Jackaby Summary of William Ritter's Book

Book Summary: Jackaby by William Ritter

“Miss Rook, I am not an occultist,” Jackaby said. “I have a gift that allows me to see truth where others see the illusion--and there are many illusions. All the world’s a stage, as they say, and I seem to have the only seat in the house with a view behind the curtain.” Jackaby, written by William Ritter and first published on September 16, 2014, is a captivating blend of fantasy, mystery, and young adult genres. Set in New Fiddleham, New England in 1892, the story follows Abigail Rook, a newcomer in need of a job, as she crosses paths with R. F. Jackaby, an investigator of the unexplained with a keen eye for the extraordinary.

Characters

The characters in Jackaby are unique and memorable, each bringing something special to the story:

• Abigail Rook: A spirited and intelligent young woman who becomes Jackaby's assistant. She has a gift for noticing important details and is a perfect complement to Jackaby's investigative skills.
• R. F. Jackaby: The eccentric and unorthodox detective of the paranormal. Jackaby has the ability to see supernatural beings and possesses a sharp wit and keen observation skills.
• Charlie Cane: A handsome young detective who works with the police. Unlike his colleagues, Charlie is open to the idea of nonhuman creatures existing in the world.

Detailed Summary

On her first day in New Fiddleham, Abigail Rook meets Jackaby and is intrigued by his unconventional methods of investigation. Shortly after starting as his assistant, Abigail finds herself embroiled in a thrilling case: a serial killer is on the loose. While the police believe it to be the work of an ordinary villain, Jackaby is convinced that a nonhuman creature is behind the murders. With Charlie Cane's help, Abigail and Jackaby set out to catch the elusive killer and uncover the truth behind the supernatural occurrences in the town.

Analysis

Jackaby is a delightful combination of Doctor Who and Sherlock, with a quirky detective of the paranormal at its center. The dynamic between Jackaby and Abigail is engaging, with Abigail's practicality balancing out Jackaby's eccentricity. The world-building in the novel is rich and immersive, drawing readers into a fantastical version of 19th century New England where mythical creatures roam the streets alongside humans.

Ritter's writing is witty and atmospheric, creating a sense of mystery and suspense that keeps readers hooked until the very end. The novel's blend of cheeky humor and macabre elements adds depth to the story and makes it a truly unique reading experience. Jackaby is a must-read for fans of supernatural mysteries and detective stories, offering a fresh take on the genre that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

Final thoughts

If you enjoy a blend of fantasy, mystery, and young adult themes, Jackaby by William Ritter is a perfect choice. Pick up a copy of the book or listen to the audiobook to immerse yourself in a world of supernatural intrigue and clever detective work. You won't be disappointed!

9781616203535 (ISBN10: 1616203536)