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Lawrence Hapham Mystery #2
The Ripper Deception
A woman dies alone in Ipswich, tormented by a secret from her past. Clues lead to the death of Edmund Gurney in Brighton three years earlier.
Work has dried up for Private Detective Lawrence Harpham and his partner Violet. Lawrence takes the opportunity to visit Brighton leaving Violet to conduct her first solo case in Suffolk.
Both inquiries lead unexpectedly to Whitechapel and the murder of Frances Coles. Was Frances a Ripper victim and is her murder linked to the autumn of terror? Jack is back – or is he?
Work has dried up for Private Detective Lawrence Harpham and his partner Violet. Lawrence takes the opportunity to visit Brighton leaving Violet to conduct her first solo case in Suffolk.
Both inquiries lead unexpectedly to Whitechapel and the murder of Frances Coles. Was Frances a Ripper victim and is her murder linked to the autumn of terror? Jack is back – or is he?
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 9, 2019
127 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
About the author
Jacqueline Beard
43 books117 followersJacqueline lives in Gloucestershire with her husband, son & delinquent border terrier.
She spends her free time writing, researching her extensive East Anglian Family History and rambling through Gloucestershire’s beautiful countryside with border terrier in tow.
She spends her free time writing, researching her extensive East Anglian Family History and rambling through Gloucestershire’s beautiful countryside with border terrier in tow.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
March 12, 2021
Another great historical mystery.... with two minor flaws.
A thoroughly enjoyable novel based around the infamous 'Jack the Ripper' murders in the 1880s. Lawrence and Violet are extremely well written characters and I look forward to reading more.
The two minor flaws?
1) Violet's 'haunting' case was never wrapped up. I would have liked a conclusion to that.
2) The novel is set in 1891 and Lawrence is reading a Bram Stoker novel that we are led to assume is Dracula as he mentions Jonathan Harker. Dracula was first published in 1897.
Just a couple of niggles in an otherwise great read.
A thoroughly enjoyable novel based around the infamous 'Jack the Ripper' murders in the 1880s. Lawrence and Violet are extremely well written characters and I look forward to reading more.
The two minor flaws?
1) Violet's 'haunting' case was never wrapped up. I would have liked a conclusion to that.
2) The novel is set in 1891 and Lawrence is reading a Bram Stoker novel that we are led to assume is Dracula as he mentions Jonathan Harker. Dracula was first published in 1897.
Just a couple of niggles in an otherwise great read.
July 6, 2019
Once I started reading The Ripper Deception, I could hardly put it down. The writing is intelligent and clever. Jacqueline Beard has a great writing style that draws the reader in and keeps them there.
Lawrence Harpham is a detective in the line of Hercule Poirot and Sherlock Holmes but with more human flaws that make him more real and relatable. His assistant, Violet Smith, is a resourceful woman who breaths fresh life into the typical assistant/sidekick role with her independent mindset.
The mystery unfolds in an intriguing way. Three seemingly unrelated cases in different parts of England become entangled in a plot that involves the notorious Jack the Ripper. Lawrence and Violet find that a controversial group called the Society for Psychical Research may be at the center of the mystery, so they search for answers by attempting to infiltrate the organization. Their investigation quickly becomes more dangerous than either expected as they discover that the killings in London may not be simply the work of a lone madman.
One of the things that I appreciated most is that the settings are described in a way that makes one feel like they are right there experiencing the feel of life in the 1800s yet not too descriptive as to bog down the story. Embedded throughout the story are journal entries written by Jack the Ripper. These were my favorite parts of the book because they were intense and creepy (in a good way).
I absolutely loved this book and would recommend it to anyone who loves a good mystery or who enjoys historical fiction.
Lawrence Harpham is a detective in the line of Hercule Poirot and Sherlock Holmes but with more human flaws that make him more real and relatable. His assistant, Violet Smith, is a resourceful woman who breaths fresh life into the typical assistant/sidekick role with her independent mindset.
The mystery unfolds in an intriguing way. Three seemingly unrelated cases in different parts of England become entangled in a plot that involves the notorious Jack the Ripper. Lawrence and Violet find that a controversial group called the Society for Psychical Research may be at the center of the mystery, so they search for answers by attempting to infiltrate the organization. Their investigation quickly becomes more dangerous than either expected as they discover that the killings in London may not be simply the work of a lone madman.
One of the things that I appreciated most is that the settings are described in a way that makes one feel like they are right there experiencing the feel of life in the 1800s yet not too descriptive as to bog down the story. Embedded throughout the story are journal entries written by Jack the Ripper. These were my favorite parts of the book because they were intense and creepy (in a good way).
I absolutely loved this book and would recommend it to anyone who loves a good mystery or who enjoys historical fiction.
January 28, 2025
⭐️ 3.5 stars ⭐️
July 4, 2019
The Ripper Deception, Jacqueline Beard's second Victorian mystery featuring Private Detective Lawrence Harpham, is a well written and thoroughly researched piece of work.
Central to The Ripper Deception is the Society for Psychical Research, an organization founded in London in 1882 for the study of the paranormal. Members did rigorous research into various inexplicable phenomena including apparitions, thought transference, and hypnotism. By the early 1890s, when this novel is set, The Society had exposed numerous frauds and gained a reputation for being anti-spiritualist.
Beard's tightly woven plot features several historical characters and utilizes actual details of their lives, although Beard stresses that this is a work of her imagination. However, it is a fact that one of the founders of the Society, Edmund Gurney, a character in the novel, did die in mysterious circumstances in Brighton on June 22nd, 1888.
Beard marries these SPR characters to a clever spin on the Jack the Ripper tales, mysteries that Lawrence Harpham investigates along with his partner Violet Smith. Harpham is the main character throughout, always relying on instinct rather than reason. Violet Smith seems a promising partner, but rather disappointingly, she plays a minor role in this book.
There's heaps of period atmosphere. Beard depicts the dire poverty of East Enders very well with succinct images of the drunken, ragged denizens of the area. I wouldn't be at all surprised if Beard had checked the weather records for the period before she included a snow storm in her story. There are numerous passages of fine writing, and the “murky soup of clouds” was one phrase that stood out
The point of view is generally third person narrative, but this is interspersed with long passages from letters and journals. The letters draw us deeper into the psyche of the writer, a decidedly scary place to go.
I spotted a few details that seemed anachronistic – one character is described as being “in her teens”, and elsewhere, someone has “blown his cover”, but by and large Beard's language is period correct without being stilted or archaic.
The Ripper Deception is a first class read and will be enjoyed by all who like a little history to go with their mystery.
May 3, 2021
Loved the setting and at times it was atmospheric, but I found the characters wooden, the dialogue uninteresting a and the story-telling dull.
December 25, 2021
The Ripper Deception is … Deceptive
I’ve been intrigued by the Jack the Ripper story since I first read about in my teens fifty some odd years ago. Therefore, when fiction authors, investigators or anyone else come out with accounts that they declare are based on fact, I’m even more intrigued. And skeptical.
However, while the premise for this story IS intriguing, it was also a bit convoluted. My problem was and is that I’ve read too many investigative accounts by individuals who were either well established in the law enforcement community in one way or another, and/or had also worked on the Ripper cold case files. Or something similar. In other words, there are lots of excellent theories about who the Ripper actually was, as well as what actually happened. Not all of those theories pan out.
As for this story: in my opinion, while it may be an alternate theory – a POSSIBILITY – it is only a theory if even that. Then again, maybe it was just a plot device. Still, needless to say, I wasn’t really impressed.
Additionally, the author might consider returning to school to take English grammar and spelling classes. While I try not to be too critical when I read, sometimes it’s challenging not to do so when continually misspelled and misused words plague the manuscript. For instance, using the word ‘bought’ when ‘brought’ should have been utilized. Not trying to be nit-picky, but it IS irritating. If one is going to write, learn grammar and learn to spell. And if your native language is NOT English, please learn English well enough to utilize idioms correctly.
Just saying….
Bottom line, however, it IS an interesting plot, but not one to keep me glued to the other books in this author’s series of books.
I’ve been intrigued by the Jack the Ripper story since I first read about in my teens fifty some odd years ago. Therefore, when fiction authors, investigators or anyone else come out with accounts that they declare are based on fact, I’m even more intrigued. And skeptical.
However, while the premise for this story IS intriguing, it was also a bit convoluted. My problem was and is that I’ve read too many investigative accounts by individuals who were either well established in the law enforcement community in one way or another, and/or had also worked on the Ripper cold case files. Or something similar. In other words, there are lots of excellent theories about who the Ripper actually was, as well as what actually happened. Not all of those theories pan out.
As for this story: in my opinion, while it may be an alternate theory – a POSSIBILITY – it is only a theory if even that. Then again, maybe it was just a plot device. Still, needless to say, I wasn’t really impressed.
Additionally, the author might consider returning to school to take English grammar and spelling classes. While I try not to be too critical when I read, sometimes it’s challenging not to do so when continually misspelled and misused words plague the manuscript. For instance, using the word ‘bought’ when ‘brought’ should have been utilized. Not trying to be nit-picky, but it IS irritating. If one is going to write, learn grammar and learn to spell. And if your native language is NOT English, please learn English well enough to utilize idioms correctly.
Just saying….
Bottom line, however, it IS an interesting plot, but not one to keep me glued to the other books in this author’s series of books.
July 8, 2019
Both Ripper and historical fiction fans should enjoy this tale. Set in the 1800s with enough detail to appreciate the era, the reader is immersed into the plodding investigation of Lawrence Harpham. He is a private detective with limited scientific forensic evidence available and must rely on eye-witness accounts, a little undercover work, and his instincts. He's partnered with Violet Smith who, much to her chagrin, is often relegated to the safer aspects of their investigations. Add to the mix, the private diary of "Jack the Ripper."
When the opportunity to investigate two cases, Lawrence and Violet head off to different regions of England—each pursuing their own leads. Violet is pleased with opportunity to prove herself although she is a little nervous. Her investigation and Lawrence' s pull both of them to the Society for Psychical Research. Violet has formed a friendship with one of its members who assisted her in her investigation. Lawrence is suspicious of the organization's reach. As they proceed, suspicions are raised that the murders attributed to Ripper might be more than the acts of a lone killer.
Well written and reasonably historically accurate enough to provide an enjoyable variation on the infamous Jack the Ripper saga. I give this a solid 5.
When the opportunity to investigate two cases, Lawrence and Violet head off to different regions of England—each pursuing their own leads. Violet is pleased with opportunity to prove herself although she is a little nervous. Her investigation and Lawrence' s pull both of them to the Society for Psychical Research. Violet has formed a friendship with one of its members who assisted her in her investigation. Lawrence is suspicious of the organization's reach. As they proceed, suspicions are raised that the murders attributed to Ripper might be more than the acts of a lone killer.
Well written and reasonably historically accurate enough to provide an enjoyable variation on the infamous Jack the Ripper saga. I give this a solid 5.
July 10, 2019
The Ripper Deception is about Detective Lawrence and his assistant Violet. Set between 1888 and 1891, the two set off on different paths to figure out different pressing mysteries. On their complicated investigations, they stumble upon Jack the Ripper murders and SPR society. Somehow everything fits together, but Lawrence must figure out how and why.
Lawrence reminded me a bit of a Sherlock Holmes type, but my favorite character by far was Violet. She was easily likable and had her obstacles being a female detective in the 1800s. At times the writing can be a little stilted, but the plot keeps the story going. I felt like the book took a while to take off, but by chapter two the pace was set and became a quick read. I found the personal journaling of Jack the Ripper very interesting and that may have been my favorite part of the whole book.
I recommend this book to those who like complex mysteries mixed in with some Jack the Ripper.
Lawrence reminded me a bit of a Sherlock Holmes type, but my favorite character by far was Violet. She was easily likable and had her obstacles being a female detective in the 1800s. At times the writing can be a little stilted, but the plot keeps the story going. I felt like the book took a while to take off, but by chapter two the pace was set and became a quick read. I found the personal journaling of Jack the Ripper very interesting and that may have been my favorite part of the whole book.
I recommend this book to those who like complex mysteries mixed in with some Jack the Ripper.
March 11, 2020
Less good but..
.. to write about Jack the Ripper you really need to be thoroughly immersed in the culture of Ripperology. You need to be avoiding changing the historical fact that he was never caught and even if the police knew who he was that it was never announced.
To actually have them declaring that he was found, dead and holding a press conference pushed it too far for me.. but then I am keenly interested in the subject and while not a Ripperologist I do keep abreast of the ongoing research into the various suspects, of whom Druitt is one of the less likely.
For those of you who don't follow Ripperology with a passion the book will likely appeal as much as the last!
.. to write about Jack the Ripper you really need to be thoroughly immersed in the culture of Ripperology. You need to be avoiding changing the historical fact that he was never caught and even if the police knew who he was that it was never announced.
To actually have them declaring that he was found, dead and holding a press conference pushed it too far for me.. but then I am keenly interested in the subject and while not a Ripperologist I do keep abreast of the ongoing research into the various suspects, of whom Druitt is one of the less likely.
For those of you who don't follow Ripperology with a passion the book will likely appeal as much as the last!
January 12, 2023
This series is like time traveling to Victorian England. The Character development and back stories add tremendous depth. The mystery is well written and layered.
Lost a star because Ripper Deception left me feeling deceived by the Jack the Ripper’s storyline. Not a spoiler because Jack was never caught and theories and conspiracies abound. That somehow in the classism of Victorian England any man of “breeding” should be “protected” from justice at the expense of his impoverished victims.
I’m still going to read book 3–because 4 stars is a good book and I look forward to seeing where these characters journey take them.
Lost a star because Ripper Deception left me feeling deceived by the Jack the Ripper’s storyline. Not a spoiler because Jack was never caught and theories and conspiracies abound. That somehow in the classism of Victorian England any man of “breeding” should be “protected” from justice at the expense of his impoverished victims.
I’m still going to read book 3–because 4 stars is a good book and I look forward to seeing where these characters journey take them.
March 19, 2019
Just as good, if not better, than the previous book in the series. I hope there will be many more. Ms. Beard has wonderful abilities as a writer with unique, clever plotting and interesting, complicated characters. I've read a lot on Jack the Ripper, but this story did go in surprising, unusual directions and I didn't feel that I was treading on typical ground. I love the historical accuracy and the fact that many of the details are based on reality the author has gleaned from historical research.
April 20, 2019
The Ripper Deception: A Lawrence Harpham Murder Mystery Book 2 by Jacqueline Beard is a wonderful story that I read and loved cause I love reading about mysteries. This is book number two in this wonderful series that was writen by a brand new author I never read till now. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about mystery.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 17, 2020
An interesting Ripper variation, but with long redundant explanations. Odd ending. I did like the two main characters, Lawrence and Violet and Violet's many attempts to keep the business going. And though Scotland Yard asked for a bill, we never did find out if Lawrence managed to mention that to Violet. Hmmm.
December 18, 2020
For a story, it’s a plausible explanation of who Jack the Ripper could have been. The story was convoluted in the beginning but once the characters were where the author needed them to be and had the background to be where they were then the story started to be a bit more appealing. Recommended to the normal crew.
February 13, 2022
Another enjoyable and engaging story in the saga. I love historical settings in a novel and how different attitudes towards gender etc are so absolute. I liked the snippets from seeing this from Violet's perspective. Lawrence does not come across as moody or curt but Violet addresses this side of his personality.
March 31, 2019
What’s an intriguing take on the Ripper story! With historical references and well researched description, this books takes things in a different direction.
A perfect extension to the current series, and an enjoyable read. Would highly recommend.
A perfect extension to the current series, and an enjoyable read. Would highly recommend.
August 11, 2020
Soft approach to the ripper story
I enjoyed the book as I have read many many ripper books fact and fiction the storyline was OK but lacked the fast paced reading I'm used to in these genre of books if your a fan of Jack the ripper then read and make your own mind up
I enjoyed the book as I have read many many ripper books fact and fiction the storyline was OK but lacked the fast paced reading I'm used to in these genre of books if your a fan of Jack the ripper then read and make your own mind up
June 2, 2021
Twisting mystery
This was an interesting mystery with well-defined main characters. The plot is gripping, and the fact that it includes the Ripper only makes it more fascinating. Journal entries written by the killer add more tension to the story. This is definitely one to read!
This was an interesting mystery with well-defined main characters. The plot is gripping, and the fact that it includes the Ripper only makes it more fascinating. Journal entries written by the killer add more tension to the story. This is definitely one to read!
September 10, 2020
A different twist enjoyed this
Read
November 10, 2021DNF
April 16, 2020
1891 Ipswich. After attending an inquest private investigator Harpham is asked by his friend Inspector Fernlagh to accompany him to view the body of a dead female, Miss Ruth Moss. Meanwhile Harpham's partner Violet Smith is in Chelmondiston, investigating strange ghostly goingons in a vicarage. There she meets members of the Society for Psychical Reasearch, there on the same mission. Do these two events have any connection to the death of Edmund Gurney in Brighton in 1888.
An enjoyable historical mystery, with its likeable characters.
An enjoyable historical mystery, with its likeable characters.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews