What do you think?
Rate this book
Lacey Flint #1
Rødt lys stop
One night after interviewing a reluctant witness at a London apartment complex, Lacey Flint, a young detective constable, stumbles onto a woman brutally stabbed just moments before in the building’s darkened parking lot. Within twenty-four hours a reporter receives an anonymous letter that points out alarming similarities between the murder and Jack the Ripper’s first murder—a letter that calls out Lacey by name. If it’s real, and they have a killer bent on re-creating London’s bloody past, history shows they have just five days until the next attempt.
No one believes the connections are anything more than a sadistic killer’s game, not even Lacey, whom the killer seems to be taunting specifically. However, as they investigate the details of the case start reminding her more and more of a part of her past she’d rather keep hidden. And the only way to do that is to catch the killer herself.
No one believes the connections are anything more than a sadistic killer’s game, not even Lacey, whom the killer seems to be taunting specifically. However, as they investigate the details of the case start reminding her more and more of a part of her past she’d rather keep hidden. And the only way to do that is to catch the killer herself.
489 pages, Hardcover
First published May 26, 2011
556 people are currently reading
41227 people want to read
About the author
Sharon J. Bolton
44 books4,500 followersSharon's newest book The Split is now available in both hardback and paperback in the UK!
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Split-grippi...
Sharon J Bolton was born and brought up in Lancashire, the eldest of three daughters. As a child, she dreamed of becoming an actress and a dancer, studying ballet, tap and jazz from a young age and reading drama at Loughborough University.
She spent her early career in marketing and PR before returning to full-time education to study for a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) at Warwick University, where she met her husband, Andrew. They moved to London and Sharon held a number of PR posts in the City. She left the City to work freelance, to start a family and to write.
She and Andrew now live in a village in the Chiltern Hills, not far from Oxford, with their son and the latest addition to the family: Lupe, the lop-eared lurcher. Her daily life revolves around the school run, walking the dog and those ever-looming publishing deadlines.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Split-grippi...
Sharon J Bolton was born and brought up in Lancashire, the eldest of three daughters. As a child, she dreamed of becoming an actress and a dancer, studying ballet, tap and jazz from a young age and reading drama at Loughborough University.
She spent her early career in marketing and PR before returning to full-time education to study for a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) at Warwick University, where she met her husband, Andrew. They moved to London and Sharon held a number of PR posts in the City. She left the City to work freelance, to start a family and to write.
She and Andrew now live in a village in the Chiltern Hills, not far from Oxford, with their son and the latest addition to the family: Lupe, the lop-eared lurcher. Her daily life revolves around the school run, walking the dog and those ever-looming publishing deadlines.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,066 reviews
March 1, 2023
Book outlet read #9!! SOUND THE ALARM BECAUSE IT'S A BANGER ALERT!!!!!!!
Writing: 5/5 | Plot: 5/5 | Ending: HER BEST YET/5
THE PLOT
Young detective constable Lacey Flint is whisked into a terrifying Jack the Ripper-esque case that seems to get more personal the deeper she probes.
MY OPINION
WOW. My FIFTH, yep FIFTH, five star read in May #blessed #sometimesstressed. Anyways. Out of all my Sharon Bolton reads, this one is my favourite because the ending kept its shit together. Usually her books go off the chain in the last 15% or so, but this ending worked and I was SHOOKETH.
As if I wasn't excited enough for her upcoming release, The Dark, now I am bussin at the seams to get my grubby lil mitts on it.
I stan Joesbury and Lacey even though they are toxic. I've already read book #2, and I yeeted book #3 when I realized one of the main POVs was an 11-year-old boy who was helping Lacey solve the crime... absolutely not lmao. So onto #4 it is!
Do yourself a favor and read this series (well maybe not #3 unless you can handle a crime fighting child). Bolton is the ultimate literary crime writer. Sharp wit, informative, and well-paced. This was 400 pages at font size 6 but I gobbled it up even with my MIL in town. She's the only author I'd go over 400 pages for... that's how much I love her.
In one word: BANGERLICIOUS!!!!!
PROS AND CONS
Pros: everything... even the ending was good, nay, GREAT
Cons: nothing. all hail queen bolton
Writing: 5/5 | Plot: 5/5 | Ending: HER BEST YET/5
THE PLOT
Young detective constable Lacey Flint is whisked into a terrifying Jack the Ripper-esque case that seems to get more personal the deeper she probes.
MY OPINION
WOW. My FIFTH, yep FIFTH, five star read in May #blessed #sometimesstressed. Anyways. Out of all my Sharon Bolton reads, this one is my favourite because the ending kept its shit together. Usually her books go off the chain in the last 15% or so, but this ending worked and I was SHOOKETH.
As if I wasn't excited enough for her upcoming release, The Dark, now I am bussin at the seams to get my grubby lil mitts on it.
I stan Joesbury and Lacey even though they are toxic. I've already read book #2, and I yeeted book #3 when I realized one of the main POVs was an 11-year-old boy who was helping Lacey solve the crime... absolutely not lmao. So onto #4 it is!
Do yourself a favor and read this series (well maybe not #3 unless you can handle a crime fighting child). Bolton is the ultimate literary crime writer. Sharp wit, informative, and well-paced. This was 400 pages at font size 6 but I gobbled it up even with my MIL in town. She's the only author I'd go over 400 pages for... that's how much I love her.
In one word: BANGERLICIOUS!!!!!
PROS AND CONS
Pros: everything... even the ending was good, nay, GREAT
Cons: nothing. all hail queen bolton
February 14, 2025
I have read Now You See Me (NYSM) an embarrassing number of times. The superb plotting, fascinating characters and spooky settings keep drawing me back in. Of course the problem with re-reading this book is that I never have the shivery thrill of the first time. I don't care. It's still worth it.
With my first reading, Bolton kept me guessing throughout the book until I figured something out and then realized, no, I had not. On subsequent readings I read for the pure pleasure of language, plotting and characterization. NYSM preceded all of those Gone Girl Bad on a Train With a Terrible Marriage books (apologies to someone) outshining all of those supposed twisty turny books. Ms Bolton is the James Bond of twisty writers. "Nobody does it better."
DC Lacey Flint is the only witness to the death of a woman who dies in her arms. She is re- assigned to the Lewisham nick so she can continue doing her own non -related investigations into the under-reported sexual assaults of adolescent and teenage immigrant women. This keeps DC Flint easily available to the Major Incident Team for questioning. The MIT is headed by DI Dana Tulloch in a welcome return from Sacrifice. As a witness Flint is not supposed to be involved with the investigation but her expertise on Jack the Ripper comes in handy when a copycat calls her out. DC Flint then goes from ripperologist to ripper bait as it becomes apparent this really is all about her.
No one knows why, but when DC Flint figures it out, she's not about to tell anyone. She is just going to end the murder spree. This is not foolishly going into the scary basement territory- although she does- this is to save the life she has made for herself.
Lacey is a mess, but a mess readers grow to care about. Her secrets have secrets. A beautiful woman, Lacey tries to hide her looks and to stay as much in the background as possible. She keeps a boxing heavy bag dressed as man in her garden shed. Her apartment is a white box with no sign of her personality. Lacey seeks anonymous sex because she thinks she will always be unable to have a real relationship. This is put to the test when she meets DI Mark Joesbury, a close friend of DI Tulloch.
Ultimately, lack of trust between Lacey and her co-workers ends with Lacey having to making excruciating choices to save loved ones.
There is not a wasted word, an overdone scene or an off note in this book. As an added bonus I also come away from most of Ms Bolton's books more informed on a social issue than when I started the book.
With my first reading, Bolton kept me guessing throughout the book until I figured something out and then realized, no, I had not. On subsequent readings I read for the pure pleasure of language, plotting and characterization. NYSM preceded all of those Gone Girl Bad on a Train With a Terrible Marriage books (apologies to someone) outshining all of those supposed twisty turny books. Ms Bolton is the James Bond of twisty writers. "Nobody does it better."
DC Lacey Flint is the only witness to the death of a woman who dies in her arms. She is re- assigned to the Lewisham nick so she can continue doing her own non -related investigations into the under-reported sexual assaults of adolescent and teenage immigrant women. This keeps DC Flint easily available to the Major Incident Team for questioning. The MIT is headed by DI Dana Tulloch in a welcome return from Sacrifice. As a witness Flint is not supposed to be involved with the investigation but her expertise on Jack the Ripper comes in handy when a copycat calls her out. DC Flint then goes from ripperologist to ripper bait as it becomes apparent this really is all about her.
No one knows why, but when DC Flint figures it out, she's not about to tell anyone. She is just going to end the murder spree. This is not foolishly going into the scary basement territory- although she does- this is to save the life she has made for herself.
Lacey is a mess, but a mess readers grow to care about. Her secrets have secrets. A beautiful woman, Lacey tries to hide her looks and to stay as much in the background as possible. She keeps a boxing heavy bag dressed as man in her garden shed. Her apartment is a white box with no sign of her personality. Lacey seeks anonymous sex because she thinks she will always be unable to have a real relationship. This is put to the test when she meets DI Mark Joesbury, a close friend of DI Tulloch.
Ultimately, lack of trust between Lacey and her co-workers ends with Lacey having to making excruciating choices to save loved ones.
There is not a wasted word, an overdone scene or an off note in this book. As an added bonus I also come away from most of Ms Bolton's books more informed on a social issue than when I started the book.
July 19, 2016
As treacherous and as uncertain as the rough edges of the cobblestone streets in the infamous Whitechapel district. Shadows of a dark figure much to the likes of Jack around every corner.
Now here's where I'd like to walk around inside the mind of the very talented Sharon Bolton. Oooh! Or maybe not.......
Sharon Bolton introduces us to her quite complicated character, Lacey Flint, a young detective constable working the crime scenes of London. The intense story grabs you from the first pages as Lacey comes upon the savage attack of a young woman. With only moments of life beating within her, the young woman grabs the doorhandle of Lacey's car leaving far more than her blood in the aftermath. Lacey is determined to find out what had happened to this unfortunate girl.
When a quirky journalist informs Lacey that she has received an anonymous letter from the possible killer, Lacey meets with her. There's more than a jumble of words here. Lacey's own name appears on the page. From every indication, it's evident that a sadistic, psychopathic predator is standing in their midst. As the story unfolds, Lacey recognizes the parallels to the Ripper murders from times, dates, and manner.
And who possesses the depth of evil likened to the one whose name is recognized even today as one of the worst heartless, savage serial killers of all time?
Lacey is assisted by DI Mark Joesbury who doesn't quite know what to make of Lacey's sixth sense and her tilted police procedures. He watches her like a hawk for many a reason.
Bolton serves up an intensely good storyline here. It's like entering into a multifaceted, lively beehive with chambers that go on and on into unexpected and untapped experiences. Just when you think you've got a handle on all this, Bolton swings in another direction. It's a smart, smart read that touches on the mayhem of the Ripper murders while laying it all out for modern eyes to peruse.
Sharon Bolton, I'm in for the long haul. Locked in and ready for more and more.
Now here's where I'd like to walk around inside the mind of the very talented Sharon Bolton. Oooh! Or maybe not.......
Sharon Bolton introduces us to her quite complicated character, Lacey Flint, a young detective constable working the crime scenes of London. The intense story grabs you from the first pages as Lacey comes upon the savage attack of a young woman. With only moments of life beating within her, the young woman grabs the doorhandle of Lacey's car leaving far more than her blood in the aftermath. Lacey is determined to find out what had happened to this unfortunate girl.
When a quirky journalist informs Lacey that she has received an anonymous letter from the possible killer, Lacey meets with her. There's more than a jumble of words here. Lacey's own name appears on the page. From every indication, it's evident that a sadistic, psychopathic predator is standing in their midst. As the story unfolds, Lacey recognizes the parallels to the Ripper murders from times, dates, and manner.
And who possesses the depth of evil likened to the one whose name is recognized even today as one of the worst heartless, savage serial killers of all time?
Lacey is assisted by DI Mark Joesbury who doesn't quite know what to make of Lacey's sixth sense and her tilted police procedures. He watches her like a hawk for many a reason.
Bolton serves up an intensely good storyline here. It's like entering into a multifaceted, lively beehive with chambers that go on and on into unexpected and untapped experiences. Just when you think you've got a handle on all this, Bolton swings in another direction. It's a smart, smart read that touches on the mayhem of the Ripper murders while laying it all out for modern eyes to peruse.
Sharon Bolton, I'm in for the long haul. Locked in and ready for more and more.
February 6, 2019
Thank you Brenda for the wonderful recommendation of this book! I could have eaten this up in one day if this week hadn't been so busy.
This book is the first in the Lacey Flint series and it started (and ended) with a bang. Clearly I'm late to the party and most everyone has read this book already, but I'm happy to have joined in. Without giving too much away, this novel is based around the fact that a Jack the Ripper copy cat is on the loose and it is up to the MIT to stop him. As the book progresses, we begin to learn more about Lacey's past and her own secrets. There is a little romance as well; I enjoyed it because it wasn't over the top or distracting from the story. The ending had so many twists and turns I think I have whiplash, but I enjoyed every second.
I would immediately recommend this book to anyone looking for a new suspense/thriller/mystery series without a ton of books to catch up on (there's only 4 so far; 5 if you count the short story). I've already requested the next in the series and am excited to continue Lacey's story!
This book is the first in the Lacey Flint series and it started (and ended) with a bang. Clearly I'm late to the party and most everyone has read this book already, but I'm happy to have joined in. Without giving too much away, this novel is based around the fact that a Jack the Ripper copy cat is on the loose and it is up to the MIT to stop him. As the book progresses, we begin to learn more about Lacey's past and her own secrets. There is a little romance as well; I enjoyed it because it wasn't over the top or distracting from the story. The ending had so many twists and turns I think I have whiplash, but I enjoyed every second.
I would immediately recommend this book to anyone looking for a new suspense/thriller/mystery series without a ton of books to catch up on (there's only 4 so far; 5 if you count the short story). I've already requested the next in the series and am excited to continue Lacey's story!
December 2, 2018
4****
”Jack was a real man, but he’s become a myth”.
A well-crafted crime procedural, fast-paced and gripping.
This is the first book in the Lacey Flint series by Sharon Bolton.
After interviewing a reluctant witness one dark evening, Lacey is horrified to find a woman slumped over her car door, bleeding profusely. This woman then dies in her arms.
At first this seems like a murder case, Lacey’s first one in fact, however when a reporter receives a letter, pre-fixed “Dear Boss”, hand-delivered, and written in red ink (suspected blood), it is pointing to a Jack the Ripper copycat. When these letters mention Lacey by name - she is swept head long into the investigation, trying to reveal the killer while also keeping her own dark secrets buried.
Lacey as a character was rather complex, however the writing of this character was very engaging and kept me wondering and guessing to Lacey’s own secrets and agendas... often secreted through hints and admissions through out the book. Lacey was relatable to some manner, her obsession with true crime mirrored that of my own when I was a teenager/now. Sharon Bolton did a great job at portraying a character who was new to murder work (especially that of a serial killer) and working with a new team who, some, seem mistrustful of her. Bolton shows Lacey’s doubts and the debates within herself for the sanity at keeping her job, finding the killer, and keeping hold of her secret past.
As this book centres around a possible copy-cat of Jack the Ripper, Sharon Bolton does a great job at providing a comprehensive and informative view of the suspected Jack the Ripper crimes form 1888. However, be warned, some of the deaths in this were highly graphic and torturous for the victims- making an unpleasant read.
I have given this book 4 stars as some parts I was easily able to guess or figure out parts of the plot (before the characters did), so it was slightly annoying when it took time for the characters to eventually figure it out.
Another thing I didn’t particularly enjoy, was the relationship between Mark Joesbury and Lacey Flint. I felt Mark was rather unlikeable (in my opinion), treated Lacey badly, and the relationship between the two seemed under developed compared to the pace the book was moving at, especially scenes involving the two characters.
”Jack was a real man, but he’s become a myth”.
A well-crafted crime procedural, fast-paced and gripping.
This is the first book in the Lacey Flint series by Sharon Bolton.
After interviewing a reluctant witness one dark evening, Lacey is horrified to find a woman slumped over her car door, bleeding profusely. This woman then dies in her arms.
At first this seems like a murder case, Lacey’s first one in fact, however when a reporter receives a letter, pre-fixed “Dear Boss”, hand-delivered, and written in red ink (suspected blood), it is pointing to a Jack the Ripper copycat. When these letters mention Lacey by name - she is swept head long into the investigation, trying to reveal the killer while also keeping her own dark secrets buried.
Lacey as a character was rather complex, however the writing of this character was very engaging and kept me wondering and guessing to Lacey’s own secrets and agendas... often secreted through hints and admissions through out the book. Lacey was relatable to some manner, her obsession with true crime mirrored that of my own when I was a teenager/now. Sharon Bolton did a great job at portraying a character who was new to murder work (especially that of a serial killer) and working with a new team who, some, seem mistrustful of her. Bolton shows Lacey’s doubts and the debates within herself for the sanity at keeping her job, finding the killer, and keeping hold of her secret past.
As this book centres around a possible copy-cat of Jack the Ripper, Sharon Bolton does a great job at providing a comprehensive and informative view of the suspected Jack the Ripper crimes form 1888. However, be warned, some of the deaths in this were highly graphic and torturous for the victims- making an unpleasant read.
I have given this book 4 stars as some parts I was easily able to guess or figure out parts of the plot (before the characters did), so it was slightly annoying when it took time for the characters to eventually figure it out.
Another thing I didn’t particularly enjoy, was the relationship between Mark Joesbury and Lacey Flint. I felt Mark was rather unlikeable (in my opinion), treated Lacey badly, and the relationship between the two seemed under developed compared to the pace the book was moving at, especially scenes involving the two characters.
April 12, 2017
Usually when there is even a mention of Jack the Ripper in a book's description, I quickly add it to my "to read" list. This time I hesitated for bit because this was a modern copy cat Jack the Ripper. Part of the enjoyment I get from reading fiction novels based on "Jack's" murder spree is because of when the killings took place...
London 1888-Horse drawn carriages clip clopping down dark cobbled streets, the man in the in the black cloak, and hat disappearing into the fog. Scotland Yard working with only eye witnesses and hand written letters possibly sent by the murderer. No cell phones, no internet, no DNA.
...but this was one of those times when the cover of the book called to me, and I thought I would give it a chance. NOW YOU SEE ME did not disappoint.
London 2011- After interviewing a potential witness in a rape case, DC Lacey Flint walks out to her car and stumbles upon a dying woman-Geraldine Jones. Later a letter is sent to the office of a local reporter.
Dear Miss Bosston
I keep on hearing Saucy Jacky is back. How I have laughed. Is it true?
If it is, I hope the police are clever, and on the right track.
Ask DC Flint for me - Did the lady squeal? No time to clip her ears but plenty of times for funny little games.
Yours truly,
A f(r)iend
Hope you like the red proper stuff
The killer is re-creating the crimes of Jack the Ripper, and Geraldine Jones, is only the first.
Many fiction novels have been based on the Jack the Ripper Killings, but this one definitely has a style of it's own. Not just the modern twist, there is so much more going on than just the murders. Lacey Flint is a complex, dark character, and I found her back story just as riveting as the mystery she is trying to solve.
London 1888-Horse drawn carriages clip clopping down dark cobbled streets, the man in the in the black cloak, and hat disappearing into the fog. Scotland Yard working with only eye witnesses and hand written letters possibly sent by the murderer. No cell phones, no internet, no DNA.
...but this was one of those times when the cover of the book called to me, and I thought I would give it a chance. NOW YOU SEE ME did not disappoint.
London 2011- After interviewing a potential witness in a rape case, DC Lacey Flint walks out to her car and stumbles upon a dying woman-Geraldine Jones. Later a letter is sent to the office of a local reporter.
Dear Miss Bosston
I keep on hearing Saucy Jacky is back. How I have laughed. Is it true?
If it is, I hope the police are clever, and on the right track.
Ask DC Flint for me - Did the lady squeal? No time to clip her ears but plenty of times for funny little games.
Yours truly,
A f(r)iend
Hope you like the red proper stuff
The killer is re-creating the crimes of Jack the Ripper, and Geraldine Jones, is only the first.
Many fiction novels have been based on the Jack the Ripper Killings, but this one definitely has a style of it's own. Not just the modern twist, there is so much more going on than just the murders. Lacey Flint is a complex, dark character, and I found her back story just as riveting as the mystery she is trying to solve.
August 30, 2017
A killer is mimicking Jack the Ripper, mirroring his kill dates from long ago. Truth or smokescreen? A deadly game of cat and mouse is taking place, but who is playing whom?
Deftly plotted, with characters into which you can really sink your teeth,
Deftly plotted, with characters into which you can really sink your teeth,
June 9, 2023
This was great!
DC Lacey Flint (always love a good literary name) is a cop with a past. This always makes for fascinating reading. You know they are capable as they've faced tough situations; she is edgy and has much more going on than her colleagues realise. Up front about her casual sex, she's a take me or leave me type of gal.
Lacey is witness to a gruesome murder in London, occurring right in front of her eyes a woman dies in her arms. This leads to a massive hunt with ties to Jack the Ripper. Lacey has always been fascinated with this case, as a schoolgirl learning all she could. This means she teaches her team about the background and nature of the case quickly to help find the killer - she's a smart woman who will take no poo from anyone. When she realises it's personal for her, we learn of a sordid past and now she is on the run - we want her to be ok, to succeed and end up on top. The author's take on the Ripper slant shows research and cleverness.
I have to say I love romantic tension in a thriller, and you just want them to jump on each other! The writing is so good, and the tension and pacing perfect. Joesbury is the fella in question who of course Lacey thinks is nothing but a twat. Let me say I am a happy reader to know this is a series.
Another book that has been on my list for years, and only having gotten to it now as I found it newly on audio through my library. Wonderful narration, and an wonderfully written, rapidly paced and satisfying read. I will quickly find the rest!
Recommended to all thriller fans out there, this is an example of smart writing, where no words are wasted and the experience a joyful spin. And Lacey and Joesbury? Yes please.
DC Lacey Flint (always love a good literary name) is a cop with a past. This always makes for fascinating reading. You know they are capable as they've faced tough situations; she is edgy and has much more going on than her colleagues realise. Up front about her casual sex, she's a take me or leave me type of gal.
Lacey is witness to a gruesome murder in London, occurring right in front of her eyes a woman dies in her arms. This leads to a massive hunt with ties to Jack the Ripper. Lacey has always been fascinated with this case, as a schoolgirl learning all she could. This means she teaches her team about the background and nature of the case quickly to help find the killer - she's a smart woman who will take no poo from anyone. When she realises it's personal for her, we learn of a sordid past and now she is on the run - we want her to be ok, to succeed and end up on top. The author's take on the Ripper slant shows research and cleverness.
I have to say I love romantic tension in a thriller, and you just want them to jump on each other! The writing is so good, and the tension and pacing perfect. Joesbury is the fella in question who of course Lacey thinks is nothing but a twat. Let me say I am a happy reader to know this is a series.
Another book that has been on my list for years, and only having gotten to it now as I found it newly on audio through my library. Wonderful narration, and an wonderfully written, rapidly paced and satisfying read. I will quickly find the rest!
Recommended to all thriller fans out there, this is an example of smart writing, where no words are wasted and the experience a joyful spin. And Lacey and Joesbury? Yes please.
June 2, 2015
I'm becoming a big fan of S.J. Bolton. It's not that there's anything terribly new here but I like the way this woman thinks and puts a story together.
Interestingly, I read Dead Scared, the second Lacey Flint outing, first. What made me go back and read the first "Now You See Me" was the excellent interview and talk with the author on The Readers , July 2nd. Part of The Readers Summer Reading Club, the first segment was a talk with S.J. Bolton, intrigued me to go back and set the Lacey Flint character in my mind. I postponed the last segment of the podcast, loaded with spoilers, until after I read the book.
That I read "Dead Scared" first didn't hamper my enjoyment of either but I did learn things about Lacey that I didn't know in "Now You See Me". The character Lacey Flint and her interaction with other members of the London Police is what makes the read for me. The mindset of a female policewoman, her means of detection, her working relationship with male staff, and general dealings with the public, are interesting to explore.
"Now You See Me" is classed as crime fiction. I do like crime but I love it when it has strong psychological themes as well as some good twists and turns.
One review that I read thought there was nothing original in "Now You See Me"; that this story has been told before. I think that is true of many books, the old how many plots are there question. Hey, there is a murder, there is a killer, there is a person trying to find the killer and prevent more killing. This simple story can be "new" depending on how the author chooses to get you from point to point. I think S.J.'s plotting and writing is excellent and well thought out. She herself states that she leads you a bit in "Now You See Me" and she'd be surprised if you could not figure out a few things for yourself. Yes, I did, but this made me think about the character of Lacey more, comparing her to people in my own life, who sometimes make me step back and wonder about who they really are.
I also loved the back story of the homeless which is termed "sleeping rough". It almost worries me how well Bolton writes these scenes. This worry also relates to the theme of rape and violence to women. If this is not enough there's a bit of history regarding "Jack the Ripper" which should interest fans of this long unsolved case.
There's also a bit of music running throughout the story and one particular song that will keep sounding in my head as the story fades and I'm on to something new.
One point to ponderFlint states "We were taught in training that it's human instinct to turn left rather than right, and that, with no other motivation, people will head to their left" Now I always thought that we look left and turn right when entering a venue. I wonder if this is due to our different driving habits.
Bolton says she does not intend to keep Flint going forever. Her fans might demand she does. I hope she sticks to her guns and maybe does one or two more, which allows for fleshing out the character and her relationships to a natural end. Bolton has written stand-alone books. I enjoyed "Sacrifice" and will definitely seek out the others as well as any new ones she writes.
Interestingly, I read Dead Scared, the second Lacey Flint outing, first. What made me go back and read the first "Now You See Me" was the excellent interview and talk with the author on The Readers , July 2nd. Part of The Readers Summer Reading Club, the first segment was a talk with S.J. Bolton, intrigued me to go back and set the Lacey Flint character in my mind. I postponed the last segment of the podcast, loaded with spoilers, until after I read the book.
That I read "Dead Scared" first didn't hamper my enjoyment of either but I did learn things about Lacey that I didn't know in "Now You See Me". The character Lacey Flint and her interaction with other members of the London Police is what makes the read for me. The mindset of a female policewoman, her means of detection, her working relationship with male staff, and general dealings with the public, are interesting to explore.
"Now You See Me" is classed as crime fiction. I do like crime but I love it when it has strong psychological themes as well as some good twists and turns.
One review that I read thought there was nothing original in "Now You See Me"; that this story has been told before. I think that is true of many books, the old how many plots are there question. Hey, there is a murder, there is a killer, there is a person trying to find the killer and prevent more killing. This simple story can be "new" depending on how the author chooses to get you from point to point. I think S.J.'s plotting and writing is excellent and well thought out. She herself states that she leads you a bit in "Now You See Me" and she'd be surprised if you could not figure out a few things for yourself. Yes, I did, but this made me think about the character of Lacey more, comparing her to people in my own life, who sometimes make me step back and wonder about who they really are.
I also loved the back story of the homeless which is termed "sleeping rough". It almost worries me how well Bolton writes these scenes. This worry also relates to the theme of rape and violence to women. If this is not enough there's a bit of history regarding "Jack the Ripper" which should interest fans of this long unsolved case.
There's also a bit of music running throughout the story and one particular song that will keep sounding in my head as the story fades and I'm on to something new.
One point to ponderFlint states "We were taught in training that it's human instinct to turn left rather than right, and that, with no other motivation, people will head to their left" Now I always thought that we look left and turn right when entering a venue. I wonder if this is due to our different driving habits.
Bolton says she does not intend to keep Flint going forever. Her fans might demand she does. I hope she sticks to her guns and maybe does one or two more, which allows for fleshing out the character and her relationships to a natural end. Bolton has written stand-alone books. I enjoyed "Sacrifice" and will definitely seek out the others as well as any new ones she writes.
November 6, 2021
A 'Jack the Ripper' copycat is murdering women in London and - like the original Ripper - is taunting the press and the cops.
The copycat seems to be focusing attention on beautiful Detective Constable Lacey Flint, who had the bad luck to find the first victim moments after the woman was attacked.
Because Lacey was first on scene - and happens to be an expert on Ripper lore - she's asked to assist with the investigation being run by Dana Tulloch, head of the Major Investigative Team.
Also assisting with the investigation is rugged, handsome Detective Inspector Mark Joesbury.
Joesbury seems to be suspicious of Lacey for several reasons: she was right there at the first murder, she has a shady background and used to live rough on the streets of London, and she picks up men for one-night stands.
In his eyes, Lacey's a suspect in the Ripperish killings. Of course this doesn't stop sparks of attraction from igniting between Lacey and Joesbury.
Unlike the original Ripper, who murdered downtrodden prostitutes, the copycat targets stylish middle-class women with families.
The copycat does, however, seem to be following the Ripper's timetable and modus operandi: mutilating the women, removing body parts, and so on.
The police have trouble finding a connection between the copycat's victims, but once they do, DC Lacey Flint is panic-stricken for reasons that are revealed as the story unfolds.
The copycat is very clever at misdirection and leaving false clues, and Lacey keeps endangering herself by plunging into situations without appropriate backup, etc. Luckily, Joesbury is usually around to lend a hand.
Eventually the police identify a suspect who has a likely motive, and this eventually leads to a dramatic climax.
I liked the mystery aspects of the book and thought the killer's motive was believable. I also felt most of the main characters were compelling, though I think the author does better fleshing out female characters than male characters. The real Ripper 's history and mythology - sprinkled through the story - add interest. Moreover, Lacey's (and I guess the author's) theory about the original Ripper's identity is clever and plausible.
I'm not a big fan of romance in mysteries so I didn't enjoy the 'push and pull' between Lacey and Joesbury as they dealt with their attraction. However, readers who enjoy romantic suspense will probably like these parts. ❤
Overall, a good beginning to the Lacey Flint series, recommended to fans of the genre.
You can follow my reviews at http://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com/
May 19, 2024
Vengence
Sharon Bolton's Now You See Me is a mystery thriller of chilling suspense that lures readers into a labyrinth of secrets and deception. At the heart of Now You See Me lies a story of revenge and a web of lies and betrayals, expertly woven into a serial killer’s replication of Jack the Ripper. Policewoman Lacey Flint is at the heart of the story and is fatefully introduced to the murder spree when the first victim dies in her arms. Flint is also a Jack the Ripper aficionado, and perhaps initially (like me), you’re yelling no, no, no, too much coincidence. Rest assured, Bolton is masterful in how she believably blends the copycat murders into the current murder hunt and gives us insights into details about Jack the Ripper that I found fascinating.
The characters are richly drawn, their complexities adding depth to the narrative as they grapple with fear, suspicion, threats, and the pressure of a murder investigation where several detectives feel their careers are in jeopardy if the murderer isn’t caught soon. As a mystery thriller goes, the killer could potentially be several characters, and their background covers an equally compelling range of motives. Bolton's mastery of plot and suspense is on full display here as she skillfully builds tension with each twist and turn, leading to a breathless conclusion.
In Now You See Me , Sharon Bolton delivers a spellbinding thriller that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. With its haunting references, intricate plot, and compelling characters, this novel will surely captivate fans of the genre. I have not known Sharon Bolton to take a bad step in her novels; always provides entertainment and a clever plot. This is the first in her Lacey Flint series and I highly recommend joining the journey.
Sharon Bolton's Now You See Me is a mystery thriller of chilling suspense that lures readers into a labyrinth of secrets and deception. At the heart of Now You See Me lies a story of revenge and a web of lies and betrayals, expertly woven into a serial killer’s replication of Jack the Ripper. Policewoman Lacey Flint is at the heart of the story and is fatefully introduced to the murder spree when the first victim dies in her arms. Flint is also a Jack the Ripper aficionado, and perhaps initially (like me), you’re yelling no, no, no, too much coincidence. Rest assured, Bolton is masterful in how she believably blends the copycat murders into the current murder hunt and gives us insights into details about Jack the Ripper that I found fascinating.
The characters are richly drawn, their complexities adding depth to the narrative as they grapple with fear, suspicion, threats, and the pressure of a murder investigation where several detectives feel their careers are in jeopardy if the murderer isn’t caught soon. As a mystery thriller goes, the killer could potentially be several characters, and their background covers an equally compelling range of motives. Bolton's mastery of plot and suspense is on full display here as she skillfully builds tension with each twist and turn, leading to a breathless conclusion.
In Now You See Me , Sharon Bolton delivers a spellbinding thriller that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. With its haunting references, intricate plot, and compelling characters, this novel will surely captivate fans of the genre. I have not known Sharon Bolton to take a bad step in her novels; always provides entertainment and a clever plot. This is the first in her Lacey Flint series and I highly recommend joining the journey.
September 19, 2016
I found a new favorite author here in S.J. (Sharon) Bolton. This book was brilliant! Very engrossing and intricate plot line. Highly recommended. Will definitely be going through all her works including this series. This book was the first in the Lacey Flint series. She has written several stand alone novels including Sacrifice her debut novel which I mistook for the first in the Lacey Flint series. I have heard so many good things about this series I was looking for the beginning and discovered all S.J. (Sharon) Bolton's other novels. I read a lot of crime/police procedurals/thrillers and this one had more twists and turns it was dizzying, and I never guessed any of them, much less the outcome, which was truly amazing. I can't recommend this author highly enough, I am already on the second book in the series. I like my crime reads to be unpredictable, graphic, and gruesome and this fit the bill perfectly. This also fits under the category of medical thriller because all the accurate medical jargon and forensic elements. It even has historical elements to it following Jack-the-Ripper copycat storyline. A must read for the crime addict.
August 6, 2019
Clever, Diabolical, and Chilling!
When a young women is brutally attacked by an unknown assailant, DC Lacey Flint gets to her just before she takes her last breath, dying in her arms.
Following the murder, journalist Emma Boston comes forward claiming to have received a letter at home, seemingly from the killer. She personally brings it to Lacey, not the police. The reason becomes clear very quickly.
Dear Miss Bosston
I keep on hearing Saucy Jack is back. How I have laughed
Is it true?
If it is, I hope the police are clever and on the right track.
Ask DC Flint for me — did the lady squeal? No time to clip her ears but plenty more time for funny little games.
Yours truly
A f(r)iend
Hope you like the proper red stuff.
The letter is then compared to the first letter Jack the ripper sent to the police in 1888.
Dear Boss
I keep on hearing the police have got me but they won't fix me just yet. I have laughed when they look so clever and talk about being on the right track. That joke about leather apron give me such fits. I am down on whores and I won't quit ripping them till I do get buckled. Grand work the last job was. I gave the lady no time to squeal. How can they catch me now. I love my work and want to start again. You will soon hear of me with my funny little games. I saved some of the proper red stuff in a ginger beer bottle over the last job to right with but it went thick like glue and I can't use it. Red ink is fit enough I hope. Ha ha. The next job I do I shall clip the lady's ear off and send to the police officers just for jolly wouldn't you. Keep this letter back till I do a bit more work then give it out straight. My knife's so nice and sharp. I want to get to work right away if I get a chance. Good luck.
Yours truly
Jack the Ripper
Don't mind me giving the trade name.
In the short note pushed through Emma's front door in the early hours of Saturday morning, twenty-two words had been directly lifted from the original letter. When he'd finished going through it, Joesbury drew a big circle round the misspelling of Emma Boston's name. Dear Miss Bosston.
'Christ', muttered Tulloch.
'Bastard's sent us a Dear Boss letter,' said Joesbury, in case one of us hadn't got it. From the look in Tulloch's face, and the ache at the back of my jaw that usually means I'm about to vomit, it seemed fair to say we both had.
********
Sharon J. Bolton has done it AGAIN with Now You See Me!
Book one in the Lacey Flint series is a diabolical and chilling masterpiece written around the legendary and infamous Jack the Ripper. But don't let put you off! While there are parallels, Sharon J. Bolton has cleverly twisted this into an unputdownable story all it's own! She will have you guessing in one direction only to send you off on a completely different tangent altogether. Over and over again!
Word to the wise...
Don't start this book if you have somewhere to be.
You won't get there!
I have so much faith in Sharon J. Boltonthat I have already purchased all of the Lacey Flint novels and I can't wait to dive in!
When a young women is brutally attacked by an unknown assailant, DC Lacey Flint gets to her just before she takes her last breath, dying in her arms.
Following the murder, journalist Emma Boston comes forward claiming to have received a letter at home, seemingly from the killer. She personally brings it to Lacey, not the police. The reason becomes clear very quickly.
Dear Miss Bosston
I keep on hearing Saucy Jack is back. How I have laughed
Is it true?
If it is, I hope the police are clever and on the right track.
Ask DC Flint for me — did the lady squeal? No time to clip her ears but plenty more time for funny little games.
Yours truly
A f(r)iend
Hope you like the proper red stuff.
The letter is then compared to the first letter Jack the ripper sent to the police in 1888.
Dear Boss
I keep on hearing the police have got me but they won't fix me just yet. I have laughed when they look so clever and talk about being on the right track. That joke about leather apron give me such fits. I am down on whores and I won't quit ripping them till I do get buckled. Grand work the last job was. I gave the lady no time to squeal. How can they catch me now. I love my work and want to start again. You will soon hear of me with my funny little games. I saved some of the proper red stuff in a ginger beer bottle over the last job to right with but it went thick like glue and I can't use it. Red ink is fit enough I hope. Ha ha. The next job I do I shall clip the lady's ear off and send to the police officers just for jolly wouldn't you. Keep this letter back till I do a bit more work then give it out straight. My knife's so nice and sharp. I want to get to work right away if I get a chance. Good luck.
Yours truly
Jack the Ripper
Don't mind me giving the trade name.
In the short note pushed through Emma's front door in the early hours of Saturday morning, twenty-two words had been directly lifted from the original letter. When he'd finished going through it, Joesbury drew a big circle round the misspelling of Emma Boston's name. Dear Miss Bosston.
'Christ', muttered Tulloch.
'Bastard's sent us a Dear Boss letter,' said Joesbury, in case one of us hadn't got it. From the look in Tulloch's face, and the ache at the back of my jaw that usually means I'm about to vomit, it seemed fair to say we both had.
********
Sharon J. Bolton has done it AGAIN with Now You See Me!
Book one in the Lacey Flint series is a diabolical and chilling masterpiece written around the legendary and infamous Jack the Ripper. But don't let put you off! While there are parallels, Sharon J. Bolton has cleverly twisted this into an unputdownable story all it's own! She will have you guessing in one direction only to send you off on a completely different tangent altogether. Over and over again!
Word to the wise...
Don't start this book if you have somewhere to be.
You won't get there!
I have so much faith in Sharon J. Boltonthat I have already purchased all of the Lacey Flint novels and I can't wait to dive in!
February 20, 2017
Finally! It took forever to get my hands on this book and then it took me forever to read it, howver, despite the fact that I never thought of it as a can't-put-it-down-page-Turner, this was a very solid book.
Now You See Me is the first in the Lacey Flint series by S.J. Bolton who also publishes under Sarah Bolton. Someone in London is copying Jack the Ripper's murders and the MET is called in to investigate. The twist is that the murders are not random and DI Flint appears to in the center of it all.
The research on the actual Ripper murders was truly excellent. As an historian I appreciate this type of accuracy and the documentation at the end notes for additional reading as well. Hilton's writing is very good although at times I felt I was given tidbits of information regarding the character's background for shock value rather than simply allowing me to know the characters. This isn't the 20th century. I don't care if someone has a "partner" rather than husband. Annoying. The ending more than made up for it all though. No matter what you suspected throughout the book, the ending still is a surprise and very well written.
So- yes there are flaws but overall it is well worth reading and after that ending I definitely want to know Lahey Flint better!
Now You See Me is the first in the Lacey Flint series by S.J. Bolton who also publishes under Sarah Bolton. Someone in London is copying Jack the Ripper's murders and the MET is called in to investigate. The twist is that the murders are not random and DI Flint appears to in the center of it all.
The research on the actual Ripper murders was truly excellent. As an historian I appreciate this type of accuracy and the documentation at the end notes for additional reading as well. Hilton's writing is very good although at times I felt I was given tidbits of information regarding the character's background for shock value rather than simply allowing me to know the characters. This isn't the 20th century. I don't care if someone has a "partner" rather than husband. Annoying. The ending more than made up for it all though. No matter what you suspected throughout the book, the ending still is a surprise and very well written.
So- yes there are flaws but overall it is well worth reading and after that ending I definitely want to know Lahey Flint better!
July 12, 2016
4.5 stars
A BIG thank you goes out to my GR friend Christine for making this my buddy read pick! We both picked a book for each other to read that we knew the other would never pick themselves. (My choice for her was Bird Box) MUAHAHAHA
My first experience with Sharon Bolton (Little Black Lies) was nothing to write home about. Chris has been nipping in my ear for awhile now about giving the author a second chance, and I am glad that she did. Reading Now You Can See Me was a completely different experience and even felt like it was written by a completely different author.
This is book 1 in a police procedural series that features Lacey Flint. With minimal backstory provided, I still found myself drawn to this character. She's tough on the outside, but there is a vulnerability that peeks through and I can tell that book 1 barely touched the surface of who Lacey Flint truly is.
Strong character development shines through here, but the other thing that really drew me in was Bolton's descriptive writing style. I feel better acquainted with London now, and being that it's on my bucket list to visit, I have now added Camden Stable Market to my growing list of places to see.
Her ability to paint pictures, whether it's describing of a physical object/location or describing the feel of the night/atmosphere, it really made me feel a part of what was going on.
Why not a 5 star rating you wonder?
If you have noticed, I haven't really touched on my thoughts about the story-line...this is because it's the only area where I felt a bit cheated.
The plot is solid, drawing off the Jack-The-Ripper copycat theme, but so much more involved. I loved the research involved and even found myself looking up references online, including some of the pictures of the murder scenes, including the bodies! (I found it fascinating that these photo's where taken in 1888 and now available for all to see)
It's the ending where I felt a bit robbed of some closure. I still have some questions rolling around in my head about why certain things were enacted the way they were. The final confrontation between the killer and leading lady felt a bit flat as well. I was expecting more of a showdown.
All-in-all though, this is a SOLID mystery that has left me wanting more...
Way to go Chris, you made me a fan!! XO
A BIG thank you goes out to my GR friend Christine for making this my buddy read pick! We both picked a book for each other to read that we knew the other would never pick themselves. (My choice for her was Bird Box) MUAHAHAHA
My first experience with Sharon Bolton (Little Black Lies) was nothing to write home about. Chris has been nipping in my ear for awhile now about giving the author a second chance, and I am glad that she did. Reading Now You Can See Me was a completely different experience and even felt like it was written by a completely different author.
This is book 1 in a police procedural series that features Lacey Flint. With minimal backstory provided, I still found myself drawn to this character. She's tough on the outside, but there is a vulnerability that peeks through and I can tell that book 1 barely touched the surface of who Lacey Flint truly is.
Strong character development shines through here, but the other thing that really drew me in was Bolton's descriptive writing style. I feel better acquainted with London now, and being that it's on my bucket list to visit, I have now added Camden Stable Market to my growing list of places to see.
Her ability to paint pictures, whether it's describing of a physical object/location or describing the feel of the night/atmosphere, it really made me feel a part of what was going on.
Why not a 5 star rating you wonder?
If you have noticed, I haven't really touched on my thoughts about the story-line...this is because it's the only area where I felt a bit cheated.
The plot is solid, drawing off the Jack-The-Ripper copycat theme, but so much more involved. I loved the research involved and even found myself looking up references online, including some of the pictures of the murder scenes, including the bodies! (I found it fascinating that these photo's where taken in 1888 and now available for all to see)
It's the ending where I felt a bit robbed of some closure. I still have some questions rolling around in my head about why certain things were enacted the way they were. The final confrontation between the killer and leading lady felt a bit flat as well. I was expecting more of a showdown.
All-in-all though, this is a SOLID mystery that has left me wanting more...
Way to go Chris, you made me a fan!! XO
March 9, 2014
A psychological thriller, Lacey Flint’s a young inexperienced detective on the hunt for a Ripper copycat. Though set in modern day London there's tasty gothic undertones, nobody gives you the urge to check over your shoulder quite like Jack. ‘One of the phrases you’ll hear often about the Ripper,’ I said, after a couple of gulps, is “without a trace” because that’s how he worked. There were people sleeping yards from where Polly was killed and they didn’t hear a sound. Nobody saw a thing.”
She’s got the creep factor down, liked the murderer’s taste in music - Julie Andrews “raindrops on roses” playing in the background, a disturbingly nice touch.
I'm not a 'Ripperologist' but I read this right after The Lodger a great Ripper novel written back in 1918, had me wanting more. Boulton delivered, tossing in a few ‘*Saucy Jack’ theories: he was a member of the royal family; it was a Masonic conspiracy, Jill-the-Ripper anyone? The pacing is tight, plenty of twists & Lacey’s…interesting. Complex, neurotic, secretive; a loner who rejects intimacy, preferring one-night stands regardless of the danger, or probably because of it...good stuff.
In the thriller genre 3 ½ stars rounded up to 4.
Meanderings: “Saucy Jack” or “The Ripper” – 'Saucy Jack' doesn’t quite cut it, does it. Truth is there’s been plenty of unsolved murders, maybe this one would have sunk into oblivion years ago if not for a reporter back in 1888 called Thomas Bulling. A drunken journalist who wrote crime stories for newspapers, he coined the phrase ‘Jack the Ripper’ and it stuck, the real murderer signed his letters to the police 'Saucy Jack.' An ingenious piece of journalism, 125 years later serial killers are still called ‘Rippers’.
Warning: Leans towards torture porn. To be fair passages like this don’t dominate the novel but holy crackers - only a woman could write this, a taste… Alrighty then – didn’t offend my tender sensibilities, just - unnecessarily graphic. Comes down to personal preference, if you're looking for the adrenaline rush of a thriller you've found it. If you prefer more subtlety and suspense try “The Lodger” instead.
She’s got the creep factor down, liked the murderer’s taste in music - Julie Andrews “raindrops on roses” playing in the background, a disturbingly nice touch.
I'm not a 'Ripperologist' but I read this right after The Lodger a great Ripper novel written back in 1918, had me wanting more. Boulton delivered, tossing in a few ‘*Saucy Jack’ theories: he was a member of the royal family; it was a Masonic conspiracy, Jill-the-Ripper anyone? The pacing is tight, plenty of twists & Lacey’s…interesting. Complex, neurotic, secretive; a loner who rejects intimacy, preferring one-night stands regardless of the danger, or probably because of it...good stuff.
In the thriller genre 3 ½ stars rounded up to 4.
Meanderings: “Saucy Jack” or “The Ripper” – 'Saucy Jack' doesn’t quite cut it, does it. Truth is there’s been plenty of unsolved murders, maybe this one would have sunk into oblivion years ago if not for a reporter back in 1888 called Thomas Bulling. A drunken journalist who wrote crime stories for newspapers, he coined the phrase ‘Jack the Ripper’ and it stuck, the real murderer signed his letters to the police 'Saucy Jack.' An ingenious piece of journalism, 125 years later serial killers are still called ‘Rippers’.
Warning: Leans towards torture porn. To be fair passages like this don’t dominate the novel but holy crackers - only a woman could write this, a taste… Alrighty then – didn’t offend my tender sensibilities, just - unnecessarily graphic. Comes down to personal preference, if you're looking for the adrenaline rush of a thriller you've found it. If you prefer more subtlety and suspense try “The Lodger” instead.
November 13, 2022
Wow! What an amazing surprise!!
I wasn't really expecting much from this book. Jack the Ripper copycat, it's been done. Investigator series, it's been done... But WOW!!! LOVED IT!! Sucked me in straight away and I was up ALL NIGHT!!!!
It had pretty much everything I love about a novel all rolled into one. Great characters, interestingly dark - yet extremely enjoyable tone, well written, suspenseful, with a dash of romance... And a twist... Ohhhh a BLOODY AWESOME twist!!!
Lacey Flint is an investigator in London who is shoved, quite literally, right into a Jack the Ripper copycat murder investigation. As the investigation progresses and the bodies pile up, she discovers she may be more involved than she realises...
Loved the character of Lacey! She is a flawed, yet extremely likeable heroine. Her past was incredible.
Joesbury is the experienced senior investigator determined to uncover Lacey's past while struggling with his feelings for her. I loved the relationship between the two of them. The tension was fantastic!
I don't really have anything negative to say. I don't really like England that much, and London is probably my least favourite city (no offence to my English friends or England loving friends) so I wasn't too excited about it being set there. But I actually really enjoyed the setting. The city was so dark and mysteriously beautiful. It almost made me want to go back there... Almost...
It was slightly predictable, but she really did keep you guessing till the end. You will have to read it to understand, just when you think you have it figured out, you don't, but then you do again... Only this time its like BAM!!!!! Wow! Amazing!
Solid 5 stars!
Loved it!! I am already dying to read the next one!
-------
Edited: I did in fact read the next one, and the next one and the next one. And this series is my FAVOURITE series of all time. Loved every word of all of them. And they only get better as they go along!
Try it out, you wont regret it!
I wasn't really expecting much from this book. Jack the Ripper copycat, it's been done. Investigator series, it's been done... But WOW!!! LOVED IT!! Sucked me in straight away and I was up ALL NIGHT!!!!
It had pretty much everything I love about a novel all rolled into one. Great characters, interestingly dark - yet extremely enjoyable tone, well written, suspenseful, with a dash of romance... And a twist... Ohhhh a BLOODY AWESOME twist!!!
Lacey Flint is an investigator in London who is shoved, quite literally, right into a Jack the Ripper copycat murder investigation. As the investigation progresses and the bodies pile up, she discovers she may be more involved than she realises...
Loved the character of Lacey! She is a flawed, yet extremely likeable heroine. Her past was incredible.
Joesbury is the experienced senior investigator determined to uncover Lacey's past while struggling with his feelings for her. I loved the relationship between the two of them. The tension was fantastic!
I don't really have anything negative to say. I don't really like England that much, and London is probably my least favourite city (no offence to my English friends or England loving friends) so I wasn't too excited about it being set there. But I actually really enjoyed the setting. The city was so dark and mysteriously beautiful. It almost made me want to go back there... Almost...
It was slightly predictable, but she really did keep you guessing till the end. You will have to read it to understand, just when you think you have it figured out, you don't, but then you do again... Only this time its like BAM!!!!! Wow! Amazing!
Solid 5 stars!
Loved it!! I am already dying to read the next one!
-------
Edited: I did in fact read the next one, and the next one and the next one. And this series is my FAVOURITE series of all time. Loved every word of all of them. And they only get better as they go along!
Try it out, you wont regret it!
December 24, 2018
Seeing a dying a woman next to her car when she returned to it one evening was the last thing Detective Constable Lacey Flint expected to witness. The woman was barely standing and there was a copious amount of blood pouring out of her. Lacey immediately rang for backup and an ambulance. Lacey thought there wasn't much chance of the victim surviving not at the pace she was losing blood.
Once the investigation gets under way there seems to be more questions about this woman and not many answers. As more women are being killed it's time for Lacey and her team to hurry up and find the killer before one of their own are in danger.
WOW WOW WOW! This book will have you on the edge of your seat that's for certain. Fast paced thriller that you won't want to put down. Highly recommended.
Once the investigation gets under way there seems to be more questions about this woman and not many answers. As more women are being killed it's time for Lacey and her team to hurry up and find the killer before one of their own are in danger.
WOW WOW WOW! This book will have you on the edge of your seat that's for certain. Fast paced thriller that you won't want to put down. Highly recommended.
April 22, 2013
(Last summer I briefly returned to my young girl passion of reading Modern Gothic thrillers. Here's my take on this mystery subgenre and my review of a British Gothic thriller writer's fourth book!)
My first reading passion was for the tales of mystery and suspense called Modern Gothic thrillers. From the time I was old enough to peruse the adult section of the public library in that small Southern town where I grew up, I hunted down the novels of Daphne Du Maurier, Anya Seton, Mary Stewart, and fell in love with the prolific Barbara Mertz writing as Barbara Michaels, who eventually published thirty of her wonderful tales of suspense.
In an introductory essay touting a 2008 English course at CUNY called "The Gothic Experience," a Professor Melani attributes the first great practitioner of the Gothic novel to Ann Radcliffe, the most popular and best paid novelist of eighteenth century England . Radcliffe "added suspense, painted evocative landscapes and moods or atmosphere, portrayed increasingly complex, fascinatingly-horrifying, evil villains, and focused on the heroine and her struggle with him." Her best works, the professor continues, are A SICILIAN ROMANCE (1790), THE MYSTERIES OF UDOLPHO (1794) and THE ITALIAN (1797). Although Professor Melani would not include popular Gothic fiction in the course readings, she talks of these Modern Gothic or Gothic Romance novels and states that Daphne DuMaurier's REBECCA (1938) is the quintessential Modern Gothic Thriller.
I wonder what Professor Melani would think of British writer S. J. Bolton? Bolton has written four Gothic thrillers. I recently wrote a review of her fourth thriller, NOW YOU SEE ME, which I titled "The High Priestess of Rural Gothic Crime Goes Urban":
Over in Harrogate, England the third week of July 2011, they dubbed S. J. Bolton the high priestess of rural gothic crime. Her third book BLOOD HARVEST was shortlisted for the Theakston Old Peculier mystery novel of the year at the Harrogate festival. This title is apt: all three of Bolton's previous mysteries are "lush with creepy British atmosphere." Bolton's award-winning debut novel SACRIFICE is set on a Shetland Island. The next two novels are set in isolated British villages. The narrators, or main female characters, are strong, professional women (an obstetrician, a veterinarian, and a psychiatrist) and at least one female in the books is deformed or disabled. There's also a hint of romance and dark family secrets. Reviewers have called Bolton the "new queen of suspense" and after a bit of flap reading of her fourth novel, this reader thought she was about to read "Mary Higgins Clark goes to London."
Well, so much for flap reading! NOW YOU SEE ME is not only a fine example of a Modern Gothic thriller, it's a police procedural!
The narrator of the novel is one D. I. Lacey Flint of the Sapphire unit (crimes against women) of the London Metro Police. She has been on the force for four years. She is a Ripperologist. That's right, an expert in the Jack the Ripper five canonical cases of 1888-89. The five undisputed Ripper Crimes. It seems Lacey, after interviewing a victim of gang rape in a seedy part of London, discovers the first modern-day copycat Ripper victim on August 31 the day Polly Nichols' body was found in Victorian London some eleven decades previously. And other victims follow.
For the first part of NOW YOU SEE ME, we are smothered in Ripper lore, gory description, and lectures. (Bolton has well researched the subject. She lists among other references ANATOMY OF A KILLER by Patricia Cornwell.) If you are squeamish about the Ripper stuff and skim the first half of the book, slow down about Chapter 59. A suspect has been found through DNA on the third victim. The Major Investigation Team is celebrating the close of the case. And into the Squad Room walks the fathers of a private school's rowing team with their solicitors. It seems the first four modern-day victims were mothers of the young rowers. Get ready for a FIVE STAR finish!
And Gothic lovers, don't dismay! The elements are there. A freelance journalist named Emma Boston, with a missing right ear and burn marks on her neck, befriends our protagonist. D. I. Mark Joesbury becomes both romantically interested in Lacey and suspicious of her spotty background. Lacey herself is rather enigmatic and slips down to Camden late at night for sexual adventure. And Julie Andrews sings "My Favourite Things" in her head throughout the book.
My first reading passion was for the tales of mystery and suspense called Modern Gothic thrillers. From the time I was old enough to peruse the adult section of the public library in that small Southern town where I grew up, I hunted down the novels of Daphne Du Maurier, Anya Seton, Mary Stewart, and fell in love with the prolific Barbara Mertz writing as Barbara Michaels, who eventually published thirty of her wonderful tales of suspense.
In an introductory essay touting a 2008 English course at CUNY called "The Gothic Experience," a Professor Melani attributes the first great practitioner of the Gothic novel to Ann Radcliffe, the most popular and best paid novelist of eighteenth century England . Radcliffe "added suspense, painted evocative landscapes and moods or atmosphere, portrayed increasingly complex, fascinatingly-horrifying, evil villains, and focused on the heroine and her struggle with him." Her best works, the professor continues, are A SICILIAN ROMANCE (1790), THE MYSTERIES OF UDOLPHO (1794) and THE ITALIAN (1797). Although Professor Melani would not include popular Gothic fiction in the course readings, she talks of these Modern Gothic or Gothic Romance novels and states that Daphne DuMaurier's REBECCA (1938) is the quintessential Modern Gothic Thriller.
I wonder what Professor Melani would think of British writer S. J. Bolton? Bolton has written four Gothic thrillers. I recently wrote a review of her fourth thriller, NOW YOU SEE ME, which I titled "The High Priestess of Rural Gothic Crime Goes Urban":
Over in Harrogate, England the third week of July 2011, they dubbed S. J. Bolton the high priestess of rural gothic crime. Her third book BLOOD HARVEST was shortlisted for the Theakston Old Peculier mystery novel of the year at the Harrogate festival. This title is apt: all three of Bolton's previous mysteries are "lush with creepy British atmosphere." Bolton's award-winning debut novel SACRIFICE is set on a Shetland Island. The next two novels are set in isolated British villages. The narrators, or main female characters, are strong, professional women (an obstetrician, a veterinarian, and a psychiatrist) and at least one female in the books is deformed or disabled. There's also a hint of romance and dark family secrets. Reviewers have called Bolton the "new queen of suspense" and after a bit of flap reading of her fourth novel, this reader thought she was about to read "Mary Higgins Clark goes to London."
Well, so much for flap reading! NOW YOU SEE ME is not only a fine example of a Modern Gothic thriller, it's a police procedural!
The narrator of the novel is one D. I. Lacey Flint of the Sapphire unit (crimes against women) of the London Metro Police. She has been on the force for four years. She is a Ripperologist. That's right, an expert in the Jack the Ripper five canonical cases of 1888-89. The five undisputed Ripper Crimes. It seems Lacey, after interviewing a victim of gang rape in a seedy part of London, discovers the first modern-day copycat Ripper victim on August 31 the day Polly Nichols' body was found in Victorian London some eleven decades previously. And other victims follow.
For the first part of NOW YOU SEE ME, we are smothered in Ripper lore, gory description, and lectures. (Bolton has well researched the subject. She lists among other references ANATOMY OF A KILLER by Patricia Cornwell.) If you are squeamish about the Ripper stuff and skim the first half of the book, slow down about Chapter 59. A suspect has been found through DNA on the third victim. The Major Investigation Team is celebrating the close of the case. And into the Squad Room walks the fathers of a private school's rowing team with their solicitors. It seems the first four modern-day victims were mothers of the young rowers. Get ready for a FIVE STAR finish!
And Gothic lovers, don't dismay! The elements are there. A freelance journalist named Emma Boston, with a missing right ear and burn marks on her neck, befriends our protagonist. D. I. Mark Joesbury becomes both romantically interested in Lacey and suspicious of her spotty background. Lacey herself is rather enigmatic and slips down to Camden late at night for sexual adventure. And Julie Andrews sings "My Favourite Things" in her head throughout the book.
July 17, 2015
What can i say this was one of the best reads this year for me story of Jack The Ripper very well written & researched Lacy Flint was the heroine & her character was tough as nails was graphic in parts but set the story up not for the faint hearted highly recomended
October 4, 2018
This October, I've decided to pick up some of Sharon Bolton's past works, because I fell in love with her storytelling after reading The Craftsman. #itsaboltonhalloween Everyone that I spoke to recommended the Lacey Flint series, starting with the debut
Now You See Me
, but I was hesitant to pick up another FBI/Detective series. Aren't they all the same anyways? Well, I ate those words real quickly.
Lacey Flint witnesses a murder in progress and doesn't know what to do. Does she help the victim, run after the perpetrator, or does she call the police? As the woman dies in her arms, Lacey gets hold of the London police force, and they are quick to interview her about how this murder took place. Not everyone believes her, but they are all intrigued with her thought process. Flint is also a junior member of the force, and she is soon tasked to help with this case. Matters go from bad to worse, as more victims are found by the hands of the same killer. Flint begins to notice similarities between this murderer, and Jack the Ripper. Are we dealing with the copy cat or something more sinister?
Now I know why everyone is so obsessed with the Lacey Flint series, because now so am I! Now You See Me is a fully encompassing detective series, riddled with strong characterizations, beautifully painted storylines, and sharp twists and turns along the way. I was completely stumped by the thought process Bolton had going in this story, and I loved the fact that I never figured it out until the end. I can't divulge too much, because the remarkable aspect of this story is that it will take you on a journey you'll never expect. I will say that although this story may feel long at times, it is totally worth it. As you read along, you'll think that you have it figured out, but I guarantee you won't. Ms. Bolton, you continue to shock and surprise me, and now I'll just run over to Book Depository and order this whole series.
Lacey Flint witnesses a murder in progress and doesn't know what to do. Does she help the victim, run after the perpetrator, or does she call the police? As the woman dies in her arms, Lacey gets hold of the London police force, and they are quick to interview her about how this murder took place. Not everyone believes her, but they are all intrigued with her thought process. Flint is also a junior member of the force, and she is soon tasked to help with this case. Matters go from bad to worse, as more victims are found by the hands of the same killer. Flint begins to notice similarities between this murderer, and Jack the Ripper. Are we dealing with the copy cat or something more sinister?
Now I know why everyone is so obsessed with the Lacey Flint series, because now so am I! Now You See Me is a fully encompassing detective series, riddled with strong characterizations, beautifully painted storylines, and sharp twists and turns along the way. I was completely stumped by the thought process Bolton had going in this story, and I loved the fact that I never figured it out until the end. I can't divulge too much, because the remarkable aspect of this story is that it will take you on a journey you'll never expect. I will say that although this story may feel long at times, it is totally worth it. As you read along, you'll think that you have it figured out, but I guarantee you won't. Ms. Bolton, you continue to shock and surprise me, and now I'll just run over to Book Depository and order this whole series.
October 6, 2015
I just keep adding to my favorites shelf this year. Another 5 Star read is S.J. Bolton's Now You See Me! Sharon Bolton knows how to keep a reader turning the pages! Her narration is fast paced and suspenseful, whilst giving this reader chills - a modern day Jack the Ripper! Her characters are fully fleshed out. And I loved Lacey Flint. I didn't see the last twist at the end of the novel. And it blew my mind away!
Briefly to summarize the plot. Lacey Flint is a young CID DC in London and is walking to her car. She sees a dead woman leaning, bleeding out on her car. DI Tulloch and DI Joesbury arrive on scene. Tulloch is sympathetic to Flint, but Joesbury thinks Flint may have done it and doesn't want Lacey on the team investigating the murder.
Soon it becomes apparent that the killer is recreating the infamous canonical Jack the Ripper murders. And the killer is also fixated on DC Flint. The why will be surprising - Lacey has a secret. Of course she does.
Any more of the plot lines and I'd ruin the plot for any reader who's not yet read Now You See Me. Just know this - clear a couple of days to read it, because you won't want to put the book down until you've read the last word!
Briefly to summarize the plot. Lacey Flint is a young CID DC in London and is walking to her car. She sees a dead woman leaning, bleeding out on her car. DI Tulloch and DI Joesbury arrive on scene. Tulloch is sympathetic to Flint, but Joesbury thinks Flint may have done it and doesn't want Lacey on the team investigating the murder.
Soon it becomes apparent that the killer is recreating the infamous canonical Jack the Ripper murders. And the killer is also fixated on DC Flint. The why will be surprising - Lacey has a secret. Of course she does.
Any more of the plot lines and I'd ruin the plot for any reader who's not yet read Now You See Me. Just know this - clear a couple of days to read it, because you won't want to put the book down until you've read the last word!
February 13, 2015
This was my first introduction to this author. Such a fantastic gripping thriller that kept me guessing right until the end. I loved this book and am looking forward to the next in the series!
October 24, 2018
Bolton gets me EVERY TIME!!!!
July 15, 2016
Dear reader,
If you are looking for a fantastic crime thriller that will have you burning the midnight oil,then this book has to be added immediately to your TBR list!!
This book centres around the death of Geraldine Jones,the first victim of a killer who,we learn,is mirroring his attacks on none other than Jack the Ripper!!
Lacey Flint,a police woman who finds the first victim,quickly becomes involved in the case.
What follows is one of the best storylines that I've had to pleasure of reading,with the myriad twists and turns that,for me,made this tale deeply compelling.
Woven into the 'who done it' background,we are privy to the slow burning romance between Lacey and her superior,Mark Jonesbury.
I must admit to loving the initial animosity and mistrust evident between these two characters only for their working relationship to hint at the promise of much,much more.
As the end of the book beckoned,I believed myself to be very clever and thought I knew the identity of the killer and how the plot would resolve. Was I right?
Evidently not,but the sheer surprise and shock I got when reading the reveal was breathtaking and the final words were the perfect way to end this amazing book.
I loved every minute I spent with Lacey,Mark and the team.Ms Bolton has a gift when it comes to weaving an intriguing,deeply gratifying and satisfying read.
She has crafted a fantastic tale,one done with care and attention to detail.
I highly recommend this book and must state that I take my hat off to Ms Bolton for penning this exciting and thrilling read!!
Enjoy!!
If you are looking for a fantastic crime thriller that will have you burning the midnight oil,then this book has to be added immediately to your TBR list!!
This book centres around the death of Geraldine Jones,the first victim of a killer who,we learn,is mirroring his attacks on none other than Jack the Ripper!!
Lacey Flint,a police woman who finds the first victim,quickly becomes involved in the case.
What follows is one of the best storylines that I've had to pleasure of reading,with the myriad twists and turns that,for me,made this tale deeply compelling.
Woven into the 'who done it' background,we are privy to the slow burning romance between Lacey and her superior,Mark Jonesbury.
I must admit to loving the initial animosity and mistrust evident between these two characters only for their working relationship to hint at the promise of much,much more.
As the end of the book beckoned,I believed myself to be very clever and thought I knew the identity of the killer and how the plot would resolve. Was I right?
Evidently not,but the sheer surprise and shock I got when reading the reveal was breathtaking and the final words were the perfect way to end this amazing book.
I loved every minute I spent with Lacey,Mark and the team.Ms Bolton has a gift when it comes to weaving an intriguing,deeply gratifying and satisfying read.
She has crafted a fantastic tale,one done with care and attention to detail.
I highly recommend this book and must state that I take my hat off to Ms Bolton for penning this exciting and thrilling read!!
Enjoy!!
September 25, 2016
***BR with Her Highness and Samantha on June 18!! :D
Darkness...fear...terror...rape...blood...murder...rebirth...revenge...Jack the Ripper.
Speaking of which, how many of you think Jack the Ripper was actually a woman?
Jill the Reaper
I have to admit it never crossed my mind until I read this book.
A dead woman was leaning against my car.
The car in question belongs to Lacey Flint, a young detective dedicated to helping young female rape victims. Until one night, when a murder victim leaning against her car pulls her into an investigation that points to a Jack the Ripper copycat. As events unfold, Lacey's past catches up with her.
I'm trying to be as vague as possible, because with thriller books, spoilers are unforgivable from my point of view.
The writing was fast-flowing and kept me on the edge of my seat. All the characters were intriguing, especially Mark Joesbury.
He's so rough and mean and sexy! Lacey is one of a kind! I can't wait to read more of her!
The ending left me like
and
5 stars!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2011
Rating Clarification: 4.5 Stars
Two S.J. Bolton novels under my belt now, and I am hooked on this author's writing style (think of a much grittier, modern Mary Stewart).
Bolton has crafted an intense, atmospheric, and twist-laden tale of a young female Detective Constable with "issues", a modern day Jack-the Ripper copycat killer (oh, goody!) and all the page-turning, stomach-churing excitement you could find from the mystery/police procedural genre.
There's nothing clunky about Bolton's style. It has a nuance and a depth to counter balance all the blood, gore and misery you'll find between it's pages. For fans of The Ripper, there's plenty of backstory on Saucy Jack and his murderous killing spree in 1888. But the heart of the story really lies with our scarred and not-so-reliable heroine, Lacey Flint. You might not particularly like her or admire her actions, but you can't deny she's an intriguing character (at least I couldn't). Lacey's journey in search of the elusive killer will re-open old wounds, but bring her to the road she needs to travel.
Taking off 1/2 a star for a lackluster romance added in the plot. Meh, I can live without romance in this genre, especially when it's not particularly well done or believable. Or perhaps I'm just down on love?
Regardless, Now You See Me is an intoxicating read, and not to be missed for fans of Val McDermid and Simon Beckett.
Two S.J. Bolton novels under my belt now, and I am hooked on this author's writing style (think of a much grittier, modern Mary Stewart).
Bolton has crafted an intense, atmospheric, and twist-laden tale of a young female Detective Constable with "issues", a modern day Jack-the Ripper copycat killer (oh, goody!) and all the page-turning, stomach-churing excitement you could find from the mystery/police procedural genre.
There's nothing clunky about Bolton's style. It has a nuance and a depth to counter balance all the blood, gore and misery you'll find between it's pages. For fans of The Ripper, there's plenty of backstory on Saucy Jack and his murderous killing spree in 1888. But the heart of the story really lies with our scarred and not-so-reliable heroine, Lacey Flint. You might not particularly like her or admire her actions, but you can't deny she's an intriguing character (at least I couldn't). Lacey's journey in search of the elusive killer will re-open old wounds, but bring her to the road she needs to travel.
Taking off 1/2 a star for a lackluster romance added in the plot. Meh, I can live without romance in this genre, especially when it's not particularly well done or believable. Or perhaps I'm just down on love?
Regardless, Now You See Me is an intoxicating read, and not to be missed for fans of Val McDermid and Simon Beckett.
December 7, 2014
3.5 Stars. A good crime mystery with an eerie Jack The Ripper copycat connection to the murder's committed over a decade ago. About one third of the way in, I could not put the book down thinking 5 stars all the way, but then the focus of the murder investigation changed and my interest ebbed a bit. Still enjoyed it, but am hoping Detective Lacey Flint will be more convincing in her role in book #2 with a greater developed relationship to Joesbury.
I know I'm in the minority with my rating, but still look forward to seeing what happens next.
August 3, 2013
Hi
My second book in a row from this author. This book takes place before Dead Scared so it is best to read this first. As the main character is in both books.
This author keeps the tension and keeps you guessing all the way, a great story very gripping and exciting right to the end.
This author is going to become a "star" with a gripping and strong thrilling books.
Starting third book now "Blood Harvest"
regards
Sean
My second book in a row from this author. This book takes place before Dead Scared so it is best to read this first. As the main character is in both books.
This author keeps the tension and keeps you guessing all the way, a great story very gripping and exciting right to the end.
This author is going to become a "star" with a gripping and strong thrilling books.
Starting third book now "Blood Harvest"
regards
Sean
June 4, 2018
Number 1 in the Lacey Flint series.
Lacey is one of the more very complex character I have come across of late.
A dull, plain female Detective Constable by day and a attractive, sexy young woman by night. Her sexual preference is, uncomplicated one night stands.
There is a killer acting out Jack the Ripper style killings in London. The new Jack is attacking middle aged women and violently torturing them before killing them. For some unknown reason the killer wants young DC Flint to be involved in the investigation. As it happens, Lacey is a bit of an authority on Jack the Ripper, so she finds herself seconded to the task team.
As the story develops Lacey starts to understand what is really going on. Although Lacey is seeing the light the reader is left in the dark, and will remain there until the last 30 pages.
I have to admit that I was tempted jump a few chapters to appease my curiosity but managed to resist.
Never in my wildest dreams would I have foreseen the end, a real jaw dropper.
This is not one for the fainthearted as the murders a pretty graphic and pretty gruesome.
Highly recommended if you like your thrillers on the raw side and to be held in suspense for most of the time.
Lacey is one of the more very complex character I have come across of late.
A dull, plain female Detective Constable by day and a attractive, sexy young woman by night. Her sexual preference is, uncomplicated one night stands.
There is a killer acting out Jack the Ripper style killings in London. The new Jack is attacking middle aged women and violently torturing them before killing them. For some unknown reason the killer wants young DC Flint to be involved in the investigation. As it happens, Lacey is a bit of an authority on Jack the Ripper, so she finds herself seconded to the task team.
As the story develops Lacey starts to understand what is really going on. Although Lacey is seeing the light the reader is left in the dark, and will remain there until the last 30 pages.
I have to admit that I was tempted jump a few chapters to appease my curiosity but managed to resist.
Never in my wildest dreams would I have foreseen the end, a real jaw dropper.
This is not one for the fainthearted as the murders a pretty graphic and pretty gruesome.
Highly recommended if you like your thrillers on the raw side and to be held in suspense for most of the time.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,066 reviews