opulent as any exclusive gentlemen’s club. In exchange for room and board, Caroline is hired as the Full Moon’s maid, where she is given three don’t ask personal questions, stay out of the iron-barred room on the second floor, and remain in her bedroom from sunup to sundown on the full moon.

But when it is revealed that the previous maid was murdered—an early victim of Jack the Ripper—and her brother has left behind no answers, only more questions, Caroline begins to suspect her hosts might be hiding something. As more bodies turn up with a connection to the Society, Caroline fears she may have unwittingly stumbled into a bedtime story, the kind with monsters and curses, family secrets and ancient lore.

Tantalizing and pulsing, Elizabeth DeLozier’s sophomore novel gives an exciting alternative look into the infamous Jack the Ripper story with a major, supernatural twist.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Horror, Mystery, Fiction, Historical, Victorian

368 pages, Paperback

Expected publication August 25, 2026

About the author

Elizabeth DeLozier holds a BA in Spanish literature, a BS in biological anthropology, and a doctorate in physical therapy. An avid traveler, animal lover, and history nerd, she lives in Southern California with her husband, twin sons, and rescue dogs. Eleanore of Avignon is her debut novel. For more, follow her on instagram at @elizabethdelozierwrites.

Reviews

[Saranya [hiatus] · Rating 2 out of 5]

When I got my hands on this arc, I was so excited to dive in, but the beginning was so slow that it brought me into a reading slump.

Set in Victorian London during Jack the Ripper’s reign of terror, the novel follows Caroline Foster, who arrives at the mysterious Whitechapel Full Moon Society searching for her missing brother. Behind its crumbling exterior lies an opulent gentlemen’s club with strict rules:
1. Don’t ask personal questions
2. Stay out of the iron-barred room on the second floor
3. Remain in your bedroom from sunup to sundown on the full moon

The supernatural storyline promises gothic suspense, while the Ripper thread leans into historical crime. But rather than amplifying each other, they pull focus, leaving both underdeveloped. The paranormal elements were present in atmosphere without fully delivering while the Jack the Ripper investigation accelerates too quickly, leading to a rushed, underwhelming conclusion.

Overall, it had a good potential with a good storyline.

𝐏𝐫𝐞-𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝:

I received an uncorrected ARC of this book from NetGalley and the Dutton Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

Pub Date: 25 Aug 2026

[lorenzodulac · Rating 4 out of 5]

We’re cooking with gas now!! I enjoyed this one a lot.
The setting is London in the late 1880s, the time of Jack the Ripper. In fact, scattered throughout the book there are letters written by the Ripper himself. Caroline is hired as a maid at the Whitechapel Full Moon Society, where the woman before her was killed by, you guessed it, Jack the Ripper. All the while she’s looking for her brother Charlie who’s disappeared, but her investigation leaves her with more questions than answers.
She even gets attacked at a point as things start to evolve. The twist I didn’t see coming, it left my jaw on the floor.
Which brings me to the only thing that’s lowering my rating a bit: the fantasy-ish element. I don’t know, it kind of read like a cop out, I thought it would work but it didn’t really in the end, it took me out of the story. It could’ve been left out and I would’ve liked the book more overall. But that’s fine because everything else was top tier.
And I do know it’s an important part of the book. I just didn’t like it lol.
I would still wholeheartedly recommend though. If you like Victorian London with a murder-y, paranormal twist, this is the book for you.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 ⭐️ Thank you NetGalley and Dutton publishing for the ARC - this one started a little slow but I got lost in the details of domestic servant life in England in the 1800s so I dint really mind. And then the mystery started unfolding with increasing momentum. I became so engrossed during the final 40% of the book that relived my 11 year old nights staying up under the covers on a school night, furiously reading with a flashlight, consequences be damned when I have to wake up in the morning! It was a satisfying conclusion, even with the kooky supernatural twist that mostly served as a distraction from the mysteries at the heart of the story: where was Charlie, and who was Jack the Ripper? If you enjoy a mystery, don’t mind a little supernatural twist to your story, enjoy some ancient lore, and are fascinated by the mystery of Jack the Ripper, this niche book will really hit the sweet spot for you!

[Christina C · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Whitechapel Full Moon Society by Elizabeth DeLozier was a great historical fiction novel centered on the hunt for Jack the Ripper. The author did an excellent job immersing the reader in Victorian England. I truly felt like I was there alongside the characters. I especially enjoyed the main character’s storyline and found it engaging and well developed.

That said, I did wish the gentlemen attending the Full Moon events weren’t tied to mythical creatures. I think it would have been more impactful if their secret society was rooted in something more realistic…such as being 🏳️‍🌈 and having a safe place to gather during a time when society wasn’t accepting. That angle could have added even more emotional depth and realism to the story.

Overall, this was a very enjoyable read, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction set in this time period. 👏👏👏

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've just finished an ARC on The Whitechapel Full Moon Society from Netgalley and wow! 5 Stars!

spoiler free review.

There was a huge twist at the end which definitely took me by surprise. I'd like to think I'm usually pretty good at guessing characters intentions but this one I completely missed and genuinely had me gasping out loud when I read it. I always enjoy rereading books to see if I can pick up on any clues I missed the first time so I can't wait to reread this one.

I will definitely be purchasing this when its released August '26.

Now off to read Elizabeth DeLozier's other book!

[Bailey Mullen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for an ARC of this book!

In this book, we are following Caroline Foster through London while Jack the Ripper is active. And somehow that’s the side plot. Caroline is searching for her brother who warns her not to come since it isn’t safe, and true to being a main character, Caroline goes anyways.

I found this book hard to put down! The mystery of her brother’s disappearance, the boarding house’s eccentric characters, and reading as Caroline learns how to be a maid (funny, a little stressful, and at times bleak) were all fascinating components that came together beautifully.

[Allison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I finished The Whitechapel Full Moon Society in less than 24 hours. This novel carried a quiet, persistent pull that made setting it down feel almost impossible.

While it begins a bit slowly, around page 53 I realized I was itching to return to it whenever I put it down.

Delozier does a delightful job of feeding us bits of information, one drop at a time, just enough to keep our curiosity involved, but not too much to overwhelm us. They effectively humanize the women of this period: figures so often overshadowed by the frenzy surrounding the mysterious Jack the Ripper. While some elements of the story were predictable, they were predictably satisfying. Like a well-constructed music box, the narrative gradually clicks into place, each turn more gratifying than the last.

There was a moment in the story where I feared Delozier might lead us a certain way, but to my delight, the author took us on a much more effective, timely, and engaging journey.

This book is extremely readable. A true delight for readers who enjoy historical fiction, folklore, crime novels, or all three.

[Allison Hackenberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caroline grew up a lonely child on an estate outside of London. Her father passes and she must leave home to find her brother in London only to find that he is missing. With nowhere else to go, she is hired on at his boarding house under an alias as she tries to uncover the mystery of his disappearance. She finds more questions than answers as she meets the strange assortment of men living in the boardinghouse, and more women are dying as Jack the Ripper terrorizes the streets right outside her door.

I absolutely loved this book! Such a fun, exciting read. Twists I wasn’t expecting, an unfolding mystery throughout the story.

I particularly appreciate how DeLozier wrote about trauma and PTSD without necessarily putting that name to it. Flashbacks and anxiety gave depth to Caroline’s character but she ultimately found her own strength.

Thanks to NetGalley for the early access to read and review this book!

[Larissa Soares · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m not an avid true crime consumer, nor do I know much details about the Victorian era, but I was completely sold for this!

The Whitechapel Full Moon Society follows the story of Caroline Foster, a young woman who has recently sold all her goods to pay for her dead father’s death, and moved to London to live with her brother. However, as soon as she arrives in London, not only does she realises that her brother is missing, but the infamous the Jack the Ripper is lost in Whitechapel (same neighbourhood her brother lives in) making victims.

The mystery in the book doesn’t try to jump out and scare you like modern thriller. DeLozier doesn’t lean on thrills or high-speed chases, she just keeps dropping these subtle, weird hints that creates a slow build up until you’re slammed with the truth. It felt like watching those trippy folk-horror movies from the 70s and 80s. The book has that hazy, dreamlike middle ground where you aren't sure if the supernatural is real or if the characters are just caught up in a collective fever dream. Like that classic Gothic trope where the "monster" might just be a metaphor for the period's unexplained violence.

When it comes to the setting, everything felt solid to me; the boarding house dynamics, the class differences, how women had to navigate the world, the way people talked about the murders. I’m not a Victorian expert (very far away from it actually), but it all felt right, you know? And even if some details weren’t 100% historically accurate, I wouldn’t care. This is historical FICTION with FANTASY elements, so judging it for being “inaccurate” would be ridiculous.

Now, I’ve seen people complain that the supernatural element wasn’t needed, but I completely disagree. The fantasy hints made the mystery so much more thrilling. As I’ve mentioned, you’re constantly wondering if Caroline’s questionings are actually real. That edge of “wait, could this be true?” was what kept me hooked. That said, I get why some readers might be frustrated. The supernatural isn’t the focus, it’s more like this undercurrent of mystery that doesn’t fully reveal itself until near the end. If you’re expecting a full-on Victorian fantasy, you might be disappointed by how little you actually see. And if you hate fantasy entirely, even these hints might annoy you. But for me? It was good. I don’t think I would’ve been this engaged if this was just a historical mystery about Jack the Ripper.

Now, one thing that really bothered me was how long it took for the story to actually get moving. To be honest, it felt like the plot didn't truly start until the halfway point. Since the book is so character-driven, the story just hits a wall whenever the main character isn't focused on the mystery. I found myself stuck reading pages of errands, kitchen chores, and petty arguments between guests when I really just wanted to get to get back to the mystery. I kept wishing Caroline would take a more active role. If she doesn't seem to care about finding her brother, it’s hard for me to stay invested in it.

I also felt like I was being told how to feel instead of being allowed to decide for myself. We constantly hear Caroline saying she doesn't trust the men at Full Moon or that there’s "something wrong in the air," but her experience doesn't really back that up. Most of the people in the boardinghouse are actually perfectly nice to her. Because we don't see them doing anything genuinely suspicious or shady, her distrust is unearned. It felt like the author was trying to force a specific mood onto the scene rather than building a situation where I’d naturally feel uneasy on my own.

Despite the elevated vocabulary and complex sentences (the Victorian writing style is normally not my favourite), the book never feels hard to read or understand. DeLozier manages to capture the rhythm of a 19th-century classic while keeping the language clear enough for a modern audience. To me it felt like watching a theater play: dramatic, hyper-focused on sensory details, and exaggerated. I would also say that the style isn't just a decorative choice, but fundamental to the story. If it were written like a standard modern thriller, the whole "Victorian London" vibe would disappear, and the experience wouldn't be nearly as effective.

So, even without having extensive knowledge of Jack’s story and victims, or how London worked in the 1880’s, I still enjoyed it!

[Elizabeth Hailwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of The Whitechapel Full Moon Society from NetGalley, thank you so much!

The gorgeous cover and the intriguing title are what first caught my eye when browsing. Jack the Ripper? The full moon? Sign me up!

I went into the book mostly blind (after forgetting what I’d read in the blurb) and I was hooked pretty much straight away. There were lots of questions raised fairly quickly (Where’s Charlie? Why is Charlie a secret? What’s Jack the Ripper got to do with all this?) but in a readable, not overly complicated way.

I loved how the author stayed as true to 1888 London and the story of Jack the Ripper as possible before interweaving and reimagining it as the story progresses. I think, once I’d figured out where we were going with the “full moon” part of the book, I perhaps expected there to be a bigger reveal, it felt a little bit rushed at the end. But it almost didn’t matter as I was so invested in the other side of the story.

I think the characters are likeable and the book was overall an easy, enjoyable read. I’d definitely recommend it if you enjoy historical fiction with a touch of the supernatural!

[Laurel · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the moment Caroline Foster first entered the residence on 212 Old Montague Street in Whitechapel and felt the eyes of the residents on her, I was hooked. This was going to be my kind of book. And it was.

A penniless young woman in search of her brother and a final mysterious letter from him convince her to seek employment at the boardinghouse, The Whitechapel Full Moon Society, where he last lived, and try to solve the secrets surrounding his disappearance. The odd assortment of residents and the conditions of her employment only add intrigue.

“..you are never, under any circumstances, to enter the east wing of the second floor.

…Lastly, and most importantly. One night per month we host a…a supper party. You will help me serve dinner, then immediately retire to your room. You will lock your door and not open it until the following morning after the sun has risen."

The characters are interesting and all play a part, no matter how small, in the story. In fact, they add to it and give it a flavor that might otherwise have been missed.

Finally, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the Whitechapel murders, primarily because aside from Caroline’s search for her brother Charlie, the boardinghouse is in Whitechapel and there is much mention of the murders and the search for Jack the Ripper. The author Elizabeth DeLozier has conducted research into these 19th century murders and also recommends Hallie Rubenhold’s nonfiction book The Five: The Untold Lives of the Women Killed by Jack the Ripper, which I’ve read. While DeLozier does make clear she has taken liberties in writing her fiction book, she has also taken great pains to portray the true nature of the Ripper’s victims, instead of the sensational descriptions in the press at the time and also today.

I am now anxious to read Ms. DeLozier’s previous book, Eleanore of Avignon.

Thanks to NetGallery for providing me with an advance copy of this book.

[emma ꪆৎ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Dutton Publishing for providing me with the ARC

The story follows Caroline Foster, who, following the tracks of her lost brother, arrives in London coincidentally when the infamous Jack the Ripper murders are taking place. Caroline is an intelligent, strong and resourceful protagonist, I absolutely adored following her and her investigations.
To preserve the mystery around the other characters, I won't say much about my feelings towards them, but what I can say is that they make a very fascinating bunch, whose different stories I loved reading about.
While I was busy making my amateurish conjectures about the main mystery, a supernatural plot line lingered in the background. The final revelations regarding this aspect were a very fun addition, but the two angles of the plot travel on parallel lines, even as the final reveal is disclosed they don’t particularly intertwine with one another. This way it feels like they’re a bit disconnected, so it would make sense for the more supernatural part being explored in an eventual second installment.
It was a pretty easy read, stylistically very pleasant, while emotionally speaking there are a few deeper and heavier parts that add to the story.
So, this is the perfect book for readers that, like me, are suckers for the historical mystery with a romance subplot and big fans, again, like me, of series like “Stalking Jack the Ripper” by Kerri Maniscalco.

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of The Whitechapel Fullmoon Society: A Novel in return for a review from Netgalley.

This is the author’s second novel. The Whitechapel Fullmoon Society: A Novel is set in Victorian England and centres around the main character, Caroline Foster. She is a young woman who finds herself with nowhere to go when her father dies and leaves the family in debt. She travels to London in search of her brother who has stopped all communication with her. This is also a very dangerous time in London as Jack the Ripper is killing his way through Whitechapel.

While working as a maid at the Whitechapel Full Moon Society boarding house for men, she investigates her brother’s disappearance. Everything is not as it seems at the boardinghouse. There are secrets and Caroline finds herself in danger.

This was a good read!

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book - I am always drawn to Jack the Ripper content, and I liked that the author made a shout out to The Five in her authors note.

The writing really shines in its setting and description - I could picture Whitechapel well. Some of the "supernatural" elements were unnecessary and predictable and I dont know if the Jack the Ripper cases were the correct framework for this mystery, but I did enjoy it. I did not connect with the main protagonist in the way I hoped to - that being said, it was a good length for a slow burn mystery. Not too grisly, fairly respectful and diverse. No complaints at all!

[Sarah Harney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Dutton for an ARC of The Whitechapel Full Moon Society via NetGalley.

This was a bit outside my usual genre but the mix of historical fiction, paranormal, and mystery made for a fun and unique read! I loved that Caroline was a strong female main character who took charge of her own destiny even when her situation was grim. I also enjoyed uncovering the secrets of the Full Moon Society. A great choice if you are looking to branch out and try something other than the "typical" mystery book.

4 stars

[sylvie · Rating 2 out of 5]

{ received an arc of the book }

I loved the cover, and the description of the book sounded right up my alley, so I was happy to get my hands on a copy.

As for the story itself, I was pretty invested during the first half of the book. It was an easy read, and I found myself anticipating where the story might go.

I actually forgot it was classified as fantasy until the fantasy element appeared, and that’s where the book lost me. The fantasy aspect felt unnecessary and didn’t add much to the story. The mystery was also very predictable, with a lot of it explained directly by the characters; told rather than shown. There wasn’t much buildup to the final events, and unfortunately, the ending wasn’t very satisfying either.

[Caroline · Rating 2 out of 5]

So predictable and anticlimactic.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

An intriguing spin on the story of Jack the Ripper with a paranormal twist. The characters were well-written, and the descriptions of Whitechapel were historically accurate. I found myself ignoring other things I should have been doing because I couldn't put it down. I really enjoyed it, and I am looking forward to her next novel whenever that happens!

[Malvina Vince · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read in two-ish days, especially on a rainy afternoon, some coffee and a cat to enjoy it more. First ARC copy read from Netgalley :)

I had completely forgotten the supernatural part at first, but I think it was perfectly balanced in the story. The two story lines are tied, but not too oddly linked, and they both are interesting. The plots keep you engaged from start to finish, though I did find some little part right before the beginning of the second half of the book to be slightly slower. But the rest of the book is well paced, written with a flowy and pretty prose, that delivers enough details to feel fully immersed. Will probably buy one copy for myself when it's out !

[Evie Oliva · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first time reading a book by Elizabeth DeLozier and after reading this, I'm already on the hunt for Eleanore of Avignon. DeLozier has a way with writing that draws the reader in and keeps them hooked on the emotions as well as the action of the story. I was reading in between cooking and cleaning and even foregoing sleep so that I could finish this book. My sleep is precious to me but this book made it difficult to put it down long enough to get rest. I wanted to know what was going to happen and in the end, I loved the journey of this book and its characters. 

The Whitechapel Full Moon Society follows Caroline Foster, recently orphaned and now in London to find her only remaining family, her brother Charlie. Caroline finds the Whitechapel Full Moon Society, the last known residence of her brother's, and gets hired as a maid, hoping to find clues as to where her brother has gone. She's given three rules to follow, don't ask the guests personal questions, remain in her room the entire night of thr full moon and don't enter the barred east wing. But Caroline is worried about her brother and she thinks the Society is hiding something. At the same time, Jack the Ripper is stalking the streets and a previous maid of the Society was one of the first Ripper victims. Caroline thinks the two are connected and that figuring out the truth about the Society will reveal who Jack the Ripper is and help her find her brother. 

I was hooked from synopsis alone but I will say once the book starts, I was pulled in immediately. Caroline proved to be a resourceful lead, doing everything she needed to do to settle her father's accounts after his death and then making a plan to join her brother in London. The book picks up with her already on the train on her way to the last address she had for her brother. We know that he told her not to folliw him, that things weren't safe and he would come for her but Caroline is out of options so she takes matters into her own hands and leaves to find him. Already this proves the strength she has, the will it takes to go out and do something she has never done, having lived a fairly sheltered existence thus far.

As for the owner and guests at the society, I was invested in learning about all of them. I thought Mrs. Easton, who was the owner of the establishment, was a fair boss and maybe even particularly forgiving as I'm sure there was a lot of learning on Caroline's part as she started work as a maid. I thought the reveals about the guests and how they were linked to Charlie was well-done in the sense that several reveals I didn't see coming and their impact on the story were both important and maybe even heart-wrenching. In a way, this book is as much about the idea of a found family as it is a murder story and mystery and I am all for the emotions wrenched out of me with that addition.

I was making different theories over fhe course of the story about what happened to Charlie and the reveals are given with enough left behind to keep the reader flipping pages. A good writer leads the reader to where they need to go and allows them time to take in the information and be ready to move on and DeLozier keeps this story moving perfectly. As Jack the Ripper plays a part in this book, readers are given smippets of the letters that were sent to taunt the police which helped ramp up the tension. There were also pieces of news stories and both helped in teminding readers about the true fear that kept people indoors when this serial killer was on the loose. The fact that they were never found also hangs over the reader, adding another layer of tension to the story.

I read the Author's Note and I believe the respect that DeLozier gives the victims in this book is something to be admired. The book might be giving another idea about what happened with this serial killer but it also gives a look at the kind of lives those women may have had, showing them to be what they were, women who had plans, hopes and dreams, partners and loved ones. It says a lot about DeLozier that this was something purposefully added to the book to highlight the tragedy of what happened to those five lost souls. I've moved the book DeLozier mentioned, The Five: The Untold Lives of the Women Killed by Jack the Ripper by Hallie Rubenhold up to the top of by reading list as a result of reading this book.

I'm sure it's obvious what kind of lore has been added to this story but I'm not going to explicitly state it at this time. What I will say is that I enjoyed the take that DeLozier developed for this story. The history of forgotten tales and the beliefs in the time of this story were a unique take that I thought added a depth I did not expect to a story about monsters and curses. To say anything else would spoil this part of the book., so suffice to say, it had the right hook to reel in readers. The characters it involved and the connections made were enough to keep enthralled with the tale. By the time the book was over, I was happy with where the characters had been left and I had hope for where they would go, all sugns pointing to a great story. 

Read this book if you like murder mysteries with a twist of monsters. You can't go wrong when monsters are added to a story.


Rating on my scale: After careful consideration, I'm giving this the whole 10 stars on my scale. In the end, I loved the reveals, I loved the characters, I loved the ending. This was an unexpected delight and I can't wait to try reading something else by DeLozier in the near future.



My thanks to Netgalley, Dutton and Elizabeth DeLozier for the eARC of this book in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.

[Mari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I actually came across The Whitechapel Full Moon Society by Elizabeth DeLozier through an invitation from the publisher, and after reading the teaser I was like: yeah, why not? I really enjoyed The Fox and the Devil, so I was hoping for a similarly fun and engaging experience and based on the premise, it definitely sounded like it could deliver.

I should probably mention that I’m not a huge suspense reader. I dip into the genre now and then, but it’s not something I’m deeply familiar with. The upside of that is that I can kind of “switch off” expectations about typical plot structures, which means I actually get surprised by twists more easily. That said, I do think the story might have worked even better for me if the supernatural element hadn’t already been revealed in the teaser. The atmosphere and the subtle (and sometimes less subtle) hints throughout the book could just as easily have been read as the protagonist’s imagination almost until the very end, which I would have loved, even as straight historical fiction.

Because I already knew what was coming, some elements felt a bit obvious early on, but honestly, that didn’t ruin the experience. The book still plays really well with expectations, building trust only to break it again, and delivering a twist that felt genuinely fresh to me

Another thing I really loved: this book is very feminist at its core. I haven’t read anything else by Elizabeth DeLozier, so I wasn’t familiar with her writing style going in, but I’m a big fan of debut novels and this one was genuinely impressive.

Caroline’s character development throughout the story really stood out to me. I’ll admit that her co-dependency with Charlie got a bit frustrating at times, but then I had to remind myself of the historical context how difficult life was for women in the 19th century, and how little their sense of self-worth was shaped by independence. Her emotional journey, slowly growing out of that fragile shell and certain dependencies, felt believable and consistent. I also really appreciated that the romance stayed in the background instead of overshadowing her story.

The way Caroline approaches her search for her brother: careful, thoughtful, and sometimes slow, felt incredibly fitting. Sure, it could be frustrating at times, but in a good way. The book thrives on its slow-burn tension, and those moments are really well executed. I honestly can’t stand stories where someone goes undercover and immediately makes big moves after three days without building any trust so I loved that Caroline took her time. Smart, cautious female characters are always a win for me.

I also really enjoyed how the Jack the Ripper storyline was handled. It’s very much a subplot, mostly told through newspaper clippings and letters to the police, which made it feel immersive without taking over the narrative. I liked that the focus stayed on Caroline and her journey, while Jack the Ripper remained a looming, dangerous presence in the background.

The author’s note at the end also really stuck with me especially the decision to give the victims of Jack the Ripper names, faces, and stories. That feels incredibly relevant, not just historically but also in light of current discussions, where the focus so often shifts to perpetrators instead of victims. Centering the victims here added a lot of emotional weight for me.

Mary Jane was another standout character for me. Through Caroline’s initial jealousy since Mary Jane was clearly close to Charlie as well she first appears a bit ambiguous, but she never falls into that cliché of women being unnecessarily competitive with each other. Her arc was strong and compelling, and her death genuinely hit me. Even though I figured out pretty early who Jack was, I didn’t see that particular development coming.

Overall, I found the reading experience consistently engaging and rich in detail. The members of the Full Moon Society are all wonderfully strange, and together they create a kind of found family that I really enjoyed. There’s also a subtle queer-coded element woven into the story, which felt natural and never forced it’s part of the world, but not the entire focus.

The depiction of 19th-century London was vivid and immersive from the uneven, grimy streets to the clothing and the atmosphere. Even though most of the story takes place inside the Full Moon Society, the setting itself feels alive and full of character!

All in all, Elizabeth DeLozier has created a strong, atmospheric, and compelling novel here one that I genuinely had a great time reading.

[Eve Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those books that I give 5 stars because not only did I start and finish it two days, and essentially one sitting (I had to sleep in between). But the premise, the writing, the characters and the plot twists in a story I thought I knew, all kept me on my toes and wanting more.

As an avid true crime nerd and a lover of historical fiction, I picked up this ARC (through NetGalley) with high expectations. I wanted to see a new spin on a gruesome tale that has left many wondering for over 100 years. It is safe to say my expectations were met and thoroughly exceeded. A historical fiction, that remains mostly true to the events and time period in which is covers, but with a supernatural twist one I did not see coming until nearly 80% of the way through the book.

I think why it works so well is because (at least up until very recently and there is still some doubt) the case of Jack the Ripper has gone unsolved with no real evidence pointing to who did it, and the time since their - presumably his - crimes have long since passed so there is room to take creative liberties. I think the way it was handled, with the names of the victims kept, but giving them more dignity than they were offered at the time - and still are in many of the things written about it today - labelled as prostitutes and sex workers was refreshing.

The pacing was well done, though there were times when I wished it would move faster simply because I wanted to reach the next plot point, but it felt almost intentional. As the reader, I was forced to slow down and wait things out with Caroline so when the stakes were high, but there was nothing she could do but mull over things again and again, her frustration could be felt.

The characters, were all written in a way that gave them a lot of depth despite all being portrayed through the perspective of Caroline. We as the reader are only given as much as Caroline can gather about each of them through what possessions they have in their rooms and her interactions with them. And of herself we are only given the amount of information she actually knows or has been told and therefore believes. We are left wondering is she reading things wrong? Is what she's been told correct, misremembered over time? Is there something she's not picking up on? Which yes there was, to all of these questions that I had. Which brings me to my next point

There were parts of the story, carefully threaded and laid out that I picked up before they were confirmed (GO ME, detective at work!!). It truly felt like a true crime podcast - my favourite form of true crime consumption - where the events and people are introduced in a way that you can't trust anyone, not even the narrator in this case. I spent so much of the book doubting Caroline's voice and trying to figure out if she was the paranoid one, or maybe it was me.

I kept a note next to me, writing down all my inner commentary and burning questions at just what the hell was happening... to which they were later revealed and boy was it satisfying to be able to look back and say I knew it - there was also some times of kicking myself for not realising other things until Caroline herself figured them out. The constant, who do I believe, and who do I trust, the why so many secrets and the why are you so interested in this or that really made me think.

More on being made to think, I found myself having to go and look up the definition of a number of words, some more because they were historical descriptions that I wasn't familiar with, others because I simply did not know the meaning. A process that I - maybe an unpopular opinion - love. To be intellectually stimulated and forced to broaden my vocabulary is something I thoroughly enjoy. And is something that I have not found for a while in the books I've found myself reading, so it was a pleasant change. This alongside the content of the book following a pre-existing timeline, with real people, but integrated with fictional elements was captivating.

ARC received through NetGalley, all opinions are my own.

[Rachel Reeves · Rating 4 out of 5]

TW: Murder, sexual assault, attempted rape, mutilation, drug use (administered and unwitting) slight period typical homophobia, period typical misogyny, slight period typical racism

The Whitechapel Full Moon Society was a gripping, suspenseful and heartfelt read.

But first, the plot: Caroline Foster is a noble down on her luck. In a bid to escape the crushing poverty brought on by her father's gambling debts, she goes to London to find her missing brother, Charlie. However, when she arrives at the Whitechapel Full Moon Society, she is told that her brother hasn't been there for months, and they almost close the door in her face. Desperate, VCaroline says that she's looking for a position as a maid, which the Society desperately needs. She is reluctantly hired, as the last maid was killed by none other than Jack the Ripper. As Caroline settles into life at the Society, caring for it's diverse and strange guests, she is given three rules: don't go to the iron barred door on the second floor, don't ask personal questions and remain in her room during the full moon. Will Caroline be able to find her brother? What is the Society hiding? Where will the Ripper strike again?

The characters were a huge part of this novel, and they did their job well. I loved Caroline in particular; her love for her brother is realistic and heart-wrenching, and she has a tenacity that resonated, especially at the beginning of the novel when her desperation was palatable. However, her extreme devotion to her brother might turn some readers off, as he is never far from her thoughts, and that may get repetitive. In addition to this, she is a character with flaws, and exhibits homophobia and racism towards the Society's guests. However, she does grow out of this, and by the end, I was fully rooting for her character. Just be warned it takes a bit for her to get there.

The side characters (namely, Charlie, the boarders, (including Rab her love interest) and the proprietress of the boardinghouse are either vivid (in the case of Rab and the manager of the boardinghouse) or at least serviceable (like with most of the lodgers.) I wish the lodgers were more fleshed out, but a few of them do get scenes where they shine, and they are all men with him I'd love to learn more about. This also extends to their big secret, which I won't elaborate upon for spoiler reasons, but I wish we spent a bit more time with it. I appreciate the representation (of both PoC and differing religious practices) and it was done in a 'realistic' way if that is a deal breaker. The same goes for the queer rep, but due to spoiler reasons, I will not elaborate.

The setting of this novel was done well too. I really felt the grime and pollution of industrial London, along with the unexpected patches of beauty in the darkness. However, as the book mostly takes place in Whitechapel and another poorer district of London, it feels a bit claustrophobic. It also means that there is a level of convenience and coincidence that shouldn't happen in a large city but that is mostly forgivable.

The mystery was compelling as well, if a bit obvious once mulled over. However, the book has a few red herrings that did trick me, so that was appreciated. The real life victims of Jack the Ripper were treated with respect which I appreciate as well. I usually stay away from true crime stories because of a glorification of the killer, but I'm glad the author was more tasteful than most.

All in all, I really did enjoy this book, even if certain parts left me wanting more.

Thanks to NetGalley and Dutton for the ARC!

Final Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Check out my blog for drink parings and other reviews: https://theredreaderreviews.blogspot.com

[Reneaue · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (rounded up) - Surprised me with the historical details, and a well-written mystery.

After the death of her father and the loss of everything she knew and loved, Caroline Foster is left with only one choice: travel to London in search of her elusive brother, Charlie. The problem is that Charlie explicitly told her not to come; and he has not been heard from in months. With just a few pence to her name, Caroline arrives at his last known address, a boarding house called The Whitechapel Full Moon Society, only to discover that he no longer lives there and no one seems to know what became of him.

Desperate and determined, Caroline notices a help wanted sign and persuades the proprietor to hire her on as a maid, passing herself off as a former lady’s maid. It is a risky deception, but one she hopes will allow her to uncover answers about her brother’s disappearance.

From the moment Caroline steps inside the boarding house, it is clear that not all is as it seems. The house has a dark reputation and an atmosphere thick with secrecy, and Whitechapel itself is no place for a young woman...especially with a murderer stalking the streets at night. A murderer whose name is infamous: Jack the Ripper. Caroline begins to suspect that the boarders of the Whitechapel Full Moon Society may be connected both to the murders and to Charlie’s vanishing. Still, she presses on, knowing that finding her brother may come at the cost of her own safety.

Despite the novel’s title, readers should not expect a traditional werewolf story. While the assumption isn’t entirely unfounded, The Whitechapel Full Moon Society is not a supernatural horror novel. Instead, it is a richly layered work of historical fiction and mystery set in Victorian London, infused with touches of Welsh folklore that lend an eerie, subtle supernatural edge.

The true power of this story lies in its exploration of impoverished women in Victorian England. Society showed little mercy to women who fell on hard times, and with no legal or social safety nets, many were forced into circumstances not of their choosing. Elizabeth DeLozier brings compassion and humanity to Jack the Ripper’s victims, challenging the simplistic narrative that they were merely prostitutes. These were women who slipped through the cracks of society: mothers, daughters, sisters—doing whatever they could to survive.

The mystery itself is compelling. While I had my suspicions along the way, the revelations still held a few surprises. This is not a book to pick up expecting monstrous creatures lurking in the shadows; rather, it is a thoughtful, atmospheric mystery with a clear nod to the world of Arthur Conan Doyle. DeLozier keeps the pages turning while slowly tightening the sense of unease, reminding readers that monsters do not always bare fangs.

Sometimes, they hide in plain sight....behind ordinary faces, and familiar eyes.

======================
Special thanks to NetGalley, Dutton Publishing and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Joseph Haddon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Title: The Whitechapel Full Moon Society: A Pre-Read Hype Train That Derailed (Literally) 🚂💥

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (Based on the Blurb, The Vibe, and The Drama)

Okay, friends, gather round. We need to talk about The Whitechapel Full Moon Society by Elizabeth DeLozier. Specifically, we need to talk about the fact that I was supposed to be writing a glowing, 5-star, deep-dive review of Caroline Foster's journey through Victorian London, but then... plot twist... my library access got revoked faster than a Ripper vanishing into the fog. 🌫️🔪

So, consider this my "Review by Proxy" and a eulogy for the time I spent staring at the cover wondering if I'd ever get to read the actual pages.

The Premise (Because I did my homework): From what I gathered before the digital gates slammed shut, this book is giving major V.E. Schwab meets Dana Schwartz vibes. We're talking 1888 London, Jack the Ripper lurking in the shadows, and our heroine, Caroline Foster, trying to infiltrate a secret society called the "Whitechapel Full Moon Society" to find her missing brother.

The blurb promises a "dilapidated façade hiding an opulent gentlemen's club." Honestly? That sounds like the ultimate setting for a gossip column. Imagine the tea: "Oh, did you hear Lord X is actually a werewolf? And Lady Y is running a smuggling ring out of the basement?" 🍵🐺

The "Review" (Based on Expectations & The Vibe):

The Atmosphere: The description screams "moody Victorian gothic." I was ready to be obsessed with the fog, the gaslight, and the general sense of impending doom.
The Stakes: Missing brother + serial killer + secret society = high stakes. If the book delivers on the tension, it's going to be a rollercoaster.
The Romance: The summaries hint at a "simmering love story." I was ready to ship characters before I even met them.
The Mystery: Infiltrating a secret society is a classic trope, but doing it in the middle of the Ripper murders? That's a bold move.
The Verdict (From the Outside Looking In): I wanted to tell you if Caroline is brave or reckless, if the magic system holds up, or if the ending left me screaming. But alas, my access was cut, and now I'm just a ghost in the machine, haunting the comments section.

Who is this for? If you love historical fantasy, secret societies, and stories where the protagonist has to be smarter than a whole city of murderers, this is likely your next obsession. If you're a fan of Assassins Anonymous or The Gilded Wolves, you're probably already on the waitlist.

Final Thought: I'm leaving this review as a placeholder until I can get my hands on a physical copy (or until the library gods show mercy). Until then, I'm just going to assume the book is amazing because the premise is too good to be bad.

Update: If anyone has a spare copy or knows a wizard who can restore my access, please DM me. I need to know if Caroline finds her brother! 👻📚

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

I FLEW through this book. I picked it up one night, just to get a taste of what the narrative felt like….and I couldn’t stop thinking about it. Wondering what was going to happen next. Where was Charlie? What was he entangled in? How the heck was Caroline going to figure this out, penniless and alone in the world? The authors did an excellent job of drawing the reader in, painting a vivid picture of late 1800s London and sketching the portrait of an intriguing cast of characters. For me, everything jumped off the page. I also appreciate the prose, there were some beautiful turns of phrase that seemed unique to the authors s style. As this was a Netgalley ARC (thanks for honoring my request) I am not sure I’m allowed to pull a quote.

I have more to say however, I feel I need a moment to ruminate on this tale. I think my greatest delight was when I read the author afterword and she directly referenced The Five by Hayley Rutherford. This is one of my favorite past nonfiction reads. It focused solely on the victims of Jack the Ripper and humanized them. Painted a picture of White Chapel and the difficult, oft impossible circumstances women of a certain station faced. The choices they had to make when they had little to no choices left. That resonated throughout the book, as the author treated the victims with grace. Highly recommend honoring those women by reading that book!

I enjoyed this exploration of this time in history and a plausible, if fictional, take on who The Ripper may have been. I found it believable and I also enjoyed watching Caroline navigate this world that was so new to her. The fall from noblewoman to penniless orphan could have been a death sentence in that era. That she used her wits and secured a position as a maid was highly fortunate. Also to understand the workload of someone of that station and the bone tired drudgery of the Victorian era in general was well done.

I also enjoyed how the mystery of the Society slowly unfurled as well, and mysteriously and curious as monkshood. The authors observations and how well she paints outcasts,humanizes those who are a little different. Really well done.

My only complaint is that I feel slightly bereft to part from these characters so suddenly. We only just scratched the surface of the enigma that is the Whitechapel Full Moon Society and we did not get to revel in the supernatural, like I so longed to do. Simply a taste. Therefore, dear author: I beseech you for a sequel. Hear me out: yes, you wrapped this story up nearly, and efficiently, however, I think there is room to elaborate on other sensational crimes of the time or unique happenings of the era. I’ll draw a list together, happy to support this endeavor . ;-)

[Joanne Spence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review — The Whitechapel Full Moon Society by Elizabeth DeLozier
(NetGalley ARC)

Set in Victorian London during the terrifying reign of Jack the Ripper, The Whitechapel Full Moon Society draws readers into a dark, atmospheric mystery filled with secrets, suspicion, and unexpected twists.

Caroline Foster finds herself suddenly alone after her father’s death leaves her with crushing debt and no choice but to sell the family estate. With nothing but what fits in a steamer trunk, she travels to London searching for her estranged brother, Charlie — who, according to the family Bible, is supposedly dead. Her search leads her to the Whitechapel Full Moon Society, a dilapidated exterior hiding an opulent exclusive gentleman’s club.

In exchange for room and board, Caroline accepts a position as maid — replacing the previous one who fell victim to Jack the Ripper. Two unusual conditions accompany the job: she must lock herself in her room during every full moon, and she must never enter the wing of the house with the barred and locked door. As Caroline settles in, she becomes acquainted with the boarding house residents — each distinct, vividly written, and memorable. The author does a wonderful job creating characters so well defined that it’s easy to picture them clearly in your mind.

As Caroline continues searching for her brother, she begins to question the strange rules of the house, the mysterious locked door, and the full-moon gatherings she is forbidden to witness. Her suspicions grow, and she starts to wonder if someone in the house could be connected to the Ripper murders.

The story begins at a slower pace, but after a few chapters, subtle hints start to appear. From that point forward, the tension steadily builds until the final portion of the book becomes nearly impossible to put down. The ending delivers a surprising twist that comes completely out of left field, along with another revelation about Caroline herself that attentive readers may partially anticipate, though not entirely.

One of the strengths of this novel is its balance of description — vivid enough to create atmosphere and imagery, but never so heavy that it slows the pacing. The Jack the Ripper backdrop provides a compelling hook, while the mystery and character dynamics keep the reader engaged.

The only element I wished had been handled differently was Caroline’s search for her brother. While his disappearance is vital to the story and its unfolding, I would have liked a bit more resolution there.

Overall, The Whitechapel Full Moon Society is an engaging Victorian mystery with memorable characters, a strong sense of place, and a twisty, suspenseful conclusion.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely. 📚🌕✨

[TheNovelNomad · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Whitechapel Full Moon Society is an atmospheric, slow-burn mystery that skillfully reimagines Victorian London at the height of Jack the Ripper’s terror, blending historical intrigue with folklore and a restrained supernatural edge. Elizabeth DeLozier creates a story that feels both familiar and fresh, grounding its suspense not just in murder, but in secrecy, grief, and the dangerous act of asking questions in a world determined to keep women silent.

Caroline Foster is an easy protagonist to root for—resourceful, observant, and quietly determined. Her search for her missing brother provides an emotional anchor to the story, giving weight to every risk she takes while working as a maid inside the enigmatic Whitechapel Full Moon Society. The house itself is one of the novel’s greatest strengths: opulent yet claustrophobic, governed by rigid rules that immediately signal danger. Each restriction, each unanswered question, deepens the sense that something ancient and unsettling lurks just beneath the surface.

DeLozier excels at atmosphere. The fog-soaked streets of Whitechapel, the constant fear of violence, and the ever-present shadow of Jack the Ripper create a sustained unease that never fully lifts. The pacing is deliberate, favoring tension and immersion over spectacle, which allows the mystery to unfold gradually and keeps the reader locked into Caroline’s limited perspective. When the supernatural elements do emerge, they feel purposeful rather than gratuitous—woven into the narrative in a way that complements the historical setting instead of overwhelming it.

The novel’s handling of the Ripper murders is notably respectful. Rather than sensationalizing violence, the story acknowledges the humanity of the victims and situates the crimes within a broader social context, reinforcing the novel’s emotional and ethical grounding. While some plot developments may be anticipated by seasoned readers of historical mysteries, the execution remains satisfying, and the final revelations bring the threads together with confidence and care.

Ultimately, The Whitechapel Full Moon Society is a richly textured blend of historical fiction, mystery, and folklore that prioritizes mood, character, and restraint. Fans of gothic settings, secret societies, and reimagined history will find much to admire here. DeLozier delivers a compelling and immersive read that lingers long after the final page, offering a haunting and thoughtful alternative take on one of history’s most infamous eras.

[Ariel · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Whitechapel Full Moon Society is a historical murder mystery set during Jack the Ripper's reign of terror in Victorian London. There's a dash of fantasy sprinkled on top, and the hints of a budding romance which are not the focus of the book. It's an enjoyable read which handles its real world historical subjects respectfully. Readers of historical mysteries are likely to enjoy it.

The book follows Caroline Forester, a sickly young woman of a posh upbringing who finds herself in diminished circumstances after the death of her father. She travels to London to find her semi-estranged brother who hasn't written or visited in months. There in Whitechapel she finds the Full Moon Society, a mysterious boarding house her brother previously lived. Making it her home base while she investigates his disappearance, she gets a job there working as a kitchen maid.

London is described with rich, vivid prose. A great deal of care has been paid to historical accuracy. The language throughout is well chosen and a pleasure to read. There is a strong sense of time and place that's complimented by good narration. Like the streets of Whitechapel, the boarders at the Full Moon Society are fully rendered, with each of the retinue becoming a distinct character in only a few scenes. The characters alongside Caroline with more attention are well-rounded and likeable. I'd happily read another book following the same motley cast.

Where this book falls down a little is in the structure and pacing. You can likely guess what the dash of supernatural flare in the book is merely from the title, and if not, most readers will pick up on it in an early chapter. Caroline, meanwhile, never picks up on it despite the hints being woven throughout the book. The big reveal (the "well, it's about time!" of it all) doesn't come until the very end of the book, at which point it feels a bit rushed and like Caroline is catching up to what we all already guessed. Additionally, the mystery that drives Caroline—what's happened to her missing brother—is solved as an afterthought to the book's central mystery, the identity of Jack the Ripper, which is only ever of background interest to Caroline. These issues fumbled a bit at the end of what was otherwise a very strong book that I devoured quickly. I still enjoyed it despite that, but lovers of tricky mysteries might be let down by the twists.

Thank you to Dutton and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review!

[Dotti · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Whitechapel Full Moon Society is a paranormal historical mystery filled with intrigue, suspense and even a little thrill. Our main character, Caroline, has lost her father and her fortune and heads to London to find her brother for sanctuary. When she arrives at his boarding house, she finds out that he hasn’t been seen for months, and a mysterious killer has been murdering prostitutes. Caroline takes a placement at a maid at the boarding house, determined to learn the secrets that the house and its inhabitants seem to be hiding. Set against the 1880 Jack the Ripper murders, this story has twists and intrigue, where not everything is what it seems.

This story was compelling and engaging. Caroline’s characterization is well done, a low-ranking noble’s daughter seeking to make her way after a series of gambling debts have bankrupted the family. The story feels very rooted in the historical context of 1880 without being verbose, and detail is given to social class and the Jack the Ripper murders.

The paranormal element of this story provided a lot of the suspense within the story, but the revelation about the nature of the supernatural really only happens at the end of the story. The author has three mysteries (the Jack the Ripper murders, Charlie’s disappearance, and the suspicious nature of Whitechapel) and is able to weave them together and pluck them apart as suits her, which is a nice touch.

The publisher’s blurb cites both Sarah Penner and V. E. Schwab as authors with similar books, and I think Penner is a much better comparison than Schwab. The book does not have Schwab’s fantastical elements woven throughout, nor does it have her compelling romances. However, this book absolutely parallels Sarah Penner’s books in both style and content, and I think that any fan of Penner’s would probably find this book intriguing.

I enjoyed myself thoroughly while reading this book, curious about the mysteries unfolding and the final result. I found myself satisfied with the end of the story, especially with the big twist at the end. I was surprised with the end but it also made sense, which is always what you hope for when reading a mystery.

Thank you to Dutton for providing this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.