Title: Capturing the Devil
Author: Kerri Maniscalco
First published September 10, 2019
453 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780316485548 (ISBN10: 0316485543)
Rating: 4.23
Overview
The thrilling conclusion to the Stalking Jack the Ripper series has arrived. Following their journey to America, Audrey Rose Wadsworth and Thomas Cresswell are once again thrown into a hunt for a serial killer, this time in the bustling city of Chicago during the World’s Fair.
As they investigate the reports of missing people and unsolved murders, they find themselves facing a cunning and elusive murderer, and a twisted hotel designed for torture. The stakes are higher than ever as they race to catch the killer before he strikes again.
Will Audrey Rose and Thomas finally bring justice to the victims, or will their love story end in tragedy? Join them in their final battle in Capturing the Devil.
About the Author
Hey there! If you’re a book nerd like me, you’ll find me hanging out on Instagram, where I’m always up for chatting about fictional crushes and all things literary. And if you’re interested, I might even drop a few hints about my upcoming novels.
Follow me @KerriManiscalco and let’s talk!
Growing up in a semi-haunted house outside of New York City, I developed a fascination with gothic settings that has stayed with me to this day. When I’m not writing, I love to read anything I can get my hands on, cook up a storm with family and friends, and have deep discussions over copious cups of tea with my feline companions.
As a #1 New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, I’m thrilled to have written the STALKING JACK THE RIPPER quartet, the KINGDOM OF THE WICKED trilogy, and my forthcoming adult debut, THRONE OF THE FALLEN, set in the KINGDOM OF THE WICKED universe. I also have two other projects in the works that will be set in the KOTW world and follow two different princes.
For more information about me and my work, check out my Instagram page!
Editoral Review
Kerri Maniscalco’s “Capturing the Devil” is a thrilling conclusion to the Stalking Jack the Ripper series, showcasing the author’s ability to weave together thrilling mysteries, historical fiction, and romance in a captivating narrative. The book, first published on September 10, 2019, immerses readers in 19th century New York City and treats them to a high-stakes game of cat and mouse between protagonist Audrey Rose Wadsworth, the intrepid forensic scientist, and notorious serial killer H.H. Holmes.
Maniscalco has established herself as a talented author with a knack for blending multiple genres into a seamless narrative. Her collection of work, the Stalking Jack the Ripper series, has proven to be a fan-favorite.
In “Capturing the Devil,” she delivers a fitting finale that maintains the series’ signature blend of thrilling mystery, historical fiction, and swoon-worthy romance. Set in New York City in the late 1800s, the novel is rich with historical detail and features a vast cast of intriguing characters.
The novel follows Audrey Rose Wadsworth, forensic scientist and sleuth extraordinaire, who is on a mission to capture H.H. Holmes, the notorious serial killer who has fled to New York. Along for the ride are Audrey’s love interest and fellow investigator Thomas Cresswell, as well as her brother Nathaniel, who has a significant role in the novel’s thrilling climax.
Maniscalco’s passion for research is evident throughout the novel. From intricate details of historical landmarks such as the Brooklyn Bridge, to lesser-known facts about the city’s underground tunnels and the mental institutions that dotted the landscape, the author brings 19th century New York to vivid life.
In terms of character development, Maniscalco’s skills shine in “Capturing the Devil.” Her characters are well-crafted, multi-dimensional individuals that one couldn’t help but root for. Audrey Rose, in particular, is a fantastic lead.
She is independent, brilliant, brave, and resolute, and the reader can’t help but sympathize with her struggles, whether she’s dealing with her tumultuous romance with Thomas Cresswell or her ongoing battle with sexism and discrimination in her field. The pacing of the novel is excellent, and there is never a dull moment.
The plot structure is well-crafted, and the various subplots are seamlessly integrated into the larger narrative. Fans of the series will be engrossed by the many twists and turns, which contribute to keeping the reader on the edge of their seat.
However, there are some limitations to the novel. The author’s tendency to occasional characters from past installments might make it difficult for a reader who is not familiar with the series to keep track of Audrey Rose’s past.
Although this is understandable, it might diminish the overall reading experience for new readers. In conclusion, “Capturing the Devil” is a highly enjoyable read that will satisfy fans of the genre, especially those invested in the Stalking Jack the Ripper series.
The author’s writing is highly addictive and engaging, and her characters are charming, charismatic, and compelling. Overall it is a highly recommended book for lovers of historical fiction, mystery, and romance.