There are specific types of books I’m drawn to, and because of my long career with police departments (as an employee, not a criminal!) murder mysteries are at the top of my list. When I saw this book about Lizzie Borden, I knew this was a must read. The fictional tale of Lizzie by Dawn Ius was just what I hoped it would be.
Seventeen-year-old Lizzie Borden has never been kissed. Polite but painfully shy, Lizzie prefers to stay in the kitchen, where she can dream of becoming a chef and escape her reality. With tyrannical parents who force her to work at the family’s B&B and her blackout episodes—a medical condition that has plagued her since her first menstrual cycle—Lizzie longs for a life of freedom, the time and space to just figure out who she is and what she wants.
Enter the effervescent, unpredictable Bridget Sullivan. Bridget has joined the B&B’s staff as the new maid, and Lizzie is instantly drawn to her artistic style and free spirit—even her Star Wars obsession is kind of cute. The two of them forge bonds that quickly turn into something that’s maybe more than friendship.
But when her parents try to restrain Lizzie from living the life she wants, it sparks something in her that she can’t quite figure out. Her blackout episodes start getting worse, her instincts less and less reliable. Lizzie is angry, certainly, but she also feels like she’s going mad… (Goodreads)
The retelling of Lizzie Borden life, and the events that lead to the murders of Andrew and Abigail Borden, is a tale full of lies, abuse, and loneliness on one hand, and love, hope, and passion on the other. It is much more than a novel about murder, it’s a love story.
Lizzie’s character alone makes this story worth moving to the top of your to-be-read pile. Subtle clues and comments woven throughout the novel gives you a peek into Lizzie’s mind, both the innocent and guilty sides. The question is: are you clever enough to see them? Will you recognize what is real and what is all in your mind? (Sorry, a tiny spoiler.)
The other characters in the novel, those who have the biggest impact on Lizzie’s life, are just as developed and detailed. Some can be as caring as they are deadly, and I found myself wrapped up in their own issues and lies.
This story is a must read for everyone. Whether you like mysteries, character driven stories, or just great writing, you won’t be disappointed!
Lizzie comes out tomorrow, April 10, 2018. You can buy it at your local bookstore, Amazon, and Barnes and Noble. For more information on the author Dawn Ius, check out her website here.
HALLI GOMEZ teaches martial arts and writes for children and young adults because those voices flow through her brain. She enjoys family, outdoors, reading, and is addicted to superhero movies. She’s represented by Deborah Warren of East West Literary Agency. You can find Halli on Twitter.
