Bonnie and Crawford live a life of petty crime and schemes in London. When one of their crimes ends in murder bonnie has to hide quickly. Crawford finds her a job as a maid for a widower and his lonely teenage daughter. Bonnie fills the gaps in their lives but when Crawford appears at the house posing as her brother and encouraging Mr Moncrieff to build a cemetery to include a mausoleum for his dead wife, she starts to wonder if she is actually a victim in Crawford's schemes rather than his accomplice.

There's a lot to like about this if you like historical thrillers. The plots and crimes are the most interesting aspect, more so than the plot about the house and the cemetery which is a distraction for me. The story flips between who is conning who between Bonnie and Crawford which i liked, and there's a fair amount of violence towards the end which adds to the drama.

A chilling gothic novel, filled with secrets, death, and deception.

If you've read Elizabeth Macneal in the past, you'll know she's a beautiful storyteller, and The Burial Plot is no exception. Her distinctive writing style shines through, with detailed and captivating descriptions bringing the characters, events and settings to life.

Like her debut novel (that is easily in my top 10 books of all time), The Burial Plot is an atmospheric gothic novel set in London during the Victorian era. After fleeing an arranged marriage with the local rector, Bonnie escapes to London where she is seduced by the dashing Crawford, a cunning man who schemes his way through life with his sidekick, Rex. After Bonnie accidentally commits an unforgivable crime, Crawford finds her a job as a lady's maid out in the country so she can evade capture. From a distance, Endellion House is beautiful, however cracks are starting to show, both on the outside and in. Close to ruin, Mr Moncrieff is struck by Bonnie's suggestion to build a cemetery and mausoleum to honour his late wife. But did she really drown of her own accord? Endellion House isn't just home to the Moncrieff's; it's home to many secrets. And Bonnie is trapped at the centre of them all.

From the stench of death permeating central London to the gruesome descriptions of dog-killing rat pits, it's clear how much research the author has done to give the novel historical relevance. We are given a true insight into Victorian London from a range of perspectives, including paupers, struggling aristocrats, and conmen. Bonnie in particular represents how a poor, young girl can easily get caught up in crime, giving every part of herself to a dangerous man and unable to break free. Her flaws make her unlikeable at times, but it's because of her naivity that events unfold the way they do.

Despite guessing the ending (which let me down a little), I did really enjoy the build-up of events and the overarching storylines that made this a fast-paced and immersive gothic novel.

The Burial Plot is a dark and sinister slice of gothic historical fiction - the protagonist Bonnie starts off the novel as part of a con artist duo (very much reminiscent of Bonnie and Clyde), luring men to be robbed - she’s under the spell of a man known as Crawford - dark and handsome but sporting some terrible resentments, and we soon come to find out what a dangerous man he is. At Crawford’s insistence, Bonnie becomes a lady’s maid in an elegant country house, but her loyalties are tested as Crawford engineers her place there to his own ends. Bonnie soon realises she has no idea what his ends are and what she has tangled herself up in, and things get especially tense as Bonnie starts to care for the household she’s now set within, while Crawford appears to be working against them. Whose side will she pick? Those who enjoy Daphne Du Maurier would also enjoy this, I think. I did think though that here in contrast the eventual twists were obvious from very early in the novel, whereas you can never see a Du Maurier twist coming!

My thanks to #NetGalley and the publisher, Picador, for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

An excellent Victorian, gothic tale which kept me engrossed throughout. The story is intense and so well written that I was thoroughly immersed in the era. The main character, Bonnie is initially manipulated and tricked until she gradually develops the confidence to step away from her 'mentor' and find her own life in the Moncrieff household.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a DRC in exchange for my honest opinion.

Ooh The Burial Plot was a bit of me.

I bloody love Elizabeth Macneal. The Doll Factory was a chef’s kiss of a book. The Burial Plot did not disappoint. It had all the elements of spooky Victoriana that I just absolutely crave in a story with the added Rebecca vibes. I love it when a writer uses a house as almost an additional character.

Essentially, The Burial Plot was a story of manipulation and survival. Crawford was a brilliant villain who creeps the bejesus out of you and Bonnie is a heroine for the times. If you love a bit of Victoriana then The Burial Plot is a must.

The Burial Plot by Elizabeth Macneal is available now.

Very enjoyable, a great gothic read which transported me back to the early 19th century. There are lots of twists I didn't expect!

I really enjoyed The Burial Plot. Bonnie's escape from London should bring relied but instead she is drawn into a gothic tale of love and betrayal. In many ways this is a classic gothic tale: a country house full of secrets, a mysterious owner and the death of the owner's wife. However I think the idea of exploring the Victorian'a obsession with death and remembrance really interesting.

The Burial Plot - The bewitching, seductive gothic thriller from the author of The Doll Factory by Elizabeth Macneal is lush, opulent, dark and delicious, absolutely fulfilling the byline!

Set in 1839, the ghouls, the resurrectionists, or as they are more commonly known, the grave robbers run amok, stealing freshly buried bodies to sell on to the burgeoning, new science of medicine, albeit thoroughly unethical, let alone illegal. However, money is blind and in this dark time of criminality and trickery, Crawford and Bonnie flourish. However, a twist is ahead that flips their whole world upside down and sideways

Oh my goodness, I was rapt in the depths of this novel. How have I not read MacNeal before? Dark, thrilling, pensive and atmospheric. Oh yes, delish

Thank you to NetGalley, Pan Macmillan | Picador and Elizabeth McNeal for this gorgeous ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own

Another darkly historical fiction from the author of The doll factory.
This time we follow Bonnie, a young woman determined to make the best for herself, until she meets Crawford. A story of devotion and deception.

This is the first book I've read from Elizabeth Macneal and certainly won't be the last. What an unstoppable thriller it is! Darkly sinister and enveloped by such an insidious character, it is so gripping that you can't help but keep going to find out the ending. 

The tale itself is very much about murder, manipulation, and a young woman's fight to wrestle power away from a dangerous man who consumes her until she finds her own power. As a reader you see the cracks in the facade and constantly feel yourself reaching out to the characters to make better choices and trust their instincts and just as you forsee the manipulation a plot twist comes up that changes the dynamic of the narrative leaving you wanting more. It's so cleverly orchestrated with such intelligent characters that grow and learn to claim their own wants and needs.

Death plays a massive theme in this book with it being the striving force from beginning to end with the nod to the overwhelmed cemeteries in the 1800's to burials, murder, mourning and death being the kick-start of change.

Even though this book had such a sinister feel throughout from Crawford it was a fascinating read that provided satisfaction but also leaves you to make assumptions on some of the actions that unfold which adds to the sinister feelings that emulate throughout the book, making this a brilliant gothic thriller.

Thank you, NetGalley for the eArc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Elizabeth Macneal is a total auto buy author for me. I love her twisty dark gothic tales and this was just the same. Once again Macneal transports us back to grim Victorian London and draws focus to a niche of that time. I loved the scheming and the twists.

Loved this Gothic novel. Elizabeth Macneal is becoming one of those authors that I'd buy the book without reading the blurb, knowing I'd enjoy it!

The Burial Plot is a captivating historical thriller that immerses you in its rich, gothic atmosphere from the very first page. The story's dark undertones are expertly woven into an engaging plot that keeps you on edge, especially as secrets and manipulations begin to unravel. The novel's focus on burial grounds adds a unique and intriguing layer, shedding light on a real issue that Victorian England grappled with.

The author does an excellent job of transporting readers back in time, creating a vivid and believable world where the characters come to life with authenticity. The tension builds steadily, and the darkness at the heart of the story makes for a thoroughly absorbing read. If you're looking for a historical novel with a blend of mystery and gothic intrigue, The Burial Plot is an excellent choice.

Headlines:
Web of lies
Murder
Conning the con artist

There was so much packed into this historical fiction. It was dark, with initial grimey vibes and rather morally grey characters. I cannot say that I liked the main characters but they were compelling to read about and eventually, Bonnie did grow on me eventually.

The story moved from the poor and difficult streets of 1800s London to a modest country estate owned by a grieving widow and his daughter. Mr Moncrief had no idea who he'd let in his doors in the shape of Bonnie and then Crawford. Crawford was a hideous character but I enjoyed what he brought to this story.

The deceit woven between Bonnie and Crawford (but directed by Crawford) got incredibly uncomfortable to read about. The plot had me stressed with the lies, set-ups and the constant potential for things to come crashing down on Bonnie. I found myself willing things for Bonnie and Aubrey to work out. The later reveal about Cissie was truly shocking.

I would have loved a little more at the end, but it did end with feeling of completion.

Thank you to Picador for the review copy.

The Burial Plot by Elizabeth Macneal transports readers to the atmospheric streets of Victorian London, a time of burial crisis when Dickens referred to the overcrowded cemeteries as "beastly scraps of land and savage abominations."

Worldbuilding and History
Macneal's vivid descriptions and meticulous detail breathe life into the city's rich history and gothic allure. The novel’s backdrop of burial grounds and overflowing cemeteries not only adds an intriguing twist but also provides an educational glimpse into this historical issue.

Character Development
The novel centres on Bonnie, a young woman fleeing an arranged marriage who finds herself navigating the gritty underbelly of London. Her character is complex, and evolution from naive runaway to a determined survivor and finally a fierce heroine is both compelling and transformative. Bonnie's relationship with the charismatic yet scheming Crawford adds another layer of intrigue, as his private agenda slowly unravels throughout. The supporting characters are also well-drawn adding depth to the story.

Themes and Social Commentary
The Burial Plotdives deep into the societal issues of Victorian England, highlighting the plight of women in a male-dominated society and the problems posed by overflowing cemeteries. Macneal explores themes of manipulation, murder, freedom, choice, and independence while maintaining gripping narrative. The historical context enriches the story, making it not just a thrilling read but also a thought-provoking one.

Conclusion
Overall, <i>The Burial Plot</i> is a brilliant read with darkness at its core. The gothic vibes, rich historical detail, and well-crafted characters make it a standout novel. The tension and suspense will keep you hooked, while the evocative writing and immersive worldbuilding will transport you back in time.

If you enjoy historical fiction with mystery, intrigue, and strong, intelligent women, this book is definitely for you.

A huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!

📚 Book Review 📚

A gothic, Victorian story set amongst the backdrop of death, vagabonds, thieves, liars and love. Just my cup of tea!

This novel starts in London in the 1830’s against a backdrop of overflowing cemeteries and poverty. The main female character Bonnie, lives a life of tricks and theft with her lover Crawford and his friend Rex. Bonnie manipulates men into lonely, dark spaces where they are later robbed by Crawford and Rex. After a life changing event, Crawford arranges for Bonnie to become a lady’s maid at a beautiful gothic mansion in the country, where we meet recently widowed Aubrey and his daughter Cissie.

Here, a plan so devious and deliciously dark begins to unfurl.

I really enjoyed reading this. As the first book I have read by Elizabeth Macneal, I had no preconceptions but her use of language and the twists and turns in the story are just so well written. I originally thought that I could see the path ahead of the characters but around 75% of the way through, all the little threads come together and the twists are terrific.

This is a great read. The Doll Factory has been on my kindle for ages and it’s now been bumped further up the list!!

I’d like to Pan MacMillan, NetGalley and the author for the arc and the fantastic opportunity, in exchange for my honest feedback 😊

Book released on 6th June 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I do love most genres in books and this one was a book I really immersed myself into, went to a different world and I loved it. It is Gothic, Fantasy, Historical and definitely thrilling. The setting in London, 1839 this story revolves around death and those who need a burial plot. What a greta dn different setting for a novel.

Love the writing, the characters and the them of this story and that is what makes it different from others I have read. It really draws you in and I just couldn't put it down. Well told and well read.

Thank you NetGalley and Pan MacMillan for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.

Elizabeth has done it again!

I love her gothic, eerie, settings. Her characters are clever, diverse and relatable. You feel connections with some and despise others!

I loved the history, the storyline, the twist, the fast paced action. It was fab!

This book has everything you could want from a gothic, historical fiction read. Victorian London, a run down old house, cemeteries, a mausoleum, a first wife who died in mysterious circumstances, secret pasts and a character you’ll love to hate. Elizabeth Macneal ticks all the boxes for me and she is fast becoming a go to author for historical fiction.

Crawford is perfectly villainous, while Bonnie is a plucky young woman who desperately wants to break free from the preordained path which has been agreed for her. The fate of young women at that time is something which is explored through the characters of Bonnie and Cissie.

If the gothic setting and cast of eccentric characters aren’t enough, there are a few twists in the tale which will keep you on your toes and the pages turning.

I really enjoyed it, if Jane Eyre and Rebecca are your bag then this one is for you!

Overall I enjoyed this book which is well researched and historically accurate. The house and cemetery were beautifully painted and a rich setting for the story and the author is a brilliant and poetic writer.

Unfortunately I found that it dragged a bit, it seemed very long with not a lot of action. Perhaps I've just read more pacey gothic novels recently. I kept waiting for something more, it fell a bit flat with the action at the end too little too late, as I hadn’t felt enough tension build.

Bonnie was an interesting and relateable character and Crawford was sufficiently vile. Other characters seemed superfluous, almost as if their storylines were cut in the editing process.

A fantastic premise with slightly sluggish delivery not saved by a slightly predictable ending.