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Killing Jane

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WHAT IF EVERYTHING YOU’VE EVER HEARD ABOUT JACK THE RIPPER IS WRONG …

A young woman is brutally murdered in Washington D.C., and the killer leaves behind a calling card connected to some of the most infamous murders in history.

JACK THE RIPPER

Rookie homicide investigator Erin Prince instinctively knows the moment she sees the mutilated body that it’s only a matter of time before someone else dies.

She and her partner, Todd Beckett, are on the trail of a madman, and a third body sends them in the direction they feared most: a serial killer is walking the streets of D.C.

THE CLOCK IS TICKING.

Erin must push past her mounting self-doubt in order to unravel a web of secrets filled with drugs, pornography, and a decades-old family skeleton before the next victim is sacrificed.

THE ONLY WAY TO STOP A KILLER IS TO BEAT THEM AT THEIR OWN GAME.

342 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 31, 2017

200 people are currently reading
1548 people want to read

About the author

Stacy Green

43 books1,198 followers
Stacy Green is the author of the Lucy Kendall thriller series and the Delta Crossroads mystery trilogy. ALL GOOD DEEDS (Lucy Kendall #1) won a bronze medal for mystery and thriller at the 2015 IPPY Awards. TIN GOD (Delta Crossroads #1) was runner-up for best mystery/thriller at the 2013 Kindle Book Awards.

Stacy has a love of thrillers and crime fiction, and she is always looking for the next dark and twisted novel to enjoy. She started her career in journalism before becoming a stay at home mother and rediscovering her love of writing. She lives in Iowa with her husband and daughter and their three spoiled fur babies.

She is currently working on a new crime fiction series and is represented by Italia Gandolfo of Gandolfo, Helin and Fountain Literary Management for literary and dramatic rights.

Website: stacygreenauthor.com
Facebook www.Facebook.com/StacyGreenAuthor
Twitter: @StacyGreen26

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
Profile Image for Christine.
620 reviews1,468 followers
February 16, 2017
4.5 stars

Man, I have really missed Stacy Green! Ms. Green’s Lucy Kendall series is a huge favorite of mine. It’s been well over a year since that series wrapped up, and I’ve missed Lucy’s stories tremendously. I was therefore excited to finally be able to purchase a copy of the first book in Ms. Green’s new Erin Prince series, Killing Jane. I have to say it was well worth the wait.

Killing Jane is an outstanding read. The protagonist is a new homicide investigator in Washington D.C. I was thrilled to see her paired up with a character from the Lucy series, Todd Beckett. Todd plays a big role here as Erin’s partner. Todd is highly competent and helps keep Erin grounded. Erin grew up in a privileged family with all the trappings thereof; her colleagues call her Princess. Her self-esteem is not the best and she tends to put her frustrations out there, often mistargeting Todd, one of her strongest allies. My only issue with the story is that Erin is sometimes not very likeable, though to Ms. Green’s credit, the characterization is such that it is pretty clear why Erin is that way.

The tale pulled me in from the first sentence of the first chapter. This is not unusual for a Stacy Green novel. The plot is involved, yet highly engrossing. Erin and Todd are the leads on a very perplexing case involving multiple murders with a Jack (Jane?) the Ripper angle. Seemingly every time they discover a clue, it only goes to making the situation that more complex. By the time the end was approaching, I felt like a spinning top trying to get my bearings, so much was happening from multiple directions. The finish was a shocker, and all I could think of when the dust finally settled was “damn, that was good!”

Back to the protagonist, Erin. As ambivalent as I felt about her, I have to say she was different. Her insecurities come from a different place than what we usually see in crime thriller protagonists, which is a definite plus. I think what I disliked the most was her lack of a filter on her mouth. Her anxieties led her to lash out at others, particularly Todd, reminiscent of an angry child. She was forever apologizing to Todd, which got old. Hopefully, she will gain confidence as the series progresses, which should bolster her maturity and the quality of her interpersonal relationships.

My issues with Erin were not as big as they probably sound here, and I thoroughly enjoyed the ride of Killing Jane. I will be first in line when book 2 becomes available. By the way, Ms. Green has been approached by television producers who hope to turn the Erin Prince stories into a TV series. I think it will adapt well, and I can’t wait to see how this all plays out. I strongly recommend Killing Jane to all thriller/crime fiction fans.

Great job, Ms. Green, and I am so happy to have you back with a new series!
Profile Image for Jonetta.
2,593 reviews1,325 followers
February 7, 2021
Erin Prince is a D.C. homicide investigator in the Criminal Investigation Division, newly transferred from sex crimes. She's handed her first case and a new partner, Todd Beckett, on day one (yes, the same Todd from the Lucy Kendall series). It's clear that the homicide is controversial and won't be the last as it reeks of a serial killing, especially given the references to Jack the Ripper at the scene.

The case was impossibly complex, further complicated by Erin's inexperience and insecurity. I loved these flaws as it felt like it was steeped in reality. Todd is much more experienced and their struggle to gel as partners was just as compelling as the case. Erin's unique background and heritage was another important element of a story with lots of layers. There were times I was frustrated with her but always appreciated her honesty.

This was an excellent start to a very different series, loaded with surprises and unexpected twists, the author's trademark, along with complicated, opaque and untraditional characters. I'm really looking forward to what comes next for Erin and Todd because this was excellent. (Note: While Lucy Kendall is referenced, you do not need to read that series first before starting with this book.)
Profile Image for Brenda.
5,074 reviews3,012 followers
July 17, 2018
Homicide investigator Erin Prince and partner Todd Beckett were thrust into the horror of Erin’s first investigation where the shock on the faces of experienced officers made Erin shudder. A young woman’s terribly mutilated body was the beginning of a shocking crime spree which seemed to be emulating Jack the Ripper.

Frustration and anger, exhaustion and fear – the emotions were all there, but they tried not to let them get in the way. Prince and Beckett needed to put this killer away before more people were murdered. But could they? Would they?

Killing Jane is the first in the new Erin Prince series by author Stacy Green. I found Erin Prince to be not a particularly savvy homicide investigator. Her first at the helm, and her insecurities and lack of self-worth shone through. Hopefully by book 2 she’ll have learned a few things from this one! The case is a complex one, with many characters, lots of plot twists and plenty of gruesome details. A gritty thriller, Killing Jane is worth recommending and I look forward to the second in the series.
Profile Image for Tulay.
1,202 reviews2 followers
February 9, 2017
Good thriller.

Brutal murders, they are described just enough for us to understand, but not all the gruesome details. Erin Prince grow up with famous and very rich father, now trying to make her way. Living with her twin brother and raising her daughter. She was sexually abused by close relative, also her cousin by the same person. They didn't get much help from their families. In the mix is Jack the Ripper and pages of dairies found at the murder scenes. Rookie homicide detective trying to do her job. Her resentments against her parents and how she grow up again and again written. This aspect of her growing up drilled to my brain, after couple explanation it was way too much. Lots of family secrets some are very old, drugs, porn and politics.
Profile Image for Jean.
886 reviews19 followers
February 24, 2017
Erin Prince is an insecure rookie homicide detective who is trying hard – too hard – to overcome her poor little rich girl upbringing, and she rubs some (including readers) the wrong way. All I am saying is give Prince a chance! If I didn’t already have a history with Stacy Green, I might have searched my Kindle for another book to read. However, I went into Killing Jane knowing how well Ms. Green can write. I’ve read her Lucy Kendall series and her Cage Foster books; all are excellent. This helped me to be more patient with Inspector “Princess” than I might normally have been. It reinforced the notion it is possible to really like a book in which the protagonist rubs me the wrong way! The story takes time to find its rhythm. Certain facts and ideas are repeated perhaps more than necessary. I’m not sure at what point I got on board with this story, but once it hits its stride, it really takes off.

It also didn’t help that the opening murder scene is quite gruesome. It seemed like overkill, if you’ll pardon the expression. The victim has been ripped to shreds, and the killer leaves a hint: JACK THE RIPPER. Erin and her partner, Todd Beckett, are racing the clock to catch a vicious murderer before the bodies pile up. Todd Beckett? Indeed. That Todd Beckett. The cop who hunted serial killer Mary Weston in Green’s Lucy Kendall series. Lucy is now his girlfriend – that in itself is an unlikely relationship that had its beginning in that series. Lucy doesn’t make an appearance in this book, but she’s mentioned, and although it’s not essential to have read those thrillers, it came in handy for me to have read that series. Speaking of strange pairings – Prince and Beckett are working their first case together, and Beckett becomes something of a mentor to Prince, who has the lead in a case for the very first time. Erin is green, anxious to impress, and eager to show that she got where she is on merit, not because of who her father is – a wealthy and influential man. Todd does his best to keep her focused on the task at hand, but he has a history too. Does his past experience color his judgment?

Prince and Beckett stumble along for a while trying to establish a rapport. Prince’s self-doubts and lack of experience get in the way during interviews, squeezing Beckett in a damned if I do/damned if I don’t situation when it comes to offering advice or criticism. I admired his patience! Stacy Green lays out Erin’s background so that we understand why she struggles with her self-confidence and comes across as pushy when she strives to prove herself. Despite her whiny, even abrasive personality and numerous mistakes, Erin does show self-awareness. She wants to be a competent investigator. She wants to be a loving mother. She has a great relationship with one family member, her twin brother Brad. She grows into her role throughout the book, and this character does show promise. The change by her final grand scene was remarkable. It was stunning! I sort of did a double take, because at that point, I still wasn’t sure she had it in her.

Ms. Green does the same with the first victim, Bonnie, as well as with suspects and witnesses alike. She wants us to know these people. She has spun a number of complex characters into this web of multiple murders, sexual abuse, pornography, and lies. There are wonderful twists and tangles – the biggest one of all, surprisingly, didn’t shock me at all. I can’t say that I “knew,” but it wasn’t altogether unexpected either. It just made perfect sense.

4 stars
Profile Image for Hasnamezied.
386 reviews71 followers
June 8, 2017
Wow. I literally feel relieved that I finished reading this book because of the many questions that kept going on in my mind. I couldn't put it down. I wanted to know what will happen next? who is the killer?

Erin Prince is a homicide detective who is having her first major case. She is trying so hard to prove herself. especially that she comes from one of the richest families in Washington DC. With a new partner, mysterious case, family problems and taking care of her daughter , her character had a major development.

PS, I just would like to make it clear that there is a difference between Persians as the writer described Yuri's character and Arabs. Persians are not considered Arabs and don't speak Arabic so why I wonder the rest of the characters kept insulting Arabs , I have no clue. There was NO Need for that.
Profile Image for Louise Wilson.
3,655 reviews1,688 followers
February 6, 2017
A young woman has been brutally murdered in Washington D.C. The killer leaves behind a calling card connected to some of the most infamous in history.

Rookie Homicide Investigator Erin Prince knows the moment she sees the mutilated that it's only a matter of time before someone else dies. Erin and her partner Todd Beckett are on the trail of a madman. A serial killer is searching the streets for his next victim. Will Erin & Todd catch the killer before the next victim is sacrificed?

With gruesome murders and curve balls sending you in the wrong direction. Even if like me manage to guess the identity of the killer, I'm sure it won't stop you enjoying this book.

I would like to thank NetGalley, Vesuvian Books and the author Stacy Green for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Purple Country Girl (Sandy).
152 reviews26 followers
February 4, 2017
I received a copy of Killing Jane from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to Vesuvian Books, Netgalley and Stacy Green for the opportunity to read this e-ARC.

A young woman is discovered brutally murdered in her home. The scene is horrifying: the victim has been slashed dozens of times. When a disturbing note is found at the scene, signed JTR 31 August 1888, the detectives believe they may have a Jack the Ripper copycat on their hands. There is an additional note that says Abberline was right, signed Jane, referring to Inspector Abberline, who was part of the investigation into the Ripper murders, and his theory that the Ripper was actually a woman (a theory I’ve not heard before so I’m not sure if this is based in fact). Are the modern day police dealing with someone - possibly a woman - inspired by Jack the Ripper? Or, is the Ripper calling card a red herring?

The protagonist, Erin Prince, is newly promoted to homicide detective, after serving as a sex crimes investigator. Her family is wealthy, members of the Washington, DC, Elite, something Erin tries to distance herself from but the connection is always following her, especially with the nickname “Princess” used by colleagues and the media. Erin is the lead on the case and little she says or does inspires much confidence - in this reader anyway. She also has a new partner, Todd Beckett, who has transferred from Philadelphia, seemingly with some issues following a case but not much is explored in depth with him. I find that a shame as he is the more interesting and likeable character, mustache and all. Also, his girlfriend, Lucy, is apparently a character in another series by Green, and I’m guessing Todd is in that series as well.

It’s clear, as Erin and Todd investigate, that Erin is a bit out of her depth while Todd is much more experienced but he does not try to take over or make Erin feel inadequate. He tries hard to assist her and get her to see things without being condescending. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of Erin as she becomes more and more insecure and immature. She’s unprofessional throughout, alienating witnesses by being combative and rude. Todd is a good foil, remaining calm and mature.

During the investigation, Erin begins to get unnerving phone calls from a little girl named Mina who is terrified and is apparently somehow connected to the killer. Erin desperately wants to find Mina before she is another victim but it proves an impossible task. When a second female victim is discovered, at another gruesome scene with yet another note, things get even more heated with the media and family demanding answers on why the killer is still at large committing more murders. Is “Princess” really up to the job? With a third body and more calls from Mina, the pressure is on to find the killer but there are many twists and turns in the investigation and a lot of self-doubt from Erin.

I’m torn on how to rate this one. For about the first half, it was a good 4 or 4.5 star read - it’s an excellent story with a lot of twists into some uncomfortable territory and I’m also a sucker for Jack the Ripper-themed/inspired stories. Unfortunately, the honeymoon began to wear off, mainly due to Erin. She started off fairly strong but at some point, she changed into this insufferable, bratty character. I wish Green had used Todd Beckett’s perspective in addition to Erin’s to offer more depth and to give the reader a break from Erin. It’s not just her attitude that bothers me, it’s also her inexperience and annoyance at others because she misses things that are obvious to others. I have a difficult time believing such an inexperienced detective would be allowed to be the lead detective on what eventually turns out to be a serial killer case. She treats witnesses and suspects alike terribly. I really disliked her by the end. Unless the character is given a lobotomy, I’m not sure I’d read another book featuring Erin, which is a shame because the story is strong and the other characters are well-drawn and interesting. The ending surprised me but I liked it - it was pretty twisted! I will say the story line revolving around someone very close to Erin really ticked me off and it felt quite unnecessary, pretty much just serving to make Erin more of a wounded individual.

It’s a pretty gruesome but intriguing story that is well-written and full of tension. I plan on checking out some of Green’s other books but I’d have to read some reviews on any future Erin Prince books to see if she has improved before reading another in this series.

3.5 stars overall

4.5 stars for the mystery
4 stars for Beckett
2.5 stars for Erin
Profile Image for Alex Cantone.
Author 3 books45 followers
December 4, 2020
During her first weeks in homicide, Fowler pressed upon (Erin) that Occam’s razor applied to most violent crimes: the most obvious answer was usually the right one, and more often than not, the assailant was someone the victim trusted.

Investigator Erin Prince has been newly promoted to the Washington DC homicide branch after working with sex crimes, and is teamed with Todd Beckett, recently arrived from the Philadelphia police where he successfully caught a serial killer. On their first big case together, they are confronted with a young woman whose body has been mutilated, Bonnie Archer, with clues left suggesting a copycat killer of the infamous nineteenth century London true-life murderer, Jack the Ripper.

Evidence suggests the victim was involved in rough sex videos, and the search is on to track her movements and contacts, starting with the male friend who found the body, who coincidentally works for the major government contractor run by Erin’s father. Here we have multiple strained family relationships: Erin a single parent of a young daughter, making her way without her father’s influence, and sharing a house with her twin brother, Brad, who has owned his homosexuality. Bonnie’s parents meanwhile are less than receptive, pointing at a lack of progress in finding their daughter’s killer, the pair estranged from the brother’s side of the family, a republican heavyweight.

The victim’s advocate answered the door. Heavy wrinkles around her eyes and a pug-like nose matched the air of authority that immediately sparked Erin’s memories of every politician’s wife who vied for her mother’s attention. Big or small, women like this usually ran the show.

Within days there is a second brutal murder, that of a female college professor, the police are hard-pressed to keep a lid on press speculation of a Ripper-style killer at large in DC. Erin's instincts point to the killer being a woman, but Beckett is unconvinced – or finds such a level of violence unpalatable. Now the list of suspects widens to include a young African-American student, but the only link they can find between the two victims is Bonnie Archer’s cousin, Sarah.

Everyone worried about further pushing the racial issue, especially judges and law enforcement. Unless a case came wrapped in a red bow, a judge likely wouldn’t issue a warrant.

The lack of progress and stalling is getting to Beckett, and Erin has to set him straight.

“I don’t know how your department in Philadelphia handled things, but Metro P.D. is all about procedure. You cover your ass because the next person up the food chain will leave you out to dry. And then your case is screwed.”

This dark, psychological mystery had me hooked from the start. It showcases the divide between those with deep pockets and political connections, brushing any threat to their social standing under the carpet, and the poor and powerless, with victims of abuse left to cope as best they can. The killer was there in front of me yet, like the investigators, I did not see it coming.

Full marks to author Stacy Green, and I will look out for more of her work.
Profile Image for Vikki.
273 reviews58 followers
February 13, 2017
What if Jack the Ripper was actually a woman? The theory has been put out there throughout the years but she was always referred to as "Jill the Ripper." When Erin Prince, a D.C. detective recently moved from sex crimes to homocide, responds to a murder of a woman who has been brutally murdered in a fashion similar to a Jack the Ripper but finds a note from " Jane the Ripper," she is puzzled by the meaning of it. Is it meant to throw the police off the real killers trial or is the killer really a woman who is a fan of the female serial killer theory of Jack the Ripper? And does that mean they have a serial killer on the loose that could strike again? As Erin and her new partner, Beckett, dig deeper into the life of the victim, the possible theories of the case become more improbable and the detectives feel like they are hitting dead end after dead end. Then another brutal murder with the Jane the Ripper signature brings more questions than answers. Can they stop this killer before he or she strikes again?

I loved the historical fiction/ mystery about Jack the Ripper as well as the possible serial killer on the loose throughout the book. It made me read faster since I could not figure out who the killer was until near the end of the book. Erin's backstory and human foibles made her a relatable character that you were rooting for. I would definitely recommend for mystery/crime readers as well as psychological thriller and historical fiction lovers as well.

I gave this 4 out of 5 stars on Goodreads.

I received an advanced reader's copy of this book from NetGalley for review consideration.
Profile Image for Yellagirlgc.
404 reviews45 followers
February 6, 2017
Erin Prince is a homicide detective with family issues working an important case. She believes a serial killer taking inspiration from Jack the Ripper is killing people. The new killer calls themself Jane. Erin was more emotional than I like and kind of naive to the differences between the rich and the poor. I still liked the book. The story read easily. Stacy Green also threw in a few surprises through the book. A solid 4 star read.
I received a copy from NetGalley for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jo Ann Reinhold.
424 reviews44 followers
February 22, 2017
I have to say that when I pick up a book by this author I know I'm going to be blown away by the story and the writing. Stacy Green has a distinct voice in her writing and is superb in weaving a suspenseful web of intrigue around her readers and this book is no exception. This story is spine-chilling good and will keep you on the edge of your seat all the way to the end with a cast of characters that are complex and well developed.
Another great job Ms. Green!
Profile Image for Jonas Saul.
Author 107 books391 followers
August 26, 2017
This was my first Stacy Green novel and I was pleasantly surprised at how good this author is. Her characterization of Erin Prince (the main character) was very well done. The internal and external conflict between Erin's personal life and her life as a homicide detective was handled expertly. I literally discovered tension on every page.

As the investigation gets rolling right from the beginning scenes, I was swept up in the details on how Erin dealt with her chosen profession, balancing that with her personal history.

What a magnificent read. A wild ride into the world of a homicide detective and a case that has everyone baffled until the surprising end.

A truly wondrous journey. Looking forward to more Erin Prince in upcoming novels. Get writing Stacy Green--I'm already looking for the preorder button!
Profile Image for Alexandrea Weis.
Author 56 books1,100 followers
February 4, 2017
Intriguing story with a tantalizing blend of intrigue, horror and good ole detective work. I enjoyed the pace of the story and the determination of the Erin. A strong female lead with heartfelt passion. This is one to snap up and savor. The twists and turns are simply captivating. A great read.
Profile Image for Holly.
1 review1 follower
November 2, 2016
This thriller (or as Amazon has called Stacy Green's books, an "assassination thriller") had so many twists, but all very well resolved by the end, even if the end was chilling! There really can't be "happy" endings in crime thrillers... things just need to end less overtly bloody than they began :) But really was impressed with how things were resolved, even for the people who died who WEREN'T murdered...

I particularly appreciated the credibility of everything in this book, from the characters to the procedures. I don't know much about law enforcement procedures and I don't watch much crime TV, but I was never sitting here wondering "would that really happen?" I do know a bit more about medical procedures so I was very pleased to never be harassed with the thought "that's not right!"

One thing that was initially hard for me was relating to the main character, Erin Prince, because I personally had nothing in common with her-- she comes from a very wealthy political family but loathes that lifestyle. However, she did end up growing on me as I learned a little bit more about her past (her story wasn't simply "rich girl wants to be one of the tough guys" as I initially feared). Also, she isn't a perfect 6 ft tall slender model with awesome hair and makeup like you'd see on crime procedural shows; I'll admit I appreciated her character description as 5'2 or so on a good day and chronically carrying 10 extra pounds :)

One thing I really loved but I actually anticipate some readers not understanding was Detective Todd Beckett's (Erin's partner) possibly above average intel on Jack the Ripper right away at the first crime scene. And again I'm anticipating how other people might think, but I personally appreciated a character having some idea instead of everyone standing around going "nothing this horrible has ever happened before oh golly gee what could it be?" Come on. We all have been down the Wikipedia rabbit hole, plus you can tell from the book jacket that The Ripper story is in there somewhere-- I hate spending half the book knowing what I read from the jacket and the characters being oblivious to it. Anyway, Beckett turned out to be my favorite character, and I am even more excited to finish the Lucy books now.

Also, slight spoiler... But I also hope no one is confused about what may or may not happen to a certain relation of Erin's... The point of what may or may not happen to that character is definitely there at the end of the book, when Erin goes to visit a place where the relation may or may not be and has some contemplations... :D

I have purchased several Stacy Green novels but until this one, had only finished Into The Devil's Underground, although I had started the Lucy Kendall books. You can definitely start this new series without having read the Lucy books, but I had read enough of them before starting this that I was treated to a few Easter Eggs.

I was able to get ahold of an Advance Reader Copy through a friend of a friend with no expectations to write a review, good or not. Also, if anyone who got an ARC noted "typos," they should know this is not the final copy. I personally didn't notice any typos (not saying I'm an expert but I have worked as proofreader...). You can tell this book has a professional editorial staff.
Profile Image for Susan.
1,168 reviews43 followers
February 10, 2017
Another outstanding series by Stacy Green. If you love her Lucy Kendall series, you're going to love Erin Prince. Detective Erin Prince along with her new partner Todd Beckett are out to solve some gruesome murders. Killing Jane is a well written mystery that kept me guessing until the end. A very shocking twist! I'm looking forward to more in this series.

*ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review.
Profile Image for Victor *You Bow to No One*.
159 reviews98 followers
March 15, 2017
Washington, D.C. may have a Jack the Ripper copycat killer loose on their streets. And he may actually be a she.

Erin Prince is new to homicide, having previously worked in sex crimes, and is leading her first case which happens to be high profile. She comes across as weak – it seems that every chapter has her holding back tears that are threatening to free themselves. She becomes unsure of herself when partnered with a new transfer from a Philadelphia homicide division – so much so that she starts to second-guess herself. The constant guilt over her family name and privileged upbringing got tiring real quick, but then again, I’ve never had people question if I got a job because of daddy’s influence. I started to dislike her a bit, although I found her backstory to be interesting.

Todd Beckett, her new partner, is pretty much the only character I liked completely. He’s an experienced investigator and his cool and analytical methodology further highlights Erin’s naivete. I would like to say that he’s the Yin to her Yang, but that would imply that they complement each other – they don’t.

For some reason, I didn’t put forth the effort into trying to figure out who did the killings. Every now and then this happens, where I just let the clues accumulate without forming an opinion. In this case, I just didn’t notice anyone standing out or, better yet, fading into the background. I was presented with likely suspects, but no one jumped out at me. So suffice it to say I surprised when the mystery was resolved.

The writing and concept were good, but the story was just okay and not enough to keep me engaged. It took me 12 days to finish this – easily at least 10 days too many. In the book’s defense, when I started it, I was in the midst of a reading funk that didn’t end until day 10.

I would buy this book just for the gorgeous cover.

I’ll probably read the next installment in the series to see if Erin has grown in her new role as a homicide investigator and to see how her working relationship with Todd develops. I also have another of Stacy Green’s novels, All Good Deeds, Book 1 in the Lucy Kendall series on my TBR, so hopefully, I’ll get to that one soon.

Recommended

3/5 Stars

Many thanks to Vesuvian Books, Stacy Green and Netgalley for the ARC I received. This has not influenced my review.
Profile Image for Kathy Martin.
4,151 reviews115 followers
December 27, 2016
Erin Prince is new to homicide when she catches a gruesome new case. She also has a new partner who is much more experienced. Erin doesn't have very good self esteem. Her father is a wealthy defense contractor but she chose police work instead of joining her father's business. She and her twin who recently came out as gay are living together along with her 9-year-old daughter. Brad is her best friend, confident, and support.

The first victim is a young woman who has had quite a troubled past. She was a victim of childhood sexual abuse, spent time addicted to drugs, and who has now become clean and gone back to school. She was butchered by someone who left messages harking back to the Jack the Ripper murders of 1888.

Erin and her partner Beckett quickly find themselves investigating the young woman's life and acquaintances. The more they investigate, the more they learn about Bonnie's tangled past. They learn that her parents don't know much about her. Her sometimes boyfriend also only sees part of Bonnie's life. Her colleagues at school and work like her but don't really know her.

A lot of their investigations have them looking into her childhood sexual abuse and the efforts that were made to cover it up. They learn that the abuse caused a rift between their families that persists to this day. Bonnie and her cousin Sarah lost track of each other until recently although neither set of parents know they've reconnected.

Then a second victim is found. This one is a psychologist who works at the school where Bonnie is trying to get her GED and is also Sarah's thesis adviser at American University. More clues seem to be pointing to someone who is recreating Jack the Ripper's crimes but the woman's connection to both Bonnie and Sarah proves to be more confusing than enlightening.

Meanwhile, Erin is getting phone calls from a child named Mina who knows about the killer and is terrified of her. Some of the chapters are told from Mina's viewpoint and the viewpoint of Charlie who is determined to protect Mina.

This was an engaging mystery with lots of twists and turns which kept me guessing to the very last line. Fans of psychological thrillers and female detectives will enjoy this one.
Profile Image for Sugar Skull Confessions.
792 reviews
October 19, 2016
**** ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ****

Warning: This review/rating is based on my feelings, thoughts, likes and dislikes. You should read the book to form your own opinion/thoughts. Read on!


Rating: 4 Stars
Cover: I like it
Cliffhanger: Nope
Triangle: Nah

JTR

Well, I was granted this book for an honest review and I am very glad! It had very few typos, didn’t bother me that much.

Erin is an heiress turned investigator, all she has wanted was to be herself and not being automatically be judged by her family’s money. I didn’t like her very much, she was all over the place, her emotions rule her character and she comes out as a spoiled brat and even when she is apologizing to people, I feel she does it in a way as if she truly believes she shouldn’t apologize and someone should say sorry to her.

The rest of the characters were really good.

There were too many suspects, but I managed to guess early on who the killer was. There were a few times when I doubted but then came back to my first assumption. I was right, but there were some things the author managed to surprise me with, there were two twists in the plot and they gave life to the book, and I enjoyed it even more.

I have read books about suspense and serial killers and mystery, but this one fell a bit flat. When they were describing the way the victims were murdered it felt too clinical, too technical, I couldn’t managed to believe Erin how she truly felt.

But then, Brad happened, now that part, I came alive, I was sobbing like there was no tomorrow, it was very painful to read that part, and I could truly see Erin for the first time…

Very interesting, managed to keep me going…
Profile Image for Debbie.
1,751 reviews108 followers
February 4, 2017
This was one of the weirdest mystery crime books that I think I have ever read. The deaths were weird and really quite gruesome, very gruesome. The author chose to let us hear what the killer was thinking while these murders were taking place. On a scale of one to ten of psychopath, this dude was a fifteen.

And then at the end when the killer is revealed, okay, that was horrific to read. I could not imagine sitting or laying there, whatever Erin was doing while all that was going on. I would be high tailing it down the road as fast as I could.

Now that I have told you all of that, let me just say that I found the book pretty entertaining and I was pretty much horrifically enthralled with all that was going on. I had to keep reading to see why and who was doing this to these women. It was just so gross. They kept saying Jane the Ripper, but I wanted to know for sure. It was like everyone wants to rubberneck an accident, you might see blood and guts, but you gotta look.

Thanks to Vesuvian Books for approving my request to read this book and to Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jahara - Jarjarbindings.
262 reviews12 followers
November 19, 2022
“For some people, right and wrong are both shades of gray.”

“Everything good comes in time. The truth will be preserved. My identity will be protected. The world will be right again."

“People do terrible things to one another,” Brooks said. “It’s an awful world to live in.”

Alright so this happened! This book took me for a wild unexpected ride! This is a thriller with an ending I did not see coming and I loved every single minute of it! Usually I guess the endings of thrillers but this one threw me for a loop! A young woman is found graphically murdered, Jack then ripper style in a pricey part of Washington, DC. Is this a Jack the ripper wanna be? The killer is playing games with the agents minds and doing everything they can to throw them off his tracks.....or hers?? It's a great book with great characters and if you love thrillers like I do, you should totally pick this one up!

Thanks to @katieandbreypa and for this fantastic read!

I give Killing Jane by Stacy Green ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Piepie | The Napping Bibliophile.
2,170 reviews133 followers
January 20, 2017
Bloody and gory! I actually am not affected by reading about abuse/rape/sex ... all the topics that were in this mystery ... and woven all together they made this novel both gripping and deeply disturbing. I didn't want to put it down. The present-day mutilations and killings were intertwined with a Jack the Ripper theory, and it made for a really intriguing read. Thank you, Netgalley, for this arc.
Profile Image for books_with_sass.
394 reviews30 followers
November 6, 2022
Thank you to @katieandbreypa and @authorstacygreen for an ARC of Killing Jane, the first book in the Erin Prince series. I will say that there are trigger warnings for gruesome murder details, date rape, and BDSM.

This book pulled me in from the start. Erin is a freshly promoted homicide investigator, and this is her first major case, alongside her newly arrived partner, Todd Brooks. Their first crime scene is that of Bonnie Archer, brutally murdered in the most despicable way possible. At the scene, the date of one of the Jack the Ripper murders is scratched into the wooden beam, along with the word "whore." Found near the body was a note with the name Jane, and now it's a race to find out who Jane is before more people die.

Erin Prince was born the rich, entitled daughter of a highly influential DC power player, but when she was able, she left that life to live on her own terms. She tries not to let her past effect her ability to do her job, but the family, friends, and suspects in this murder hit a little too close to home and her ability to stay neutral may be compromised. For the most part, Erin is a likeable character, a doting mother, close with her twin brother Brad, a good detective; however, she second-guesses herself a lot and seems to need validation for the things she's saying and doing. I guess that makes her flawed and human, but I could have done with a little more strength of character.

Todd Brooks is new to Erin's department and to being her partner, but he's been a cop for several years and handled his fair share of high-profile cases. He isn't overbearing with Erin, or talk down to her, but he does think she still has a lot to learn about how to investigate homicides. Overall, they get along well, although they do have their moments, just like any other partner relationship, especially one just starting out. I look forward to see how this partnership grows.

I was trying to figure this out the entire book, and failed at it miserably. There were multiple suspects, and no one seemed to fit, especially after the second murder when there didn't seem to be any overlap of the two women. And is the killer really a female? Are they truly searching for Jane the Ripper, or is that a red herring to distract them from the real killer?

All in all, a great, twisty read with an "I didn't see that coming" conclusion. I can hardly wait to pick up the next one. If you enjoy Karin Slaughter's books, then you will probably enjoy this fast-paced series.
Profile Image for Stacey (Bookalorian).
1,428 reviews49 followers
November 19, 2022
I just finished Killing Jane by @authorstacygreen for @katieandbreypa book tours and here is what I thought!

When a young woman is found half ripped apart in her home in DC, Inspector Erin Prince doesn’t expect to find a calling card left behind…. One linked to the most chilling murders of all time. Jack the Ripper.

Erin is sure that this will be the first body of many if they don’t catch them and fast.

The bodies start to stack up quickly and their biggest fear comes to life…. There is a serial killer on the loose.

Erin has her own loss to come to terms with as she hunts for a person that is getting more deadly by the minute and after the little girl calls, she knows she is running out of time.

The book started out a little slow for me but that is literally the only thing I can say against the book. If you have delicate sensibilities then you may want to avert your eyes from this grisly reimagining of Jack the Ripper. Stacy doesn’t hold anything back and you feel like you can actually hear the blood dripping down the walls and smell the decay. Just ghastly and I loved every gruesome minute.

Loved the idea of the Jack the Ripper copycat not staying within the lines of the case. Clever really because it brought a whole fresh coat of blood to the book.

The ending was chef kiss mwah!! Did not see it coming. I did feel Erin was a little one dimension at times but I actually think it’s her personality not the skills of the author. I felt thoroughly engaged and epically grossed out.

Excellent writing, I am thrilled I got the chance to read this book!

4.5 stars!! Rounded to 5



Profile Image for Jo Ann Reinhold.
424 reviews44 followers
February 22, 2017
I have to say that when I pick up a book by this author I know I'm going to be blown away by the story and the writing. Stacy Green has a distinct voice in her writing and is superb in weaving a suspenseful web of intrigue around her readers and this book is no exception. This story is spine-chilling good and will keep you on the edge of your seat all the way to the end with a cast of characters that are complex and well developed.
Another great job Ms. Green!
Profile Image for Autumn.
2,341 reviews47 followers
February 5, 2017
http://fallenoverbookreviews.blogspot...

I received this book via NetGalley to give an honest review.

I have to say I really enjoyed this book. Though seeing how much Erin Prince struggled between the issues with her family name got old I understood the significance of it all.
Erin is trying to just be a good detective but with her name being well known will it help her in this case or hurt?
Her new partner Beckett seems like a pretty good partner even takes her outbursts with a little grain of salt. It seems that someone is killing based off of Jack the Ripper but why? Erin and Beckett need to solve the case before more and more people are murdered in a gruesome way but will they be too late? This does deal with sexual abuse and it seems that for Erin it hits too close to home and I have to wonder if she will ever get the therapy she needs. I can honestly say I was very surprised at the twist of who the killer was because honestly I didn't see it. I liked how it took Erin and Beckett until towards the end to put the pieces together. So there was a scene in the book with Erin's brother Brad, and as I read the passage I wondered why would the author put that in there. Unless it was meant to be a filler, but as we got to the end of the story and then it all made sense of why she did that scene.
I felt the characters were well developed and the plot was well thought out. I can honestly see myself reading more of the Erin Prince series. I just hope her and Beckett ease into their working relationship instead of her always coming across hostile.

One quote in the book had me laughing because I am a parent of two that are in school.
"Although with Abby in fourth grade, Erin had begun to realize being a parent essentially meant going through school all over again."
Profile Image for Pamela .
1,438 reviews77 followers
February 28, 2019
Oh my God! So boring. And Detective Erin Prince, this woman has a lot of problems. I'm surprised she's even a detective. She never stops comparing herself to other women. Slow and boring should have been the title. I'm going to continue reading. I hope it picks up.

Okay, I just finished it and it was still slow and boring. There was nothing about the female protagonist I liked. In fact, I found her to be quite irritating and honestly, stupid at times. It's hard to believe she's a detective. Her emotions were all over the place. Talk about lack of confidence and smarts. I found it weird that every person that she interviewed ended up hating her. I don't know if this was to show how bad she was at her job or what but I did find it odd. And the fact that everyone kept bringing up her name "Prince" and associating her with her well-to-do family, a little over the top. In fact, if she was so bothered by it she should've changed her last name, otherwise suck it up. I actually found her, her partner, her brother, plus others lacked character development. Everything was on the surface. I didn't get a sense of who these people really were except that she came from wealth and this was brought up time and again. As for the story, nothing amazing. I had to quickly skim thru the chapters because that was the only way to get to the bloody end. Yeah, about the end, I figured out early on who the murderer was. There were no thrills or chills and no suspense. There's no way I'm continuing with this series.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
248 reviews2 followers
November 1, 2016
A killer is killing people in Washington, D.C. with a very distinctive signature. He is mimicking Jack the Ripper. Detective Erin Prince is a new detective in homicide and this is her first big case that she is leading. With her partner, Todd Beckett, they are in a race against time to find the killer before he murders again - while dealing with secrets, lies, pornography and deceit.

This was a very interesting book. I quite enjoyed it. Although I found it dragged a little in the middle, the ending quite made up for it. It came out of left field, there was no way I could've seen it coming. The author wrote a rich story that read like a movie. Full of twists and turns, sometimes I didn't know which way was up! Erin was a very true character, someone who is not very secure with herself in her first big role as lead investigator which leads her to lash out at her partner sometimes. I found her apologies to be heartfelt and I liked her more as a character because of them. Beckett was a great character as well. He's a veteran detective who just moved to the Washington area and has a lot to offer Erin as her partner. I've never read this author before and it was a treat for me to have enjoyed her so much and to find out that she has such a repertoire of books already published. I look forward to reading some of her other novels.

I received this ARC from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Charlotte Lynn.
2,225 reviews62 followers
February 10, 2017
Killing Jane is definitely a thriller. I really liked that the hints were obvious but not so obvious that the book got boring. Even I, who follows the path the author wants the reader to take, had some ideas. I doubted myself many times but came back to the same conclusion and had the who-dun-it figured out before the end. Yet, I didn’t stop reading or thinking about this book until I read the last page. I couldn’t stop.

The characters were real. They had flaws, they had emotions, and they had feelings. Erin was a new to being a lead investigator and in learning the ropes made rookie mistakes; she apologized for the mistakes and quickly learned from them. Beckett was a veteran detective who was new to the area and gave Erin a lot of good advice in the ways of being a detective. Together they balanced each other.

This is the first book by Stacy Green. She has a collection of books already published and I cannot wait to read them all.
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