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The Murderer's Maid: A Lizzie Borden Novel
Winner of Two Historical Fiction Awards in 2018 (IPPY Gold Medal Award and National Indie Excellence Award)
In this historical murder thriller, author Erika Mailman (also winner of the 2007 Bram Stoker Award for her novel The Witch's Trinity ) brings the true story of the brutal murder of Lizzie Borden's father and stepmother into new focus by adding a riveting contemporary narrative.
With historical detail and taut, modern storytelling, Erika Mailman writes a captivating novel about identity, choices, freedom, and murder. She offers readers a fresh perspective on the notorious 19th century crime and explores the trials of immigrants seeking a better life while facing down fear and oppression, today and throughout history. Intelligent and detailed, The Murderer's Maid is a gripping read from beginning to bloody conclusion.
The Murderer's Maid interweaves the stories of two women, the 19th century servant of infamous Lizzie Borden and the other a 21st century modern-day barista fleeing from an attempt on her life. Irish maid Bridget Sullivan, trapped by servitude and afraid for her own safety, finds herself an unwilling witness to the tensions in the volatile Borden household. In 2016, Brooke, the illegitimate daughter of an immigrant maid, is unknowingly connected to the legendary 19th century crime. Brooke struggles to conceal her identity and stay a jump ahead of the men who want to kill her.
If you have read and enjoyed Lizzie Borden books such as The Life and Trial of Lizzie Borden, A Private Disgrace, The History and Haunting of Lizzie Borden, Parallel Lives, The Secrets of Lizzie Borden, or The Fall River Tragedy; you will love Erika Mailman's award winning true crime thriller The Murderer's Maid.
In this historical murder thriller, author Erika Mailman (also winner of the 2007 Bram Stoker Award for her novel The Witch's Trinity ) brings the true story of the brutal murder of Lizzie Borden's father and stepmother into new focus by adding a riveting contemporary narrative.
With historical detail and taut, modern storytelling, Erika Mailman writes a captivating novel about identity, choices, freedom, and murder. She offers readers a fresh perspective on the notorious 19th century crime and explores the trials of immigrants seeking a better life while facing down fear and oppression, today and throughout history. Intelligent and detailed, The Murderer's Maid is a gripping read from beginning to bloody conclusion.
The Murderer's Maid interweaves the stories of two women, the 19th century servant of infamous Lizzie Borden and the other a 21st century modern-day barista fleeing from an attempt on her life. Irish maid Bridget Sullivan, trapped by servitude and afraid for her own safety, finds herself an unwilling witness to the tensions in the volatile Borden household. In 2016, Brooke, the illegitimate daughter of an immigrant maid, is unknowingly connected to the legendary 19th century crime. Brooke struggles to conceal her identity and stay a jump ahead of the men who want to kill her.
If you have read and enjoyed Lizzie Borden books such as The Life and Trial of Lizzie Borden, A Private Disgrace, The History and Haunting of Lizzie Borden, Parallel Lives, The Secrets of Lizzie Borden, or The Fall River Tragedy; you will love Erika Mailman's award winning true crime thriller The Murderer's Maid.
205 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2017
67 people are currently reading
856 people want to read
About the author
Erika Mailman
10 books87 followersUpdate April 2018: The Murderer's Maid: A Lizzie Borden Novel just won a gold medal in Historical Fiction from the IPPY Awards, awarded to small press publications, university press publications and self-published books. I'm grateful to Bonhomie Press (an imprint of Yellow Pear Press) for entering the book into the awards!
Erika Mailman is the author of THE WITCH'S TRINITY(Random House, 2007), a novel about a medieval woman accused of witchcraft, WOMAN OF ILL FAME (Heyday Books, 2007), about a Gold Rush prostitute caught in a serial killer's web, HOUSE OF BELLAVER, a literary ghost story involving Shakespeare and suffrage, and THE MURDERER'S MAID: A LIZZIE BORDEN NOVEL, the famous true crime story told from the Irish maid Bridget Sullivan's point of view. Mailman has also published two nonfiction books about Oakland history. She is a graduate of the MFA program in poetry at the University of Arizona, Tucson, and a former Yaddo fellow. Her first novel took her eight years to write and is unpublishable. She figured out how to outline, and wrote the first draft of her second novel in one month, and it's now in print (Woman of Ill Fame).
Erika Mailman is the author of THE WITCH'S TRINITY(Random House, 2007), a novel about a medieval woman accused of witchcraft, WOMAN OF ILL FAME (Heyday Books, 2007), about a Gold Rush prostitute caught in a serial killer's web, HOUSE OF BELLAVER, a literary ghost story involving Shakespeare and suffrage, and THE MURDERER'S MAID: A LIZZIE BORDEN NOVEL, the famous true crime story told from the Irish maid Bridget Sullivan's point of view. Mailman has also published two nonfiction books about Oakland history. She is a graduate of the MFA program in poetry at the University of Arizona, Tucson, and a former Yaddo fellow. Her first novel took her eight years to write and is unpublishable. She figured out how to outline, and wrote the first draft of her second novel in one month, and it's now in print (Woman of Ill Fame).
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January 6, 2024
3,0 ✨✨✨
( Audiobook)
( Audiobook)
January 2, 2018
Having read a few other Lizzie Borden books I am always intrigued to read other takes or stories based on this infamous murder. The author here presented the details about the facts of the crime and also gives voices to the central people known to this murder. This also had another parallel story of Brooke, a young woman moving from city to city to escape what she feels are people after her which I will not go into details about so as to not spoil the rest of the plot for anyone. While I enjoyed the backstory of Lizzie Borden and Bridget the maid, the parallel story of Brooke had me intrigued because I wondered what the connection was between the two storylines but it didn't thrill me as much. This is still a well written read and the author did a good job of interweaving the two stories.
October 27, 2017
Find all my book reviews, plus fascinating author interviews, exclusive guest posts and book extracts, on my blog: https://whatcathyreadnext.wordpress.com/
Through the eyes of Bridget Sullivan, maid to the Borden family, we get a first-hand view of that exceptionally odd household, the events leading up to the murder of Mr and Mrs Borden and the strange dynamics of the fateful day on which the tragedy took place. The author convincingly conveys why economic necessity would have persuaded Bridget, an Irish immigrant desperate to support her family back home, to remain in that unsettling household against her better judgment and in spite of the urgings of her friends.
I was gripped by the way the story unfolded (although the inclusion at certain points of a couple of additional points of views did throw me slightly) and, like many others I suspect, I found it hard to believe the eventual acquittal of Lizzie Borden based on the evidence from the scene of the crime.
I enjoyed Brooke’s story set in the modern day and I’ll freely admit the author wrong footed me at the end with the solution to the mystery of those pursuing her. However, her link to the Borden case felt rather tangential although it did allow the author to introduce some interesting location detail. By the by, what a fantastic man Brooke got herself there in Anthony: rich, handsome, intelligent, witty and understanding. I hope, for the author’s sake, he’s modelled on someone she knows!
Aside from the rhyme, I knew very little about the Borden case before reading this book. The author brought the story to life in convincing detail and with a real sense of the period to create a thoroughly engrossing work perfect for fans of both historical fiction and true crime.
I received an advance reading copy courtesy of HF Virtual Book Tours in return for an honest review.
Through the eyes of Bridget Sullivan, maid to the Borden family, we get a first-hand view of that exceptionally odd household, the events leading up to the murder of Mr and Mrs Borden and the strange dynamics of the fateful day on which the tragedy took place. The author convincingly conveys why economic necessity would have persuaded Bridget, an Irish immigrant desperate to support her family back home, to remain in that unsettling household against her better judgment and in spite of the urgings of her friends.
I was gripped by the way the story unfolded (although the inclusion at certain points of a couple of additional points of views did throw me slightly) and, like many others I suspect, I found it hard to believe the eventual acquittal of Lizzie Borden based on the evidence from the scene of the crime.
I enjoyed Brooke’s story set in the modern day and I’ll freely admit the author wrong footed me at the end with the solution to the mystery of those pursuing her. However, her link to the Borden case felt rather tangential although it did allow the author to introduce some interesting location detail. By the by, what a fantastic man Brooke got herself there in Anthony: rich, handsome, intelligent, witty and understanding. I hope, for the author’s sake, he’s modelled on someone she knows!
Aside from the rhyme, I knew very little about the Borden case before reading this book. The author brought the story to life in convincing detail and with a real sense of the period to create a thoroughly engrossing work perfect for fans of both historical fiction and true crime.
I received an advance reading copy courtesy of HF Virtual Book Tours in return for an honest review.
March 28, 2018
Pretty sweet read. ;)
December 18, 2017
Anyone who knows me knows I'm obsessed with Lizzie Borden. Ever since I was a girl and watched The Legend of Lizzie Borden (1975), I've been fascinated. I've read a few novels and watched other shows/movies with differing points of view. However, in The Murderer's Maid, it's the first time I've encountered the story told in such a unique way...with a tie to the future.
The author moves seamlessly from 19th century Massachusetts to the present day. She also adds quite a thrilling element to the story, above and beyond an already thrilling (true to life) tale. I found myself lost in the story. Lizzie's story was handled so deftly that the feelings toward Lizzie ran the gamut from complete distrust and fear to utter sympathy and compassion. Feelings which were richly showcased from the maid, Bridget's point of view.
The present day story, Brooke's story, was a twisting and gradually unfolding mystery. Her story is tied to the legend of Lizzie and I found it a satisfying addition to the story. I applaud the author for adding it. The best part...it kept me guessing until the end. I love that!
I can't recommend this book highly enough. Whether the reader is intrigued by Lizzie's legend or not, they will find the story intriguing. Those who do not know much about Lizzie Borden will learn a lot from this book. The author changes some facts, which she explains in her author's note at the end, but the majority of the story is historically accurate. She also recommends a further reading list which I will be exploring in the future.
The author moves seamlessly from 19th century Massachusetts to the present day. She also adds quite a thrilling element to the story, above and beyond an already thrilling (true to life) tale. I found myself lost in the story. Lizzie's story was handled so deftly that the feelings toward Lizzie ran the gamut from complete distrust and fear to utter sympathy and compassion. Feelings which were richly showcased from the maid, Bridget's point of view.
The present day story, Brooke's story, was a twisting and gradually unfolding mystery. Her story is tied to the legend of Lizzie and I found it a satisfying addition to the story. I applaud the author for adding it. The best part...it kept me guessing until the end. I love that!
I can't recommend this book highly enough. Whether the reader is intrigued by Lizzie's legend or not, they will find the story intriguing. Those who do not know much about Lizzie Borden will learn a lot from this book. The author changes some facts, which she explains in her author's note at the end, but the majority of the story is historically accurate. She also recommends a further reading list which I will be exploring in the future.
August 7, 2017
A new take on the infamous Borden murders. While the tale is told through the eyes of Lizzie Borden's maid, I have to admit that again, Lizzie takes the stage. This is a Lizzie scary, and cold enough, to make your toes curl! Also had an interesting present-day connection, but the past was the best part for Lizzie fans!
October 2, 2017
Lindas Book Obsession Review of “THE MURDERER’S MAID” by Erika Mailman
Kudos to Erika Mailman, author of “The Murderer’s Maid” for her amazing story-telling skills in weaving two stories together.
The genres for this novel are Historical Fiction, Mystery and Thriller, Suspense and Fiction. The timelines of the stories take place around 1892, and in the present.
According to the blurb “ ‘The Murderer’s Maid” interweaves the stories of two women: one, the servant of infamous Lizzie Borden, and the other a modern-day barista fleeing from an attempt on her life.” I love the way Erika puts the pieces of the puzzle together in this story, how she relates the past and the present.
I also appreciate the author’s historical research into Lizzie Bordon’s life and trial.
The characters in this story are complex and complicated, possibly due to the times and situations. Some of the characters are dysfunctional, some are courageous, and some are threatening.
Lizzie Bordon comes from an extremely dysfunctional family. Bridget, an Irish maid working for the family is witness to many uncomfortable situations and tension. There is a tremendous amount of turmoil, stress, hostility and anger that is going on in the Bordon household. Bridget is looked down upon because she is Irish, and at times is shown a lack of respect.
Brooke, is the illegitimate daughter of an immigrant maid, that has to change her name and location because there is a threat to her life. Brooke works as a Barista to make ends meet. Brooke’s mother had been killed, and Brooke had been placed in a group home. Now as an adult Brooke has to find her way.
The author discusses important topics such as immigration, as people come here and work hard to make a better life and find “while facing fear and oppression”. The author talks about the importance of loyalty, friendship, family, honesty and searching for self worth and the truth. Sometimes history has a way of repeating itself. Erika Mailman leaves us with a message of love and hope.
I would highly recommend this novel for readers who love Historical Fiction, Mystery and Thrillers, Suspense and Fiction. I would like to thank Yellow Pear Press, and Erika Mailman for an Advanced Reading Copy for my honest review.
Kudos to Erika Mailman, author of “The Murderer’s Maid” for her amazing story-telling skills in weaving two stories together.
The genres for this novel are Historical Fiction, Mystery and Thriller, Suspense and Fiction. The timelines of the stories take place around 1892, and in the present.
According to the blurb “ ‘The Murderer’s Maid” interweaves the stories of two women: one, the servant of infamous Lizzie Borden, and the other a modern-day barista fleeing from an attempt on her life.” I love the way Erika puts the pieces of the puzzle together in this story, how she relates the past and the present.
I also appreciate the author’s historical research into Lizzie Bordon’s life and trial.
The characters in this story are complex and complicated, possibly due to the times and situations. Some of the characters are dysfunctional, some are courageous, and some are threatening.
Lizzie Bordon comes from an extremely dysfunctional family. Bridget, an Irish maid working for the family is witness to many uncomfortable situations and tension. There is a tremendous amount of turmoil, stress, hostility and anger that is going on in the Bordon household. Bridget is looked down upon because she is Irish, and at times is shown a lack of respect.
Brooke, is the illegitimate daughter of an immigrant maid, that has to change her name and location because there is a threat to her life. Brooke works as a Barista to make ends meet. Brooke’s mother had been killed, and Brooke had been placed in a group home. Now as an adult Brooke has to find her way.
The author discusses important topics such as immigration, as people come here and work hard to make a better life and find “while facing fear and oppression”. The author talks about the importance of loyalty, friendship, family, honesty and searching for self worth and the truth. Sometimes history has a way of repeating itself. Erika Mailman leaves us with a message of love and hope.
I would highly recommend this novel for readers who love Historical Fiction, Mystery and Thrillers, Suspense and Fiction. I would like to thank Yellow Pear Press, and Erika Mailman for an Advanced Reading Copy for my honest review.
November 6, 2017
I have always been fascinated with Lizzie Borden. I share a birthday with her so there is that.. The Murderer's Maid is the story of Lizzie Borden but indirectly as it is written from the perspective of Bridget, the Borden's maid of a few years. I am not sure how I feel about the crime, did she or didn't she, kind of leaning to the fact that she probably did. The Borden household appeared to have been a tense cold place to live in, run by a man who had money but they lived miserly. That would be enough to affect a person mentally in my mind
The parallel story kind of surprised me as I had never really thought about the possibility that there could be descendants of Lizzie. Brooke is a woman who is the daughter of an immigrant maid who has to move around to keep her identity and whereabouts. When she was a girl, her mother had an affair with her boss, the man's wife ends up dead in suspicious circumstances and her mother is to blame, not guilty but to blame, according to the family. Brooke moves around her entire adult life because she thinks that the sons of the woman who died is after her.
Brooke has always been interested in true crime and she starts reading about Lizzie Borden and with her reading, she comes to the realization that she may very well be related to Lizzie. Brooke is a bit messed up, what with her having to be on the run all the time. I found this part of the story quite fascinating. How was Brooke related?
The Murder's Maid was a pleasure to read and gave me more of an insight into the crime. Erika Mailman did extensive work in writing this novel and it showed. I love it when an author puts in Author's Notes in the book, gives the reader a peek into the ways the book has been written. That is why I love historical fiction, it is fiction based on facts and that is fascinating to me. Erika is the author of other historical fiction, of which I need to find and read. I enjoyed her writing in The Murder's Maid and highly recommend this book!!
The parallel story kind of surprised me as I had never really thought about the possibility that there could be descendants of Lizzie. Brooke is a woman who is the daughter of an immigrant maid who has to move around to keep her identity and whereabouts. When she was a girl, her mother had an affair with her boss, the man's wife ends up dead in suspicious circumstances and her mother is to blame, not guilty but to blame, according to the family. Brooke moves around her entire adult life because she thinks that the sons of the woman who died is after her.
Brooke has always been interested in true crime and she starts reading about Lizzie Borden and with her reading, she comes to the realization that she may very well be related to Lizzie. Brooke is a bit messed up, what with her having to be on the run all the time. I found this part of the story quite fascinating. How was Brooke related?
The Murder's Maid was a pleasure to read and gave me more of an insight into the crime. Erika Mailman did extensive work in writing this novel and it showed. I love it when an author puts in Author's Notes in the book, gives the reader a peek into the ways the book has been written. That is why I love historical fiction, it is fiction based on facts and that is fascinating to me. Erika is the author of other historical fiction, of which I need to find and read. I enjoyed her writing in The Murder's Maid and highly recommend this book!!
December 3, 2018
Liked the Lizzie parts but I didn’t really care for the present day connection storyline.
January 11, 2022
I’m sure there are many more out there, but I can only think of a handful of books I’ve read similar to The Murderer’s Maid. I guess you could classify this book as true-crime historical fiction?? Of course we all
know the story of Lizzie Borden, at least a general idea. This time the story is told from the perspective of the maid for the Borden household at the time of the infamous murders. I knew it was historical fiction so there were times I was Googling to see which things actually happened, which really made me want to find out more about the true story. It’s obvious that this book was well researched, but not obnoxiously obvious like it sometimes is with these types of books.
The chapters from the maid’s perspective alternate with chapters about Brooke in 2016. Her life mostly consists of looking over her shoulder and just trying to live another day. Until she finds out she’s linked to the long ago true crime. To be honest, I would’ve been fine without the addition of Brooke’s story. It was interesting and suspenseful, but I was much more invested in the chapters about the maid and the goings on in the Borden household. This book easily held my interest and made me want to find out more about the true story. If you’re ready for details of the Lizzie Borden story that might keep you up at night, this one’s for you.
Apparently the Lizzie Borden house is now the Lizzie Borden B&B. You can actually stay in one of the bedrooms if that’s your thing.😳
Ummm, no thanks. It’s also a kind of museum. Again, yikes.
September 15, 2024
When I started this novel, I assumed it was all about Lizzie Borden. Not so! There is a second, modern day story going on as well. This was a fun read, especially because my husband and I have been to the Falls River home of the Bordens and taken the incredibly informative two hour tour including the cellar. If you ever get the chance, definitely go! But there is no way I am ever going to spend the night in that house! 🏠
“She always gets a library card and reads for free, and that is the key to her happiness” (33). 📚 📕 📖 ♥️
“Who isn’t a survivor from the wreckage of childhood” (36)?
“A houseplant is an extraordinary thing, an accomplishment in a small pot” (171).
“If you expect more, very often you get more” (172).
Mrs. Borden’s weight was mentioned many times! “She was trapped by this bed and her own weight” (296). “Did it take several men to get that ungainly body down the steep stairs” (297)? “The original Jack Sprat and his wife, their weight discussed openly in court. One of the books Brooke read drips with disgust for Mrs. Borden’s poundage; she is not spoken of moving without it being described as ‘waddling’” (297). I thought poor Mrs. Borden must have weighed 250 pounds! Nope! Come to find out, she weighed less than I do. 🤪🤪🤪🤪🤪
“She always gets a library card and reads for free, and that is the key to her happiness” (33). 📚 📕 📖 ♥️
“Who isn’t a survivor from the wreckage of childhood” (36)?
“A houseplant is an extraordinary thing, an accomplishment in a small pot” (171).
“If you expect more, very often you get more” (172).
Mrs. Borden’s weight was mentioned many times! “She was trapped by this bed and her own weight” (296). “Did it take several men to get that ungainly body down the steep stairs” (297)? “The original Jack Sprat and his wife, their weight discussed openly in court. One of the books Brooke read drips with disgust for Mrs. Borden’s poundage; she is not spoken of moving without it being described as ‘waddling’” (297). I thought poor Mrs. Borden must have weighed 250 pounds! Nope! Come to find out, she weighed less than I do. 🤪🤪🤪🤪🤪
November 9, 2017
The Murderer’s Maid by Erika Mailman is a historical fiction book, inspired by true events. Set in the late 90s of the XIX century, Bridget is a maid in the Borden’s household, but she’s afraid of Lizzie, the youngest daughter of her employers.
Her story is inter-woven with the story of Brooke, a woman who lives in our days and who has been escaping from someone who wants her dead for years.
I highly enjoyed the book. Before reading it, I had never heard about Lizzie Borden’s case, and this book made me so curious that I searched on the Internet more information.
There are only two things that bothered me a little. The shift of time from chapter to chapter made the story a little hard to follow, because I had to re-read several times which year we were in; and the fact that, even though Bridget was creeped out by Lizzie and the woman did some strange things, she didn’t quit her job.
I loved Brooke. I love that her mother was immigrant, because this let us see more into their life. Bridget was an Irish girl who came to America to earn money to send to her family in Ireland, while Brooke’s mother came to America to find a better life.
She unexpectedly falls in love with Antony and has to decide whether to stay with him and face those who want her dead, or flee again until they will stop following her. I could her growing arc and it was very great.
The book portrayed how people looked down on them, treating them badly only because they weren’t considered Americans. This still happens often, though less than before.
I liked the author’s hypothesis about why Lizzie was the murderer as well.
I highly recommend this book, it was enticing and intriguing.
Her story is inter-woven with the story of Brooke, a woman who lives in our days and who has been escaping from someone who wants her dead for years.
I highly enjoyed the book. Before reading it, I had never heard about Lizzie Borden’s case, and this book made me so curious that I searched on the Internet more information.
There are only two things that bothered me a little. The shift of time from chapter to chapter made the story a little hard to follow, because I had to re-read several times which year we were in; and the fact that, even though Bridget was creeped out by Lizzie and the woman did some strange things, she didn’t quit her job.
I loved Brooke. I love that her mother was immigrant, because this let us see more into their life. Bridget was an Irish girl who came to America to earn money to send to her family in Ireland, while Brooke’s mother came to America to find a better life.
She unexpectedly falls in love with Antony and has to decide whether to stay with him and face those who want her dead, or flee again until they will stop following her. I could her growing arc and it was very great.
The book portrayed how people looked down on them, treating them badly only because they weren’t considered Americans. This still happens often, though less than before.
I liked the author’s hypothesis about why Lizzie was the murderer as well.
I highly recommend this book, it was enticing and intriguing.
September 1, 2018
The novel interweaves the 2016 story of a young woman who believes she must live her life on the run after a family tragedy with the 1892 story of accused but acquitted murderer Lizzie Borden. The connection between the two story lines, which is genealogical, emerges near the halfway point, and, although far-fetched, is interesting. For me, this had a slow start. After the connection between the story lines is made, the pace picks up and the story moves along better, though it often gets bogged down in the well-known details of the murders and trial. If you are interested in what happens at the Lizzie Borden B & B in Fall River on an overnight stay/tour as opposed to the usual one-hour tour during the day, this is informative (evidently, the B & B folks have the run of the place overnight :).
November 3, 2017
I remember as a teen watching the movie of Lizzie Borden with Elizabeth Montgomery and since then have been intrigued as to what actually took place. How someone could brutally kill her own father and stepmother? I have actually been searching for years to read any fiction books on Lizzie Borden, they are hard to find. That is until a couple years ago, while I have enjoyed two previous books on this famous murder, The Murderer's Maid is not just my favorite but this one made my 'best of 2017' list.
There are a number of reason why this one made my 'best' list. Though I am fairly familiar with the Borden story what I loved was the uniqueness of a dual time period. Bridget Sullivan is the family maid and it’s even when she first stepped into this house that she can feel the sinister atmosphere. Mainly told from her POV there are a few other views as well, this was great because it gave a broader view of what was taking place. The author wrote with such vividness that it wasn’t hard to feel the atmosphere of distress, dislike and disdain that permeated this home.
The present day story line was equally intriguing and as I was reading I couldn’t help wondering where the author was going with Brooke's story and how it would connect to Lizzie Borden. There were many twists and turns that kept me glued to the pages.
While history cannot 100% with accuracy pinpoint who committed these horrible crimes all evidence points to Lizzie and the author wrote a compelling argument as to how and why she might have done it. Remember this is historical fiction, meaning facts, motives and scenarios our embellished to present a great book. That being said I loved the author's notes at the end and in this case I especially liked them because not only did she go into detail of what she included in the book and why, along with changes made but she also included things omitted from the book which I found just as fascinating. Things I've never heard of before.
This was my first time reading anything by Erika Mailman and I have already have an Amazon order with more of her books winging their way here. Her writing is smooth, captivating and was an absolute pleasure to read.
Thank you to Amy at HFVBT for the opportunity to be part of this tour.
There are a number of reason why this one made my 'best' list. Though I am fairly familiar with the Borden story what I loved was the uniqueness of a dual time period. Bridget Sullivan is the family maid and it’s even when she first stepped into this house that she can feel the sinister atmosphere. Mainly told from her POV there are a few other views as well, this was great because it gave a broader view of what was taking place. The author wrote with such vividness that it wasn’t hard to feel the atmosphere of distress, dislike and disdain that permeated this home.
The present day story line was equally intriguing and as I was reading I couldn’t help wondering where the author was going with Brooke's story and how it would connect to Lizzie Borden. There were many twists and turns that kept me glued to the pages.
While history cannot 100% with accuracy pinpoint who committed these horrible crimes all evidence points to Lizzie and the author wrote a compelling argument as to how and why she might have done it. Remember this is historical fiction, meaning facts, motives and scenarios our embellished to present a great book. That being said I loved the author's notes at the end and in this case I especially liked them because not only did she go into detail of what she included in the book and why, along with changes made but she also included things omitted from the book which I found just as fascinating. Things I've never heard of before.
This was my first time reading anything by Erika Mailman and I have already have an Amazon order with more of her books winging their way here. Her writing is smooth, captivating and was an absolute pleasure to read.
Thank you to Amy at HFVBT for the opportunity to be part of this tour.
October 23, 2017
4.5 stars. "The Murderer's Maid" is the dual story of the infamous Lizzie Borden, who brutally murdered her father and stepmother at the end of the 19th century and the present day story of Brooke, a young woman on the run from the danger of her past. Brooke finds that she is related to Lizzie Borden and finds herself drawn to the mystery of her past almost as an escape from her present on the run.
What a book to read right before Halloween! You want creepy? You've got creepy with this book. While I enjoyed both stories, I loved the atmosphere that the author created around Lizzie Borden. Certainly any book about a woman who murders her parents in cold blood would be chilling but the way the author foretells of Lizzie's brutalness is amazing. I don't want to give anything away but man, the pigeon scene! That scene was so well done and gives us so much insight into what kind of person Lizzie is and how she could be capable of really evil things.
As you can tell from the title of the book, the story is seen through the eyes of Lizzie Borden's family maid, Bridget. Bridget is Irish and faces discrimination in her town. When she lands a job at the Borden house, she has bad feelings from the very beginning but a job is a job so she takes it. I loved seeing the story through her eyes. She's just trying to make a living and to do a good job. It was fascinating to see how she deals with the craziness that goes on in the Borden household and how she stays even after the murders.
Like I said, both stories in the book are super interesting. Brooke, the woman in the present day story, is solving a few mysteries of her own. She has a connection to Lizzie Borden and following her as she unravels that mystery makes for great reading. She is also on the run from her past and her own perhaps part in a crime that has haunted her ever since and has kept her on the run.
This book has so many twists and turns in both story lines! This was a great, atmospheric read. I loved the way that the author was able to create such suspense, even with a story that may be familiar to a lot of people. This was a good read!
What a book to read right before Halloween! You want creepy? You've got creepy with this book. While I enjoyed both stories, I loved the atmosphere that the author created around Lizzie Borden. Certainly any book about a woman who murders her parents in cold blood would be chilling but the way the author foretells of Lizzie's brutalness is amazing. I don't want to give anything away but man, the pigeon scene! That scene was so well done and gives us so much insight into what kind of person Lizzie is and how she could be capable of really evil things.
As you can tell from the title of the book, the story is seen through the eyes of Lizzie Borden's family maid, Bridget. Bridget is Irish and faces discrimination in her town. When she lands a job at the Borden house, she has bad feelings from the very beginning but a job is a job so she takes it. I loved seeing the story through her eyes. She's just trying to make a living and to do a good job. It was fascinating to see how she deals with the craziness that goes on in the Borden household and how she stays even after the murders.
Like I said, both stories in the book are super interesting. Brooke, the woman in the present day story, is solving a few mysteries of her own. She has a connection to Lizzie Borden and following her as she unravels that mystery makes for great reading. She is also on the run from her past and her own perhaps part in a crime that has haunted her ever since and has kept her on the run.
This book has so many twists and turns in both story lines! This was a great, atmospheric read. I loved the way that the author was able to create such suspense, even with a story that may be familiar to a lot of people. This was a good read!
September 24, 2020
Erika Mailman's, The Murderer's Maid, is a real page-turner. Even though I thought I had a pretty good idea what was going to happen, because the book is based on historical fact, I was surprised and engaged throughout. The author's choice to tell the story through the eyes of two vulnerable young women allowed for fresh perspectives on an old story, and naturally vulnerable points of view. I was sucked into the fear and lack of options they both experienced. For a new take on the Lizzie Borden story and for anyone looking for a complex, engrossing mystery full of twists and turns, I highly recommend The Murderer's Maid.
October 20, 2017
I am a huge fan of historical fiction - and if you aren't sure what that is, basically it is a genre where the author weaves a fictional tale around historical events. Such as this novel "The Murderer's Maid" by Erika Mailman. She has done her homework on the Lizzie Borden case and the historical accuracy of the background and people are great. I am kind of obsessed with the Lizzie Borden case myself, so when my friend asked if I wanted to read this and review it I didn't hesitate! If you are not familiar with the Lizzie Borden case, then I would highly recommend you do a little research before reading this, because there are a lot of actual pieces from the case that pop up in the book. Of course we all know Lizzie was not convicted of the crime but she was never considered innocent. And Bridget, the maid in the Borden house at the time, most likely could have convicted Lizzie but she didn't. This novel tells the story from Bridget's point of view - as in how she sees Lizzie and her sister Emma, and the "stories" she hears from other maids who have worked for the Borden's or lived near them. It's fascinating just as it is, but then Mailman weaves a story about a modern day coffeehouse worker named Brooke who is trying to get along in the world as well as get away from people who are looking for her. Turns out she is connected to Lizzie Borden, but how? And why are these men chasing her? Is she perhaps related in some way to the Bordens? It's very interesting when we find out the truth, and it puts a fire in Brooke's belly. The one theme that runs very strongly through this novel is that even though Lizzie was acquitted of the murders, she is called "the murderer" and it is assumed that she really did it.
As we see it from Bridget's point of view, Lizzie is a very strange individual - which is in keeping with the stories we have heard about Lizzie's behavior at that time as many people found her very odd. And even before Bridget hears from the other maids, she sees some strange things and wonders about Lizzie herself. The difference in the novel that I found is that in the real story, Emma Borden was pretty normal and no one ever really suspected her and she got along well with her step-mother Abigail Borden. This novel gives us a different perspective to think about - that maybe Emma was not as squeaky clean as everyone thought and maybe she did not have a good relationship with her step-mother either, the only difference being is that she was "normal" to the outside world and Lizzie was not.
Another thing I really enjoyed about this book was the way Mailman made the characters come to life. In the legend, Mrs. Borden was kind of a side character - we never really knew what she was like and never saw her and the girls interacting. But the Mrs. Borden in the book is far more complex, and rather than being painted as the horrible step-mother, she is portrayed in a softer light and truly caring about her step-daughters and husband. Whether this is true or not - well it is called historical "fiction" for a reason. We don't know for sure, but I love when they add complexity and life to characters that are historically flat.
Perhaps the most exciting part of this novel is that it starts less than a year before the murders take place, so we see everything leading up to them, and then we are taken on an amazing close-up journey when the murders happen. That was perhaps my favorite part of the book, possibly because it was from Bridget's point of view. Then of course we also see the same evidence as was in the real trial, but we also see that from different points of view, such as what Bridget said to the police after the murders. And then in and out of this murder scene in the future, Brooke is scrambling to read everything she can on the Borden case to find out more. This is about as far as I can go with my review without giving anything away - you have to read the book to find out what happens with both Brooke and Bridget! I can promise you will not be disappointed, this book is a great read and I am thrilled with it :) Definitely giving this one 5 stars! If you love historical fiction or even just love Lizzie Borden, then you must read this! Check it out :)
***I was sent a complimentary copy of this book to read. I was not forced nor required to leave a review, this is of my own accord.***
As we see it from Bridget's point of view, Lizzie is a very strange individual - which is in keeping with the stories we have heard about Lizzie's behavior at that time as many people found her very odd. And even before Bridget hears from the other maids, she sees some strange things and wonders about Lizzie herself. The difference in the novel that I found is that in the real story, Emma Borden was pretty normal and no one ever really suspected her and she got along well with her step-mother Abigail Borden. This novel gives us a different perspective to think about - that maybe Emma was not as squeaky clean as everyone thought and maybe she did not have a good relationship with her step-mother either, the only difference being is that she was "normal" to the outside world and Lizzie was not.
Another thing I really enjoyed about this book was the way Mailman made the characters come to life. In the legend, Mrs. Borden was kind of a side character - we never really knew what she was like and never saw her and the girls interacting. But the Mrs. Borden in the book is far more complex, and rather than being painted as the horrible step-mother, she is portrayed in a softer light and truly caring about her step-daughters and husband. Whether this is true or not - well it is called historical "fiction" for a reason. We don't know for sure, but I love when they add complexity and life to characters that are historically flat.
Perhaps the most exciting part of this novel is that it starts less than a year before the murders take place, so we see everything leading up to them, and then we are taken on an amazing close-up journey when the murders happen. That was perhaps my favorite part of the book, possibly because it was from Bridget's point of view. Then of course we also see the same evidence as was in the real trial, but we also see that from different points of view, such as what Bridget said to the police after the murders. And then in and out of this murder scene in the future, Brooke is scrambling to read everything she can on the Borden case to find out more. This is about as far as I can go with my review without giving anything away - you have to read the book to find out what happens with both Brooke and Bridget! I can promise you will not be disappointed, this book is a great read and I am thrilled with it :) Definitely giving this one 5 stars! If you love historical fiction or even just love Lizzie Borden, then you must read this! Check it out :)
***I was sent a complimentary copy of this book to read. I was not forced nor required to leave a review, this is of my own accord.***
October 18, 2017
Bridget Sullivan was the Borden’s maid during the time of the murders, she was even home when it happened; however, when was outside washing the windows, a fact that might have saved her life. As the maid, Bridget was privy to much of the Borden’s private quarrels and any inside information of how the strange family lived and gotten along. Bridget’s testimony during Lizzie’s trial had the potential to sway guilt or innocence upon Lizzie. Bridget’s side of the story during the Borden murders is one that is still left to be told. In the present, Brooke , the daughter of a Mexican-American maid shares a distant connection with Lizzie and Bridget. While celebrating the 4th of July with her mothers employer and family, the Carr’s, Mrs. Carr drowns. Years later, Brookes mother is murdered and Brooke receives evidence that she is next, Brooke goes off the grid and moves frequently believing it is the only way to stay alive. It isn’t until Brooke digs into her absent fathers past that she unravels the mystery of the deaths and feels confident to once again live her life.
I have always been intrigued by the Lizzie Borden murders and Lizzie Borden herself. I truly do believe that she was a woman out of her time wondered how her life would have been different if she were born a century later. While I cannot say whether not Lizzie was guilty or innocent, I do enjoy reading stories that dare to guess about the true circumstances that happened that day. Replete with historical detail and intense emotion, Bridget's side of the story gave a point of view that I have never heard before. Bridget's place within the family gave her a front row seat to the drama of the Borden's life. Along with her place on that fateful day, Bridget maybe one of the only other people who truly did know what happened to Mr. and Mrs. Borden. Paired with Brooke's story in the modern-day The Murderer's Maid lends an interesting twist. Brooke seems to have much in common with Bridget as the daughter of a maid to a family with many issues themselves. As Brooke finds her life unraveling, she comes across Lizzie’s story and an unlikely connection which helps her bring everything together. I was entranced by the voices of these two women, one of whom history might have swept under the rug due to her position within life and another which modern society might dismiss due to her lot in life. I will continue to be haunted by the Borden murders, and The Murderers Maid has shown me even more nuances to this complicated case.
This book has been received for free in return for an honest review.
I have always been intrigued by the Lizzie Borden murders and Lizzie Borden herself. I truly do believe that she was a woman out of her time wondered how her life would have been different if she were born a century later. While I cannot say whether not Lizzie was guilty or innocent, I do enjoy reading stories that dare to guess about the true circumstances that happened that day. Replete with historical detail and intense emotion, Bridget's side of the story gave a point of view that I have never heard before. Bridget's place within the family gave her a front row seat to the drama of the Borden's life. Along with her place on that fateful day, Bridget maybe one of the only other people who truly did know what happened to Mr. and Mrs. Borden. Paired with Brooke's story in the modern-day The Murderer's Maid lends an interesting twist. Brooke seems to have much in common with Bridget as the daughter of a maid to a family with many issues themselves. As Brooke finds her life unraveling, she comes across Lizzie’s story and an unlikely connection which helps her bring everything together. I was entranced by the voices of these two women, one of whom history might have swept under the rug due to her position within life and another which modern society might dismiss due to her lot in life. I will continue to be haunted by the Borden murders, and The Murderers Maid has shown me even more nuances to this complicated case.
This book has been received for free in return for an honest review.
January 14, 2018
This was an outstanding book. I'm a big fan of Erika Mailman, but must admit when I originally read the synopsis of this book I was a bit disappointed. I usually do not enjoy books where there are two characters in two different time periods. I want to immerse myself totally in the main story and not have to jump back and forth. Still, being a fan I purchased the book and once again, Erika did not let me down. I finally finished this book at 4:30 this morning as I couldn't stop and wanted to see how it all played out. There is, of course, some artistic license taken as this is historical fiction. However, as far as the story of the Borden Family and the events that occurred in August of 1892 it was clear Erika did her homework and then some! I also visited the Borden Home (although I did not stay overnight). That certainly helped in picturing the layout of the home, but it is not essential to understanding and following the story. She does a marvelous job of describing the tension that existed in that house and at times, I must admit, I felt sorry for the Borden sisters. This is the hallmark of a great writer. I will also say that she satisfied my position on whether Lizzie did it or not. I feel confident in what I now believe, something few other books on this murder have been able to accomplish from my point-of-view. I'll say no more on that as I don't want to ruin things for those who have not read it as yet. The way she merges the recent character and the story of Lizzie is not apparent immediately, but stick with it and you will be pleased. Cannot say enough about this book other than you need to read it for yourself. The most compelling part of the book is the post-murder description of people remaining in the house with bodies on tables and the remnants of the murder still staining the floor and wall. It is so eerie and so chilling, I found it difficult to sleep that night. Few things scare me anymore (at 57) because the world itself is so scary. But this book managed to give me the creeps I had as a teen after watching a scary movie. Job well done!
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October 18, 2017
The Murderer's Maid: A Lizzie Borden Novel is a family fabulous piece of fiction based on true events. I love this book! I enjoyed the author's vision of what really happened in the Borden home leading up to the brutal murders of Lizzie's father and stepmother. I, also, enjoyed getting a glimpse into the thoughts of the maid, Bridget. Oh what horrors she had gone through in that house.
I highly highly recommend this book and would give it 100 stars if I could.
I received this book from the author. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I highly highly recommend this book and would give it 100 stars if I could.
I received this book from the author. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
September 15, 2019
This book was excellent! The writing back and forth between the story of Lizzie Bordern's maid, Bridget in the 1890's and "Brooke" (Felicita) in 2016 is so well done. I was able to follow all the characters and their stories easily based on the great writing, and I wanted to keep reading and find out what happened. I would recommend this story to anyone! Now I must find time to see the Borden house in person...
Slight disappointment at the end, Mailman chronicles various parts of the story she included and chose not to include, but never confirmed the story of Lizbeth Borden giving birth to an illegitimate child is true or not!
I must comment that the paper which the pages are made from is so thick and sturdy, I don't think I've ever read a book with such thick paper before.
Reading this because I liked another book by the author awhile back.
Slight disappointment at the end, Mailman chronicles various parts of the story she included and chose not to include, but never confirmed the story of Lizbeth Borden giving birth to an illegitimate child is true or not!
I must comment that the paper which the pages are made from is so thick and sturdy, I don't think I've ever read a book with such thick paper before.
Reading this because I liked another book by the author awhile back.
November 26, 2017
Fascinating retelling of the story of Lizzie Borden, mostly through the eyes of the maid, Bridget Sullivan, who was in the house at the time of the murders. It is intertwined with a fictional modern-day version of a similar story which has, thankfully, a happier ending. Well written and gripping.
January 29, 2018
I read The Murderer's Maid in a single rainy day, it's that gripping and well paced. If you've had the pleasure of reading The Witch's Trinity by Erika Mailman (and you should, it's fantastic), then you know she has mad skills in immersing the reader in the setting by paying close attention to details. I feel like I know the Borden house in Fall River just as well as Bridget, the titular maid and the main narrator for the portions of the novel set in the late 1800s, based on the vivid descriptions Mailman writes. In fact some descriptions were so vivid, I didn't pay too close attention, because I got squicked out. Skip ahead, eyes, skip ahead!
At times I did wonder about the reasons behind the inclusion of the modern narrative of Brooke, the young woman who believes she's being hunted by someone who wants to kill her. But it didn't seem like a distraction - in some ways it was more comic relief, though we're talking darkly comic as Brooke has some major baggage in her past. Mailman does tie the two narratives together in a fun little twist. It's not as strong as the Lizzie Borden narrative, but it does a great job of showing how easy it can be to get obsessed with the Borden murders.
The strength of Mailman's storytelling is the big draw here, and for that reason I would definitely recommend this book to fans of historical fiction and thrillers.
At times I did wonder about the reasons behind the inclusion of the modern narrative of Brooke, the young woman who believes she's being hunted by someone who wants to kill her. But it didn't seem like a distraction - in some ways it was more comic relief, though we're talking darkly comic as Brooke has some major baggage in her past. Mailman does tie the two narratives together in a fun little twist. It's not as strong as the Lizzie Borden narrative, but it does a great job of showing how easy it can be to get obsessed with the Borden murders.
The strength of Mailman's storytelling is the big draw here, and for that reason I would definitely recommend this book to fans of historical fiction and thrillers.
January 11, 2025
Now I want to go back and tour again!
November 4, 2017
Five Stars
review also posted at :http://booknerdloleotodo.blogspot.com
Copy provided by publisher via Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours for an honest review
First, this book was just what I needed! It was well-written, the research was commendable, the storyline and character instantly grabbed me! After I finish reviewing books I usually donate them to my local library, but this copy I’m keeping for future re-reads. Lizzie Borden and Bridget were the perfect characters to carry the story line. Both of them are caught up in a dangerous situation when Lizzie is an accused axe murder. The author interweaves 1892 story with that of Brooke n 2016. This was a great combination of mystery, murder and suspense.
I really enjoyed how flawlessly the author interweaved the two storylines and how she gave voice to the struggles of Irish immigrants during Lizzie’s time. Definitely a very engrossing read!
review also posted at :http://booknerdloleotodo.blogspot.com
Copy provided by publisher via Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours for an honest review
First, this book was just what I needed! It was well-written, the research was commendable, the storyline and character instantly grabbed me! After I finish reviewing books I usually donate them to my local library, but this copy I’m keeping for future re-reads. Lizzie Borden and Bridget were the perfect characters to carry the story line. Both of them are caught up in a dangerous situation when Lizzie is an accused axe murder. The author interweaves 1892 story with that of Brooke n 2016. This was a great combination of mystery, murder and suspense.
I really enjoyed how flawlessly the author interweaved the two storylines and how she gave voice to the struggles of Irish immigrants during Lizzie’s time. Definitely a very engrossing read!
June 4, 2018
Erika Mailman has taken a story we thought we knew and interrogated it by bringing previously suppressed women’s voices to life on the page. That’s her specialty, I think, giving voice to characters that history might otherwise silence. Mailman wrote in first person in the other two novels I’ve read, impressing me with her talent for intimacy with characters and strong sense of voice. This time, she shows off those skills, proving she can do it in the more distant third person too.
The problem with telling a story like Lizzie Borden’s is that we know how it ends. But the hard work Mailman did to animate Lizzie, Bridget, and the other women around them serves as a textured theatrical set for the more compelling and tense plot in Brooke’s 2016 story, the one with an ending we don’t already know. Reading Brooke’s story, back-dropped by Bridget’s creepy, gory one, made me slam the rather weighty book shut and gasp, “I’m scared!” several times per sitting.
If you think it takes too long for the two stories in this novel to converge, you are reading too fast. Slow down. Take the time to indulge in Mailman’s rich, thematic connections and the heartbreaking, subtle comparisons between the women in this book. What are the functions of mothers and maids in a family? How do these identities compete? How do they support and threaten each other? What does it mean to grow up without a mother? The two stories start asking these questions from the first lines and go on answering them and arguing back at each other over the answers to the very end. It’s beautifully executed.
The problem with telling a story like Lizzie Borden’s is that we know how it ends. But the hard work Mailman did to animate Lizzie, Bridget, and the other women around them serves as a textured theatrical set for the more compelling and tense plot in Brooke’s 2016 story, the one with an ending we don’t already know. Reading Brooke’s story, back-dropped by Bridget’s creepy, gory one, made me slam the rather weighty book shut and gasp, “I’m scared!” several times per sitting.
If you think it takes too long for the two stories in this novel to converge, you are reading too fast. Slow down. Take the time to indulge in Mailman’s rich, thematic connections and the heartbreaking, subtle comparisons between the women in this book. What are the functions of mothers and maids in a family? How do these identities compete? How do they support and threaten each other? What does it mean to grow up without a mother? The two stories start asking these questions from the first lines and go on answering them and arguing back at each other over the answers to the very end. It’s beautifully executed.
September 21, 2024
2.75/5. Would have rather this just been about Bridget & the Bordens. The modern timeline started off interesting but halfway through, I was over it. Didn’t like the ending of the modern timeline either so just overall, wish it wasn’t included unfortunately. I’m quite familiar with the case of Lizzie Borden & have been to the B&B. Still, I did learn a bit more & appreciate the authors notes/thoughts at the end!
January 22, 2018
Well written stories intertwine to ultimately tell a fictionalized story revolving around the Lizzie Borden murders. I would have given this book five stars, but feel that the modern day story detracted from the maid's story, and it took so long to see any correlation between the two that I almost decided to stop reading. Thick book, with thick velum pages, so at least it reads fairly quickly.
September 3, 2023
It was definitely entertaining and the details about the Lizzie Borden case were well researched and interesting. I felt that the other story line about Brooke lacked a logical ending and consistent character development. I was also hoping that the book would explore the later part of Lizzie’s life.
November 28, 2017
Absorbing re-telling of the famous murders of the 1890s, plus a modern subplot that explores some of the same themes that affected the outcome of the Lizzie Borden trial. Wonderfully written -- I could not put it down!
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