Introduction

Coram House, the debut novel by Bailey Seybolt, presents readers with a chilling narrative set against the bleak backdrop of a deserted orphanage by Lake Champlain, Vermont. With a thrilling plot that intertwines the past and present, this tale is not only about ghosts but also delves deep into the human psyche and the truths we carry.

Setting and Plot Overview

Coram House, once an orphanage, harbors a dark legacy filled with tragic stories—an enigmatic girl thrown from a window, a boy who perished at the hands of misfortune, and the disappearance of a young boy named Tommy. Whether he drowned during a fateful “swimming lesson” or chose to run away remains shrouded in mystery.

Enter Alex Kelley, a troubled true crime author seeking clarity in her life after the death of her husband and the collapse of her previous publication. Kelley embarks on an emotionally charged journey to uncover the grim truths behind Coram House, accepting an unexpected collaboration with a stranger to ghostwrite a book about the orphanage.

Character Insights and Themes

As Kelley delves deeper into the orphanage’s history, she encounters a web of mistrust and intrigue among the individuals connected to the site. “The story feels like a tree… growing thinner and harder to grasp as it grows toward the sun,” she muses, indicative of both her struggle for truth and the larger thematic exploration of evil that exists within us all.

As the narrative unfolds, the stakes escalate with mysterious deaths that hint at dark connections to the orphanage’s past, creating a gripping atmosphere where no one is truly safe.

About the Author, Bailey Seybolt

Bailey Seybolt’s literary journey began in New York City, where she honed her skills studying literature at Brown University, followed by creative writing at Concordia University. Transitioning from various writing roles—including travel and tech writing—she now resides in Vermont close to her intriguing inspiration, Lake Champlain.

Inspiration and Suggested Reads

Seybolt draws inspiration from real-life events associated with St. Joseph’s, a Catholic orphanage, which has a notorious history that resonates deeply throughout Coram House. The chilling reality of the orphanage’s past was further illuminated by Christine Kenneally’s investigation into its harrowing history.

In her own writing, Seybolt credits literary influences ranging from the horror of Pet Sematary to the nuanced storytelling of authors like Tana French and Daphne Du Maurier, stressing the importance of immersive settings and mood in crafting her narrative.

Conclusion

Coram House presents a profound exploration of trauma, the complexities of memory, and the haunting specter of the past that continues to shape the present. With an unexpected conclusion that leaves a lasting impression, Seybolt reminds readers that the true monsters often lie within.