Maplecroft: The Borden Dispatches

by Cherie Priest
Maplecroft: The Borden Dispatches cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Gothic
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  • ID: 7730
  • Added: 2025-12-16
  • Updated: 2025-12-16
  • ISBN: 9780698138384
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published: 2014-09-02
  • Reviews: 3

Lizzie Borden, infamous for the brutal murders of her father and stepmother, has retreated to Maplecroft, a secluded mansion near the sea. Despite her acquittal, the townsfolk of Fall River, Massachusetts, still fear her. But Lizzie's troubles are far from over. The evil that consumed her parents has not left her alone. It originates from the ocean's depths, spreading nightmares and madness throughout the populace. Lizzie is determined to confront this malevolent force, no matter what form it takes. /n/n Lizzie's story is one of resilience and horror as she faces an ancient evil that threatens to consume her and the town. With her sister Emma by her side, Lizzie must uncover the truth behind the affliction that has plagued her family and the town. The battle is personal, and Lizzie is ready to fight with whatever means necessary, even if it means wielding an axe.

Reviews
Elitist Book Reviews · Vanessa · 2015-06-30
great 4.00

The gothic tone is set with flair, and the novel's setting around Maplecroft house is vividly visualized. The epistolary format enhances both the storytelling and character development.

Vanessa praises Cherie Priest's ability to create a gothic atmosphere with skill. The majority of the novel takes place in and around the Maplecroft house, which is described in such detail that it becomes a character in its own right. The epistolary format, using letters and documents, not only serves the plot but also deepens the reader's understanding of the characters, particularly Lizzie Borden and her sister. The combination of historical horror and personal drama makes for a compelling read.

Quick quotes

    Priest sets a gothic tone with flair.

    The majority of the novel takes place in and around the Maplecroft house, and it's easy to visualize the ...

    The epistolary format serves both the storytelling and the characters well.

Lesbrary · Audrey · 2015-06-13
excellent 4.00

The fusion of Lizzie Borden's story with Lovecraftian horror is both chilling and captivating. The novel's blend of historical fact and supernatural elements creates a unique and engaging narrative.

Audrey finds the combination of Lizzie Borden's infamous story with Lovecraftian horror to be particularly effective. The novel takes a well-known historical figure and weaves in elements of the supernatural, creating a chilling and captivating tale. The characters' emotional dynamics are particularly well-drawn, adding depth to the horror elements. Audrey appreciates how the novel balances historical fact with speculative fiction, making it a standout in the genre.

Quick quotes

    Once Lizzie Borden meets Lovecraftian horror, there is really no going back.

    The actual Lizzie's story is creepy enough, as is the actual ...

    The novel's blend of historical fact and supernatural elements creates a unique and engaging narrative.

Lithium Creations · 2014-09-30
brilliant 4.50

This novel is a spectacular work of historical horror fiction, blending real historical figures and places with a heavy dose of horror. The characters' emotional dynamics drive the story forward.

The reviewer at Lithium Creations describes Maplecroft as a spectacular work of historical horror fiction. By blending real historical figures and places with elements of horror, Priest creates a rich and immersive world. The emotional dynamics between the characters, particularly Lizzie Borden and her sister, are what truly carry the story. The reviewer appreciates how the novel uses historical context to enhance the horror, making it a compelling read for fans of the genre. The novel's unique blend of history and horror sets it apart from other works in the field.

Quick quotes

    Maplecroft might be best described as a spectacular work of historical horror fiction.

    Historical people, places, given a heavy dose of horror.

    The story is really carried by the characters' emotional dynamics.

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