Title: Legacy of Lies
Author: Elizabeth Chandler
First published October 1, 2000
182 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780743400282 (ISBN10: 0743400283)
Rating: 3.96
Overview
Mackenzie has always been a skeptic about the supernatural, but when she inherits the old Scarborough House from a grandmother she never knew, she can’t help but feel something otherworldly is at play. Her cousin Matt, who seems to know more than he’s letting on, doesn’t make things easier.
The more Mackenzie learns about her family history, the more she realizes that her dreams might not just be dreams, but memories. Memories of a life she’s never lived, a love she’s never known, and a legacy of lies that threatens to unravel everything she thought she knew about herself.
As she delves deeper into the mysteries of Scarborough House, Mackenzie must confront her own fears and the possibility that the supernatural might be all too real.
About the Author
Mary-Claire Helldorfer goes by the name Elizabeth Chandler as a pen name. She resides in the city of Baltimore, located in the state of Maryland.
Editoral Review
Legacy of Lies, the first novel in the Dark Secrets series by Elizabeth Chandler, is a thrilling read that delves into the complex lives of three sisters and their enigmatic grandmother. Chandler, a prolific writer of young adult fiction, has crafted a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking, weaving together themes of family, secrets, and betrayal in a tale that is sure to captivate readers of all ages.
At the heart of Legacy of Lies is the story of Megan, Brianna, and Claire, three sisters who are reunited after the death of their father. As they come to terms with their grief, they slowly begin to uncover dark family secrets that threaten to tear them apart.
Along the way, they must navigate the intrigues of their grandmother and confront their own inner demons. Chandler’s writing is highly polished and evocative, effortlessly immersing the reader in the world she has created.
The setting of the novel, a small town in Virginia, is lovingly rendered and imbued with a sense of nostalgia that is both bittersweet and haunting. The characters are equally well-drawn, with each sister possessing a unique personality that is both relatable and compelling.
One of the strengths of Legacy of Lies is its pacing. Chandler deftly constructs a narrative that is filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat throughout.
The mystery at the center of the novel is engaging and well-executed, with each revelation adding depth and complexity to the story. However, while the novel is certainly well-crafted, it does have some minor flaws.
The resolution of the mystery, while satisfying, feels somewhat rushed and forced, with some questions left unanswered. Additionally, some of the minor characters feel underdeveloped and lacking in nuance.
Despite these limitations, Legacy of Lies is a highly enjoyable read that is sure to entertain and challenge readers. Chandler’s writing is both accessible and sophisticated, making the novel an ideal choice for both young adult and adult audiences.
In conclusion, I would highly recommend Legacy of Lies to anyone looking for a gripping and engaging read. The novel is beautifully written and thought-provoking, with complex characters and a well-executed story.
While it may not be perfect, it is certainly an impressive debut from an accomplished writer. I would give it a four out of five stars, based on its quality of writing, character development, pacing, plot structure, and themes.
Overall, this novel is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the secrets and lies that can infiltrate even the closest of families.
