bozzi1 's review for:

Ripper Country by Jack Harding

4.5

dark mysterious tense fast-paced

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Spoiler Free Book Review

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Ripper Country is a collection of short stories that take the reader on a tour through the Whitechapel district of London during the horrific fall and winter of 1888, when its inhabitants lived in a state of constant terror. 

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Brilliantly weaving names or facts from the actual case into each tale, Harding’s created a fictional world where the deranged serial killer known as Jack the Ripper isn’t the only dark monster stalking the streets of the East End. While inspired by some of the greatest literary voices of past and present, each story is told through Hardings own uniquely effective writing style. 

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Whether looking through the eyes of a child or entrenched in the mind of a monster, each account gives a different perspective into the horror, yet they’re also interwoven so we’re able to bond with recurring characters and get a true feel for their world. 

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There’s something for every horror fan, from psychological terror to creature features to coming of age and even science gone wrong. My personal favorites were: Funny Little Games, The Barber, Underground, Old Man Abberline, and Ripper Country. 

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Jack Harding is a new author on the indie scene and he’s already a favorite. I can’t wait to see everyone’s reaction to this fantastic collection or what he comes up with next! I appreciate the copy of this ARC for my honest review. 

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PS-I know next to nothing about Jack the Ripper; it isn’t necessary to enjoy these stories so don’t let that deter you. That being said, I do feel like those interested in and knowledgeable about the Ripper case will especially enjoy the familiar details.