Everyone has heard the rumours. But who knows the real story of Coram House?
True crime writer Alex Kelley is struggling after her last book tanked her career. Her reputation in tatters, she accepts a commission to ghost-write a book about Coram House, a former orphanage by a lake in Vermont that is now being turned into luxury condos. Could this be the fresh start she needs?
Years before, it was revealed that children at the orphanage were being abused; the church settled the case, but rumours persist about one of the other allegations made, that a small boy was deliberately drowned in the lake by someone in charge. Those in charge insist there was no such murder, but when Alex makes a shocking discovery only days after her arrival she realises that what began in the past is not going to stay there…
An outstanding new atmospheric and character rich mystery debut, perfect for fans of Tana French, Erin Kelly and Gillian Flynn.
Book Info: Print length: 320 pages. Publisher: Raven Books. Publication date: 24 April 2025
My Thoughts:
Coram House is the stunning debut novel by Bailey Seybolt. This book is a blend of historical fiction, psychological thriller and true crime.
The book is inspired by a true event involving the disappearance of a 9 year old boy called Tommy from a Catholic orphanage in 1968.
Coram House is set over a dual timeline from 1968 to current day when disgraced true crime writer Alex Kelley is hired to ghost-write a book about the orphanage’s dark past.
As Alex begins her investigation and digging into past testimonies, she finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation.
The story is told through a mix of timelines and media formats which give the story the added layer of authenticity. Whilst it is a slow burn story, the reader is gripped throughout.
Coram House plays a significant role in this book and becomes a central character, providing a haunting and atmospheric background to the abuse and trauma it witnessed.
Overall, this is a powerful and gripping mystery which fans of true crime inspired thrillers will enjoy.
