Review: The Name Of The Star

 

The Name of the Star

Maureen Johnson

Putnam Juvenile

 

 

The day Louisiana teenager Rory Deveaux arrives in London marks a memorable occasion. For Rory, it's the start of a new life at a London boarding school. But for many, this will be remembered as the day a series of brutal murders broke out across the city, gruesome crimes mimicking the horrific Jack the Ripper events of more than a century ago.

Soon “Rippermania” takes hold of modern-day London, and the police are left with few leads and no witnesses. Except one. Rory spotted the man police believe to be the prime suspect. But she is the only one who saw him. Even her roommate, who was walking with her at the time, didn't notice the mysterious man. So why can only Rory see him? And more urgently, why has Rory become his next target? In this edge-of-your-seat thriller, full of suspense, humor, and romance, Rory will learn the truth about the secret ghost police of London and discover her own shocking abilities.

 

 

 

My Review:  I really enjoyed new take on an old story. The aspects that I like about this book is it is based on a true story. Jack the Ripper is one of the unsolved crimes that every one wonders about. Well I know I do. I have read several adult book on the murders and when I saw this YA book about them I was intrigued too say the least. I started reading it not knowing anything about the story except it was about Jack the Ripper. That was enough for me. I was pulled into the story immediately.

 

   I felt lost in the streets of London just like Rory. The descriptive writing style transported me to a city I love and have visited. The streets came alive and I thought that was amazing. As for the characters. I understand and sympathize with Rory being thrust into a different country and not knowing anyone. She does not even get settled in and the murders start. Wow this was fast paced and keep you reading. Rory life seem to intertwine with the murders and she is thrust into a cat and mouse game with the killer. I found this interesting and compelling. I found myself thinking what should we do next and who is the killer. Yes I put myself in Rory's shoes and accused everyone of the murders. To have a story that pulled me in so completely tell you I was trapped in the story and loved it.

 

   This is for anyone who like dark edgy tales that weaves facts with paranormal aspects. Ms. Johnson does this flawlessly. I look forward to reading more of Rory's adventures and hope this continues for years to come.