The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City

by Robert Brighton

Has Jack the Ripper returned? Summer 1901, and the great Pan-American Exposition welcomes the world to Buffalo, New York—Queen of the Lakes . . . the Electric City. Eight million visitors throng the bustling boomtown—all of them looking for a good time. While the Pan-American blazes bright, in its shadow lies a zone of darker the Tenderloin District, a rabbit’s warren of saloons, brothels, and ask-no-questions hotels. In this sprawling vice quarter, fully as large as the Exposition itself, fairgoers can indulge their less innocent appetites. As heat and swarming crowds choke the city, the bodies of prostitutes begin turning up, slashed and mutilated by a pitiless hand—their flesh carved with strange symbols. Their gruesome murders are a final indignity worked on once-hopeful young women. Some say the killings are the work of the Devil himself. Others hint that the Whitechapel Murderer, Jack the Ripper, has crossed the Atlantic to resume his bloody career. Yet the city’s power brokers—afraid of any publicity that would harm the Exposition—turn a blind eye to the victims. As the bloody summer wears on, only one thing is it’ll be up to the working girls themselves to stop the carnage. And in The Buffalo Butcher , five of them will stand together to confront the killer . . . and to reclaim their humanity . An important new novel by Robert Brighton, acclaimed author of the Avenging Angel Detective Agency™ Mysteries.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Mystery, Mystery Thriller, Historical

304 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 9, 2023

About the author

Robert Brighton, award-winning author of immersive historical fiction, including The Avenging Angel Detective Agency™ Mysteries, is an authority on the Gilded Age, and a great believer that the Victorian era was anything but stuffy.

In his Avenging Angel Detective Agency Mysteries, Brighton exposes the turbulence of the era - its passions, dreams, and disasters - against a backdrop of careful research on the places, sights, sounds, and smells of the time.

When he is not walking the streets in the footsteps of the Avenging Angels, sniffing out unsolved mysteries, Brighton is an adventurer. He has traveled in more than 50 countries around the world, personally throwing himself into every situation his characters will face - from underground ruins to opium dens - and (so far) living to tell about it.

A graduate of the Sorbonne, Paris, Brighton is an avid student of early 20th Century history and literature, an ardent and relentless investigator, and an admirer of Emily Dickinson and Jim Morrison. He lives in Virginia with his wife and their two cats.

The Avenging Angel Detective Agency™ Mysteries (read in any order):

- The Unsealing: Love, Lust, and Murder in the Gilded Age (Book One)
- A Murder in Ashwood: Scandals and Secrets in the Gilded Age (Book Two)
- Coming Spring 2024: Current of Darkness: Desire and Deceit in the Gilded Age (Book Three)

Plus, a new standalone novel:

The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City

Reviews

[Madison Weiner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I couldn't get into the prose at first, but then when the action really picked up, I couldn't put this book down! It was nice to break away from my usual genres.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City, author Robert Brighton immerses readers in the vividly recreated world of Buffalo, New York, circa 1901, amidst the bustling backdrop of the Pan-American Exposition. As the city, aglow with the marvels of the Electric City, draws in millions of tourists, a dark narrative unfolds in the shadowy corners of the Tenderloin District, known for its less savory aspects.

Brighton skillfully weaves a tale of mystery and suspense as the city braces for a presidential visit, only to be shaken by a series of grisly murders within the red-light district. The victims, prostitutes, are found brutally mutilated, bearing cryptic symbols—a detail that adds a chilling layer to the narrative. Amidst fears of the impact this news might have on the city's reputation, there is a palpable tension between the city officials' efforts to suppress the news and the police's urgent quest to apprehend the culprit. An intriguing subplot emerges as the women of the Tenderloin District, disillusioned by the city's response, take it upon themselves to confront the serial killer. This twist not only propels the plot but also showcases the resilience and agency of these characters in a compelling manner.

Brighton delves deep into the theme of abuse, exploring its multifaceted impact on the characters. Through Helen, a central figure, the narrative poignantly illustrates a harrowing cycle of poor decisions and worsening circumstances, culminating in a profound portrayal of the psychological toll of abuse. The story is characterized by its meticulous attention to detail, both in character development and historical context. The author's unflinching approach to the grittier aspects of each character's journey adds depth and realism to the story. The pacing is particularly commendable; the story unfolds at a measured tempo, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the world Brighton has created.

The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City is a gripping novel and an emotionally resonant thriller that masterfully blends historical authenticity with suspenseful storytelling. Its exploration of mature themes like murder, prostitution, and drug abuse lends it a gritty realism, making it suitable for a mature audience with a penchant for mystery and historical fiction. This book promises to keep readers engrossed to its very last page.

[Susel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City was an incredibly captivating read for me. The author, with great creativity, plunges the reader into a suspenseful and intense narrative set at the turn of the century Buffalo, NY, during the Pan-American Exposition of 1901. The story echoes the infamous Jack the Ripper tale but brings a refreshing twist, making it unique and enthralling.

The author's meticulous research shines through in the vividly described historical setting. The bustling crowds, exhibitions, and innovations of the era are brought to life, making me feel like I was right there in the midst of it all. The Pan-American Exposition, as portrayed in the book, adds a fascinating layer to the narrative, enriching the backdrop against which the story unfolds.

I found the story engrossing, with its intriguing characters and mysterious plot. It was a book I couldn't put down until I reached its satisfying conclusion. The way the author reimagined the Jack the Ripper story demanded my full attention, making it an ideal night read, uninterrupted and fully immersive.

Despite its complex and intense plot, the story never felt overwhelming to me. The author's skill in character development is noteworthy; the characters are well-developed, relatable, and their actions and resolutions feel familiar and real. This adds an extra layer of depth to the narrative.

This book is not just entertaining but also a fascinating read. The combination of masterful storytelling, vivid historical setting, and well-crafted characters makes this novel stand out in the mystery and historical fiction genres. I highly recommend it to others and look forward to more works from this talented author.

[Daniel Moreno · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exploring the grim events of The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City, stands out as a deeply engaging and thorough historical examination. Author Robert Brighton masterfully brings to life this dark period with his captivating narrative style. His ability to blend detailed research with engaging storytelling is exceptional, bringing to life the fear and anxiety that engulfed Buffalo during this era. Brighton's writing is not just informative but also deeply immersive. He masterfully weaves together the stories of the victims, the investigations, and the city's atmosphere, transporting readers back in time. His depiction of Buffalo as a center of innovation yet plagued by crime is particularly striking. Brighton's commitment to capturing the era's essence and the profound emotional impact of the crimes on the city's residents brings the story to life. His exhaustive investigative approach and attention to detail elevate the book from a simple crime account to a riveting historical record of Buffalo's troubled past. Brighton's exploration of the victims' lives, the socio-economic conditions of the time, and the relentless pursuit of the killer by law enforcement is comprehensive. The book goes beyond a compelling true crime narrative, offering a poignant portrayal of the city and its people, creating a deep historical connection for the reader. The Buffalo Butcher is a must-read for true crime fans, history enthusiasts, or anyone who values well-researched, masterfully told stories. It's a compelling historical journey that leaves a lasting impact, deserving a full 5-star rating. I highly recommend it as one of the best books I've ever read.

[Almiria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel captivated me with its tale of a group of prostitutes in early twentieth-century Buffalo, New York, as they courageously try to solve the brutal murders of women in their profession. These killings eerily resemble those of the infamous Jack the Ripper, adding a chilling dimension to the story. Brighton's setting of the novel against the vibrant Pan-American fair, a symbol of New York's achievements and technological advancements, is brilliantly executed. The stark contrast between the fair's glitz and glamour and the dark, hidden world on its fringes where the prostitutes operate is striking. Brighton's approach to the characters is particularly commendable. He portrays the working women with empathy and depth, allowing us to see the tragic fates of young women who have been marginalized by society and are now confronted with a terrifying killer. The author's skill in writing is evident throughout the book. He expertly balances character development and world-building with a well-paced plot, ensuring the story never loses its momentum. The historical details are seamlessly integrated, transporting me convincingly into a different era. This aspect will surely appeal to fans of historical fiction, as well as those who enjoy true crime, mystery, and thrillers.

The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City is a masterful blend of intrigue, horror, and compassion set against a rich historical backdrop. Brighton excels in both storytelling and creating a vivid historical setting. I rate this book five out of five stars, and it's a must-read for anyone who appreciates well-crafted crime fiction

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVED “The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City'. My dislike of the protagonist Helen endured throughout the first half of the book. She was so naive to a dangerous level and she questioned nothing! How could any young woman be that stupid? But, Helen does redeem herself by the end of the book. I actually started to like her and feel sorry for her. She was kind, sympathetic and had compassion for others. Who can find fault with that. However, Helen was still utterly frustrating. Her sister Eva, wow, she was so much worse than Helen. Just downright mean. How can family treat family like that.

One of the most interesting things to me was the Bell Telephone references. My family owned an independent telephone company in Western New York and I grew up with the telephone slang. With Bell Telephone being the center of the Electric Building at the Pan and Helen being The Bell Girl in the telephone directory; It was all nostalgic and relatable for me. Truly enjoyable.

There are a lot of historical facts that highlight Buffalo and the Pan-American Exposition of 1901. They will pull you in and keep you searching all night for facts and pictures of the momentous events.

The life of a woman of ill repute is degrading and difficult. Robert Brighton gives these characters dignity and the characteristics of "normal” women who long for a different life. However fate has dealt them a different hand and with a killer on the loose life is even harder and more lonely. We meet Grace and Popcorn Charlie, the working women, the police detectives and the hospital workers, the Pan workers and garbage collectors; all of these characters shine and give us a glimpse of what life was like in 1901 Buffalo, New York.

'The Buffalo Butcher’ is historical fiction at its best with the intrigue of murder thrown in.

A huge thank you to Robert Brighton for the copy of this amazing book and also to the publisher Ashwood Press.

[Dani Savante · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delving into the gripping and intense world of The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City, readers are introduced to the masterful storytelling of Robert Brighton. The plot is robust and filled with suspense and murder, set against the backdrop of the turn of the century. This setting, reminiscent of a well-known historical story, adds depth and intrigue to the narrative. The novel reimagines a story similar to Jack the Ripper's, but over a century later, with a different social context and the bustling, dynamic backdrop of Buffalo, NY in 1901 during the Pan-American Exposition. This setting, with its crowds, exhibitions, and innovations, is vividly brought to life by Brighton's meticulous research and descriptive prowess. I highly recommend this book, though it's important to choose the right time to read it, as it demands your full attention and engagement. I found myself so engrossed over a weekend that I couldn't put it down until I had finished it. Despite its complex and intense plot, The Buffalo Butcher never feels overwhelming. Instead, it captivates with its intriguing and mysterious characters. I often found the characters so well-developed and familiar that I could predict their reactions and conflict resolutions. The author's skill in creating relatable and compelling characters is commendable. Overall, The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City is an entertaining and fascinating re ad. I highly recommend it and look forward to more work from Robert Brighton. 

[Rocio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brighton's skillful storytelling and meticulous attention to detail kept me engaged throughout the entire book.One aspect of the novel that particularly stood out to me was the emotional depth given to each character. Brighton explores their complex personalities in a way that is both intricate and emotionally impactful. I found myself deeply connected to the characters, empathizing with their experiences, which enhanced my overall engagement with the story.The setting of Buffalo in 1901 is brought to life through detailed and sensory descriptions, making me feel as though I was right there, experiencing the events firsthand. The vivid portrayal of the era adds an extra layer of immersion to the novel.The Buffalo Butcheris more than just a crime novel; it's an exploration of a world filled with intrigue and depth. The characters are developed with such realism that they seem to come alive within the narrative, each with their own motivations and conflicts, which adds a deeper emotional dimension to the plot. The author’s storytelling is both loyal to historical accuracy and honest in its depiction of the events, making the novel a beautifully crafted and gripping read. His ability to balance the main plot with character development is notable.
I highly recommend The Buffalo Butcher to those looking for an absorbing and thrilling read. The combination of an intriguing plot, well-developed characters, and a meticulously crafted storyline made this novel an unforgettable experience for me. I eagerly anticipate future works from this talented author.

[Mariana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Robert Brighton has created a literary masterpiece that immediately drew me in. The enthralling mix of history and mystery, combined with Brighton's extensive research and exceptional storytelling, vividly transports readers to the heart of the Electric City. His portrayal of Jack the Ripper's menacing presence in Buffalo masterfully conjures a mysterious and spine-chilling atmosphere. I am particularly impressed by books that demonstrate a deep commitment to historical accuracy, and Brighton's use of historical documents, primary sources, and firsthand accounts is remarkable. This meticulous approach results in an immersive experience that takes you back to the late 19th century, making the characters come alive and allowing for a deep emotional connection with their stories. The book's ability to keep me engrossed is what I find most compelling. As the narrative unfolds and delves into the killer's psyche, it becomes increasingly difficult to put the book down. The unexpected plot twists and cleverly constructed storylines keep you guessing until the end. The intriguing connections to the infamous Jack the Ripper make it a must-read for both true crime and history enthusiasts. Brighton's combination of thrilling suspense and well-researched historical detail is perfect for readers like me who enjoy true crime series and books. His exceptional storytelling skills and dedication to his craft elevate this book to a literary treasure. I highly recommend it.

[Saya Jacaranda · Rating 4 out of 5]

this historical period is compelling

As someone who has always been intrigued by True Crime, this book perfectly satisfies that fascination, weaving a narrative that's impossible to put down. Brighton's portrayal of Buffalo as a pivotal city during this historical period is compelling. The narrative of young girls seeking independence and work in the city, only to find themselves in unforeseen circumstances, is both engaging and thought-provoking. The character of Dirty Legs Lizzie, in particular, made a lasting impression on me. The moment Lizzy is discovered murdered by Louise Harris is particularly hair-raising, and the author's descriptive and detailed narrative style is enchanting. One aspect of the book I found fascinating was the insight into the workings of working girls and the system during that era. The systematic and planned nature of these establishments and the harrowing experiences of the girls is eye-opening. The book's description of how these girls are trained and the varying qualities of these houses, depending on factors like age and attractiveness, was mind-blowing. Additionally, the trial involving Mr. Kennecott and Doctor Grand, which delves into illegal abortions and other dark themes, adds another layer of depth to the narrative. Overall, I highly recommend The Buffalo Butcher. Its hypnotizing storytelling and rich historical detail make it an exceptional read.

[Agustina Sureda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story follows Helen, a young woman seeking adventure who tragically ends up in a harrowing situation, compounded by a serial killer reminiscent of Jack the Ripper prowling the streets. Brighton's historical accuracy in this book is astounding. The detailed descriptions of the prostitution system of the era, including the protocols, behaviors, and brothel dynamics, are meticulously presented. The specifics of the killings, including the wounds, weapon choices, and crime scene details, are spot-on. Brighton's talent for setting the scene and depicting the societal norms of that time is exceptional. His ability to evoke feelings of fear and loneliness through his writing is remarkable, making the narrative even more compelling. The characterization in this book is another standout aspect. The characters are richly detailed, and their dialogues are captivating, transporting me to the year 1901 effortlessly. While Helen's story is central, the secondary characters are also well-developed, with intertwining stories that enrich the narrative. Brighton’s skill in giving each character their moment to shine and his clarity and precision in storytelling are commendable.
This true crime novel is an enthralling journey, not just a tale about a famous killer but also an intricate story that is engaging and well-crafted. Brighton’s work has left me eager to read more of his writings, and I highly recommend this book to others.

[Marina Lujan · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The Buffalo Butcher, Robert Brighton masterfully transports the reader to Buffalo, New York, in the summer of 1901. The setting is vividly depicted, contrasting the dazzling Pan-American Exposition with the ominous shadows of the Tenderloin District. Brighton's skill in evoking the atmosphere of this era is remarkable, plunging us into a world of saloons, brothels, and swanky hotels bustling with people from the fair.

The plot is full of unexpected surprises and twists, which kept me constantly on my toes. Yet, what's impressive is that despite the unexpected turns, the story never disappoints. Brighton's narrative style is a significant contributor to the book's appeal. His writing is simple yet creatively rich, making the novel a quick and engaging read. The characters are another standout aspect of the book. Each is meticulously crafted, adding depth and realism to the story. Their development and interaction add layers to the narrative, making it more immersive.

From my perspective, The Buffalo Butcher is an exceptional novel. The plot unwinds in a way that keeps the reader eager to continue, revealing the story's background gradually. It's a fascinating and disturbing historical mystery thriller with a focus on prostitutes who are murdered and mutilated, and it concludes with an unexpected revelation. This ending was particularly striking, revealing more than I anticipated and leaving me keen to uncover the deeper truths hidden in Buffalo's shadows.

[Margarita Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Robert Brighton's The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City is a captivating and thrilling novel that held my attention from beginning to end. Brighton masterfully juxtaposes the lively atmosphere of the Exposition with the grim realities of the Tenderloin District. I was immediately drawn into the narrative, which is filled with suspense, intrigue, and dark themes. Brighton's depiction of the prostitutes who become vigilantes in their quest to confront the killer is both empowering and moving. I appreciated how he wove themes of resilience and justice into their story, making their struggle against adversity a central part of the narrative. The mystery of the killer's identity, with hints suggesting he could be a demonic entity or perhaps Jack the Ripper himself, added a compelling layer of suspense. Brighton skillfully builds tension throughout the story, leading to a satisfying and exciting conclusion. Not only does this story contain and engaging plot, but its exploration of deeper societal issues and the portrayal of the human spirit's strength makes this a captivating read. Brighton's writing is immersive, rich in historical detail, and transports the reader to a different time.

The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City is an exceptional read that deserves its high praise. Brighton's talent for creating an engaging and thought-provoking story is evident, and the book left a lasting impression on me.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Robert Brighton's novel is both thrilling and engaging, a quality I attribute to his rich experiences from extensive travels and adventures. These experiences enhance the storytelling, allowing readers to vividly visualize the scenes described in the book. What stands out most in this novel is the seamless blend of historical elements and horror, creating a world filled with danger and intrigue. Brighton's meticulous attention to detail captures the reader's interest, encouraging them to eagerly turn the pages. Set in an intriguing era in Buffalo, NY, the city's backdrop provides an excellent setting for the unfolding events. The novel combines many elements I enjoy, making it a highly enjoyable read. The main characters are well-crafted, their resilience and struggles in a challenging world add depth to their quest for power, making them particularly compelling. Despite being a work of fiction, the novel resonates with realism, drawing parallels to contemporary issues. Brighton skillfully explores societal dynamics and power structures, adding a significant layer to the narrative. The Buffalo Butcher is a must-read, especially recommended for those who appreciate mystery fiction. The strong character development and engaging plot are likely to appeal to a wide range of readers.

[ZebraDebra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in Buffalo, New York, during the early 1900s, the story unfolds against the backdrop of the Pan-American Exposition, a symbol of technological and cultural progress. However, beneath this facade, the novel delves into a darker narrative as prostitutes become victims of brutal murders reminiscent of Jack the Ripper. I found Brighton's approach of using the viewpoints of the working women affected by these crimes particularly impressive. He provides an insightful look into the underworld and the plight of women forced into prostitution, offering a sympathetic portrayal of their experiences and their determination to improve their circumstances. The writing is detailed, complex, and well-structured, creating a compelling narrative. While I was not comfortable with some of the graphic scenes in the book, I appreciated the overall quality of the historical detail, as well as the plotting and character development. Brighton's portrayal of the protagonists is deep and nuanced, contributing significantly to the story's impact. This book is a great pick for fans of crime, mystery, thrillers, and historical fiction. Brighton goes beyond just crafting a page-turner; he explores broader societal issues and delves into the personal struggles of the characters, making The Buffalo Butcher a thought-provoking and engaging read.

[Nela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed The Buffalo Butcher by Robert Brighton, a novel set against the backdrop of the 1901 Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo. The book excels in its vivid depiction of the era, offering a detailed and accurate portrayal of the city's social, political, and economic landscape. This rich setting enhances the story's engagement and immersed me in this dark world. What stood out to me was the author's unique approach to the Jack the Ripper narrative, particularly through the perspective of the victims. Brighton centralizes five resilient sex workers whose camaraderie and humanity form a stark contrast to the villain's brutality. This perspective not only adds depth to the story but also makes them relatable characters and I became invested in their stories. The emotional resonance of the characters is striking. Brighton captures their experiences with skill and eloquence, emphasizing human and moral values over the horror of their circumstances. The suspense is another highlight; it's expertly crafted, keeping the tension high throughout the novel. The pacing is fast, and the plot twists are both surprising and satisfying.
The Buffalo Butcher is a captivating read, blending crime, mystery, and psychological thriller elements into a unique and compelling narrative.

[S Tyty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Immersive and engaging, Robert Brighton's The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City stands out as an exceptionally crafted novel. Brighton's intricate plot is one of the most striking aspects of this tale. The way he meticulously plans every twist and turn, expertly weaving together various subplots and narrative threads, is truly impressive. The prose is beautifully crafted and engaging from the beginning to the end. In my opinion, the novel excels as a character-driven story. The characters' emotional depth creates a vivid and sometimes thought-provoking atmosphere. Their complexities are artfully explored, and their growth throughout the story is both believable and emotionally resonant. I found myself forming deep connections with these characters, celebrating their triumphs, and sharing in their sorrows. Brighton has written an alluring novel brimming with mystery and fun, and it encompasses much more than just a series of unexplained events. The setting comes alive with rich descriptions that engage the senses. Brighton demonstrates exceptional skill as a narrator, showcasing a remarkable blend of loyalty and honesty in his storytelling. I am eagerly looking forward to reading more of his works.

[Mia C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Buffalo Butcher by Robert Brighton is a gripping and immersive read set against the vibrant backdrop of the 1901 Pan-American Exposition. This chilling story is centered around a series of gruesome murders that shock the bustling fair both making this one book that is hard to put down. The graphic descriptions of the crimes added a layer of intensity to the narrative, making it a compelling story that will linger with you long after you close the book. The book's cover initially drew me in; the artwork, particularly the intriguing expression of the woman on the front, piqued my curiosity and set the tone for the story. Once I started reading, the book's fast-paced and seamless narration kept me hooked. I found it difficult to put down, often reading late into the night. The well-crafted action scenes and smooth transition of events keep the story's momentum and pace moving smoothly. Additionally, the characters are exceptionally well-developed, each with their unique depth and relatability. This character depth made the story feel more realistic and engaging, allowing me to connect with the narrative on a deeper level. I highly recommend this book to those who love a thought-provoking and dark read.

[Chico's Mom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder mystery enthusiasts will find this book particularly engaging. The author skillfully weaves real historical events into the narrative, lending it a sense of authenticity and relatability. As someone familiar with the real-life Jack the Ripper case, I found the parallels drawn in the story convincing and well-reasoned. Viewing the events from a unique perspective offers a fresh angle on the case. The proactive approach of the characters is depicted with such intensity that it's almost palpable, making the reading experience exhilarating. Besides the central narrative, other characters in the novel are also involved in various offenses, and their eventual fates feel deserved. The quest to uncover the truth in the novel is engaging and invigorating. The author has done an excellent job of creating compelling characters, vivid scenes, and engaging dialogues. At several points, the story prompted me to research the historical events mentioned and even to check if related cases were documented in the New York Library's database of news clippings. Overall, this book is a true page-turner, living up to its genre with a satisfying conclusion for all characters involved.

[CarlitasFox · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story
The author's storytelling and the attention to detail kept me glued to the pages throughout the entire book. What I liked the most was the emotional depth each character has. The author explores the character's personalities in an intricate and emotionally impactful way. I felt connected to the characters; I could empathize with them, which making me engage the story even more.
The setting was brought to life with detailed descriptions, making me feel totally immersed. The Buffalo Butcher is an exploration of a world filled with intrigue and depth. The characters are very well developed; they've such realism that they seem to come alive in the page. The storytelling is loyal to historical accuracy and it honestly depicts the events, making the novel a beautifully crafted and gripping read. The author's ability to balance the main plot with character development is notable.
I certainly recommend reading The Buffalo Butcher to those looking for an absorbing and thrilling read. This novel is an unforgettable experience for me. I cannot wait to read more from this talented author.

[Evelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City, set in 1901 Buffalo, New York, is a riveting thriller where a series of gruesome murders grips the city. As the city's elite turn a blind eye, it falls upon the working girls to uncover the killer's identity.
Robert Brighton delivers a chilling and immersive tale, capturing the era's essence with a rich atmosphere. The story unfolds rapidly across 37 chapters, offering relentless suspense that keeps readers on edge until the very end.Brighton's storytelling prowess shines as he breathes life into complex, multi-dimensional characters, each harboring their own secrets and demons. The emotional investment in the lives of the murdered women is palpable despite the challenging and violent aspects of the story.
This novel isn't just a casual read; it delves deep into the human psyche, making it both a captivating pastime and a thought-provoking exploration. Brighton's talent shines through, and I eagerly await more from him. Don't miss out on this exceptional book; it's truly worth the read.

[Lucia Maranghello · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed The Buffalo Butcher by Robert Brighton, which is a novel set against the backdrop of the 1901 Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo. It’s excellent how it vividly depicts the era.
This rich setting made me feel immersed in this dark world. The author’s unique approach to the Jack the Ripper narrative was great, particularly through the perspective of the victims. Brighton centralizes five resilient sex workers whose camaraderie and humanity form a stark contrast to the villain’s brutality. This perspective adds depth to the story and also makes them relatable characters and I became invested in their stories. The emotional resonance of the characters is striking. Brighton captures their experiences, emphasizing human and moral values over the horror of their circumstances. The suspense is another highlight. It has been expertly crafted, keeping the tension high throughout the novel. The pacing is fast, and the plot twists are both surprising and satisfying. I recommend reading it.

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Robert Brighton’s new novel is both thrilling and touching and in the end, beautiful. It’s a story of five young prostitutes who have no one but themselves to depend on, and how somehow they find the strength to face both their lives and a Jack the Ripper style killer called ‘The Buffalo Butcher’. I won’t soon forget Helen Crosby, Raven, Popcorn Charley, or all of the other vivid characters that inhabit this book—by the end I felt that I knew them all and that I was invested in their lives and futures. The villains are as villanous as they come, but even worse are the people who simply don’t care about the women who the Butcher is murdering. This is a story that will make you think and feel - 5 STARS for certain!

[Jenifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr. Brighton has delivered another riveting and eye-opening tale that kept me reading until the early morning hours. The Buffalo Butcher opens a fresh window into New York's gilded age and Tenderloin district with murder, mystery, and a surprising sleuth – this book is just as compelling as Brighton's first 2 with amazing detail from that time period. There's titillating action from the bedroom to the courtroom from a cast of compelling characters with complex authentic relationships that make you wince at the cruelty of some and outwardly smile at the cleverness and kindness of others. And just when the villains seem to be winning, an unconventional form of justice is served which was incredibly gratifying. Anxiously awaiting another book soon from this amazing author.

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 2nd book I have read by Robert Brighton. I am waiting for another to come in. This book had me up very late reading it to the finish. The author is expert at weaving stories. This was a Jack the Ripper style serial killer in Buffalo, NY at time of Pan American Expo in 1901. Murders of prostitutes in the red light district. This book is VERY graphic in regards to the brothel activities and drugs, so be warned. The storyline is what is powerful! If you love crime and murder mysteries and some historical fiction, this book has it all. After the BIG twist near the end of the book, Mr. Brighton continue to supply twists like a house of falling cards. I could not turn the pages fast enough. The book was far from over with the BIG twist. Mr. Brighton's book are a must read!

[BookstagramSam · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 ⭐️ I really enjoyed this book. As a Buffalo Native it was great seeing familiarity of our city along with a little bit of history.

Though this is a fictional story of a serial killer dying the Pan American Expo it still contained some facts to pull you in thinking the story was real. At times I found myself searching to see if certain things were real.

This story is a story of a serial killer, The Buffalo Butcher who is killing ladies of the night in the Tenderloin District. It also follows Helen, the Bell girl, who seems to get herself in a ton of trouble after moving to Buffalo from Ontario.

This was a super fast paced story and completely drew me in. Such a great read!

[Randy McCracken · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most compelling novels written. Days after completing the book, it calls the reader back for more – more understanding and re-reading the lives of gentle and ruthless souls struggling (some for survival and some for dominance) in the gilded age.

Throughout the novel gut wrenching and heart breaking scenes are woven with some of the most redeeming moments and relatable characters written. It’s a marvelous and grotesque treasure that should be studied for years as, once again, Robert Bright provides a master class of in-depth character arcs.

[Alexandria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a bit different than I anticipated and still turned out to be a real page turner. It’s well written and the local & historical references kept me interested, very descriptive about how victimized and preyed upon women in that time were. Ultimately a turn of the century tale of human trafficking. So much of that time is romanticized and this touches on the grittier, less pleasant picture of society during such a highly revered time.

[Sue Goraj · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although this takes place during the Pan-American Exposition, This book was more of a tail of how young women wanting to be independent and finding a decent job fall prey to lies and decent from a prominent doctor who then in turn gets them to become dependent on drugs, sex and him leading them to a life of prostitution. Very explicit.

[Olivia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This packed a wallop for me - the mystery, the history, the setting, the premise - all wonderful. Now, the friendships between the ladies, the intrigue - excellent. I read where the author says he tells this tale from the victims’ perspectives, and that shines through, as he does them justice and honor. Distinctive, and highly recommended.