A historical mystery that pulls you in. The case of Lizzie Borden is something that intrigues me, and I think it is an interesting theme for a mystery novel I think most YA mystery readers will enjoy this.

We all think we know the story - Lizzie Borden took an axe and gave her father forty whacks and all that. Beverly Patt doesn't really set out to dismantle any of the popular theories about the Borden murders or Lizzie herself, instead using them as a catalyst for her novel about sixteen-year-old Victoria, Lizzie's neighbor. Despite the age difference, Lizzie and Victoria are friends, and Victoria is shaken by the murders and Lizzie's trial. She's also struggling with kleptomania and her parents' faltering marriage, and that's frankly a lot - both for one girl to cope with and for a single novel. But it does largely work, because Lizzie's trial forces Victoria to think harder about the disparate halves of herself and who she really wants to be. Don't read it strictly for the Borden angle, but if you like busy historical fiction with a mystery edge, this is worth picking up.

I was entertained by this story. The case of Lizzie Borden is something that intrigues me, and I think it is an interesting theme for a mystery novel. I also appreciated the Sherlock Holmes references throughout. If you like historical mysteries, you may like this.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.

Unlike many of the other people who read this book, I assume, I didn't really know about Lizzie Borden or what she was famous (infamous) for. I gather that this is one of those crimes that has sparked the interest of many Americans and almost become part of their folk law. It didn't really matter though, I did do a bit of reading around the basic facts once I was into the story, but as the story unfolds it tells you everything that you need to know. I do wonder if someone who was familiar with the case read it, they might get even more out of it.
Alongside the true life mystery of what happened to Lizzie Borden's parents (or rather her father and step mother) we also have an interesting character in the form of Victoria. A Sherlock Holmes fan, she is always going to want to get to the bottom of the mystery. She has her own secrets to keep though, as well as the question of what it means to be a young woman in this changing world.
I loved this book from start to finish, both the historical setting and the actions of the various characters. It was a gripping read and one that I would highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.

While the mystery keeps the tension high, Victoria's own life and inner struggles add surprising depth.

Victoria is sixteen and on the verge of having her Coming Out ball, but that also means her life has become horribly constrained thanks to the rules surrounding what she can and cannot do. It doesn't help that she spends most of her life caring for her mother, who suffers from strange bouts of paralysis. Her father escapes all of it by spending weeks away. When her neighbors are suddenly murdered, everything gets turned on its head, especially when Victoria's own friend, Lizzie, is accused of the murder. Victoria's love for Sherlock Holmes and mysteries isn't the only thing she'll need to prove her friend is innocent. Victoria will need to find a way to handle her own dark secrets.

I was a little hesitant to dive into a tale surrounding the famous Borden murders but am glad I did. While the basic murder remains the same, the author uses the facts to spin a fresh and interesting tale. The time period is rich and well-laid out, and not only in the details and daily life. This book takes a look at the society and, especially the rules and habits surrounding women. The attitudes and expectations come across clear while flowing naturally into the happenings and scenes. It even goes a step further as it shows how women, who suffered from mental illness, were seen and treated. So, there's plenty of information and food for thought.

The mystery end is enjoyable and holds a bit of a cozy flair while diving into the timeframe. Victoria has a good nose for clues, and it's easy to root for her as she tries her best to help her friend, while dealing with her own problems. The situation keeps the reader guessing the entire way through as each character seems to harbor secrets. Victoria grows in several ways as she steps past her comfort zone and faces the obstacles one by one. There's a hint of romance, but it's light and never overpowers the main mystery. Rather, it weaves with a hint of secrets and surprises too.

Fans of Sherlock Holmes, historical settings, and characters, who push back against societal rules, are sure to enjoy this one.

This was great! The premise is really unique and interesting. I like how this story is unique in it's writing style. I would recommend this to those who enjoy mysteries, historical fiction, and crime fiction. Special Thank You to Beverly Patt, Owl Hollow Pres, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy prior to publication in exchange for an honest review.

4.5. I really enjoyed this book. I was expecting yet another story about the Lizzie Borden case, which I have studied at length already. However, what I got was a nuanced look at the historical role of women in the late 1800s, an examination of women and mental health struggles, and a well thought out look at society and class differences. Well done! And of course, the Lizzie Borden case as well, because who can resist an ‘unsolved’ murder? Budding true crime fans will love this one. It’s good in so many ways. I like the situational irony of everyone having secrets, not just Lizzie Borden. A minor quibble, I sure would like to see more from Declan’s pov.

I was really very pleasantly surprised by this! A wonderful book - a mix of cozy mystery, amateur sleuthing, and historical fiction based on a true crime. Throw in a whimsical town and a winning young Sherlock Holmes wannabe protagonist, and it was a fun ride from start to finish. The author brings the world to life with vivid, lush descriptions - of peach pie and cemeteries and every nook and cranny of the local general store.