Killing the Bordens: Lizzie Borden and the Unsolved 1892 Borden Murders

by C. Cree

"Masterfully crafted tale of one of history’s greatest unsolved crimes.” - BookLife Reviews, Editor's Pick

Did Lizzie Borden really murder her parents?

“Lizzie Borden took an axe,
Gave her mother forty whacks,
When she saw what she had done,
She gave her father forty one.”

On the morning of August 4, 1892, Abby and Andrew Borden were brutally murdered in their home just a few steps from passersby on busy Second Street. No trace of the killer or killers was found.

There were suspects, though.

The daughters, Emma and Lizzie Borden, were suddenly wealthy women. Lizzie and the Borden family maid, Bridget, had both been home at the time of the murders but swore they saw nothing. Uncle John had stayed, unexpectedly, in the Borden guest room the night before the murders, though he'd brought no luggage.

Lizzie quickly became the focus of attention and then the main suspect.

But did she kill?

Exhaustively researched, Killing the Bordens tells the true crime Borden murder mystery and the life of Lizzie Borden as a novel, and reveals who committed the murders, how, and why.

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

314 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2024

Reviews

[Jennifer Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

In “Killing the Bordens: Lizzie Borden and the Unsolved 1892 Borden Murders,” author C. Cree tackles one of the most famous unsolved American criminal mysteries. Who actually killed Andrew and Abby Borden? And why?

Cree’s meticulously researched and gripping re-telling of this shocking crime provides readers with a bird’s eye view of the events as they unfold, introducing a wide cast of characters and skillfully detailing critical timelines surrounding the murders. Cree puts forth a well-reasoned case regarding the identity and motive of the perpetrator, while also providing crucial context around common criminal investigative practices of the day and some questionable legal decisions made while building the case for trial.

Drawing on thousands of pages of notes, correspondence, and transcripts, Cree guides the reader back in time, capturing conversations and interrogations in the vernacular of the day. By using the key players’ own words to tell the story, Cree deftly communicates how the prevailing attitudes around wealth, social class, and marital status shaped the public’s perception of Lizzie Borden (an unmarried woman of a certain age) through the investigation, trial, and beyond. Details gathered from friends, family, and colleagues about the victims and the accused build a rich portrait of the complexity of family life and community life, and portray Lizzie as the multi-faceted, and often enigmatic, woman that she was.

Even for those familiar with the basic facts of the case, Cree’s engrossing take on the Borden family, and Lizzie in particular, will challenge you to view the murders, trial, and aftermath in a new and thought-provoking light. Highly recommended reading for anyone interested in this fascinating case!

I received an advance reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Tatiana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Killing the Bordens takes readers on a chilling journey back to the infamous Borden murders of 1892. C. Cree’s writing is clear, concise, and factual, telling the story with both meticulous historical accuracy and the compelling narrative drive of a true crime thriller.

We’re painted into a portrait of a family dynamic simmering with tension, greed, and resentment within the broader landscape of the era’s social and economic dynamics. From there, the narrative maintains a deliberate pace through the atmosphere of suspicion and dread that surrounded the Borden family. As the case unfolds, the author’s deep research shines through the multiple POV investigation, forensic techniques, and well-condensed legal battles—allowing us to experience the confusion, unease, and frustration of the local community and Lizzie Borden herself.

While the Borden murders remain technically unsolved, this novel offers a satisfying resolution, tying together the many threads of the story in a way that feels plausible and emotionally resonant (even if not definitive).

*I received an advance reader copy of this book

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a new, very well-researched book about the Borden murders. It's a must-read for those interested in the case.

What I liked most about it is that the author has clearly done her research. There are details included that are not part of the legend or the common knowledge of the case. She was able to craft a fictional tale that is actually plausible. I didn't notice anything that could be disproven using any facts from the true story.

My theory is a bit different, but I enjoyed reading this one.

[M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This gripping historical fiction delves deep into one of America's most enduring mysteries. The author recreates the tense atmosphere of late 19th-century Fall River, bringing the Borden household to life; while Lizzie Borden emerges as a complex character, inviting readers to form their own opinions of her.

The story truly ignites during the police investigation, building suspense that culminates in a riveting trial. Drawing from actual police notes and trial transcripts, the author incorporates authentic dialogue and details that immerse readers in the heart of the case.

Beyond the infamous murders, the book offers a comprehensive look at the Borden sisters' lives, from their childhood to the aftermath of the trial. The author's meticulous research culminates in a compelling theory that not only identifies the true killer(s) but also provides a plausible motive and method. A must-read for true crime enthusiasts and history buffs alike!

[Thomas Jankauski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Killing the Bordens is another Great Mystery novel. It follows the Borden murders as events unfold, clues are collected, and witnesses are called. It shows all the news stories and rumors surrounding the murders, as they unfold along side the facts of the case.

One thing that I loved about this book is its love of history. It sprinkles in details about how different life was back in the 1800s. All sorts of interesting details about thinks you never think about. How food was prepared and stored without refrigeration, how the court procedures have changed, and just mundane home maintenance.

More than that, it shows appreciation to history by keeping with the facts, and painting them in to a wonderful story to read. This book shows how the truth is greater than fiction.

[Kevin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a meticulously researched book. Cree starts with the discovery of the murder and follows the investigation moment by moment through the famous trial and acquittal. This depth of detail makes the pages fly by. By immersing us in the details of living in Victorian Massachusetts, the book brings us into the daily life of Fall River in 1892 and of the Borden household. The events feel real and immediate. It also shows us how social expectations and customs influenced both the crime and the investigation. In the end, Cree reveals the most likely (and well researched) conclusion of who killed the Bordens and why. Do not miss this book!

[Alissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've been fascinated by the Borden murders ever since I did the Lizzie Borden house tour a couple years ago. It's obvious that the author has done a ton of research on the case, which is why I'm rating it 3 stars. I feel like this was wasted making it a fiction novel. I was disappointed to get to the "fact v fiction" section and read what the author had constructed on their own, especially around the trial. Also, the ending was a bit of a downer, Lizzie was never convicted of the crimes but the book just had to tie up loose ends to "solve" the case. All of the research would have made a perfect nonfiction read in my opinion!

[Betsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an excellent read, right up to the last chapter. I have read many books about the famous Fall River murders. I have even visited the graves and the Museum where the famous hatchet resides. This book sticks mostly to the facts--until the last chapter when speculation enters in. I can understand the author wanting to present a theory, but that doesn't make it true. If you know little about August 4, 1892, this book will give you the basics. Just remember that the last chapter is conjecture only.

[Madeleyn Valenzuela · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "Killing the Bordens," the Lizzie Borden trial comes to life with thrilling intensity. This well-written historical fiction immerses you in the events, making you feel like a firsthand witness. If you're looking for a captivating read that transports you back to a facinating moment in history, "Killing the Bordens" is a must-read.

[evergrowingtbr · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don’t exactly agree with the events of the crime proposed by the author, there are some assumptions made that are incredible and slightly far fetched. I do, however, think this book was really well written, it’s obvious the information of the crime and trial were well researched and organized. I would recommend this to my sister ✝️🤍

[Fran Kestel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Did Lizzie really kill?

I liked thie history that the author used in this book. The book made me see the Borden murders in a different light. The author presented details of the murder that I was not aware of. The conclusion by the author is just one theory as go the question who killed the Bordenz.

[Tyeisha Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

interesting read

Having watched many shows on this case, it was refreshing to read this perspective. I have now more questions, and will continue to seek out other sources to form a more complete picture in my mind.

[Brenda Yost · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read

I enjoyed reading this book, it was hard to put down and kept me engrossed. I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the Borden story and even though it’s hard to tell what really happened, this book was believable in theory. Enjoy!

[TAMARA WIDLAKE · Rating 4 out of 5]

Puzzle Borden

I've read many accounts of this. My feeling is she or Bridget did it but most likely Puzzle as she had most to gain. Being that she was a woman I think is what got her off as well as good attorneys

[Jackie Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a well researched and educational read.

Do I think Lizzie Borden killed her dad & stepmom???
I’m not sure.

The authors conclusion was quite convincing.

It’s also so sad the fallout between sisters. Not talking for over 20 years, & then dying almost a week apart.
5 ⭐️

[Veronica · Rating 2 out of 5]

Soooo long winded. Could have easily been edited down with less boring dialogue/monologues. Definitely not the best version of the history I've read.

[Jill Rawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written, interesting and factual. Did she or didn’t she…

[Karlee Moser · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great, well researched book on the Borden Murders. I really enjoyed reading it. It had a lot of great information and research regarding the crime and Lizzie.

[Brenda L Brandon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good, well researched book.

[Raven · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book, well researched.

[Pamela Edl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a bad read

[Mary Grace Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Well written and soooo interesting!

[Allison Gibbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mysterious and intriguing! Loved the author's spin on historical events.

[Debi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've always wondered if Lizzie did the murders. This was a good dive into how the case and court proceedings unfolded. I'm not sure the author's conclusions are correct but it does seem plausible.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I remember the tv movie starring Elizabeth Montgomery and I like cold case analysis!

[Jenna Aasen · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was so excited about this but it was soo slow

[Page · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story was put together well but it was a bit dry. There are far more interesting books on the subject.

[Gemutlichkeit · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t realize it was fiction when I picked it up. Not even great as fiction, but, prompted me to ask things like “oh, yeah - what happened to her?”