Bethany Joy Lenz Unveils Memoir Cover, Exposing Decade-Long Cult Trauma in ‘Dinner for Vampires

In a bold revelation, Bethany Joy Lenz, the former ‘One Tree Hill’ star, has exposed the cover of her upcoming memoir, “Dinner for Vampires,” shedding light on the dark chapter of her life spent in a cult. The actress, singer-songwriter, and podcast host opens up about the “abusive, high-demand group” that consumed a decade of her existence.

Lenz, 42, discloses in her memoir the intricate details of her life, including the years of trauma she endured within the confines of a cult and the associated spiritual abuse. The book explores her journey from seeking belonging in a Bible study group to being entangled in the manipulative web of The Big House Family, a church covenant turned sinister.

As the actress delves deeper into her narrative, she unfolds the challenges faced in the Family’s Pacific Northwest compound, where a domineering minister persuaded her into an unwanted marriage, resulting in the loss of millions in TV income and autonomy.

For Lenz, the writing process has been a cathartic experience. “I’m a writer at heart, so turning a phrase is easy for me,” she shared with PEOPLE. However, the real challenge lies in confronting and exploring the memories. “Recovery looks different for everyone,” she reflects, emphasizing the importance of returning to her pre-cult self and acknowledging the unknown aspects of her experiences.

Alongside her book, Lenz has been actively pursuing her music career since relocating to Nashville, following her nine-season stint as Haley James Scott. Engaging in the Drama Queens podcast with former co-stars Sophia Bush and Hilarie Burton, she reflects on the value of sharing hard experiences openly.

The memoir, “Dinner for Vampires,” is set to be released by Simon & Schuster on October 22, 2024, and is available for preorder now. Bethany Joy Lenz’s journey from cult survivor to storyteller is a testament to the resilience that lies within, inviting readers to join her in this transformative narrative.

In a bold revelation, Bethany Joy Lenz, the former ‘One Tree Hill’ star, has exposed the cover of her upcoming memoir, “Dinner for Vampires,” shedding light on the dark chapter of her life spent in a cult. The actress, singer-songwriter, and podcast host opens up about the “abusive, high-demand group” that consumed a decade of…