Her works received recognition from prominent Catholic figures, including commendations from two popes, and she was awarded the Laetare Medal by the University of Notre Dame.

[5] Following her conversion to Catholicism, Dorsey dedicated herself to writing Catholic literature, primarily focusing on stories and novels, though she also composed some poetry.

Her body of work includes poetry, novels, and drama, with notable titles such as May Brooke (1856), The Oriental Pearl (1857), Warp and Woof (1887), and Palms (1887).

[5] Dorsey's body of work includes notable titles such as Woodreve Manor, Tangled Paths, The Old Gray Rosary, Palms, Ada’s Trust, Adrift, Beth’s Promise, The Heiress of Carrigona, The Old House at Glouster, A Brave Girl, Fate of the Dane, Warp and Woof, and The Student of Blenheim Forest.

[5] Her novels often depicted the older, affluent, and more leisurely lifestyle of Southern Catholics, contrasting with Mary Anne Sadlier’s focus on the struggles of Irish immigrants in Northern states.

[5] Throughout her career, Dorsey received several accolades, including letters of commendation from Popes Pius IX and Leo XIII.

In 1850, the University of Notre Dame awarded her the prestigious Laetare Medal in recognition of her contributions to Catholic literature, also in education and religion.