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The Krewe - House of Lazulie: A Southern Gothic Tale of Ritual, Beauty, and Blood

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Every thirty years, the House of Lazuliè selects a new Crowned Heart… and seals her fate in blood.

Behind wrought-iron gates in modern-day New Orleans, the House of Lazuliè stands as both legend and allure. A Creole mansion steeped in perfume, prayer, and history, it opens its doors each Mardi Gras season to crown a new queen. A young woman celebrated for her grace. Her devotion. And for reasons no one outside the House can quite explain, her transformation. The city calls it tradition. The House remembers a debt.

Alexis Rochon believes she is entering a sanctuary for women, a refuge built on sisterhood and grace. Instead, she finds a mansion bound by ritual, ruled by three elegant Madames, and watched by a presence that listens far too closely when prayers are spoken.

As the seven days to the crowning unwind, strange offerings surface across New Orleans. Dreams turn to visions. Voices gather behind the glass. And with the final night approaching, Alexis must decide what she is willing to surrender… because in Lazuliè’s world, every crown carries a price, and not all who enter the House leave it the same.

A lush descent into Southern Gothic horror and supernatural suspense, The House of Lazuliè blends the beauty of New Orleans with the terror of its buried devotions… where legacy is a cage, devotion is a blade, and survival means learning the rules before the House finishes teaching them.

Enter the House. Join the Krewe. Pray you survive the crowning.

318 pages, Paperback

Published February 10, 2026

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About the author

E. Lane Redmond

1 book26 followers
E. Lane Redmond is a Southern Gothic novelist whose stories delve into inheritance and the generational traumas that shape womanhood.
Writing has always been her sacred space. A self-proclaimed shy soul, she found her voice through vivid storytelling and a lifelong fascination with horror films, mythology, symbolism, and the strange patterns hiding beneath ordinary life. Her work invites readers into places where beauty, horror, and healing walk hand in hand.

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5 stars
60 (42%)
4 stars
44 (31%)
3 stars
30 (21%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Profile Image for Bsouthern123.
8 reviews
November 24, 2025
I graciously received an ARC copy of:
The Krewe - House of Lazulie via mail from the author E. Lane Redmond!

Every thirty years one of the most exclusive Krewes during Mardi Gras re-emerges -The House of Lazulie. Three elderly sisters referred to as The Madames, Della, Rae and Nevi live in a centuries old manor, The House of Lazulie which is rumored to sit on cursed land. Young women, mainly college students, in the New Orleans area vie for the opportunity to be chosen as participants for The Krewe which serves under the direction of the House of Lazulie due to it's exclusiveness and ties to high society. The group of young women chosen are tasked with community service referred to by the three Madames as "Blue Hearts" and physically required to move into the manor known as The House of Lazulie during Mardi Gras for a week. Rigorous instruction in polite behavior or etiquette is taught daily by the three Madames. The week culminates in a grand ball where society guests where masks, dine on extravagant food & the young women are pursed by wealthy suitors. One is chosen as the Crowned Heart.

Unfortunate occurrences seem to befall several of the women who dreamed of competing for the title of the Crowned Heart. One is found strangled in a cemetery, four other women with ties to the House of Lazulie are missing. Who is the mysterious Mistress Lazulie and what role does she play in the destruction of these women.

The book should be adapted into a screenplay. There are some particular eerie scenes throughout. The novel is regarded as a supernatural, horror, thriller with themes of conjuring, rituals and sacrifices.
Profile Image for Jen Baldwin.
361 reviews5 followers
February 21, 2026
This desperately needed an editor, or a better one.
The descriptions were great and detailed and made you feel like you were there. Sadly, that is where the positives end.
I feel like this was a book 2, and you really needed to read book 1 to understand.
WHO are these women? How did they get there? How do they already have relationships with one another?
It contradicts itself throughout. Example: There is a scene with a dress fitting for Destiny. Nevi is saying Destiny's stomach and hips are too big for the dress, then Nevi says she's going to "take the waist IN."
Anyway, I can see the potential for this author to be great, with a little direction on execution.
The art on the cover is BEAUTIFUL, however, the font isn't centered (not even close), which ruins it.
Profile Image for Kay.
53 reviews2 followers
March 10, 2026
Great concept but I have no idea what I just read. Desperately in need of a prequel.
Profile Image for Torrie L.
88 reviews17 followers
August 2, 2026
This story takes place in New Orleans during Mardi Gras, and follows Alexis, who is an undercover cop.

Alexis is trying to get to the bottom of missing young, black women surrounding this ancient secret society of sorts called the Krewe -House of Lazuli. Every 30 years this society invites women to join the Krewe of Lazuli to be crown the Queen at the end. However, girls that are dropped from the process disappear without a trace.

Alexis goes undercover as a participant to gain more information on the missing girls in hopes of finding them, when one turns up dead with ritualistic elements.

The writer did a great job of putting you in the atmosphere of New Orleans and culture with her descriptions of the houses and atmosphere. I enjoyed the book and it gave all the paranormal, thriller vibes but I will say I felt like I was missing a piece with the society and needed a more detailed backstory like there was a prequel I missed.

But overall I did enjoy it and felt like it mentally took me to another place . I feel like she also left room for a potential second book because I still have questions !!!!
Profile Image for Kylee McCumber.
187 reviews3 followers
December 13, 2025
5 stars - I received The Krewe House of Lazulie as an ARC from E. Lane Redmond. I was immediately drawn into the story but the lovely background and atmosphere that Redmond built around the story. The House of Lazulie is set in New Orleans during Mardi Gras. Every 30 years, on Mardi Gras, one of New Orleans most secret society comes back to life, Krewe of Lazulie. Young girls are invited to join the Krewe of Lazulie, all in hopes of becoming the Crowned Jewel, and wining money and finding a successful suitor. As recruitment for Kwere of Lazulie is underway, girls who are being dropped from the recruitment process start to disappear without a trace. The House of Lazulie has always been known for its rootworking, witchcraft, or voodoo work, depending on who you ask, but where are these girls going and what’s happening to them?
Profile Image for Maryann (Mae).
637 reviews12 followers
February 12, 2026
Some literary works delve into the subconscious, while others resonate with the very essence of one's being. *The Krewe - House of Lazulle* masterfully engages with both. Alexis is tasked with investigating the disappearance and demise of several young women. Her trajectory is irrevocably altered when she discovers a connection to an event that recurs every three decades. This phenomenon is linked to three sisters, driven by a desire for immortality, who have meticulously upheld a tradition to achieve this.
A tradition that comes to an unexpected ending when a chosen person becomes the destroyer.
Profile Image for Shaketta.
206 reviews3 followers
August 10, 2026
Just wow

This book was done exceptionally well!! The horror, the imagery, the Witchery! Oh my! I need to know if there's a second book!
Profile Image for Raven Samonie.
79 reviews
May 30, 2026
This book was definitely different from any of the books I’ve read before .. And I honestly didn’t think I’d enjoy it but I actually really did. It was giving Southern Gothic Horror/Mystery Thriller . It really had me sat . Out of all the girls , Raven was my favorite and no it’s not because we share names lol. She just reminded me so much of me with the way she talked and joked around. Now I will say that it felt a little rushed in a way. It’s like the author wanted to put out as much info as she could but slightly failed to see some of what was going on , through , in terms of letting the readers know what happened in certain situations. I feel like there’s a ton of open ended questions that needs answers , and because me and my girls did interview the author , we know that those questions will be answered in book 2 .
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Author
December 13, 2025
I received an ARC of The Krewe: House of Lazuliè.

This book takes its time, and I mean that in both a good and challenging way. The atmosphere is heavy from the start, and the sense of unease builds slowly rather than relying on constant action. If you’re looking for fast-paced horror right out the gate, this isn’t that. But if you’re someone who likes tension that creeps in quietly and stays with you, this story delivers.

The setting is one of the strongest elements. The House of Lazuliè feels fully realized and unsettling, and the rituals and traditions surrounding the Krewe are layered in a way that makes you feel like you’re uncovering something you weren’t meant to see. The secrecy, the hierarchy, and the pressure to be chosen are all handled thoughtfully and feel disturbingly plausible.

There were moments where I wanted a bit more clarity sooner, especially as the mystery deepened, but looking back, that confusion felt intentional. The story puts you in the same headspace as the protagonist, where you’re constantly questioning what’s real, what’s manipulation, and what’s tradition disguised as something darker.

What stood out most was how uncomfortable the book made me feel. The horror isn’t just supernatural. It’s about power, control, and what people are willing to ignore when something benefits them. By the end, I found myself thinking about the characters and the House long after I finished reading.

This is a slow-burn, atmospheric story that rewards patience and attention. Readers who enjoy dark traditions, secret societies, and psychological unease will likely find this one hard to forget.
Profile Image for Shawkia Prunty.
49 reviews1 follower
July 12, 2026


🖤📚 Book Review: The Krewe House of Lazulié by E. Lane Redmond 📚🖤

Seven Moons. Seven Boons. Seven Gates. Seven Tombs.
Welcome, all Blue Hearts, to the Krewe! 💙

Y’all… this is the first Gothic Horror novel I’ve ever taken the time to read, and let me tell you—it did NOT disappoint! 👏🏽

We follow Alexis, an undercover cop in the heart of New Orleans, who’s determined to uncover the truth behind a mysterious “house of horrors” after a young woman is found dead. Her investigation leads her straight into the infamous Krewe House, where she must pose as one of the girls being trained to become the perfect woman for a wealthy suitor.

And baby… hell naw to the naw naw naw! 🤣

From the moment Alexis steps inside, something feels off. The mansion is dripping with secrets, hidden passageways, eerie traditions, and sisters who are stern, rude, speak in riddles, and always seem to know more than they’re saying. But the real question is…

What are they truly preparing these girls for? 👀

The deeper Alexis digs, the more unsettling everything becomes. Just when I thought I had it figured out, this book hit me with twists I never saw coming!

I also loved how the story wove in pieces of New Orleans culture and folklore, making the atmosphere feel rich, haunting, and completely immersive.

If you’re looking for a gothic horror that will keep you turning pages late into the night, The Krewe House of Lazulié deserves a spot on your TBR.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💙

“Sometimes proof is the only way to quiet a question.” 💙

Have you read this one yet? If not… would you survive a night inside the Krewe House? 👀🏚️📖
1 review
November 25, 2025
This book got me thinking way past the last chapter. Beneath the horror, there’s this sharp, uncomfortable truth about how Black girls get watched, judged, shaped, and offered up, sometimes by the world, sometimes by other women trying to survive the same system. The way youth, beauty, and bodies become something people feel entitled to… yeah, that part hit.

It opens up a conversation about power: who has it, who pretends to have it, and who gets sacrificed for it. And the tension between the older women and the younger girls? That was a whole study in how we inherit wounds we didn’t create.

It’s haunting in a way that feels too real.
And honestly somebody needs to turn this into a movie.
Profile Image for Nìk.
53 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 13, 2026
Thank you to the author/publisher for the ARC.

The Krewe: House of Lazuliè is Southern Gothic horror set in New Orleans where tradition is never as innocent as they appear.

Set during Mardi Gras season, the story follows Alexis, an undercover cop investigating the disappearance of young women connected to the mysterious House of Lazuliè. Every 30 years, the House crowns a “Blue Heart,” a young woman chosen for her grace and devotion. To outsiders, it’s tradition. Inside the House, it feels like a sinister spin on the Jack & Jill society.

Readers familiar with New Orleans history will recognize the discomfort of elegance built on buried suffering. Tonally, this book sits comfortably between American Horror Story: Coven–style atmosphere and historical reminders of Madam LaLaurie.

The humor is sharp, the Black cultural references feel organic, and the supernatural elements unfold with restraint.

One standout line: “They got us in here like we’re pledging Delta Sigma Stepford”. I hope there will be a sequel that touches on the historical side of Krewe.
Profile Image for T Bowey.
4 reviews1 follower
June 8, 2026
I purchased this book because I love Southern Gothic stories, and it did not disappoint.

The atmosphere pulled me in immediately. The setting felt rich, mysterious, and haunting in all the best ways. There was a constant feeling that something wasn't quite right beneath the surface, which kept me turning the pages.

What I enjoyed most was the blend of beauty and darkness. The story explores tradition, power, family secrets, and sacrifice in a way that feels both unsettling and captivating. The descriptions were vivid, and I could easily picture the world and its characters.

If you enjoy stories with gothic vibes, hidden rituals, complex family dynamics, and a touch of horror, this is definitely worth checking out. It stayed on my mind long after I finished reading.
Profile Image for Symone .
534 reviews18 followers
February 12, 2026
*ARC Review* This Southern Gothic horror was deeply unsettling and frightening in ways that linger long after. The author constructed the story so immersively that it felt like I was experiencing everything alongside the FMC. The mystery of what was happening, paired with the suspense of what might come next, completely hooked me. and With its eerie, dark tone, the book never quite lets you relax. If you’ve watched Lovecraft Country, those are absolutely the vibes this book Gave me personally. Between the voodoo parade, dark rituals & ceremonial practices, and scenes that would have me covering my eyes or screaming if I saw them on TV, the author matched the intensity this story called for.
Profile Image for Briitta (MommaMimiBre).
169 reviews9 followers
March 15, 2026

Absolutely captivating from start to finish.
The Krewe - House of Lazulié by E. Lane Redmond completely pulled me in and didn’t let go. The story is vivid, the characters feel layered and real, and the story unfolds in a way that keeps you wanting just one more chapter every time you try to put it down.

I especially appreciated how the story kept revealing new layers without ever feeling rushed or predictable.

If you enjoy immersive storytelling with compelling characters and a plot that keeps you hooked, this is absolutely worth picking up. I finished it already hoping for more from this world. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for WhatsIrilisReading .
124 reviews12 followers
March 21, 2026
Horror in New Orleans

Such a great horror novel. The storyline was very descriptive and vivid. Heavy with NOLA culture. You're reading a horror novel about a young woman who is a detective under cover. Women are disappearing. Some have been murdered. Alexis joins The Krewe House of Lazulié as a participant with other women to get to the bottom of it. You get to experience what she goes through in this creepy house. Weird rituals. But at the same time enjoy the laughs and disagreements between the women. The ending was chef's kiss but also left me with soo many questions!! Cant wait for the next book!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶
Profile Image for Clara P..
5 reviews1 follower
May 17, 2026
The Krewe House of Lazuliè by E. Lane Redmond is the kind of horror that pulls you in with beauty before it cuts deep. The atmosphere was absolutely intoxicating gothic, haunting, and drenched in New Orleans mysticism.

The House itself felt alive, the rituals were unsettling, and the tension kept building with every page. I especially loved how elegant and disturbing the story felt at the same time.

A beautifully written Southern Gothic horror filled with ritual, devotion, and darkness lurking beneath glamour. Definitely a memorable read.
Profile Image for Titus.
Author 1 book5 followers
April 27, 2026
At first, I expected a spooky horror tale and am pleasantly surprised. The historical context/references and character building serving as great world building, misdirection from the mysteries hiding beneath the surface, and emotional manipulation.

Early on, it seemed obvious that Alexis was going to win Crown Heart. Then the waltz came…

Pg 274 is where the underlying plot emerges.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Nicole Lewis.
2 reviews
May 14, 2026
This is an excellent read. I have always been fascinated with New Orleans culture/lore. I enjoyed the book and it left me wanting more. I read it first as a ebook, but I now have a physical copy. The artwork on the cover is BEAUTIFUL. I don't give spoilers in reviews, but I promise you this is a fun read.
4 reviews1 follower
June 21, 2026
good read

The books starts off really good. I enjoyed it. My only gripe is the house. It’s seems like more details about the outside world should have been in place of what was happening with solving the case. It happened at the end but I wish it was simultaneously. My opinion but overall good book
101 reviews1 follower
February 18, 2026
Loved it

Waiting for the next installment! This book was a 10. Living in Texas on the Louisiana border where my family moved to from Opelousas. This book was the most realistic portrayal of the culture that I’ve read.
1 review
November 26, 2025
Great book, the details keep you immersed in the story. I’m a casual reader and this had me hooked. Good job.
Profile Image for Chivonne.
95 reviews
May 1, 2026
The ending felt too open. The whole book left the feeling of too many plot holes...
Profile Image for Janel.
96 reviews2 followers
June 2, 2026
Easily made one of my top books for 2026.
Profile Image for lovelifeandbooks.
250 reviews2 followers
August 5, 2026
I’m a bit confused. The horror elements were creepy and engaging. There was a heaviness about how the women were made to jump through hoops and then minimized in order to keep the investigation going. But I felt lost by the end of the epilogue. It left me wanting more from the story itself.
1 review
August 10, 2026
Love

Loved the storyline. The blend of new orlens culture and scenery brought the story to life like a movie in my mind.
Profile Image for Dannireads17.
229 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 11, 2026
Mysterious

Dark, mysterious, and unsettling.

The blend of Mardi Gras culture, legacy, voodoo, power, and high society creates an eerie, atmospheric backdrop. The rituals and the legend of three women sacrificing others in exchange for youth add a deeply unsettling layer.

While the concept is strong and the vibe captivating, not every mystery is fully answered. Still, it’s a haunting read with a unique premise that leaves a chilling impression.
Profile Image for Chatema Gaddy.
75 reviews4 followers
March 11, 2026
I loved this

This book had some plot twist that I wasn't expecting. But the thing I really liked about this book was that you really have to pay attention to the little things in it. Those little thing is what made my skin prickle every time i picked up the book. When specific things were felt by the characters or a description of let's say the first scene when they had the man bond to the bed it does something to you the makes the goosebumps appear.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews