Bethany Joy Lenz reveals the identity of a purported "cult" she once belonged to and recounts her troubling encounters with the allegedly abusive organization in her memoir

By M Muzamil Shami

The upcoming book by the former "One Tree Hill" star, titled "Dinner for Vampires," promises to unveil the intricacies of her "dual existence."

Bethany Joy Lenz has kept her promise to share her story, as she announced the release of her upcoming memoir, "Dinner for Vampires," which will delve into her 10-year involvement with what she describes as an abusive and high-demand group, or cult. The book is set to be released on October 22. Lenz also reveals the name of the group, previously kept confidential, as The Big Family House, which she refers to as a church covenant.

"Dinner for Vampires" chronicles Lenz's journey following her role as Haley James in the hit teen series "One Tree Hill" during the early 2000s. As her professional career soared, her personal life gradually crumbled as she became entangled in a clandestine existence. Lenz, an only child yearning for belonging, recounts her involvement with a group initially portrayed as a Bible study gathering for fellow Hollywood artists. However, she soon discovered herself ensnared in a complex web of manipulation, abuse, and terror.

       Bethany Joy Lenz poses for a photo. (Photo by Mark Von Holden/Getty Images)

Lenz also reflects on her time at the church's compound in the Pacific Northwest, where she encountered a controlling minister who coerced her into marrying one of his sons and allegedly siphoned millions of dollars from her TV earnings. It wasn't until she became a mother that she mustered the courage to leave, with the unexpected assistance of a devoted One Tree Hill fan.

Taking to Instagram to reveal the book cover, Lenz confessed that this memoir wasn't initially what she envisioned writing. "But despite the challenging nature of the topic," she remarked, "I'm thankful for the opportunity to share my story on my own terms." She added, "We all stumble along the way, and I hope Dinner for Vampires serves as a reminder that, no matter how unconventional our paths may seem, we're never truly alone."

Previously, Lenz disclosed details of her experience within the unnamed group on Drama Queens, her podcast with former co-stars Sophia Bush and Hilarie Burton. She mentioned her intention to write about the events privately and eventually release a book, but expressed feeling pressure to ensure the accuracy of the story. Last summer, she voiced concerns about people being misled in the name of her beloved God and emphasized her responsibility to speak out for those who are willing to listen.