Asylum (McGrath novel)

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Asylum is a young adult horror novel written by Madeleine Roux. It is the first book in the Asylum series, which includes sequels such as Sanctum, Catacomb, Escape from Asylum, and The Asylum Novellas. The novel was first published in 2013 and has since garnered a following for its eerie atmosphere, complex characters, and intricate plot.

Plot

The story follows Daniel Crawford, a teenager who attends a summer program for gifted students held at New Hampshire College. However, the dormitory where the students are staying used to be an asylum for the criminally insane. As Daniel explores the old building, he discovers disturbing photographs and artifacts that hint at the dark past of the asylum. Along with his friends Abby and Jordan, Daniel uncovers secrets that connect their own pasts to the asylum's history. The trio's investigation leads them into danger as they unravel a sinister plot and confront the asylum's haunted legacy.

Themes

Asylum delves into themes of identity, the past's influence on the present, and the thin line between sanity and madness. The novel also explores the concept of friendship and trust as the characters navigate through their terrifying discoveries together.

Reception

Asylum has received mixed reviews from critics. Some praise the novel for its suspenseful atmosphere and engaging mystery, while others criticize it for relying on horror clichés. Despite the mixed critical reception, the book has found a dedicated audience among young adult readers who are drawn to its blend of horror and mystery.

Series

The success of Asylum led to the development of a series, allowing readers to follow Daniel, Abby, and Jordan through further adventures as they continue to uncover the dark secrets surrounding the asylum and their own lives. Each sequel expands on the themes and characters introduced in the first book, offering new mysteries and challenges.

See Also

• Young adult fiction
• Horror fiction
• Madeleine Roux