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Detective Inspector Declan Walsh #11
Stalking the Ripper
If you hunt - prepare to be hunted .
When the body of convicted serial killer Jacob Spears, AKA the 'Essex Ripper' is found, hanged outside the walls of onetime Newgate Prison , DI Declan Walsh and the team of the Last Chance Saloon find themselves in a race against time--as they hunt a vicious vigilante , targeting serial killers, and leaving a trail of executed bodies at locations connected to London's violent capital punishment past.
But with one of their own personally connected to the murders, and with public opinion split on whether the killer should even be arrested, Declan finds himself once more tied to current Prime Minister Charles Baker , as Baker uses the murders as a chance to push through a controversial legal bill; a political campaign that places Declan, his family and the
Last Chance Saloon within the killer's crosshairs...
And which, by the end, will change the life of one of them forever... The eleventh book in a series of procedural crime thrillers by #1 New York Times bestselling writer Tony Lee writing as Jack Gatland, Stalking The Ripper is perfect for fans of J.D Kirk, L.J Ross, Ian Rankin, Alex Smith, David Gatward, Rachel McLean and Ann Cleeves, among others.
When the body of convicted serial killer Jacob Spears, AKA the 'Essex Ripper' is found, hanged outside the walls of onetime Newgate Prison , DI Declan Walsh and the team of the Last Chance Saloon find themselves in a race against time--as they hunt a vicious vigilante , targeting serial killers, and leaving a trail of executed bodies at locations connected to London's violent capital punishment past.
But with one of their own personally connected to the murders, and with public opinion split on whether the killer should even be arrested, Declan finds himself once more tied to current Prime Minister Charles Baker , as Baker uses the murders as a chance to push through a controversial legal bill; a political campaign that places Declan, his family and the
Last Chance Saloon within the killer's crosshairs...
And which, by the end, will change the life of one of them forever... The eleventh book in a series of procedural crime thrillers by #1 New York Times bestselling writer Tony Lee writing as Jack Gatland, Stalking The Ripper is perfect for fans of J.D Kirk, L.J Ross, Ian Rankin, Alex Smith, David Gatward, Rachel McLean and Ann Cleeves, among others.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 17, 2022
764 people are currently reading
146 people want to read
About the author
Jack Gatland
59 books235 followersJack Gatland is the pen name of #1 New York Times Bestselling Writer Tony Lee, who has been writing in all medias for over thirty years including comics, graphic novels, middle grade books, audio drama, TV and film for DC, Marvel, BBC, ITV, Random House, Penguin USA, Hachette and a ton of other publishers and broadcasters on licenses such as Doctor Who, Spider Man, X-Men, Star Trek, Battlestar Galactica, Doctors, Wallace and Gromit and Shrek. As Tony, he’s toured the country talking to reluctant readers with his ‘Change The Channel’ school tours.
He’s currently a member of the Writer’s Guild of Great Britain, the Society of Authors, The Worshipful Company of Stationers and Newspaper Makers and the Crime Writer’s Association.
As Jack, he’s writing a new series of Crime Thrillers starring Detective Inspector Declan Walsh, recently seconded to the City of London Police department known as the Last Chance Saloon.
The first twelve of these, LETTER FROM THE DEAD, MURDER OF ANGELS, HUNTER HUNTED, WHISPER FOR THE REAPER, TO HUNT A MAGPIE, A RITUAL FOR THE DYING, KILLING THE MUSIC, A DINNER TO DIE FOR, BEHIND THE WIRE, HEAVY IS THE CROWN, STALKING THE RIPPER and A QUIVER OF SORROWS are available now, with book thirteen, MURDER BY MISTLETOE released in December 2022 – with further adventures continuing throughout 2023.
In addition to that, the first book in a new series of Adventure Mysteries starring Robin-Hood style con-man forger-turned treasure hunter Damian Lucas, THE LIONHEART CURSE was released in January 2022, and he has both a new series of crime procedurals, spinning out of the DI Walsh series and featuring ‘Cop for Criminals’ Ellie Reckless including PAINT THE DEAD and STEAL THE GOLD, and a new spy series, spinning out of the DI Walsh series and featuring burned MI5 agent Tom Marlowe including SLEEPING SOLDIERS and TARGET LOCKED.
He can be found at www.tonylee.co.uk and www.jackgatland.com.
He’s currently a member of the Writer’s Guild of Great Britain, the Society of Authors, The Worshipful Company of Stationers and Newspaper Makers and the Crime Writer’s Association.
As Jack, he’s writing a new series of Crime Thrillers starring Detective Inspector Declan Walsh, recently seconded to the City of London Police department known as the Last Chance Saloon.
The first twelve of these, LETTER FROM THE DEAD, MURDER OF ANGELS, HUNTER HUNTED, WHISPER FOR THE REAPER, TO HUNT A MAGPIE, A RITUAL FOR THE DYING, KILLING THE MUSIC, A DINNER TO DIE FOR, BEHIND THE WIRE, HEAVY IS THE CROWN, STALKING THE RIPPER and A QUIVER OF SORROWS are available now, with book thirteen, MURDER BY MISTLETOE released in December 2022 – with further adventures continuing throughout 2023.
In addition to that, the first book in a new series of Adventure Mysteries starring Robin-Hood style con-man forger-turned treasure hunter Damian Lucas, THE LIONHEART CURSE was released in January 2022, and he has both a new series of crime procedurals, spinning out of the DI Walsh series and featuring ‘Cop for Criminals’ Ellie Reckless including PAINT THE DEAD and STEAL THE GOLD, and a new spy series, spinning out of the DI Walsh series and featuring burned MI5 agent Tom Marlowe including SLEEPING SOLDIERS and TARGET LOCKED.
He can be found at www.tonylee.co.uk and www.jackgatland.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 16, 2024
The Last chance Saloon are Back!
Serial killers, recently released from prison are winding up dead, in historical places throughout London, but why, and by whom?
Declan and Team are about to find out that ONE of their own is wrapped up in this, Joanne Davies sister was killed by one of the serial killers. She has been in therapy since the killings started, and a documentary film crew has been asking around. The shrink that has been helping the families of the victims is also smack in the center, Prison guard that wants JUSTICE, and accomplices that also want to see JUSTICE served.
Stalking The Ripper is an action packed page turner, that will not disappoint.
Serial killers, recently released from prison are winding up dead, in historical places throughout London, but why, and by whom?
Declan and Team are about to find out that ONE of their own is wrapped up in this, Joanne Davies sister was killed by one of the serial killers. She has been in therapy since the killings started, and a documentary film crew has been asking around. The shrink that has been helping the families of the victims is also smack in the center, Prison guard that wants JUSTICE, and accomplices that also want to see JUSTICE served.
Stalking The Ripper is an action packed page turner, that will not disappoint.
March 11, 2023
Whenever I read one of the DI Walsh novels I know I am in for a cracking read. The author has the amazing ability to create a highly complex and yet totally believable plot that is full of twists, turns, excitement and intrigue. These are the sort of books like I like to get totally lost in and, once I start, I find it very hard to put down. Having left it a while since I last read one, it was like coming home to a much loved family – all the characters were there ready to get stuck into the next gory and horrendous crime that seem to be a regular occurrence for the guys of The Last Chance Saloon. This one was no exception and, amazingly enough, it seemed even more complicated and involved than the previous crimes. I confess there were a few times when I had to go back a few paragraphs to remind myself who was who, and more importantly, who were the criminals and who were the victims. At one point, it really did seem like this was going to end up a very unusual failure for Declan. However, needless to say, after a chance thought that came to him suddenly, it all started to fall into place and the team not only solved the crimes but much more besides. The ending, as is normally the case, was both a satisfactory closure and an intriguing lead into the next of this brilliant series.
August 7, 2022
Jack Gatland writes a a ripping yarn.
The 'Last Chance Saloon/Declan Walsh series are wonderful escapism, the plots always convoluted and dastardly, the characters , be they hero or villain thoroughly enjoyable.
Stalking the Ripper follows this formula, psychco vigilante murderers, dodgy politicians , compromised friend and fellow officer, historic execution sites revitalised with terrible reimagined murders. all chased to a conclusion by Declan and his compatriots.
Well worthy the read.
The 'Last Chance Saloon/Declan Walsh series are wonderful escapism, the plots always convoluted and dastardly, the characters , be they hero or villain thoroughly enjoyable.
Stalking the Ripper follows this formula, psychco vigilante murderers, dodgy politicians , compromised friend and fellow officer, historic execution sites revitalised with terrible reimagined murders. all chased to a conclusion by Declan and his compatriots.
Well worthy the read.
May 9, 2023
Number eleven in the DI Declan Walsh series of novels is another gem from author Jack Gatland. Gatland continues to create unique, original plots, and tells the stories so effectively that you don't want to stop reading. Stalking The Ripper is another great example. Although there are a few story elements that might require suspension of disbelief, one cannot argue that they aren't ingenious.
Somebody is killing people who had previously been convicted or suspected of multiple murders. "Ripper" in our title refers to the names the press and public had previously given to whomever it was who was killing young girls, families, and witches. No, I'm not kidding--somebody had been killing suspected witches; they were burned at the stake. Yipes!
Now, one by one, the supposed killers were being killed in kind. It's up to DI Walsh and the crew from the Last Chance Saloon to save the day, again. How they attack the job is the story, and it's a good one.
As is expected, the characters in the novels have evolved in their personal as well as professional lives, which is always half the fun of series novels. The focus, this time, is shifted to some of the supporting players, but I view that is giving them their due.
I thoroughly enjoyed #11, and I've already started #12. That surely is the greatest compliment of all.
Somebody is killing people who had previously been convicted or suspected of multiple murders. "Ripper" in our title refers to the names the press and public had previously given to whomever it was who was killing young girls, families, and witches. No, I'm not kidding--somebody had been killing suspected witches; they were burned at the stake. Yipes!
Now, one by one, the supposed killers were being killed in kind. It's up to DI Walsh and the crew from the Last Chance Saloon to save the day, again. How they attack the job is the story, and it's a good one.
As is expected, the characters in the novels have evolved in their personal as well as professional lives, which is always half the fun of series novels. The focus, this time, is shifted to some of the supporting players, but I view that is giving them their due.
I thoroughly enjoyed #11, and I've already started #12. That surely is the greatest compliment of all.
March 9, 2025
By far my fav book in the series ...so far.... this is a great fun romp around London and the Last Chance Saloon is such to read as they solve mysteries. Vengeance is the thekrem this time. 2 known serial killers nick named Rippers are found dead, killed in the same way they savaged those they killed. But there is an avenger out there and solving who is behind this will be challenging and someone on the team will have betrayed them all. This series is definitely for readers who can keep multiple characters in their head ...some don't want to think that hard but for those who love a complex mystery these are great books!
July 7, 2022
Stalking the Ripper is book 11 in the DI Declan Walsh series by Jack Gatland. It’s great to see the return of the Last Chance Saloon. I don’t know who my favourite character is as they are very likeable characters for different reasons. I love this series and this book is a great addition. The plot is quite intricate with lots happening. Someone is killing off serial killers and with plenty of suspects, this is a hard case to crack. I like the snippets of history sprinkled through Jack’s books. An author well worth reading.
April 28, 2025
The opening was great. I really thought the girl was a goner.
A vigilante murderer killing murderers is always going to be a fun storyline. There's the law but then their's our own personal 'laws' and our feelings on anything are hardly ever black and white.
Declan can be rigid at times in odd beliefs (like quitting because the chef saved everyone, not him) but this time, realizing he did something similar for his own personal reasons is not wholly different, but not the same either.
Davey and the whole situation is rough.
A vigilante murderer killing murderers is always going to be a fun storyline. There's the law but then their's our own personal 'laws' and our feelings on anything are hardly ever black and white.
Declan can be rigid at times in odd beliefs (like quitting because the chef saved everyone, not him) but this time, realizing he did something similar for his own personal reasons is not wholly different, but not the same either.
Davey and the whole situation is rough.
December 17, 2025
Whoops…landed right in the middle of a series with this one and it felt like it. Leaves the reader slightly lost and does make a difference to the reading experience but that was my fault. Should have realised it wasn’t the first. Just proves this is a series you have to read in order!
Apart from that, the writing is a little juvenile/amateurish and the story felt stilted or underdeveloped, not bad but not great either.
Apart from that, the writing is a little juvenile/amateurish and the story felt stilted or underdeveloped, not bad but not great either.
July 28, 2022
Stalking the Ripper
Another great book in the Declan Walsh series. Always a good storyline. Characters are like family now I'm as interested to find out how there lives are shaping up as I am about the crime they are about to solve. Charles Baker really does need a kick up the butt though as many of our politicians do. I hope we get to see his comeuppance soon.
Another great book in the Declan Walsh series. Always a good storyline. Characters are like family now I'm as interested to find out how there lives are shaping up as I am about the crime they are about to solve. Charles Baker really does need a kick up the butt though as many of our politicians do. I hope we get to see his comeuppance soon.
January 31, 2023
Enjoyed!
Usually I write about the characters, the author, ect…
These are really enjoyable, you get to know the main characters, and their place on the team. Hack Gatland gives them personality, humor, their own inner demons. They become people you know, and what’s going on in their lives.
That’s why I keep reading these books!
Usually I write about the characters, the author, ect…
These are really enjoyable, you get to know the main characters, and their place on the team. Hack Gatland gives them personality, humor, their own inner demons. They become people you know, and what’s going on in their lives.
That’s why I keep reading these books!
July 19, 2022
Superb!
Well Jack you produced yet another 5* book in this fabulous series book 11 was simply great. Great story, likeable characters with plenty of twists and turns what more could you ask for. Looking forward to book 12 thank you. BP Sheffield.
Well Jack you produced yet another 5* book in this fabulous series book 11 was simply great. Great story, likeable characters with plenty of twists and turns what more could you ask for. Looking forward to book 12 thank you. BP Sheffield.
July 22, 2022
Definitely 5 stars!!
Great read as always, extremely difficult to put down. The story sucks you in and I, for one, needed to find out what happens
definitely recommend this book as well as all the others in the series and cannot wait for the next one!
Great read as always, extremely difficult to put down. The story sucks you in and I, for one, needed to find out what happens
definitely recommend this book as well as all the others in the series and cannot wait for the next one!
July 25, 2022
another great book from Jack Garland
Book 11, one of the best. We’ve got past the “Declan always in danger” phase and now some really good crime stories. Keep it up, can’t wait for the next one.
Book 11, one of the best. We’ve got past the “Declan always in danger” phase and now some really good crime stories. Keep it up, can’t wait for the next one.
August 2, 2022
Do i love the last chance saloon?
Yes. Yes I do. I also love Ellie Reckless. This was another great story, with some good twists, and Monroe's sense of humour. Can't wait for the next one!!
Yes. Yes I do. I also love Ellie Reckless. This was another great story, with some good twists, and Monroe's sense of humour. Can't wait for the next one!!
March 5, 2023
Utter brilliance
Fabulous read from start to finish again. Serial killers, bent screws faked deaths what more could you want from a book and Trix making a brief appearance again. Amazing characters love these books.
Fabulous read from start to finish again. Serial killers, bent screws faked deaths what more could you want from a book and Trix making a brief appearance again. Amazing characters love these books.
July 15, 2023
Justice
This book was really good! Lots of twists and turns and that’s what makes Jack Gatland so fun to read. He really knows how to spin his stories! Highly recommend these books.
This book was really good! Lots of twists and turns and that’s what makes Jack Gatland so fun to read. He really knows how to spin his stories! Highly recommend these books.
September 2, 2023
Thrilling and exciting to the very end
This series just keeps getting better and better. Declan and his team fighting to keep the killings from stopping. Twists and turns till the very end. A must read
This series just keeps getting better and better. Declan and his team fighting to keep the killings from stopping. Twists and turns till the very end. A must read
September 11, 2024
Surprisingly, an interesting storyline, even though the usual dysfunctional cast of characters were front and center. Unfortunately, I read the books out of order, but it didn't really change my enjoyment of the audiobook.
August 27, 2025
Always interested in serial killers
It was a different take, to be sure. There was one character that was kind of thrown in toward the end, one who didn't really fit and we never get that character's rationale, but otherwise solid.
It was a different take, to be sure. There was one character that was kind of thrown in toward the end, one who didn't really fit and we never get that character's rationale, but otherwise solid.
August 1, 2022
Twists and turns
Another I intriguing case for the city police and a political element included. The PM uses all available info for political gain. But Declan thwarts him.
Another I intriguing case for the city police and a political element included. The PM uses all available info for political gain. But Declan thwarts him.
August 16, 2022
Confusing
I lost track of who was who and what they were doing. It was a good read but I recommend reading it all at once and then perhaps you will understand!!
I lost track of who was who and what they were doing. It was a good read but I recommend reading it all at once and then perhaps you will understand!!
September 10, 2022
a fantastic read
Jack gatland never disappoints and his books are always well plotted and full of intricate detail making the reading of them to always be a pleasure
Jack gatland never disappoints and his books are always well plotted and full of intricate detail making the reading of them to always be a pleasure
December 22, 2023
Great series! Really enjoyed being back with Declan and the team. A complex and engaging story.
March 6, 2024
4.25 stars
May 23, 2024
Flaming Brilliant
What more can l say, but another brilliant nail-biting tale. Trouble is they're so good. I read them too quickly and just have to start another !!!
What more can l say, but another brilliant nail-biting tale. Trouble is they're so good. I read them too quickly and just have to start another !!!
July 27, 2024
I've said it before, but this is now my favourite! Jack Garland is a genius author.
August 22, 2024
This one was okay, but I would definitely place it in the bottom half of the series. I was entertained enough, but it didn’t particularly grab me.
November 10, 2024
As usual a good read
Providing you can keep up with all the characters Jack’s book are well worth reading. I won’t be happy when I run out of Declan Walsh’s
Providing you can keep up with all the characters Jack’s book are well worth reading. I won’t be happy when I run out of Declan Walsh’s
December 23, 2024
2.75ish stars??
March 24, 2025
Someone is killing people and leaving them at the sites of executions around town.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews