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The Ripperologists: The Thrilling Chase to Stop a Modern-Day Jack the Ripper
"Who are you?" "For tonight, you can call me Jack. Mind if I come in?" "Fascinating, couldn't put it down!"Nunes, Amazon.com (verified purchase) ★★★★★ When a copycat serial killer begins recreating Jack the Ripper's 1888 murder spree, two competing experts are forced to work together to stop him.
What they don't understand is that his murderous spree is far more personal than either of them ever suspected.
Grab this electrifying race-against-time mystery/thriller today! ★★★★★
What they don't understand is that his murderous spree is far more personal than either of them ever suspected.
Grab this electrifying race-against-time mystery/thriller today! ★★★★★
- GenresMystery
410 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 19, 2009
About the author
John Gaspard
54 books146 followersJohn is author of the Eli Marks mystery series and the Como Lake Players mystery series. He also has four other stand-alone novels: “The Greyhound of the Baskervilles,” “A Christmas Carl,” “The Sword & Mr. Stone” and “The Ripperologists.”
He hosts two podcasts: "Behind the Page: The Eli Marks Podcast," and "The Occasional Film Podcast."
In real life, John's not a magician, but he has directed six low-budget features that cost very little and made even less - that's no small trick. He's also written multiple books on the subject of low-budget filmmaking. Ironically, those books made more than the films.
John lives in Minnesota and shares his home with his lovely wife, several greyhounds, a few cats and a handful of pet allergies.
He hosts two podcasts: "Behind the Page: The Eli Marks Podcast," and "The Occasional Film Podcast."
In real life, John's not a magician, but he has directed six low-budget features that cost very little and made even less - that's no small trick. He's also written multiple books on the subject of low-budget filmmaking. Ironically, those books made more than the films.
John lives in Minnesota and shares his home with his lovely wife, several greyhounds, a few cats and a handful of pet allergies.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
June 13, 2021
This was such a great read! If you are interested in the Jack the Ripper case, I highly recommend it to you.
I enjoy seeing what authors do to approach this famous case from new and different perspectives. This author came at this with what I consider an extremely clever and well-conceived, well-structured plot.
The book incorporates a number of interesting side features: so-called 'experts' on famous murder cases, Ripper conventions and the odd people they draw, the fascination people continue to have with serial killers, and much more. I found this book fascinating on a number of levels.
One of the features here I particularly enjoyed was the large variety of eclectic and quirky supporting characters who fill out the main plot. People like Barbara's agent, Dimitri at the coffee shop and the other cops who work in Ben's unit all really added an entertaining flavour to the main storyline and helped things feel even more real for the reader.
The plot itself was really engaging if you have any sort of interest at all in the centuries of speculation on who Jack the Ripper actually was. Putting a new killer in current day - in New York, naturally, but the only place that would have been more obvious was if the book had been set in London - may seem a bit obvious, but you really do need the key components of a major city to do this story justice, so I'm not even taking away a star for the obvious setting. It worked and it was entertaining.
The pacing and the suspense of this story was very well done. Even though you know what's coming (if you're paying attention at all) you will still find your heart racing as we come to the final chapters, wondering if things are going to work out the way we want it to. This book has excitement, drama and plenty of little sideways moments (I wouldn't call them twists because they aren't REALLY shocking) that do up the ante on the suspense.
Overall this was a well-written, nicely-paced good story, filled with interesting fun characters to make going on the journey with our three main characters highly entertaining. Great read!
I enjoy seeing what authors do to approach this famous case from new and different perspectives. This author came at this with what I consider an extremely clever and well-conceived, well-structured plot.
The book incorporates a number of interesting side features: so-called 'experts' on famous murder cases, Ripper conventions and the odd people they draw, the fascination people continue to have with serial killers, and much more. I found this book fascinating on a number of levels.
One of the features here I particularly enjoyed was the large variety of eclectic and quirky supporting characters who fill out the main plot. People like Barbara's agent, Dimitri at the coffee shop and the other cops who work in Ben's unit all really added an entertaining flavour to the main storyline and helped things feel even more real for the reader.
The plot itself was really engaging if you have any sort of interest at all in the centuries of speculation on who Jack the Ripper actually was. Putting a new killer in current day - in New York, naturally, but the only place that would have been more obvious was if the book had been set in London - may seem a bit obvious, but you really do need the key components of a major city to do this story justice, so I'm not even taking away a star for the obvious setting. It worked and it was entertaining.
The pacing and the suspense of this story was very well done. Even though you know what's coming (if you're paying attention at all) you will still find your heart racing as we come to the final chapters, wondering if things are going to work out the way we want it to. This book has excitement, drama and plenty of little sideways moments (I wouldn't call them twists because they aren't REALLY shocking) that do up the ante on the suspense.
Overall this was a well-written, nicely-paced good story, filled with interesting fun characters to make going on the journey with our three main characters highly entertaining. Great read!
April 15, 2022
This book was a surprise treat! Having read most of the Eli Mark series I went in with some trepidation and high expectations and Mr. Gaspard delivered. The plot follows the Barbara Thomas, Henry McHugh, both famous Ripperoligists ( Jack the Ripper) along with Ben, a NYC detective as the match wits with a copycat murderer he’ll bent on repeating the 120 year old murders committed by Jack the Ripper, with some adaptations. I have to say the twists and turns had me guessing throughout, even the identity of the killer came out of nowhere 😮😮👀👀. Great start to hopefully a series.
August 6, 2024
'The Ripperologists', by John Gaspard
Usually I'm not all that interested in serial killers, although I do like a good detective story and 'film noir', so to speak.
I kinda got sucked into this book through a blub at the end of another story by this author, lol, and was impressed at the detail and curiousness of this storyline.
I have to admit knowing very little more than the basics about Jack The Ripper, so it was intriguing to discover myriad theories abound! So many theories!
What a convoluted plot, in a good way, and I enjoyed seeing this whole mystery play out, even though there were some gruesome aspects to these murder cases...well, duh... it's Jack the Ripper!
A quote from Agatha Christie's famous Belgian detective, Hecule Poirot, seems apt here: "it's good for the little grey cells", as my brain was jumping through hoops trying to figure it all out.
Creepy and interesting! I liked the diverse characters. It was definitely a nail-biter read, waiting to see if they figured out the copy killer before he struck again! Cool premise.
Usually I'm not all that interested in serial killers, although I do like a good detective story and 'film noir', so to speak.
I kinda got sucked into this book through a blub at the end of another story by this author, lol, and was impressed at the detail and curiousness of this storyline.
I have to admit knowing very little more than the basics about Jack The Ripper, so it was intriguing to discover myriad theories abound! So many theories!
What a convoluted plot, in a good way, and I enjoyed seeing this whole mystery play out, even though there were some gruesome aspects to these murder cases...well, duh... it's Jack the Ripper!
A quote from Agatha Christie's famous Belgian detective, Hecule Poirot, seems apt here: "it's good for the little grey cells", as my brain was jumping through hoops trying to figure it all out.
Creepy and interesting! I liked the diverse characters. It was definitely a nail-biter read, waiting to see if they figured out the copy killer before he struck again! Cool premise.
June 19, 2021
The mystery of Jack the Ripper in 19th century London has fascinated detectives and amateur sleuths for decades. So this modern day story is no exception. Two 'students' of this killer - one an author and the other a retired English police inspector - meet at a Ripper convention and are joined by a real police detective who seeks their help to solve a current murder that duplicates every detail of the first Ripper murder. What a great premise!
The three join forces and share expertise as the second copycat murder occurs and together they struggle to anticipate the killer's next moves and try to stop him. A really well developed story and thoughtful and interesting characters all combine to make this an excellent book. l really liked the approach of the author who gave the killings just enough detail to keep things moving and the reader engaged to the very end.
Total win.
The three join forces and share expertise as the second copycat murder occurs and together they struggle to anticipate the killer's next moves and try to stop him. A really well developed story and thoughtful and interesting characters all combine to make this an excellent book. l really liked the approach of the author who gave the killings just enough detail to keep things moving and the reader engaged to the very end.
Total win.
May 8, 2024
A copycat Jack the Ripper has focused on Manhattan and his killing coincides with a Jack the Ripper convention. Marvelously plotted, good characterizations, only one flaw which might not be a flaw. Next few sentences - Spoiler Alert.
Somehow, the English retired Scotland Man manages to produce a small handgun at the most needed moment. How did he get it on the plane? Did he buy it in New York? A sentence or two of explanation would have been most appreciated.
Other than that, it was a really good read.
Somehow, the English retired Scotland Man manages to produce a small handgun at the most needed moment. How did he get it on the plane? Did he buy it in New York? A sentence or two of explanation would have been most appreciated.
Other than that, it was a really good read.
December 1, 2018
Gripping read
This was a well executed read, suspense,misdirection and romance. A very clever idea to have copycats of the most famous serial killer of all time. I did not want to put the book down really enjoyed this book.
This was a well executed read, suspense,misdirection and romance. A very clever idea to have copycats of the most famous serial killer of all time. I did not want to put the book down really enjoyed this book.
October 28, 2019
Excellent!
Extremely well done new mystery about a Jack the Ripper copycat killer. Two presenters at a Ripperologist convention, both considered experts on this historic figure, are involved with NYC police attempting to stop this new serial killer. Terrific adventure!
Extremely well done new mystery about a Jack the Ripper copycat killer. Two presenters at a Ripperologist convention, both considered experts on this historic figure, are involved with NYC police attempting to stop this new serial killer. Terrific adventure!
May 1, 2020
I really enjoyed this book and the cross over of British detective vs NYPD detective. And the flirtation between the female writer and the NYPD Detective was just right. Not too salacious and not too juvenile. I would definitely recommend this book and I would definitely read a sequel.
January 26, 2025
For me - This book was an absolute page-turner. I devoured it in less than 24 hours…I just couldn’t put it down. The intriguing plot and well-developed characters make it a must-read. Highly recommended.
January 24, 2026
a copycat serial killer , called "Jack" in the story, begins recreating Jack the Ripper's 1888 murder spree, two competing experts are forced to work together to stop him. Interesting bits of Ripper history come up.
May 2, 2018
a mixture of tales that will make you think and devour each page as this mystery and adventure unfolds. I loved it!!!
November 7, 2019
Interesting read
I encouraged the book ,good characters and history. I have never been to London but Jack the Ripper is an interesting tale. Who was he?
I encouraged the book ,good characters and history. I have never been to London but Jack the Ripper is an interesting tale. Who was he?
January 22, 2024
A book on the books of Jack the Ripper. An interesting and thought-provoking story and great characters. Highly Recommended.
January 22, 2024
This is a 3.5 🌟 read rounded ⬆️ to 4 🌟.
February 22, 2024
A great whodunit
A grear premise. And Gaspard delovers with a twisted who and wjy dunnit. One of my favorite reads of the past year.
A grear premise. And Gaspard delovers with a twisted who and wjy dunnit. One of my favorite reads of the past year.
February 28, 2024
Interesting look at copycat Jack
June 25, 2024
Not bad, a bit predictable
January 11, 2025
Really enjoyed this Ripper book. I find the case fascinating and this copy cat killer take on the original case was an interesting read. Highly recommended.
November 10, 2024
I have never read this author until this book, I think it is one of the best books I’ve ever read. It was nicely paced didn’t feel drawn out. Would recommend to any reader who is interested in Jack The Ripper or just wants a good book.
August 5, 2016
Interesting, but this book is under a different name "The Ripperologists" in print form, and only had this title as the digital publication. But here is the original review that I wrote.
John Gaspard's first mystery novel, breaking away from all his other books that dominate the film industry.
The story is actually really well paced following a series of Jack the Ripper copycat murders occurring in NYC during a Jack the Ripper convention.
What I really liked is the depth to his main characters, and the well thought out structure of the plot. Giving you a very disturbing look at the actual patience of a serial killer, very chilling when you look back on the entire story after reading.
Recommended to any who want a quick mystery, or those just beginning to look at Jack the Ripper tales.
John Gaspard's first mystery novel, breaking away from all his other books that dominate the film industry.
The story is actually really well paced following a series of Jack the Ripper copycat murders occurring in NYC during a Jack the Ripper convention.
What I really liked is the depth to his main characters, and the well thought out structure of the plot. Giving you a very disturbing look at the actual patience of a serial killer, very chilling when you look back on the entire story after reading.
Recommended to any who want a quick mystery, or those just beginning to look at Jack the Ripper tales.
August 5, 2016
John Gaspard's first mystery novel, breaking away from all his other books that dominate the film industry.
The story is actually really well paced following a series of Jack the Ripper copycat murders occurring in NYC during a Jack the Ripper convention.
What I really liked is the depth to his main characters, and the well thought out structure of the plot. Giving you a very disturbing look at the actual patience of a serial killer, very chilling when you look back on the entire story after reading.
Recommended to any who want a quick mystery, or those just beginning to look at Jack the Ripper tales.
The story is actually really well paced following a series of Jack the Ripper copycat murders occurring in NYC during a Jack the Ripper convention.
What I really liked is the depth to his main characters, and the well thought out structure of the plot. Giving you a very disturbing look at the actual patience of a serial killer, very chilling when you look back on the entire story after reading.
Recommended to any who want a quick mystery, or those just beginning to look at Jack the Ripper tales.
January 4, 2011
I liked this book, a fun read and new twist to the Jack the Ripper books I usually read. It had likable characters but never really delves into character development and has a somewhat weak plot line at times. All in all it was a good read- as long as you're not looking for anything too Jack the Ripper factual, although I will say it had a good number of theories mentioned throughout along with the "accepted" facts of the Ripper case brought out too.
December 19, 2020
I listened to this one. (Solid narration, happily!) It was an entertaining, engaging, fast paced read with very little filler. The characters were just fleshed out enough. Some folks like "character driven" stories. I prefer plot driven ones, like this. It moved at a good clip, and there was enough suspense and menace to make you feel invested in the outcome.
Also, I loved the villain reveal so much. It was perfect.
Also, I loved the villain reveal so much. It was perfect.
February 6, 2011
I liked it. it was fun, light hearted and was about a serial killer, what could go wrong. I also that it was kind of cool with al the Marks Brothers references.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews