The Business of Blood

I’ll admit, I was skeptical about another Jack the Ripper retelling, but *The Business of Blood* hooked me with its unapologetic grit and fresh angle. Fiona’s job as a corpse cleaner isn’t just a plot device—it’s the backbone of the story, grounding the supernatural elements in tangible, unsettling reality. Justine Eyre’s narration is a standout, her gravelly voice perfectly capturing Fiona’s hardened demeanor while injecting warmth during quieter moments. The audiobook’s production is a treat, with subtle sound effects that amplify the story’s claustrophobic atmosphere. I especially loved the way Byrne reimagines the Ripper cases through Fiona’s eyes, blending historical detail with a modern, feminist lens. That said, the novel’s reliance on flashbacks to explain backstory can feel clunky at times, and some of the secondary characters, like the enigmatic Dr. Harlow, lack the depth they initially promise. Still, the pacing picks up in the final act, delivering a twist that’s both shocking and thematically resonant. This is a story that thrives on its own momentum, and Eyre’s performance ensures it never falters. If you enjoy mysteries that blend the past with present-day stakes, this is a must-listen. The only downside? It’s a bit of a marathon—8 hours is a long time to linger in the shadow of death, but the payoff is worth it.