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Who was Jack the Ripper?: All the Suspects Revealed
Jack the Ripper is the ultimate cold case. The Whitechapel Murders of 1888 have remained unsolved for over 130 years and hundreds of theories have been suggested as to the killer's identity.
Despite numerous books claiming to unmask the infamous Victorian villain, none have come close .... until now.
The authors of this book are all members of H Division Crime Club, the world's largest body of experts on the Jack the Ripper murders.
They have all come together for the first time in history to deliver their own personal research into each suspect and to finally nail down the identity of the man know as Jack the Ripper.
Taking the original police reports, eye witness accounts and research by the world's leading authorities into account, we ask two crucial questions:
Who did the police suspect at the time?
Who was in the area to commit the murders?
Using 21st century profiling techniques, it is time to reveal the truth behind the men most likely to have been Jack the Ripper.
With each chapter discussing a separate suspect in detail, this book is the ultimate guide to solving the world's greatest murder mystery.
Despite numerous books claiming to unmask the infamous Victorian villain, none have come close .... until now.
The authors of this book are all members of H Division Crime Club, the world's largest body of experts on the Jack the Ripper murders.
They have all come together for the first time in history to deliver their own personal research into each suspect and to finally nail down the identity of the man know as Jack the Ripper.
Taking the original police reports, eye witness accounts and research by the world's leading authorities into account, we ask two crucial questions:
Who did the police suspect at the time?
Who was in the area to commit the murders?
Using 21st century profiling techniques, it is time to reveal the truth behind the men most likely to have been Jack the Ripper.
With each chapter discussing a separate suspect in detail, this book is the ultimate guide to solving the world's greatest murder mystery.
177 pages, Hardcover
First published June 30, 2019
31 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
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August 27, 2019
The Jack the Ripper murders, also known as Whitechapel Murders of 1888, has to be the most enduring mysteries of all time. Despite numerous books claiming to unmask the infamous Victorian villain, the mystery has still remained unsolved. The authors of this book are all members of H Division Crime Club, the world's largest body of experts on the Jack the Ripper murders, have all come together for the first time in history to deliver their own personal research into each suspect and to finally nail down the identity of Jack the Ripper. Taking the original police reports, eye witness accounts and research by the world's leading authorities into account, the team has attempted to unmask the killer.
Jack the Ripper murders were a series of murders that occurred in the Whitechapel area of London between 31 August and 9 November 1888.The number of killings is still disputed, with the official number being 5 (the unofficial number being much higher). Even the number of suspects is varied. As per police records, over 2,000 people were interviewed, more than 300 people were investigated, and 80 people were detained. Apart from the police suspects, the list of suspects by conspiracy theorists exceeds well over a 100 (including a member of the royal family).
The book focuses on the victims and 11 possible suspects. We first take a closer look at each of the victims and the circumstances around their death and then each of the victims and how they (possibly) relate to the murders.
The book is written by the members of H Division Crime Club, a group of experts who have researched and studied every aspect of the subject for decades. The book is unique as each chapter is written by a different member presenting us his #1 suspect, his hypothesis and possible connections to one or more of the victims or to the area itself along with reference to written accounts, statements or files from the time. Many members have even debunked other suspects to support their theories, which provides a different perspective. The book has used the latest profiling techniques, which was a really nice touch.
The theories put forward by each expert were informative and interesting. Though absorbing all the information in one go is a daunting task and readers are advised to read this book in short sessions to take in the most of it. This theory is based on extensive research and though some of them may feel improbable, all of them are based on hard facts.
Overall, Who was Jack the Ripper? is an incredibly well-researched and detailed look at the 11 most probable suspects. This book gives the reader an in-depth look at the murders and the possible suspects. Even after 130 years, we are no closer to finding out who Jack The Ripper really was but the book gives the readers a chance to play the detective. 3.5 stars rounded to 4.
Many thanks to the publishers Pen & Sword and NetGalley for the ARC.
Jack the Ripper murders were a series of murders that occurred in the Whitechapel area of London between 31 August and 9 November 1888.The number of killings is still disputed, with the official number being 5 (the unofficial number being much higher). Even the number of suspects is varied. As per police records, over 2,000 people were interviewed, more than 300 people were investigated, and 80 people were detained. Apart from the police suspects, the list of suspects by conspiracy theorists exceeds well over a 100 (including a member of the royal family).
The book focuses on the victims and 11 possible suspects. We first take a closer look at each of the victims and the circumstances around their death and then each of the victims and how they (possibly) relate to the murders.
The book is written by the members of H Division Crime Club, a group of experts who have researched and studied every aspect of the subject for decades. The book is unique as each chapter is written by a different member presenting us his #1 suspect, his hypothesis and possible connections to one or more of the victims or to the area itself along with reference to written accounts, statements or files from the time. Many members have even debunked other suspects to support their theories, which provides a different perspective. The book has used the latest profiling techniques, which was a really nice touch.
The theories put forward by each expert were informative and interesting. Though absorbing all the information in one go is a daunting task and readers are advised to read this book in short sessions to take in the most of it. This theory is based on extensive research and though some of them may feel improbable, all of them are based on hard facts.
Overall, Who was Jack the Ripper? is an incredibly well-researched and detailed look at the 11 most probable suspects. This book gives the reader an in-depth look at the murders and the possible suspects. Even after 130 years, we are no closer to finding out who Jack The Ripper really was but the book gives the readers a chance to play the detective. 3.5 stars rounded to 4.
Many thanks to the publishers Pen & Sword and NetGalley for the ARC.
August 27, 2019
A FRESH TAKE ON A PLAYED OUT SUBJECT!
To be honest, I did not have the highest of expectations when starting this book. I mean, yet another book trying to determine the identity behind the infamous Jack the Ripper? Please! But as I got into it, it really impressed me in ways I had not expected of it. It felt like a new approach to the subject that was more about letting the reader determine for themselves instead of peddling and pushing some far-fetched theory.
THE THINGS I LIKED
All the suspects: The part I liked the best about this book was that it does not try to sell you one suspect over the others - instead it argues the case of 11(12) suspects and lets you as the reader decide which one you find the most plausible.
Modern methods: In order to get to the bottom of this mystery (or as close to the bottom as we are likely to get) some the authors of this book try to explore the evidence through the lense of modern methods such as profiling. It shed new light on the evidence, in my opinion.
THE THINGS I DISLIKED
Author backgrounds: I will try not to sound like a snob when saying this, but it might be difficult... I felt a little distrustful of some of the conclusions drawn in this book because the authors that made them didn't have academic backgrounds... I am not saying that you have to be an academic to make valid, logical conclusions, I just feel less trustful if you don't have a background that teaches you critical thinking...
Writing: Each chapter in this book is written by a different Ripperologist (never heard about that term before reading this book!) and, while some of them a excellent and very meticulously researched, others, sadly, felt a bit lacking in both regards.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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To be honest, I did not have the highest of expectations when starting this book. I mean, yet another book trying to determine the identity behind the infamous Jack the Ripper? Please! But as I got into it, it really impressed me in ways I had not expected of it. It felt like a new approach to the subject that was more about letting the reader determine for themselves instead of peddling and pushing some far-fetched theory.
"We are going to CSI the heck out of this bad boy."
- Bob Hinton
THE THINGS I LIKED
All the suspects: The part I liked the best about this book was that it does not try to sell you one suspect over the others - instead it argues the case of 11(12) suspects and lets you as the reader decide which one you find the most plausible.
Modern methods: In order to get to the bottom of this mystery (or as close to the bottom as we are likely to get) some the authors of this book try to explore the evidence through the lense of modern methods such as profiling. It shed new light on the evidence, in my opinion.
THE THINGS I DISLIKED
Author backgrounds: I will try not to sound like a snob when saying this, but it might be difficult... I felt a little distrustful of some of the conclusions drawn in this book because the authors that made them didn't have academic backgrounds... I am not saying that you have to be an academic to make valid, logical conclusions, I just feel less trustful if you don't have a background that teaches you critical thinking...
Writing: Each chapter in this book is written by a different Ripperologist (never heard about that term before reading this book!) and, while some of them a excellent and very meticulously researched, others, sadly, felt a bit lacking in both regards.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Follow me for more book goodness: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
August 28, 2019
Who was Jack the Ripper? It's written by a group of members of H Division Crime Club. They are a group of experts who've studied the man they called Jack the Ripper, for several years. The group have found lots of information to support their theories. There is an in-depth look into the chosen suspects but I still found it a bit misleading.
I did find this book interesting but at times it also confused me. We learn more on some of the better known cases, but not so much on the lesser known victims. They suggest possible motives and links to crimes that were committed. We are also presented with a list of multiple suspects. Who was Jack the Ripper? I guess we will never know.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Pen & Sword and the author H Division Crime Club for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I did find this book interesting but at times it also confused me. We learn more on some of the better known cases, but not so much on the lesser known victims. They suggest possible motives and links to crimes that were committed. We are also presented with a list of multiple suspects. Who was Jack the Ripper? I guess we will never know.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Pen & Sword and the author H Division Crime Club for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 28, 2019
This book was super interesting. 👀 I love all things JACK THE RIPPER so I knew going in that I would enjoy this book. 🔪 Written by the members of H Division Crime Club. 👤👤👤👤 A group of ripperologists that have studied the case for years, they take us through the list of victims. 👩👩👩👩👩 The canonical five that everyone is familiar with and six other potential victims. 🙈 As well as a list of potential suspects. 🔪 Each author presents their argument in various ways and using various techniques such as profiling. ☑ Some arguments were stronger than others, and some parts came across a bit dry, but overall, this was a fascinating read and I'd recommend it for any reader curious about these murders. 👍👍
September 30, 2019
For true crime lovers, particularly those with some knowledge and an interest in the infamous Victorian murderer, WHO WAS JACK THE RIPPER? is a detailed account of what was then known as the Whitechapel murders in 1888.
Written by the members of H Division Crime Club, a group of experts who have researched and studied every aspect on the subject for decades, provide us with as many facts as possible to support what is essentially circumstantial evidence at best on each of the potential suspects.
Focusing on the victims and 11 possible suspects, we are taken on an intricate journey for a closer look at the each of the persons of interest and how they (possibly) relate to the murders. Each chapter is written by a different member on each occasion, presenting us with a history of each suspect, possible connections to one or more of the victims or to the area itself along with reference to written accounts, statements or files from the time. Each person gives us a fresh perspective, some even debunking others arguments included in the book, in an effort to shine a different yet distinct light to the evidence already presented. I thought this was cleverly done, as each gave us their thoughts and the facts as they see them, to support their theories.
And let's face it. This book is full of what is essentially theories and hypotheses based on tireless and extensive research over many many years. After 130 years there is no way anyone can prove without a shadow of a doubt just who Jack the Ripper really was. It will certainly go down in history as one of the greatest unsolved mysteries of all time.
The arguments - albeit, theories - put forward by each person were incredibly informative and interesting. But on the whole, I found the book to be long, probably because I read it practically in one sitting, and this is a book that really cannot be read in such time. The reader needs to take their time with each theory and absorb each chapter rather than try and take it all in because to do so would be a struggle. There is a lot of information to absorb that it will just all become enmeshed together if you try to read it all at once.
Although I admit to being confused by a couple of the chapters - regarding Kaminski/Kosminski/Cohen - my head was swimming as I tried to get a grip on what the author was stating. Even now, I can't understand the link to these "persons of interest" and the Ripper.
So WHO was Jack the Ripper? That is the million dollar - or million pound - question!
WHO WAS JACK THE RIPPER? is incredibly well-researched, and while it is not for everyone, it is a must read for ripperology fans.
2-3 stars as I found it a little bit information overload and convoluted in parts. But that is just me.
I would like to thank #HDivsionCrimeClub, #NetGalley and #PenAndSword for an ARC of #WhoWasJackTheRipper in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Written by the members of H Division Crime Club, a group of experts who have researched and studied every aspect on the subject for decades, provide us with as many facts as possible to support what is essentially circumstantial evidence at best on each of the potential suspects.
Focusing on the victims and 11 possible suspects, we are taken on an intricate journey for a closer look at the each of the persons of interest and how they (possibly) relate to the murders. Each chapter is written by a different member on each occasion, presenting us with a history of each suspect, possible connections to one or more of the victims or to the area itself along with reference to written accounts, statements or files from the time. Each person gives us a fresh perspective, some even debunking others arguments included in the book, in an effort to shine a different yet distinct light to the evidence already presented. I thought this was cleverly done, as each gave us their thoughts and the facts as they see them, to support their theories.
And let's face it. This book is full of what is essentially theories and hypotheses based on tireless and extensive research over many many years. After 130 years there is no way anyone can prove without a shadow of a doubt just who Jack the Ripper really was. It will certainly go down in history as one of the greatest unsolved mysteries of all time.
The arguments - albeit, theories - put forward by each person were incredibly informative and interesting. But on the whole, I found the book to be long, probably because I read it practically in one sitting, and this is a book that really cannot be read in such time. The reader needs to take their time with each theory and absorb each chapter rather than try and take it all in because to do so would be a struggle. There is a lot of information to absorb that it will just all become enmeshed together if you try to read it all at once.
Although I admit to being confused by a couple of the chapters - regarding Kaminski/Kosminski/Cohen - my head was swimming as I tried to get a grip on what the author was stating. Even now, I can't understand the link to these "persons of interest" and the Ripper.
So WHO was Jack the Ripper? That is the million dollar - or million pound - question!
WHO WAS JACK THE RIPPER? is incredibly well-researched, and while it is not for everyone, it is a must read for ripperology fans.
2-3 stars as I found it a little bit information overload and convoluted in parts. But that is just me.
I would like to thank #HDivsionCrimeClub, #NetGalley and #PenAndSword for an ARC of #WhoWasJackTheRipper in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
September 15, 2019
Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Who Was Jack the Ripper?: All the Suspects Revealed is a semi-scholarly look at the possible identity of Jack the Ripper examining the 11 most likely persons of interest using modern forensic and detection techniques.
Due out 19th Nov 2019 by Pen & Sword on their True Crime imprint, it's 208 pages and will be available in hardcover format.
This is a dense, fact-heavy book written by acknowledged 'Ripperologists'. The 11 potential real identities of Jack the Ripper are elucidated one by one with verifiable historical facts and with a (mostly) logical progression. I found myself reading each chapter and thinking that the author/essayists made a darned good case for every one of the candidates.
The essays themselves are a variable lot. All are well written and enjoyable (if that can be said of the sometimes graphic descriptions of the crimes themselves). The stark reality of existence for the poorer classes in London (especially women without the protection of a family) is a red thread throughout the essays and the authors don't mince words.
I would recommend that readers not try to binge read the book, since the variable voices and information loading were sometimes overwhelming. (I kept having to look up which of the historical players was which).
Especially for historical true-crime aficionados, these essays will make a diverting read. (Spoiler alert, this is a treatise of 11 identified possible culprits, there are no eye-searing 100% incontrovertible denouements presented here).
Very enjoyable. Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes
Who Was Jack the Ripper?: All the Suspects Revealed is a semi-scholarly look at the possible identity of Jack the Ripper examining the 11 most likely persons of interest using modern forensic and detection techniques.
Due out 19th Nov 2019 by Pen & Sword on their True Crime imprint, it's 208 pages and will be available in hardcover format.
This is a dense, fact-heavy book written by acknowledged 'Ripperologists'. The 11 potential real identities of Jack the Ripper are elucidated one by one with verifiable historical facts and with a (mostly) logical progression. I found myself reading each chapter and thinking that the author/essayists made a darned good case for every one of the candidates.
The essays themselves are a variable lot. All are well written and enjoyable (if that can be said of the sometimes graphic descriptions of the crimes themselves). The stark reality of existence for the poorer classes in London (especially women without the protection of a family) is a red thread throughout the essays and the authors don't mince words.
I would recommend that readers not try to binge read the book, since the variable voices and information loading were sometimes overwhelming. (I kept having to look up which of the historical players was which).
Especially for historical true-crime aficionados, these essays will make a diverting read. (Spoiler alert, this is a treatise of 11 identified possible culprits, there are no eye-searing 100% incontrovertible denouements presented here).
Very enjoyable. Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes
July 6, 2025
An interesting read with each chapter written by a different member of the H Division Crime Club, telling of their individual theories regarding who they thought was the Whitechapel killer and why. Lots of evidence. Lots of info. Lots to take in to the point I feel like I’ve OD’d on JtR!
August 11, 2019
For lovers of true crime, and especially those with a bit of knowledge about Jack the Ripper (JtR), "Who was Jack the Ripper" is a fascinating look at this infamous series of crimes. With the presentation of multiple suspects, JtR is broken down and viewed from so many angles it will leave you spinning.
What I found most intriguing about this book is the look at the culture of London at that time. It was a different world than what we live in now. I am left with these questions: Can our modern day definition of a "serial killer" really be used to solve a crime from over 130 years ago? Will we ever really know who JtR was?
Thank you to NetGalley for my free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
What I found most intriguing about this book is the look at the culture of London at that time. It was a different world than what we live in now. I am left with these questions: Can our modern day definition of a "serial killer" really be used to solve a crime from over 130 years ago? Will we ever really know who JtR was?
Thank you to NetGalley for my free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 20, 2019
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I really enjoyed this book and read it over a few days, reading about a few of the potential suspects each night and I loved being able to dip in and out.
I have read an awful lot of books on the subject of Jack the Ripper as it does fascinate me, and I will be honest that whilst the blurb did intrigue me, I did think that it would most likely be a re-telling of things I have read before and I was so impressed to find it was much more than I had expected!
I really enjoyed the way that the book has been written with the different author’s being able to showcase the different suspects. I liked that the writing styles were different and it made for a really interesting read too to see how the different experts were able to put forward their views on who “Jack” was.
This for me is a must read for any fans of Jack the Ripper and the mystery and intrigue that surrounds this character – it is 4 stars from me for this one highly recommended and I thought it was a great read!
I really enjoyed this book and read it over a few days, reading about a few of the potential suspects each night and I loved being able to dip in and out.
I have read an awful lot of books on the subject of Jack the Ripper as it does fascinate me, and I will be honest that whilst the blurb did intrigue me, I did think that it would most likely be a re-telling of things I have read before and I was so impressed to find it was much more than I had expected!
I really enjoyed the way that the book has been written with the different author’s being able to showcase the different suspects. I liked that the writing styles were different and it made for a really interesting read too to see how the different experts were able to put forward their views on who “Jack” was.
This for me is a must read for any fans of Jack the Ripper and the mystery and intrigue that surrounds this character – it is 4 stars from me for this one highly recommended and I thought it was a great read!
September 27, 2019
I know what you are thinking, another book on Jack the Ripper. This one is different. It is written by H Division Crime Club, which consists of retired detectives, researchers, arm chair detectives and rippologists. The book actually surprised me. They had very compelling reasons why they that they knew who Jack the Ripper was. I am fascinated by these murders. One doesn't really think serial murders could have happened back in Victoria England, yet it did. For Jack the Ripper to remain unknown going on 130 years, makes you wonder if he will be ever identified.
August 25, 2019
I'd like to begin this review by saying that although I enjoyed the in-depth look at the chosen suspects this book provides, it is certainly a bit misleading, as it does not give a review of "all the suspects," as the title claims. That would be hard, since to date, there are over 300 names that have been put forward as possible suspects.
Still, this is an interesting look at some of the well-known and in some cases lesser-known suspects with possibles motives and links to the crimes that were committed. What I found most interesting about this book was the different authors of the essays refuting one another. One would come up with their best candidate, and another would then provide a reason why the first candidate could not possibly have been the murderer.
This book gives the reader a multidimensional view of the crime scenes, the murders, the victims and the possible suspects, so it is informative and thought-provoking in ways that a lot of Ripper books fail to be. It allows you to feel like you are more involved in the events.
I liked that the authors left room for the reader to decide for themselves in most cases who they thought was more likely to have committed the crimes and did not necessarily force the reader to make a decision. This is a different way of looking at one of the most famous uncaught killers in history and should be thrilling for anyone interested in the case.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher, provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
Still, this is an interesting look at some of the well-known and in some cases lesser-known suspects with possibles motives and links to the crimes that were committed. What I found most interesting about this book was the different authors of the essays refuting one another. One would come up with their best candidate, and another would then provide a reason why the first candidate could not possibly have been the murderer.
This book gives the reader a multidimensional view of the crime scenes, the murders, the victims and the possible suspects, so it is informative and thought-provoking in ways that a lot of Ripper books fail to be. It allows you to feel like you are more involved in the events.
I liked that the authors left room for the reader to decide for themselves in most cases who they thought was more likely to have committed the crimes and did not necessarily force the reader to make a decision. This is a different way of looking at one of the most famous uncaught killers in history and should be thrilling for anyone interested in the case.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher, provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
August 23, 2019
Jack the Ripper is one of my all-time favourite cold cases and you can guarantee that if a new book comes out, I will be reading it!
I think the members of the H Division Crime Club did a fantastic job on this book. You can actually feel the passion coming off of each well written and expertly researched page. The members of this group have rounded up so much information to support each of their theories that one read just isn’t enough. This will become a book that I reference back to over and over again.
Who is Jack the Ripper is one of the best books I have read on the Whitechapel Murders and I can’t wait to add a hard copy to my collection. This is a must-buy for any true crime fan for sure!
I truly hope that this group continue to look at other unique cases and collect their theories. I know they already have a magazine that I absolutely have to subscribe to but I would love more books from them as well.
Thank you to NetGalley and Pen & Sword for providing me with a copy of this book to read and give my honest opinion.
I think the members of the H Division Crime Club did a fantastic job on this book. You can actually feel the passion coming off of each well written and expertly researched page. The members of this group have rounded up so much information to support each of their theories that one read just isn’t enough. This will become a book that I reference back to over and over again.
Who is Jack the Ripper is one of the best books I have read on the Whitechapel Murders and I can’t wait to add a hard copy to my collection. This is a must-buy for any true crime fan for sure!
I truly hope that this group continue to look at other unique cases and collect their theories. I know they already have a magazine that I absolutely have to subscribe to but I would love more books from them as well.
Thank you to NetGalley and Pen & Sword for providing me with a copy of this book to read and give my honest opinion.
August 12, 2019
A detailed account of the Whitechapel Murders of 1888, focusing on its victims and twelve possible suspects.
Written by the members of H Division Crime Club, a group of experts on the subject, who not only give us a closer look at the setting (Victorian London) but also provide us with as many facts as possible to support each of their suspects.
A great book for fans of Jack the Ripper!
Thanks to NetGalley and Pen & Sword for a copy of this book to read and review.
Written by the members of H Division Crime Club, a group of experts on the subject, who not only give us a closer look at the setting (Victorian London) but also provide us with as many facts as possible to support each of their suspects.
A great book for fans of Jack the Ripper!
Thanks to NetGalley and Pen & Sword for a copy of this book to read and review.
August 17, 2019
I'm a huge conspiracy theorists, so reading this book was spot on. It's well written and researched. I love the new theories of Who Was Jack The Ripper? Was it a he or she?
May 11, 2021
Amazing book and I loved the surprise of the illustrations I can't recommend this enough.
August 13, 2019
This was a well-researched book, I always enjoyed Jack the Ripper books and this one brought some new things to the table and kept it interesting.
August 9, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. I would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone. I can't wait to read more by this group of authors.
November 4, 2019
I received an ARC from #NetGalley.
This was a very interesting book. I had heard of some of the men who were thought to be Jack other names were new to me. This is one of Histories Mysteries that I don`t think will ever be solved. Jack really did get away with murder.
This was a very interesting book. I had heard of some of the men who were thought to be Jack other names were new to me. This is one of Histories Mysteries that I don`t think will ever be solved. Jack really did get away with murder.
November 25, 2020
This is more for people who have little prior knowledge of the details of the Ripper-case because you only get an overview and then a row of authors presenting their theories. But the book is quite short and there's not too much space to go into each theory. So, we get one doing a whole timeline of the suspected movements of his suspect of choice during the night of the double event...based around the theory that he stayed at a particular boarding house that night for which there is absolutely no evidence (not only no evidence that he stayed there that night, also none that he ever stayed there). A longer essay might have gone into some more (circumstantial) evidence but as it is this - and most of the other essays - use the conjunctive and words like maybe, probably and might very often in a relatively short space. So, at the end, I remained unconvinced by the theories I had found unconvincing before, and thought "yeah, that's a possibility" about theories I found likely before, which...is probably not the aim of this book?
(Also, this could have done with better editing)
(Also, this could have done with better editing)
August 16, 2019
This book is written by the members of H Division Crime Club who are a group of experts who have studied Jack the Ripper for years. In principle I have an issue with books that speculate as to the identity of Jack the Ripper, as they tend to forget that it is his victims who matter and the horrific crimes committed against them.
Having said that whilst this book is most definitely guilty at times of overlooking the above point, it does try to keep perspective. It is also undoubtably well written and well researched,
In this book each expert puts forward his argument and offers supporting evidence for their theory as to the identity of Jack the Ripper, I found the arguments very interesting, the book is long and as such is very through in its approach.
I was given a ARC by NetGalley, all opinions are my own,
Having said that whilst this book is most definitely guilty at times of overlooking the above point, it does try to keep perspective. It is also undoubtably well written and well researched,
In this book each expert puts forward his argument and offers supporting evidence for their theory as to the identity of Jack the Ripper, I found the arguments very interesting, the book is long and as such is very through in its approach.
I was given a ARC by NetGalley, all opinions are my own,
August 29, 2019
We all know the story of Jack the Ripper.
I've read a few books on this topic and this was a bit unusual as it has chapters written by different members of the H Division Crime Club. The H Division Crime Club is a group of Ripperologists who have provided their theories on who they believe was Jack the Ripper.
I won't comment on which I believe most but I did find some arguments stronger than others.
If you are interested in true crime this is quite a good read but is unusual in having different authors with different writing styles. The different styles didn't put me off personally but I could see why some readers may not enjoy it.
It will be published this week so I look forward to others views on it!
Thank you to NetGalley and Pen and Sword for the opportunity to read this in exchange for my review.
I've read a few books on this topic and this was a bit unusual as it has chapters written by different members of the H Division Crime Club. The H Division Crime Club is a group of Ripperologists who have provided their theories on who they believe was Jack the Ripper.
I won't comment on which I believe most but I did find some arguments stronger than others.
If you are interested in true crime this is quite a good read but is unusual in having different authors with different writing styles. The different styles didn't put me off personally but I could see why some readers may not enjoy it.
It will be published this week so I look forward to others views on it!
Thank you to NetGalley and Pen and Sword for the opportunity to read this in exchange for my review.
September 1, 2019
If you thought you knew who Jack the Ripper was, think again. This collection of articles from a wide-ranging group of 'Ripperologists' known as H Division Crime Club puts forward arguments for a dozen different lesser-known suspects.
Some arguments were more convincing than others, but most were plausible to some degree. It has definitely made me want to read more about these characters including Joseph Barnett, Mary Jane Kelly's on-off lover, and Robert Mann, a mortuary assistant in Whitechapel. If you are interested in the Jack the Ripper case but have only heard about the main suspects such as Walter Sickert, then give this a read. We'll probably never know the truth, but books like this are fascinating for true crime buffs.
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers, Pen & Sword, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
Some arguments were more convincing than others, but most were plausible to some degree. It has definitely made me want to read more about these characters including Joseph Barnett, Mary Jane Kelly's on-off lover, and Robert Mann, a mortuary assistant in Whitechapel. If you are interested in the Jack the Ripper case but have only heard about the main suspects such as Walter Sickert, then give this a read. We'll probably never know the truth, but books like this are fascinating for true crime buffs.
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers, Pen & Sword, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
September 24, 2019
I would like to thank NetGalley, Pen & Sword and the author H Division Crime Club for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Who was Jack the Ripper? Is written by members of H Division Crime Club. These are a group of people who have each became experts on the murders and each have his or her own theory as to who committed the gruesome murders of 1888 by the man who become known to the world as Jack the Ripper. In each chapter the authors present the reader with evidence and reasons why they think their suspect was Jack the Ripper.
I did find this book well researched and interesting but having read alot on the subject prior to reading this book and I don't think I learnt anything new. I think the book would make excellent introduction read to Jack the Ripper suspects,to newcomers to the subject.
No disrespect intended towards the authors.
Who was Jack the Ripper? Is written by members of H Division Crime Club. These are a group of people who have each became experts on the murders and each have his or her own theory as to who committed the gruesome murders of 1888 by the man who become known to the world as Jack the Ripper. In each chapter the authors present the reader with evidence and reasons why they think their suspect was Jack the Ripper.
I did find this book well researched and interesting but having read alot on the subject prior to reading this book and I don't think I learnt anything new. I think the book would make excellent introduction read to Jack the Ripper suspects,to newcomers to the subject.
No disrespect intended towards the authors.
August 14, 2019
Million Dollar Question!!...........Who was Jack the Ripper?
Who was Jack the Ripper? by H Division Crime Club is a great book for all Jack The Ripper fans out there.
This book is written by the members of H Division Crime Club, they are a group of experts who have studied everything about the Great person himself! Jack The Ripper.
They take you back to have a closer look at Victorian London with detailed accounts of the Whitechapel Murders of 1888. This book is full of facts and will have you thinking who was Jack The Ripper.
But, who was he? Hmmmmmmmm
I wonder if we ever find out who he or she was?
Big Thank you to NetGalley for my copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Who was Jack the Ripper? by H Division Crime Club is a great book for all Jack The Ripper fans out there.
This book is written by the members of H Division Crime Club, they are a group of experts who have studied everything about the Great person himself! Jack The Ripper.
They take you back to have a closer look at Victorian London with detailed accounts of the Whitechapel Murders of 1888. This book is full of facts and will have you thinking who was Jack The Ripper.
But, who was he? Hmmmmmmmm
I wonder if we ever find out who he or she was?
Big Thank you to NetGalley for my copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 30, 2019
Who was Jack the Ripper by The H Division Crime Club had me intriued from the moment I started reading.
The book is a collection of essays written by Ripperologists debating and putting forward their evidence as to who they think did these awful crimes in Whitechapel in 1888. I enjoyed the book due to the essays beingi n different writing styles because of the various Authors. The evidence is given in a well researched and thought out way.
It did make me think more in line with one of 2 of the suspects in the book. Its the ever elusive mystery that Im sure will still be questioned even 150 years later.
Thanks to Netgalley, Pen and Sword and The H Divison Crime Club for the ARC. My review is my own opinion.
Will add amazon review once book is published.
The book is a collection of essays written by Ripperologists debating and putting forward their evidence as to who they think did these awful crimes in Whitechapel in 1888. I enjoyed the book due to the essays beingi n different writing styles because of the various Authors. The evidence is given in a well researched and thought out way.
It did make me think more in line with one of 2 of the suspects in the book. Its the ever elusive mystery that Im sure will still be questioned even 150 years later.
Thanks to Netgalley, Pen and Sword and The H Divison Crime Club for the ARC. My review is my own opinion.
Will add amazon review once book is published.
August 30, 2019
The story of Jack the Ripper is one of those that still resonates with us even all these years later because there was never any clear idea of who was actually the famous serial killer. Whether or not we ever get to a point where we can definitely find out who knows but this book does introduce some new names into the hat along with some well known suspects and for each person there is an in-depth analysis using modern methods to explain why they may be the killer. There are a lot of interesting new facts in here along with some we already know but it’s a fascinating read for any fan or would be armchair detective.
November 3, 2019
This is a very comprehensive book on the suspects for the Jack the Ripper legends.
It was well written and gave some new insights into this legend.
An interesting idea to collect all the suspects together and debate their story and possibilities of being Jack the Ripper.
Gripping in parts but some parts were difficult to read and this maybe due to retelling of a well known story.
Extremely well researched and enthusiasts of this genre will love this book.
Thanks you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read in return for review.
It was well written and gave some new insights into this legend.
An interesting idea to collect all the suspects together and debate their story and possibilities of being Jack the Ripper.
Gripping in parts but some parts were difficult to read and this maybe due to retelling of a well known story.
Extremely well researched and enthusiasts of this genre will love this book.
Thanks you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read in return for review.
May 6, 2022
This in an interesting collection of essays by "Ripperologists", which is apparently a real thing. We'll probably never know who Jack the Ripper (JtR in Ripperologese) was, but this is a fun expedition through a number of theories. Each writer makes a convincing case, and I'm now sure that at least three different people did it. All seriousness aside, this book is better as a sociological introduction to lowest-class London in 1888 than as a who-dun-it, but it was enjoyable. Note: some of the details are fairly explicit, and not for the squeamish.
August 18, 2019
** Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with the digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review **
Super interesante. Si te interesan las investigaciones de crímenes, y mas si estos tienen una buena dosis de misterio, si están al tanto y les interesa la historia de Jack el destripador (Jack the ripper), este es un libro que les recomiendo. Me resulto super interesante, no solo por la historia en si, sino también por el entorno en donde ocurrió todo.
Super interesante. Si te interesan las investigaciones de crímenes, y mas si estos tienen una buena dosis de misterio, si están al tanto y les interesa la historia de Jack el destripador (Jack the ripper), este es un libro que les recomiendo. Me resulto super interesante, no solo por la historia en si, sino también por el entorno en donde ocurrió todo.
October 26, 2019
Several authors taking on the case of Jack the Ripper. Presenting their theories what might have happened not only with the widely known victims but also with some murders believed to be potential victims. I found this a well written, very entertaining and fascinating book. Sadly, I don't think we ever will know the true identity of the real Ripper.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thanks to NetGalley and Pen & Sword!
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thanks to NetGalley and Pen & Sword!
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