Malice Aforethought: A True Story of the Shocking Double Crime That Horrified Nineteenth-Century New England

by Avree Kelly Clark

In the summer of 1874, a beloved schoolteacher mysteriously goes missing upon closing up school. After a frantic search, the young woman is discovered horribly mutilated in the woods, and authorities question everyone in the small railroad village of St. Albans, Vermont.

With the case turning cold, news arrives of an eerily similar crime committed in peaceful Pembroke, New Hampshire, in the autumn of 1875. This one, even more gruesome. Everyone questions whether the two beauties were intended victims or simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Amid mounting fear, dedicated detectives and a persistent populace will stop at nothing to ensure the murderous fiend is brought to justice.

For the first time, the true crime story that inspired dozens of podcasts and blogposts is now a gripping novel called Malice Aforethought, and the author shares an exciting theory never before explored.

Genres: True Crime, Nonfiction, Mystery, History, Historical, Mystery Thriller

420 pages, Paperback

First published October 4, 2023

About the author

Malice Aforethought is Avree Kelly Clark’s debut novel and winner of the 2024 Eric Hoffer First Horizon Award for outstanding debut novel and Mystery/Crime category winner. Avree’s love of history, forensics, and research came together in writing this historical crime fiction she describes as Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood meets Margaret Atwood’s Alias Grace.
When she’s not writing, she’s a freelance proofreader and copy editor who enjoys reading, trivia, long walks, healthy living, and Maine vacations.
Avree is a New Hampshire native who graduated Pembroke Academy in 2005. She lives in New Hampshire with her husband of sixteen years and their cat, Aloysius.

Reviews

[Avree Clark]

To all my potential readers,

After three and a half years, I am finally sharing my passion project with all of you. Visit my Author Website avreekellyclark.com (also linked at top of profile) for links for where to purchase from Amazon, B&N, and various indie booksellers.

I’m convinced that part of the reason it took me years to bring you this story was caused by my having to take frequent breaks from writing due to the grievous subject matter taking an emotional toll at times. But I believe it’s what enabled me to tell such an emotional story for which I poured my all into, letting myself go to some very dark places to get into the mind of these very real people. As an author, my aim is to get you, the reader, to feel something and to care. I hope I have done so!

I believe this true story could have broad appeal for lovers of crime fiction, history, historical fiction, and true crime. Ultimately, this story is for those seeking to be transported to a time and place vastly different from our own and willing to learn about a bygone era and what all occurred 150 years ago. If one is seeking a heavily crime-centric book with much gore, you’ll be sorely disappointed. However, I do describe the condition of the victims upon discovery and what the postmortem revealed in detail, which may not be for the faint of heart, and I endeavored to do so with much tact to preserve the dignity of the victims.

I elected to tell this true crime as a historical fiction in order to play up the narrative and dialogue surrounding facts found. For example, I knew certain findings of the postmortem and who was present, so I created a scene around what most likely would have transpired, and I was content so long as I was ultimately giving readers the facts gleaned.

This story is plot driven with omniscient narrator because I really wanted the reader to feel like they were present and part of the town, getting all of the information in real time as it played out then. It’s for this reason, I believe, that ALL of my early readers have come back saying to me that this book played out like a movie or a modern crime show. You’re getting to see everything the narrator wants you to see and are not limited by a single POV. The town and its people really are the heart of this story. As for stylistic choices with the telling of this tale, I endeavored to make the narrator a product of the time and not a modern person telling past events, if that makes sense.

In the early chapters, especially, we follow the town in the days leading up to the Pembroke crime, and I introduce you to a lot of characters. Please do not allow yourselves to become daunted by the introduction to all of these very real people. As the story progresses, certain characters will be brought to the forefront, and I'm confident you'll be able to keep everyone straight. Also, there are no fictional characters in this book.

I so enjoyed researching all about nineteenth-century customs and ways while I allowed my six drafts to sit for weeks to months at a time. I really felt like I’ve had a foot propping open a door to another world for over three years. It’s surreal, really. I remember looking up from my writing and being so surprised to see what the weather actually was and to see all of my modern conveniences surrounding me. I went deep into writing zones. So much so that, oftentimes, I felt in a funk when I’d go about my normal chores and routines. Like some kind of time travel hangover, haha.

I did have a challenging time coming up with a blurb for the back jacket because I did not want to give anything away. So the order of the story’s telling does not match the book’s description intentionally. For those who believe they know the details surrounding any of the the crimes mentioned in this book, I strongly encourage your giving it a read anyway . . . you’ll be surprised by how much false information is actually floating around out there and how much new information you’ll learn.

This book is my compendium of every nugget of truth I doggedly pursued; yet another reason it took me so long to bring you this story. I wanted to be as confident as I could be that this is the most accurate portrayal of events. I take full responsibility for any erroneous information introduced.

I became so enthralled with this story upon learning of it in my senior year forensics class in 2005 while attending Pembroke Academy (the school at the center of the main part of this story). My author’s note at the back of the book tells the story of how/why I decided to take it upon myself to write this novel. I also stumbled upon some eye-opening details that led to my theorizing that I don’t think things occurred precisely as they were recorded for history concerning the Pembroke crime. So if you read my book, be sure to read the Author’s Theory and Note at the end!! I also provide discussion questions for your consideration or to discuss in book groups.

I’m so grateful to all who take a chance on reading this story that I feel so honored and privileged to be the one to bring to you!

Happy reading,
Avree Kelly Clark

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I begin. I’ve lived in NH all my life and had not heard of this murder… so close to my home right in Pembroke. When I found out Avree was a graduate of Pembroke and wrote the story, I went to my first indie author book signing at Gibsons in Concord NH.
After hearing the presentation and how Avree got started on writing the book, I was very intrigued.
I got the book on a Wednesday needed to finish up my current read, but then hit the ground running on Malice Aforethought! I couldn’t get enough… the chapters are short and quick with lots of detail, often times leaving me feeling I was there!

Another first for me; annotations… I couldn’t mark up my book enough! So many thoughts, foreshadowing (or what I thought might be foreshadowing) or feelings I had.
So whoever reads my copy next, sorry!! 😂
I can’t wait for more of my friends to read this book so we can have a book discussion… the authors notes are so incredible and much of what I thought and wondered myself as I read.
I’ve been fortunate to have connected with Avree Offline and have had many discussions about the book and look forward to her next book hitting the bookshelves.
Although it was not typical genre I would read; it became a book l was most engaged and interested in.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Malice Aforethought: A True Story of the Shocking Double Crime That Horrified Nineteenth Century in New England by Avree Kelly Clark
Wow, this is the best book ever, I enjoyed the storyline and didn't want it to end.
In the summer of 1874, a teacher mysterious disappeared after closing up the
school. She was eventually found in the woods . I would recommend this book to adults who love a mystery. I won this book from Goodreads giveaway and Avree Kelly Clark

[Alexis Gannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Avree for taking me in a Time Machine. Back to the 1800’s! A time in history I seldom read about. I was hooked from the very beginning.

Nonfiction is not a genre I will pick up on my own, but after talking to Avree, and understanding this all happened a stones throw away from where I grew up, I knew it was a must read for me. I am so happy I gave this a shot because not only did Avree create a storyline that was accurate, she made one that read like fiction. Only in the best way. Where it was easy to read and hard to put down. I wanted to know what was next. All throughout the book I had to remind myself, THIS ACTUALLY HAPPENED! Avree did an amazing job at portraying the sense of community our day and age is lacking. She took you to a time you wish you lived in. Can’t say enough great things about this book. If you even have a little curiosity about it, try it. It WILL surprise you!! I was able to feel all the emotions in a book I didn’t expect to!

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I finished Malice Aforethought by Avree Kelly Clark this weekend and it was excellent! The story is about a true crime murder that happened in 1847 right here in NH as well as another in neighboring VT. I was hooked from the beginning! Clark’s writing makes you feel like you know the characters personally and the way the town comes together to help one another made me long for a different place in time. What really stands out is the excellent research Ms. Clark did and how she tied everything up in a perfect story If you love a good true crime story, you should check this one out!

[kayli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenally written and detailed! This is a must-read for history and true crime lovers.

[Sarah Rosney · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is about a murder that happened over 100 years ago in the town I am living in now in Nh! My book club read it and plan to do the walk around each historical site that is mentioned in the book. Really enjoyed it and can’t wait to discuss it!

[Christine Kelloway · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read this book three times. THREE TIMES!!!!
I’m not sure I could truly do this book justice in the right words but I’ll give it a shot.
It’s hard for me to fathom that this is the authors first book. She writes as if she’s had years of experience. A gem of a storyteller.
I felt every emotion the writer put into telling this story. I could see it play out as I was reading each page. It was shocking, it was emotional, and it was gratifying.
The authors note and theory at the end of the book is an absolute MUST READ!!! I had thoughts about it throughout my journey reading, so it was incredible to see the authors view on it.
I highly recommend this book!!

[Sarah Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fantastic. I don't usually read true crime, but the title and cover definitely got my attention. Then when I realized I knew a bit about the crime the book was about, I was all over it. Another reviewer said it's like a "nineteenth-century SVU," (which is my favorite show) and YES. If you know the story, even a little, you have a pretty good idea what's coming next... but the revelation of the details is no less shocking. Definitely my favorite book I've read in 2024 so far!

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could nottttt put this book down!!! So many twists and turns- it really kept me on the edge of my seat. Loved the authors writing style and how well everything was described. Definitely recommend this, this has been one of my favorite books I’ve read this year!

[Julie Thibaudeau · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great debut novel. A well researched, fascinating story based upon true events. Highly recommended!

[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am obsessed with this case now. Ms. Clark, you did an amazing job with this novel and I can’t believe it’s your first.

You can tell that much research was done, even down to the way the book read. It sounds like people from the late 1800’s talking. Why do we not still speak like that? I digress, back to the book. The fact that she wrote this as historical fiction, probably brought it to life so much more than if she didn’t add some dialogue here and there.

The book is written so well. I so thankful for the opportunity to have read it. I highly recommend it, especially if you love true crime that is very well researched.

I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway, and am voluntarily giving my true opinion.

[Sarah Fortier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not normally my type of book to read but when a high school friend writes a book you better believe I am going to read it and support her!!! Excellent writing I learned a lot about Josie. I never knew the whole story of why there was a memorial across the street from Three Rivers Middle School. I am glad to know it. I cannot wait for her to write another book. I talk about the book and try to find more people to read it.

[BA D · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author dedicated so much of her time to research and you can see her passion for the book’s subject.

The book just included way too many characters & it was extremely drawn out in my opinion. It definitely pays homage to the victims’ families and honors the language of the times though. Not my cup of tea, but I’m glad it’s available for people who love a slow burn with a spin on historical “fiction” / true crime.

This self-published piece is a noteworthy accomplishment. I just hope the next one focuses less on unnecessary characters and flowery details.

[Angela Connolly · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fascinating story that is well researched. At times it gets confusing, and the writing style just not my preference. I found it flowery at times. The facts of the case kept me engaged.

[Jennifer Lewy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating blend of history and mystery!

Get ready to step back in time to the gripping events of the 1870s in New Hampshire with "Malice Aforethought." This true crime story delves deep into two shocking murders, taking us on a journey through the events leading up to the crimes and through the investigations and trials that followed.

What sets this book apart is the author's ability to transport us to that era. The characters and their stories come to life, creating a sense of connection that keeps the reader hooked. Yes, there are a lot of names to keep track of, but the suspense and momentum keep the pages turning in eager anticipation of what's next.

The author’s attention to detail is impressive, from vivid descriptions of daily life, including how people lived, ate, traveled, and dressed, to fascinating insights into the early science of blood analysis under a microscope.

With its beautiful design, complete with maps, photos, and an intriguing Author's Note offering a unique theory about the crimes, this book would make a thoughtful gift for historical fiction fans, true crime enthusiasts, and New England history buffs.

"Malice Aforethought" is a recommended read for anyone who enjoys immersing themselves in historical narratives and well-researched true crime.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book!! This is the story of a murder that took place in Pembroke, NH in 1875. I live in NH and had never heard of this. I have never read a true crime like this. The author told me that a reader said it read like a 19th century Law and Order and it is so true! First part is a prologue that hooks you immediately. Then the crime, then an interesting connection to St. Albins Vermont, then the trial. Ms. Clark’s research is meticulous! This is listed as historical fiction, however the reason is that she added dialogue from actual court transcripts. But make no mistake, this is a true crime story. A horrific true crime story.
While reading, I was immersed in the story. The way it is written is so authentic you feel like you’re there! Also, there were jaw dropping surprises as well, not the least of which was the authors theory at the end…read everything!
I had the pleasure of attending one of Ms. Clark’s author events and she is such a genuine person and her passion to tell the victims story was evident with every word she spoke and wrote. She wants readers to feel empathy for them and believe me, you do! This is brutal, heartbreaking and at the same time hopeful when you read about a community coming together to support one of their own.
Avery Kelly Clark is now an automatic buy for me!

[Erin Dubreuil · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re into true crime stories and whodunits, this is a must read!

Avree Kelly Clark crafts a captivating story that hooks you in, start to finish, with her cleverly titled debut novel, Malice Aforethought.

The intriguing prologue peaks your curiosity and pulls you in right away. Chapter names are interesting without giving away too much.
Illustrative descriptions of these historical settings really bring the story to life, making you feel like you’re right there in the middle of it. Good character description and development get you emotionally invested, as if these are your very own neighbors and you’re experiencing these tragedies and this roller coaster of emotions right alongside them. Compelling endings to each chapter make you want to continue on to the next! This page turner is hard to put down! Smooth and enthralling transitions between characters and storylines make this historical fiction a fast and easy read, as you weave your way from beginning to end.

As Pembroke Academy alumni, I’m so glad Avree took the time to painstakingly research this fascinating story and tell it so well! I also quite enjoyed reading the author’s note and theory at the end.

[Andrea McGahan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I grew up in the small town of Pembroke, and attended the same high school as Josie and her friends. I remember riding by the monument dedicated to her and eventually some friends and I stopped and read it, probably pondering the hows and whys of this murder. As with most things like this, when you are growing up, things like Josie’s monument just become something you pass by when going to the nearby house of a friend, and don’t give it much thought.
When I saw that Avree had researched and written this book, I knew that I had to read it. I am so glad that I did! I knew of the areas of town she spoke of, and recognized some old Pembroke last names, whose ancestors lived in Pembroke when I did. This book could have been very dry reading because there were so many facts that needed to be shared, but I found it easy to read and very interesting. I loved growing up in Pembroke, NH and although Josie’s story is a sad one, it needed to be told and I’m glad I could get the true facts of exactly what happened.

[David Basora · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a little bit of a unicorn, in that it is historical fiction very much based on the facts of a true story; so much so that it eventually becomes obvious that the book was originally meant to be nonfiction. I can state that with authority, since the author graciously agreed to attend our book club meeting to discuss her history with the story and how the book came about. Avree was incredibly giving with her time, and I would recommend that other librarians in NH interested in this book should give her a shout.

The dialogue, pacing, and descriptions of Pembroke in the beginning of the book made the story more immersive than I would have expected. I was very glad that I hadn't researched Josie's murder at all ahead of time, because it allowed me to learn about it at the pace that the author intended. Were there some slow parts, where it did feel like we were just getting the history of the case? Sure, but that also felt clear to me that it was there for the historical integrity of the story. Overall, I thought things flowed well, and the decision to flashback 14 months to St. Alban's worked very well. Also, I enjoyed the court proceedings at the end quite a bit, because of the drama of the lawyers and the closure it provided to the questions of the case(s).

I was very glad that my book group selected this book, unanimously even, and I'm looking forward to seeing the next project from this self-published author.

[Linda C · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Book was so addictive! I couldnt put it down. I was reading until midnight every night and I didnt want to stop. Avree"s writing style was so gripping. She pulled me into the time period and I felt the characters so much so that i was brought to tears. This story does not disappoint! It takes you to so many places in your mind. The crimes are horrid and the people are so terrified and the book keeps you guessing who dunnit all the way through to the shocking end. Great Job Avree! Cant wait for the movie!! and the next book! Linda Desroches

[Barb Cummins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got this book yesterday and only because I needed to eat and sleep a little bit was I able to put it down after midnight. I finished reading it this morning, and it demonstrates truly compelling craftsmanship by this new author! A riveting, well-told story of heart wrenching crimes that occurred the late 1800s, mainly in small New England towns very near to where I live now. I especially enjoyed the voice, language and cadence of the author's writing -the sense of timeliness congruent with the historical setting. I'll be reading anything Avree has to offer in the future.

[Karen McBarron · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this debut novel ! I took my time reading it as there were so many characters throughout the story. The author did a tremendous job researching this amazing true story and then bringing it to light. To be honest, historical fiction is the only way I like to learn about history. The fact that this happened over one hundred years ago, it was nice to picture while reading how life was back then. I think it would make a splendid period piece movie ! It was an honor to be one of the first to read this novel ! (KM) I'm looking forward to the author's next novel !

[M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very intriguing story of two women killed in New England and how the police and town officials went about solving the crimes and finding the killer. Written as a novel but in the style of a police procedural ... this is a captivating plot with interesting characters. The reader is caught up in the mystery and concerned about how the criminal will be caught. There is no scientific DNA discovery ability at this time. Timeline and the ability to travel between locations along with personality assesments become very important to the evidence and in determining guilt or innocence.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I applaud this author for providing a book like no other I have read. She provides a very detailed factual account of crimes yet the style is very storyline and it was very difficult to pull myself away as I became very engrossed in what she created for our reading. Well done book.

My thanks to the Goodreads giveaway sponsors as without their offer I would not have been able to obtain a copy of Malice Aforethought.
Highly recommended 5 star read.

[Amy Julian · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is well-written and remarkably researched. It is full of details, names, dates, and information about the horrific crimes committed by a serial killer in New England during the 1860-70s.

Because there are so many names, too many to keep straight, I did some scanning throughout the book, but felt like I could still understand what was happening. Don't let all of the details keep you from reading.

This book is about horrific crimes and is not for the faint-of-heart.

[Cathy Berta · Rating 5 out of 5]

I usually do not read historical fiction books. I’m more romance, mystery type novels. Let me tell you, I fell in love with this book! So well written, it was like a movie. It just draws you in. I now have a love for historical fiction. Please read! Every chapter I wanted more! So many emotions while reading this. Amazing book and a awesome writer!!!

[Krystle Poulin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I grew up in Pembroke, NH and always had a fascination with this sad and shocking story. I had no idea the gory and heartbreaking details…there’s so much more to this real life story. The fate of a young girl and her demise. You won’t be disappointed as this is a page turner and we’ll written. So much research and dedication has gone into the true crime tale in 19th century New England.

[Sarah Carson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting true crime novel. The author does well telling the story although I find it can be very repetitive and slow at times. I was a bit disappointed that a lot of the focus was in New Hampshire. I purchased the book because I like down the street from where the St. Albans murder occurred, was hoping for more justice for Miss Ball.

[Stacey Potter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Malice Aforethought is a comprehensive historical true crime fiction that keeps you guessing until the end. Loved the author's note on her theory at the end. It's a well-researched, expertly-written debut novel. Clark's descriptions are so well done I felt like I was in that time period. Loved it! A must read if you love true crime!