Dinner for Vampires

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars | 1,217 ratings

Price: 16.4

Last update: 12-23-2024


About this item

A deliciously witty and inspiring memoir by One Tree Hill star Bethany Joy Lenz about her decade in a cult and her quest to break free.

In the early 2000s, after years of hard work and determination to breakthrough as an actor, Bethany Joy Lenz was finally cast as one of the leads on the hit drama One Tree Hill. Her career was about to take off, but her personal life was slowly beginning to unravel. What none of the show’s millions of fans knew, hidden even from her costars, was her secret double life in a cult.

An only child who often had to fend for herself and always wanted a place to belong, Lenz found the safe haven she’d been searching for in a Bible study group with other Hollywood creatives. However, the group soon morphed into something more sinister—a slowly woven web of manipulation, abuse, and fear under the guise of a church covenant called The Big House Family. Piece by piece, Lenz began to give away her autonomy, ultimately relocating to the Family’s Pacific Northwest compound, overseen by a domineering minister who would convince Lenz to marry one of his sons and steadily drained millions of her TV income without her knowledge. Family “minders” assigned to her on set, “Maoist struggle session”–inspired meetings in the basement of a filthy house, and regular counseling with “Leadership” were just part of the tactics used to keep her loyal.

Only when she became a mother did Lenz find the courage to leave and spare her child from a similar fate. After nearly a decade (and with the unlikely help of a One Tree Hill superfan), she finally managed to escape the family’s grip and begin to heal from the deep trauma that forever altered her relationship with God and her understanding of faith.

Written with powerful honesty and dark humor, Dinner for Vampires is an inspiring story about the importance of identity and understanding what you believe.


Top reviews from the United States

Nate
5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing book!
Reviewed in the United States on October 25, 2024
Dinner for Vampires is a profoundly impactful memoir that delves into the author’s harrowing experiences within a cult and an abusive relationship. The book is beautifully crafted, drawing readers in with its raw honesty and emotional depth. This is a book that resonates with so many people on multiple levels. As a huge fan of One Tree Hill, I found it particularly moving to hear about the author's journey, both in her personal life and her time on the show. Her reflections on these contrasting experiences offer a poignant glimpse into how creativity and resilience can emerge from adversity. This book not only tells Joy's story but also serves as a beacon of hope for those who may be navigating their own difficult journeys.
Melissa M
4.0 out of 5 stars Compelling and eye opening read!
Reviewed in the United States on November 11, 2024
Being a OTH fan and also a fan of Bethany Joy Lenz, I was really excited for this when it was announced—excited as in anticipation for becoming in the know of what she could have been talking about and what she went through. And what a journey it is! Lenz does a great job of explaining her story, how she became a member, slowly and without and clue, of a Christian/religious cult, and how the beliefs and actions that she was conditioned to feel and do severely affected her life, finances, and most importantly her mental health and well being. It’s insane to thing that people exist out there who have this desire and ability to have power over others on such a harmful way under the guise of trust, family, and vulnerability. But, it was a fascinating read in that vein, but also about Lenz’ career, some behind the scenes info, and glimpses into positive lights and most of all, her daughter! Definitely a compelling read, even though there is also an eye opening and sad element to the tale.
Emma H
5.0 out of 5 stars Incredible and inspiring recount of really tough events
Reviewed in the United States on October 30, 2024
I finished this book in one sitting— that’s how good it was. It’s always wonderful to hear from someone is Hollywood who is also a christian. And this book is tough to read. Joy goes through how her faith and love for Jesus led her to accidentally become immersed in a cult. Think Bible study gone wrong. But it’s really clear just how she got in that position. It’s so easy to just yearn for a place you belong and a family that accepts you, and when something like that starts to slowly turn into something else, it’s not always easy to see, as she explains beautifully.
Joy is one of my favorite actresses, and OTH is one of my favorite shows, which I began watching at 15. Such a comfort show and full of heart, but I of course never realizing what was going on behind the scenes. Lots of things, obviously, what with the creator being such a creep. But I can’t imagine dealing with that AND being stuck in a cult that’s draining your assets and abusing you.
Bethany Joy Lenz, you’re a hero, and an inspiration. How you managed to sort your faith in Jesus apart from the rhetoric that group forced on you, I may never understand. And actually I would’ve loved if the book had had just a tad more detail on that aspect. But I’m not complaining, this book is a treasure. ????
Chelsea R.
5.0 out of 5 stars Fabulous!
Reviewed in the United States on October 25, 2024
I was not familiar with Joy until I saw her on Kelly Clarkson. I was intrigued so bought the book on Kindle and read it on one night. Its well written and entertaining. I've been studying cults and this was a beautiful example of how easily someone can be enticed. I found the story fascinating and entertaining.

I had to find One Tree Hill on YouTube and explore Haley's character. I now need to watch the show from start to finish!
Taylor Sallade
4.0 out of 5 stars A really great memoir!
Reviewed in the United States on November 11, 2024
I loved OTH, and I never understood why Bethany Joy Lenz wasn’t everywhere after the show. The book explains it all and gives so much context. It’s a little hard to get into in the beginning, especially because of how many characters there are, but overall, I really enjoyed this one.
lacyduckie
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful Person
Reviewed in the United States on November 27, 2024
I was a teenager when One Tree Hill was still airing. But I wasn't really into any teen shows except a few Disney and Nickelodeon ones and Buffy. I didn't like 'drama' shows yet. I had no idea who Bethany Joy Lenz was. Not until I watched a Lifetime Christmas movie called Poinsettias for Christmas did she catch my attention. I went back and realized she had been in a few Hallmark movies as well. And since then I've watched many of her Hallmark movies. My favorites being An Unexpected Christmas, A Biltmore Christmas, and Bottled for Love. She's become one of my autowatch actors. I was ecstatic to see she also had a book coming out. The title is what caught my eye. Plus, I'm currently obsessed with audiobook memiors read by my favs. Bethany did a beautiful job telling her story. Like so many people, she's had her share of dealing with dumb people who choose to use you and call it love. My heart broke for her because she did and does deserve better. It sucks losing so many years to people and situations but I'm so happy she realized it and moved on to a happier place in life. From an outsiders pov even in her more recent movies she has more of a 'glow' to her. And now I have the urge to go back and watch One Tree Hill for the first time.
Carol Steel
3.0 out of 5 stars I love her but
Reviewed in the United States on October 26, 2024
While she praises her editor, this book rambled and repeated almost endlessly and could have been tightened considerably.
As much as she’s an outstanding actress, hopefully the memoir writing ends here. I’d have given it one star but I like her so much I gave it three.
Elizabeth Rolfe
5.0 out of 5 stars Fantasic! insightful and compelling
Reviewed in the United States on November 2, 2024
This is a refreshing and honest read. I so enjoyed the author’s perspective and found comfort in her experience. Having come out of my own religious trauma experience, I applaud her bravery in speaking her truth and honoring her own identity. I can’t recommend this book enough!

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