Let's clear up any misconceptions: Maureen Johnson's enjoyable "The Name of the Star" is neither an astronomical guide nor an astrological primer. It will not help you spot the Big Dipper or finally explain the meaning of the phrase "the dawning of the age of Aquarius." It does, however, feature one particular star—what we around these parts like to call a celebrity. But the only red carpet you'd ever meet this star on is a blood-soaked one. It's the famous serial killer Jack the Ripper, who was gifted his catchy moniker by the newspaper The Star.
The Ripper, however, isn't the main character in this fantastical tale. Nope, that would be present-day Louisiana teen Rory Deveaux who's just landed in England to begin classes at her London boarding school. And, boy, did she pick an auspicious day to arrive. The first of a string of murders eerily reminiscent of Jack the Ripper's 1888 tear has just occurred, and the city's on high alert.
Of course, not everyone reacts to the killings the same way. Rory's new roommate, Jazza, a scholarly Type A sort, is clearly shaken up by the violent crimes, while would-be investigative journalist (and potential love interest?) Jerome couldn't be more intrigued, even dragging the girls along with him to one of the crime scenes. (Not the kind of first date a girl dreams about...)
Since the "New Ripper" follows the killing calendar set by the original murderer, the authorities know when (but not where) he'll strike. On a scheduled killing night, while the school's on lock-down, Rory and Jazza escape their dorm to watch the goings-on with Jerome atop the boy's dorm. Except, when the pair return, Rory spots a shady figure on campus. Hours later, the next Ripper victim is found...near her dorm! Rory's sure the weird bald man had something to do with it, but since Jazza didn't see him (even though she was standing right there), Rory begins to doubt herself. She'll soon discover, however, that she has a special ability few others share—an ability that'll make catching the killer easier, yet even more dangerous.
"The Name of the Star," the first in Maureen's "Shades of London" series, is a thoroughly modern murder mystery steeped in plenty of historical intrigue. And I, for one, am ready to rip and tear my way through book two.
Related:
'The Name Of The Star' Author Maureen Johnson Guest Blogs Jack The Ripper Fascination
Are you a fan of Maureen's novels? Have you read "The Name of the Star"?
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