Books matching: insane asylum setting
18 result(s)
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- #1
Save:In the novel 'The Devil Aspect' by Craig Russell, set in 1935 Prague, Dr. Viktor Kosarek takes up a position at an asylum for the criminally insane, known as the Devil's Six. As he delves into the minds of these dangerous individuals, a parallel storyline follows a police investigation into a brutal serial killer named Leather Apron. The book weaves together elements of psychology, history, and horror, culminating in unexpected twists and a chilling climax. The writing style is described as engaging, atmospheric, and immersive, with a blend of mythology, culture, and psychology that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
In the late autumn of 1935, Dr. Viktor Kosárek was a tall, lean man in his twenty-ninth year. He was handsome, not the unexceptional handsomeness of most of the Bohemian race, but with a hint of ancie... - #2
Save:'Shutter Island' by Dennis Lehane is a psychological thriller set on an island where an insane asylum is located. The story follows a detective investigating a murder on the island, only to find himself trapped there during a hurricane. The book is described as a fast-paced, gripping mystery with plenty of suspense and plot twists. The author creates a hauntingly stunning piece of work that combines psychological horror, mystery, and normal horror, keeping the readers engaged and thought-provoked till the end.
TEDDY DANIELS’S FATHER had been a fisherman. He lost his boat to the bank in ’31 when Teddy was eleven, spent the rest of his life hiring onto other boats when they had the work, unloading freight alo... - #3
Save:The Last Time I Wore a Dress by Daphne Scholinski is a powerful memoir about her experiences in the mental health system during her adolescence in the 70s and 80s. Diagnosed with gender identity disorder, Daphne spent three years in psychiatric hospitals where she faced harsh therapy practices, including lessons on how to behave as a 'proper' female. The book is an insightful exploration of gender identity, societal norms, and the struggles faced by those who don't fit traditional molds, making it highly relevant today as it raises important questions about gender construction.
- #4
Save:'Twisted Heathens' in the series 'Blackwood Institute' by author J. Rose is a dark, reverse harem romance set in a mental institution. The story follows Brooklyn, a 21-year-old girl struggling with mental health issues, as she navigates her life within the walls of Blackwood Institute alongside three guys - Kade, Phoenix, and Eli. The book delves into heavy themes such as mental illness, self-harm, abuse, and trauma, providing a raw and gritty portrayal of the characters' inner struggles. The plot is filled with mysteries, twists, and turns, keeping readers hooked and emotionally invested in the characters' journeys.
The writing style of J. Rose is praised for its realistic portrayal of mental health issues, complex character development, and emotional depth. Readers appreciate the chemistry and tension between the characters, the fast-paced plot with plenty of action, and the unique setting of combining a school environment with a mental facility. Despite the dark themes, the book is commended for shedding light on important topics and offering a gripping narrative that evokes strong emotions in readers.
'I Never Promised You a Rose Garden' by Joanne Greenberg is a compelling novel that delves into the life of Deborah, a 16-year-old diagnosed with Schizophrenia in the 1960s. The book follows Deborah's journey from struggling with her mental illness to striving to live a normal life, vividly portraying her relationships with her doctor, other patients, friends, and family. Through sensitive exploration, the author sheds light on the impact of mental illness on individuals and their families, while also providing insights into the world of psychiatric hospitals and the challenges faced by those with schizophrenia.
Greenberg's writing style in 'I Never Promised You a Rose Garden' is described as unique and profound, offering a deep and thought-provoking narrative that sets it apart from other books on the subject. The book is praised for its ability to captivate readers with its raw portrayal of schizophrenia and the struggles faced by those living with the condition, making it a fascinating and educational read that provides a fresh perspective on mental illness.
- #6
Save:'Rawblood' by Catriona Ward follows the story of Iris Villarca, an eleven-year-old girl living with her father at their isolated house on Dartmoor, Rawblood. The Villarca family is haunted by a hereditary disease that leads to early deaths, prompting Iris's father to enforce strict rules of isolation. As the story unfolds through multiple timelines and perspectives, readers discover the dark secrets hidden within the family's history and the haunting presence that lurks within Rawblood.
The narrative of 'Rawblood' weaves together elements of gothic horror, family curses, and supernatural occurrences, creating a complex and atmospheric tale that explores the impact of isolation, forbidden love, and the consequences of ancestral sins. Ward's writing style captivates readers with its meticulous research, strong character voices, and intricate plot that culminates in a haunting and symmetrical conclusion, making 'Rawblood' a compelling and eerie read.
He gives me a look that means I live in a big house with floors shiny with beeswax and high ceilings where the air goes up into white silence and the linen is scented with lavender and tea rose. In th... - #7
Save:The Asylum by John Harwood is a gothic novel set in Victorian England, revolving around the mysterious tale of a young woman named Georgina Ferrars who wakes up in a lunatic asylum with no memory of how she got there. The story follows her journey to prove her true identity and sanity, as she unravels a series of mysteries about her past, including mistaken identities, deceptive characters, and a suspenseful plot filled with twists and turns. The narrative is told through different perspectives such as narratives, letters, and journal entries, creating an atmospheric and intriguing read that delves into themes of deception, courage, and the struggles faced by women in the Victorian era.
The writing style of John Harwood in 'The Asylum' is described as formal, gothic, and engaging, reminiscent of classic Victorian gothic novels. The plot is filled with elements of suspense, mystery, and intricate character development, keeping readers captivated and eager to uncover the truth alongside the protagonist. Despite some opinions mentioning a rushed or contrived ending, the overall tone of the book is praised for its ability to create a haunting and immersive atmosphere that draws readers into a world of secrets, deception, and psychological intrigue.
I WOKE, AS IT SEEMED, from a nightmare of being stretched on the rack, only to sink into another dream in which I was lying in a strange bed, afraid to open my eyes for fear of what I might see. The s... - #8
Save:Asylum by Patrick McGrath is a dark novel that delves into the consequences of obsessional love. The story revolves around Stella Raphael, the wife of a psychiatrist at an asylum for the criminally insane, who becomes infatuated with a disturbed inmate named Edgar Stark. As their relationship unfolds, madness, obsession, and tragedy deeply affect everyone involved in their past. The narrative is intricate, showcasing the dark side of human nature through morally ambiguous characters and a suspenseful plot that keeps readers questioning the truth and motives of each individual.
The book is narrated by Dr. Cleave, a psychiatrist with his own agenda, who provides a unique perspective on the events that transpire. McGrath's writing style masterfully captures the descent into madness and obsession, creating a chilling atmosphere that is reminiscent of classic gothic literature. The story is filled with twists and turns, unreliable narrators, and a sense of foreboding that keeps readers engaged till the very end.
The catastrophic love affair characterized by sexual obsession has been a professional interest of mine for many years now. Such relationships vary widely in duration and intensity but tend to pass th... - #9
Save:The Devil in Silver by Victor LaValle is a novel set in a mental institution in Queens, New York, where patients are terrorized by a devilish monster. The story follows Pepper, a man wrongfully committed to the institution, as he navigates life among the quirky inmates and indifferent staff. LaValle weaves together elements of horror, mystery, social commentary, and character study, creating a compelling narrative that challenges societal norms and perceptions of mental health.
The writing style in The Devil in Silver is described as engaging, humorous, and at times, choppy. The narrative voice shifts perspectives frequently, providing insight into the characters' motivations and experiences. LaValle's approach to storytelling keeps the reader on edge, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy, while addressing serious topics such as racism, sexism, and the shortcomings of the mental health system in America.
THEY BROUGHT THE big man in on a winter night when the moon looked as hazy as the heart of an ice cube. It took three cops to wrestle and handcuff him. They threw him in their undercover cruiser and d... - #10
Save:The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a psychological thriller that follows the story of Alicia Berenson, a renowned artist who is found with her dead husband, tied to a chair and shot multiple times in the face. Alicia never speaks again and is sent to a mental institution. Theo Faber, a forensic psychologist, takes a job at the facility to treat Alicia and unravel her secrets. The book is filled with twists and turns, red herrings, and a surprising conclusion, making it a gripping and engaging read.
The novel is centered around the relationship between Alicia, the silent patient, and Theo, the psychotherapist determined to make her speak. As Theo delves deeper into Alicia's case, the story unfolds through entries from Alicia's diary and Theo's own perspective. The plot weaves together themes of mental illness, trauma, and suspense, keeping the readers guessing until the unexpected twist at the end. The Silent Patient explores complex characters and intricate storytelling, making it a compelling and thought-provoking thriller.
They had been married for seven years. They were both artists—Alicia was a painter, and Gabriel was a well-known fashion photographer. He had a distinctive style, shooting semi-starved, semi-naked wom...
