House of Beth

By: Kerry Cullen

Narrated by: Helen Laser

A haunting and seductive tale of a young career woman who slides quickly into the role of stepmother, in a life that may still belong to someone else. “Vivid, addictive, and crackling with life (yes, even the ghost), House of Beth asks us to consider how and why we make the lives we make” (Lynn Steger Strong).

After a heart-wrenching breakup with her girlfriend and a shocking incident at her job, Cassie flees her life as an overworked assistant in New York for her hometown in New Jersey, along the Delaware. There, she reconnects with her high school best friend, Eli, now a widowed father of two. Their bond reignites, and within a few short months, Cassie is married to Eli, living in his house in the woods, homeschooling the kids, and getting to know her reserved neighbor, Joan.

But Cassie’s fresh start is less idyllic than she’d hoped. She grapples with harm OCD, her mind haunted by gory, graphic images. And she’s afraid that she’ll never measure up to Eli’s late spouse, who was a committed homemaker and traditional wife. No matter what Cassie does, Beth’s shadow still permeates every corner of their home.

Soon, Cassie starts hearing a voice narrating the house’s secrets. As she listens, the voice grows stronger, guiding Cassie down a path to uncover the truth about Beth’s untimely death.

Critic reviews

"This contemporary gothic novel is narrated by Helen Laser. After a breakup and an upsetting incident at work, Cassie retreats to her hometown, where she reconnects with her high school friend, Eli, whose wife, Beth, has just passed away. Eli is immediately drawn to Cassie, and they marry quickly. But Cassie, who struggles with OCD, isn’t a good fit for the life Beth left behind. Violent images of Eli and the children fill her thoughts as she attempts to settle into being a stepmother and housewife. Laser provides the narration for both Beth and Cassie, showcasing her skill with an emotional delivery and clear distinction between characters. Laser’s crisp and even tone keeps the listener engaged as Beth guides Cassie toward the truth about her death."

Horror fan and I loved this

I typically read only horror and thrillers, and while this wasn’t strictly “horror” in the typical or expected sense, it certainly IS horror from a fem and/or role perspective. Without giving the plot away, just know that it hits on points that will be familiar to a woman’s journey and struggles with identity, purpose and second guessing (at least for me). Very well written. I get distracted easily if it feels as though the word choice or inner dialogue of the MC isn’t consistent or if the author’s personal voice comes through to scream underlying points or prove they’re well versed in the genre.) Tone and voice felt natural and believable; they really captured the character struggles and fears. Looking forward to more from this author.

Unique Story

This is not like any other book I’ve listened to. I wouldn’t even know how to explain it to someone. It held my attention throughout and it was hard to put down. I just wish there had been more information - or an epilogue - before it ended.

some mighty fine horror lit

I really enjoyed everything about this, the plot was interesting and well paced, the narration was great, and ooooof atmospheric as helllll.

rushed, clumsy ending

the depiction of ocd and the sapphic love were fantastic but reveal and ending were too rushed and ruined it. the narrator was engaging and was able to provide well-developed voices for the different characters.