The Orphanage by the Lake
Genre: Psychological crime thriller
Publication: February 26, 2024 (Penguin/Poisoned Pen Press) booknotification.com+11penguin.com.au+11bookclubs.com+11
Private investigator Hazel Cho is on the brink of failure when glamorous client Madeline Hemsley hires her to find Mia—a missing orphan from St. Agnes, known locally as “The Orphanage by the Lake.” What starts as a standard missing-child case soon spirals into a tangled web of blood, symbols, corrupted authority, and chilling secrets—Madeline’s included.
Fun Facts
Author’s Debut Series Starter: Though Miller previously wrote the Tree of Knowledge fantasy series (2021–23), The Orphanage by the Lake marks his thrilling entry into mystery/crime.
Highly Praised Protagonist: Hazel’s sharp wit and vulnerability invite comparisons to Gillian Flynn’s complex characters and Lisa Gardner’s thrillers.
Star-Studded Praise: James Patterson called Hazel “irresistible” and Darcy Coates praised the book’s twists.
Drink Pairings
Pair the suspense with a fitting drink:
Dark & Stormy – The spicy rum-ginger interplay mirrors Hazel’s unsettling discoveries.
Smoky Mezcal Margarita – Complex, smoky swirl reflecting layers of deception.
Chamomile & Honey Tea – A calming contrast to the novel’s tension.
Other Books by Daniel G. Miller
The Tree of Knowledge (2021) – A young adult fantasy where myth meets modern teens.
The Tree of Life (2023) – Follow-up exploring family and mystical quests.
The Red Letter (July 22, 2025) – Sequel continuing Hazel Cho’s journey.
Outfit for a Book‑Club Meeting
Capture the novel’s mood with this ensemble:
Fitted Dark Blazer and Trousers – Sleek, investigative style.
Mercurial Silk Scarf – A pop of color reminiscent of cryptic symbols.
Ankle Boots – Practical yet polished.
Minimal Sterling Necklace – Simple but purposeful, just like Hazel.
Book‑Club Discussion Questions
How does Hazel’s Korean-American heritage influence her detective work?
Are there early signs of corruption at St. Agnes? When did you first notice them?
Compare Hazel’s investigative instincts to classic noir detectives. What’s unique?
What role do cryptic symbols and unexplained signs play in building tension?
How does the setting (lake, orphanage) amplify the novel’s suspense?
Character & Development
What are your first impressions of Hazel Cho as a private investigator? How does she compare to other detectives you’ve read?
Hazel is navigating both her personal challenges and professional life — how do you think that duality shapes her choices?
Did you find Hazel a reliable narrator? Why or why not?
How did Madeline Hemsley’s presence complicate Hazel’s mission? Did your perception of her change over time?
Which secondary character did you find most intriguing or suspicious?
Themes & Symbolism
The orphanage is set by a lake — how do water and isolation act as metaphors throughout the book?
What role do secrets play in the lives of the characters? Who do you think is hiding the most?
How does the novel explore the idea of identity — especially for those with lost or manipulated histories?
What do the cryptic symbols suggest thematically — are they spiritual, psychological, or symbolic?
The book deals with power dynamics, especially involving institutions like St. Agnes. What commentary is the author making?
Plot & Structure
What did you think of the pacing of the mystery? Were there any red herrings that fooled you?
How does the non-linear progression (memories, flashbacks, reports) add or detract from the tension?
What was the turning point in the story for you, where everything shifted?
Style & Writing
How would you describe the tone and atmosphere of the book? Did it remind you of any other mysteries or thrillers?
Daniel G. Miller uses both elegant and direct language—how does his writing style affect your connection to the story?
Speculative & Reflective
If Hazel were to investigate another case, what would you want it to involve?
What questions do you still have after finishing the book?
If the novel were adapted into a series or film, who would you cast as Hazel, Madeline, and Gregory?
Games & Trivia for the Gathering
1. Clue Pieces:
Prep: Write crime-related clues (e.g., “blood-stained notebook,” “cryptic symbol,” “Madeline’s alibi slip”).
Play: Members draw 3–4 clues and invent a backstory. Vote on the most suspenseful.
2. Truth or Fiction:
Prep: Mix real and imagined facts about the plot (e.g., Hazel has a pet tortoise).
Play: Read statements; participants guess if they’re from the book.
3. Character Tag‑Line Challenge:
Prep: List supporting characters like Sonia, Gregory, Andrew.
Play: Teams create a mystery-style tag line for each—“Who is Gregory Goolsbee?”—either serious or funny.
Final Thoughts
The Orphanage by the Lake masterfully combines tight pacing, layered characters, and a haunting atmosphere. Whether over a chilled Mezcal, a cozy tea, or in lively company, this book promises thrilling discussions and memorable moments. It’s an ideal pick for book clubs and lovers of psychological mysteries.
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