The Requiem Red

Jane–clinically known as Patient Twenty-Nine–has lived in Soothing Hills, an asylum for the mentally ill and chronically sick, for nearly her entire life because of her mysterious musical gifts. She lives at the mercy of the doctors, including the unpredictable Dr. Frost, and the nurses and orderlies who work there. But even as her situation turns scarier–three of her roommates have been murdered by a mysterious monster–Jane continues to have hope that someday she might escape and see the outside world.

“I have become accustomed to screams, moans, and shouts of joy. They are the language of this place.”

The Requiem Red tells a fascinating story of life inside an asylum, giving readers a close-up look at general care methods, “treatments,” and the mindset of the staff members and general public. Author Brynn Chapman spent a good deal of time researching this book, and it shows; readers will be both fascinated and horrified by the details in this intricate story. Along with Jane, we meet Jules, treasured (and emotionally abused) daughter of Dr. Frost, and some of the better staff at the asylum. Readers will enjoy the mystery of Jane’s past, the horror of Dr. Cloud, and the romances. The book ends on a bit of a cliffhanger; here’s hoping Chapman provides some answers in the next book!

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