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The Darlings of the Asylum

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( 861 ratings, 166 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Darlings of the Asylum by Noel O'Reilly is a gripping historical fiction set in the late 19th century. The story follows Violet Pring, a young woman who wakes up in a Victorian mental asylum with no memory of how she got there. As she navigates the oppressive and often cruel environment, Violet must uncover the truth about her past and fight for her freedom against the societal constraints of the time.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this gripping tale if you are drawn to stories that explore the intricacies of the human mind within the intriguing backdrop of a historical setting. The narrative delves into personal struggles and societal expectations, offering a compelling look at a world full of mystery and emotion. Perfect for readers who appreciate rich character development and vivid historical details.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

To marry is madness.
To escape is impossible.

The Darlings of the Asylum by Noel O’Reilly grips like a vice’ Nicola Cornick

A gripping dark historical fiction psychological thriller and captivating winter read new in paperback...

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

To marry is madness. To escape is impossible.

The Darlings of the Asylum by Noel O’Reilly grips like a vice’ Nicola Cornick

In 1886, a respectable young woman must acquire a husband. But Violet Pring longs to be a professional artist and live on her own terms.

When she turns down a desirable marriage proposal from an eligible Brighton gentleman, her family have had enough of her independent streak. Against her wishes, they lock her away in Hillwood Grange Lunatic Asylum.

Now at the mercy of the sinister Dr Rastrick, she must keep her wits about her if she has any hope of escaping.

This tantalising Gothic novel from Noel O’Reilly tells a thrilling story of duty and desire, madness and sanity, truth and delusion from within a Victorian asylum.

Praise for The Darlings of the Asylum:

‘Always engaging and readable’ Sunday Times

‘The narrative rattles along irresistibly all the way to its suitably gothic climax’ Readers’ Digest

‘This darkly atmospheric psychological thriller oozes menace’ Women’s Own

‘Wow! I have been on the edge of my seat with this one! The Darlings of the Asylum… grips like a vice’ Nicola Cornick, author of The Winter Garden

‘Gripping’ Alison Stockham, author of The Cuckoo Sister

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Darlings of the Asylum by Noel O’Reilly is praised for its engaging and readable narrative. It is recognised as a darkly atmospheric psychological thriller rich in gothic elements, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The novel grips with its intricate plot and vibrant prose, reflecting the struggles and societal hypocrisies of its setting.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780008275303

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 26 October 2023

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: HQ

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 30.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 260g

Pages: 384

About the Author

Noel O'Reilly was a student on the New Writing South Advanced writing course. He has worked as a journalist and editor at the international business media company RBI, and is now a freelance writer. This is his first novel. He lives in Brighton with his wife and children.

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