Painter and the Ghost

The Painter and the Ghost by Stephen Baham is a historical fiction novel set in 19th-century New Orleans, blending real-life events with supernatural elements. The story follows the infamous serial killer, Madame Delphine LaLaurie, whose sadistic actions are legendary in the city's dark history.

 

The novel introduces a skilled painter who becomes entangled in LaLaurie’s terrifying reign of terror. Driven by a desire to stop her, the painter confronts LaLaurie in a battle of wits and wills. The painter's artistic talents take on a mystical dimension, enabling him to trap both LaLaurie’s malevolent spirit and the Soul Taker, an ominous entity that aided her in her crimes. In a climactic moment, the painter succeeds in forever binding their spirits within the LaLaurie mansion, ensuring that their evil will never escape.

 

The novel weaves together elements of suspense, supernatural intrigue, and historical drama, creating a chilling narrative that captures the essence of one of New Orleans’ darkest legends.