The House

Most of the action of the novel occurs in the Borden family’s house in Fall River, Massachusetts. Aside from living there, it is where Andrew and Abby Borden are brutally murdered. It serves as a connection between all of the characters within the book.

Fairhaven, Massachusetts

Emma begins the novel at her friend’s house in Fairhaven. It is her escape from her overbearing family. Fairhaven represents Emma’s opportunity to live the life she has always wanted to lead but could not because of her family, in particular, because of Lizzie. Fairhaven is also where John Morse and Benjamin meet.

The Barn

The barn is a source of problems within the novel. It houses Lizzie’s pet pigeons before Andrew kills them all, which creates conflict within the Borden family. The barn is also where Benjamin hides after the murders have been committed and where...