A Taste for Monsters

Matthew J. Kirby's "A Taste for Monsters" is a compelling historical mystery set in the grim, gaslit streets of 1888 London. The story follows Evelyn Fallow, a 17-year-old maid whose face is disfigured by phosphorus poisoning, as she takes a position caring for Joseph Merrick, the Elephant Man. When the infamous Jack the Ripper murders begin, Evelyn and Merrick find themselves uniquely connected to the victims through spectral visitations, compelling Evelyn to uncover the killer's identity. This young adult novel blends historical fiction with supernatural horror and a whodunit plot, exploring themes of empathy, societal prejudice, and courage in the face of immense darkness. Parents should be aware of the prominent themes of violence and death related to the Ripper murders, as well as the eerie ghost elements, making it suitable for mature middle schoolers and high school readers.

In 1888 seventeen-year-old Evelyn Fallow, herself disfigured by the phosphorus in the match factory where she worked, has been hired as a maid to Joseph Merrick, the Elephant Man--but when the Jack the Ripper murders begin she and Merrick find themselves haunted by the ghosts of the slain women, and Evelyn is caught up in the mystery of Jack's identity.