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Psycho #1.5
Psycho: Sanitarium: The Authorised Sequel to Robert Bloch's Psycho
The legendary Norman Bates returns…
The original Psycho novel by Robert Bloch was published in 1959 and became an instant hit, leading to the classic Alfred Hitchcock film a year later. Norman Bates’s terrifying story has been seared in the public consciousness ever since.
It took Bloch 23 years to write another Psycho novel, revealing that Norman had been in a mental institution the entire time. But what happened in that asylum?
Until now, no one has known. It's 1960. Norman Bates is in the State Hospital for the Criminally Insane and it's up to Dr. Felix Reed to bring him out of his catatonic state. Dr. Reed must face both twisted patients and colleagues who think of the institution as a prison. And the greatest obstacle is the building itself, once a private sanitarium, rumoured to be haunted.
A delicate peace is disturbed by the arrival of Robert Newman, Norman's twin brother, taken away at birth after a doctor pronounced him brain damaged. As Robert and Norman grow to know each other, Norman senses a darkness in Robert, perhaps even deeper than that which has lurked in Norman himself.
Psycho: Sanitarium is an intense psychological thriller of murder and deranged madness, and marks the first new appearance of Norman Bates as a main character in over 30 years.
What people are saying about Psycho: Sanitarium“A fresh, creepy and surprising addition to the Psycho canon, as cunningly contrived as Bloch’s originals.” Kim Newman, Stoker award-winning author of Anno Dracula
“This brilliant projection of a horror classic is also a surgical deconstruction, a look not only inside the mind of a maniac, but into the milieu of “treatment” of the criminally insane. There’s a million reasons to read this one, but the most compelling is the lesson it teaches: Real horror is real. And never that far from home.” Andrew Vachss, bestselling author of Mask Market
“Robert Bloch would be delighted with Psycho: Sanitarium. Chet Williamson has captured the Bloch ambiance in a twisty-turny terror tale that will keep you turning pages into the wee hours.” F. Paul Wilson, creator of Repairman Jack and author of Panacea
“A brilliantly compelling novel filled with mystery, humanity and dread.” Tim Lebbon, author of The Silence
“Fans of Robert Bloch rejoice! Chet Williamson's Psycho: Sanitarium brings a 21st Century sensibility and edge while remaining true to the classic pulp spirit; a fun, smart, nasty, throwback. You'll want to read in a single sitting with the lights on. But as always, beware of Mother.” Paul Tremblay author of A Head Full of Ghosts and Disappearance at Devil’s Rock
Chet Williamson's parents took him to see the film of Robert Bloch's Psycho when he was twelve, and he has been a reader and disciple of Bloch ever since. Now a successful horror and suspense author, his many honours include the International Horror Guild Award, and nominations for the World Fantasy Award, the MWA's Edgar Award, and six times for the HWA's Stoker Award.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 12, 2016
47 people are currently reading
1914 people want to read
About the author
Chet Williamson
188 books117 followersChet Williamson has written horror, science fiction, and suspense since 1981. Among his novels are Second Chance, Hunters, Defenders of the Faith, Ash Wednesday, Reign, Dreamthorp, and the forthcoming Psycho Sanitarium, an authorized sequel to Robert Bloch's classic Psycho. Over a hundred of his short stories have appeared in The New Yorker, Playboy, Esquire, The Magazine of F&SF, and many other magazines and anthologies.
He has won the International Horror Guild Award, and has been shortlisted twice for the World Fantasy Award, six times for the HWA Stoker, and once for the MWA's Edgar. Nearly all of his works are available in ebook format.
A stage and film actor, he has recorded over 40 unabridged audiobooks, both of his own work and that of many other writers, available at www.audible.com. Follow him on Twitter (@chetwill) or at www.chetwilliamson.com.
He has won the International Horror Guild Award, and has been shortlisted twice for the World Fantasy Award, six times for the HWA Stoker, and once for the MWA's Edgar. Nearly all of his works are available in ebook format.
A stage and film actor, he has recorded over 40 unabridged audiobooks, both of his own work and that of many other writers, available at www.audible.com. Follow him on Twitter (@chetwill) or at www.chetwilliamson.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
May 17, 2016
I received this book on a read-to-review basis from NetGalley. Thank you to the author, Chet Williamson, and the publisher, Thomas Dunne Books, for the opportunity.
This is a follow up to Robert Bloch's cult classic, Psycho, and I have to admit that I was worried about how this new installment would stack up. The original is well-known and well-renowned and I was hesitant as to how this new author would emanate the feel of the former's writing and original world. I am relieved to announce that he did it, and with justice!
The story follows the original character, Norman Bates, and his incarceration into a mental institutions for the deeds he committed in the source novel. The novel uses one individual to exemplify a turbulent time in American psychotherapy and the shifting attitudes towards what is deemed treatment and what is deemed torture. He raises the question of which side of the locked door the evil really lurks on...
Williamson manages to heighten the horror of the first book, and expand on scenes brushed over, with a modern and gruesome delight. This has an additional appeal of not only adding to the original but of appealing to a contemporary audience who are already immune to the weaker horror of Psycho. He does all this while still keeping the impression of the prime author and the original text.
This is a follow up to Robert Bloch's cult classic, Psycho, and I have to admit that I was worried about how this new installment would stack up. The original is well-known and well-renowned and I was hesitant as to how this new author would emanate the feel of the former's writing and original world. I am relieved to announce that he did it, and with justice!
The story follows the original character, Norman Bates, and his incarceration into a mental institutions for the deeds he committed in the source novel. The novel uses one individual to exemplify a turbulent time in American psychotherapy and the shifting attitudes towards what is deemed treatment and what is deemed torture. He raises the question of which side of the locked door the evil really lurks on...
Williamson manages to heighten the horror of the first book, and expand on scenes brushed over, with a modern and gruesome delight. This has an additional appeal of not only adding to the original but of appealing to a contemporary audience who are already immune to the weaker horror of Psycho. He does all this while still keeping the impression of the prime author and the original text.
June 19, 2017
3.5 stars.
PSYCHO: SANITARIUM, by Chet Williamson fills the "gap" between Robert Bloch's Psycho, and Psycho 2. I was very impressed with how well Williamson was able to capture the "tone" of Bloch's original classic. The style did remind me quite a bit of Bloch's own, and the idea of capturing the decades Norman Bates spent there was one worth pursuing. The story flowed nicely from scene to scene. There were a couple of surprises along the way, but nothing that I really found "unexpected".
Overall, a great look at the Sanitariums at the time, the different methods used, and of course, the various temperaments of the people that worked in places like that. As a story, it felt "realistic" as a continuation of Norman Bates' character. My only complaint was that it was extremely easy to figure out "what" exactly was going on (the mystery part), and for me, it was more about seeing how the book would conclude, at that point. Still, a nice addition to the "life" of Norman Bates and "Mother".
Recommended.
PSYCHO: SANITARIUM, by Chet Williamson fills the "gap" between Robert Bloch's Psycho, and Psycho 2. I was very impressed with how well Williamson was able to capture the "tone" of Bloch's original classic. The style did remind me quite a bit of Bloch's own, and the idea of capturing the decades Norman Bates spent there was one worth pursuing. The story flowed nicely from scene to scene. There were a couple of surprises along the way, but nothing that I really found "unexpected".
Overall, a great look at the Sanitariums at the time, the different methods used, and of course, the various temperaments of the people that worked in places like that. As a story, it felt "realistic" as a continuation of Norman Bates' character. My only complaint was that it was extremely easy to figure out "what" exactly was going on (the mystery part), and for me, it was more about seeing how the book would conclude, at that point. Still, a nice addition to the "life" of Norman Bates and "Mother".
Recommended.
June 13, 2017
Chet Williamson's PSYCHO: SANITARIUM slips seamlessly into the gap between the end of Robert Bloch's PSYCHO and the beginning of PSYCHO II, shedding light upon Norman Bates' time locked away in an asylum for the criminally insane....and within his own mind, with only Mother for company.
When an intrepid psychiatrist tries to free Norman from both his catatonia and the grip of his mother, to save him from the horrors of shock therapy, his patient begins to emerge once more. But there are obstacles in the way...including a malingering serial rapist who wants to know what it's like to kill, sadistic caretakers and the rumors that the institution may be haunted. The sudden appearance of Norman's twin brother, given up for dead at birth, gives him a reason to come out of his shell. Until a series of disappearances involving people who threaten Norman in some way begin to occur.
Chet Williamson, a master in his own right, captures the original pulp sensibility of Robert Bloch's writing, along with his signature twists....and twisted sense of dark humor pitch perfectly.
PSYCHO: SANITARIUM earns it's place on every horror fans bookshelves tucked between PSYCHO and PSYCHO II.
"Uncle" Bob must be tickled pink...
Highest possible recommendation...a classic addition to a classic!
When an intrepid psychiatrist tries to free Norman from both his catatonia and the grip of his mother, to save him from the horrors of shock therapy, his patient begins to emerge once more. But there are obstacles in the way...including a malingering serial rapist who wants to know what it's like to kill, sadistic caretakers and the rumors that the institution may be haunted. The sudden appearance of Norman's twin brother, given up for dead at birth, gives him a reason to come out of his shell. Until a series of disappearances involving people who threaten Norman in some way begin to occur.
Chet Williamson, a master in his own right, captures the original pulp sensibility of Robert Bloch's writing, along with his signature twists....and twisted sense of dark humor pitch perfectly.
PSYCHO: SANITARIUM earns it's place on every horror fans bookshelves tucked between PSYCHO and PSYCHO II.
"Uncle" Bob must be tickled pink...
Highest possible recommendation...a classic addition to a classic!
April 26, 2016
Chet Williamson has really established himself with his sequel to Robert Bloch's Psycho with this truly amazing book.
Placing the narrative between Bloch's Psycho and Psycho II, Williamson has done an excellent job in creating and full filling a perfect bridge between the original and Bloch’s lacklustre sequel. It is important to note that this is a sequel to the novel and not the Hitchcock film though both film and novel are closely linked, there are slight differences such as Norman being a heavy weight middle aged man in the novel against the Perkins characterisation that is famously remembered.
Bloch’s Psycho was the dawning of the serial killer novel with its late 50’s sensibilities and plot building. It captured the imagination with its tone and execution and at the time, was a truly shocking exploitation novel with its use of interior psychology.
After failed attempts to write a film sequel, Bloch decided to take matters into his own hands and wrote two sequels, Psycho II and Psycho House with various results. Bloch’s Psycho II is set a couple of decades after the events of Psycho. Although, a best seller in its own rights, it had no reflection on the film of the same name.
Williamson’s story is set between Bloch’s first two books in the series, fitting very comfortablely with his vivid characterisations, wonderful pacing and fantastic characterisations of Norman as he tries to control Mother and deal with his guilt over the murders at the motel in the original.
The story is driven forward by the psychological treatment of Norman using various techniques in the psychiatry world from drug use, ECT treatment and psychotherapy and it is very interesting how the world was changing in terms of these techniques. The 60’s made incredible strives in psychiatry during this time and Williamson has shown how the old ways were being put aside towards the new ways of treatment that were being developed during this time.
When the murders happen, the story unfolds to a whodunit which is handled masterly as the mystery unfolds. This is where Williamson exceeds in all his novels, he is able to take multifaceted plot strands and knit them together to provide a kaleidoscope of textures, rich characterisations, extremely intrinsic plot devices and motivation to spin a fascinating story.
Williamson has actually surpassed Bloch in writing style and he has ingeniously been able provide a superior sequel and perfect bridge between Bloch’s work. His writing of Bates is sympathetic, thought provoking and at times frightening when Norman is threatened or Mother comes to the fore. Norman is one of the true horror greats and Williamson has lovingly and truthfully written him as a three dimensional multi-faceted individual which at times is failed in the source material. Williamson has given him fantastic weight.
The characters surrounding Norman in the Sanatorium are well done and the surprise addition of a long lost relative creates an interesting opening and gives Norman a bright light in his drab existence. The supporting characters are at times, worse than the inmates that they watch over which gives a Nurse Rackitt feel to the proceedings as the plot awakens itself to the reader.
This is really a superior book to its sequels in every way and it is an ode to Bloch and to Norman that could have easily fallen flat if put in the wrong hands. Masterfully crafted, lovingly put together and incredible piece of fiction that demands to be read and cherished. Williamson is a true master and if you love well-constructed stories with believable plot twists, you can never go wrong with him as he is truly top of his craft.
Robert Bloch’s Psycho Sanatorium by Chet Williamson is one of the most accomplished sequels ever written and so far this is one of best psychological thrillers/horrors of the year. This is a truly recommend book and if you are a fan of Psycho, either the book or film, you cannot go wrong. This is a must read.
Placing the narrative between Bloch's Psycho and Psycho II, Williamson has done an excellent job in creating and full filling a perfect bridge between the original and Bloch’s lacklustre sequel. It is important to note that this is a sequel to the novel and not the Hitchcock film though both film and novel are closely linked, there are slight differences such as Norman being a heavy weight middle aged man in the novel against the Perkins characterisation that is famously remembered.
Bloch’s Psycho was the dawning of the serial killer novel with its late 50’s sensibilities and plot building. It captured the imagination with its tone and execution and at the time, was a truly shocking exploitation novel with its use of interior psychology.
After failed attempts to write a film sequel, Bloch decided to take matters into his own hands and wrote two sequels, Psycho II and Psycho House with various results. Bloch’s Psycho II is set a couple of decades after the events of Psycho. Although, a best seller in its own rights, it had no reflection on the film of the same name.
Williamson’s story is set between Bloch’s first two books in the series, fitting very comfortablely with his vivid characterisations, wonderful pacing and fantastic characterisations of Norman as he tries to control Mother and deal with his guilt over the murders at the motel in the original.
The story is driven forward by the psychological treatment of Norman using various techniques in the psychiatry world from drug use, ECT treatment and psychotherapy and it is very interesting how the world was changing in terms of these techniques. The 60’s made incredible strives in psychiatry during this time and Williamson has shown how the old ways were being put aside towards the new ways of treatment that were being developed during this time.
When the murders happen, the story unfolds to a whodunit which is handled masterly as the mystery unfolds. This is where Williamson exceeds in all his novels, he is able to take multifaceted plot strands and knit them together to provide a kaleidoscope of textures, rich characterisations, extremely intrinsic plot devices and motivation to spin a fascinating story.
Williamson has actually surpassed Bloch in writing style and he has ingeniously been able provide a superior sequel and perfect bridge between Bloch’s work. His writing of Bates is sympathetic, thought provoking and at times frightening when Norman is threatened or Mother comes to the fore. Norman is one of the true horror greats and Williamson has lovingly and truthfully written him as a three dimensional multi-faceted individual which at times is failed in the source material. Williamson has given him fantastic weight.
The characters surrounding Norman in the Sanatorium are well done and the surprise addition of a long lost relative creates an interesting opening and gives Norman a bright light in his drab existence. The supporting characters are at times, worse than the inmates that they watch over which gives a Nurse Rackitt feel to the proceedings as the plot awakens itself to the reader.
This is really a superior book to its sequels in every way and it is an ode to Bloch and to Norman that could have easily fallen flat if put in the wrong hands. Masterfully crafted, lovingly put together and incredible piece of fiction that demands to be read and cherished. Williamson is a true master and if you love well-constructed stories with believable plot twists, you can never go wrong with him as he is truly top of his craft.
Robert Bloch’s Psycho Sanatorium by Chet Williamson is one of the most accomplished sequels ever written and so far this is one of best psychological thrillers/horrors of the year. This is a truly recommend book and if you are a fan of Psycho, either the book or film, you cannot go wrong. This is a must read.
May 24, 2016
Yes, dear readers, Norman Bates is back. Thanks mostly to author Chet Williamson who did an impressive job bringing back to life this lunatic motel keeper who has a penchant for embodying his dead mother and killing people in showers. Sure, original author Robert Bloch did pen more than one sequel during his lifetime but, having been all underwhelming, it took PSYCHO: SANITARIUM (Canelo publishing) to finally do the original novel justice. Never mind that the wait was long time coming (more than 50 years, not counting the previous follow-ups).
As in Bloch’s PSYCHO, the narrative in PSYCHO: SANITARIUM is clear, to the point, with a bit of more pizzazz. The Williamson touch I call it, meaning he makes it his own while moving the plot along with Norman’s arrest and his confinement in a psychiatric hospital. What then follows is a moody, scary engaging thrill-ride where you get the chance to meet a bunch of well-defined characters. You’ve got psychiatrists, orderlies, nurses, and of course, fellow patients who are far from being the only ones making Norman’s stay unpleasant. You even get to meet a distant relative of Norman’s who may or may not be what he seems. When people connected to our resident psycho start disappearing, then all hell breaks loose. But is Norman really back to his old tricks?
I wish I can say that he is, but that would be revealing too much. But trust me, you have to go through the motion of reading this thing to find out. Not that the revelation is such a gasp worthy moment, but you’re never sure of your hunch until the last chapter. In addition, there are a couple of scenes that will certainly give you the creeps or make you even more aware of your gag reflex. Now on to the big question: is PSYCHO: SANITARIUM as memorable as Robert Bloch’s PSYCHO? No freaking way. How can you top an infamous classic such as this one? But it is a worthy follow-up that does deserve the stops, if only to rekindle with Norman Bates and his pushy mama.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this novel in exchange for an honest review.
JL Martin
September 12, 2024
Overall Rating : B-
"First, do no harm."
This "official" sequel gives us a look at what happened to Norman Bates after the horrible crimes at Bates Hotel committed by "Mother". Here we see Norman come to terms with himself and try to figure out if he is strong enough to keep his sanity and his own self from disappearing with the help of a sympathetic doctor. Alongside his sessions, employee's of Sanitarium go missing, creating an atmosphere of terror and paranoia.
The story as a whole, while intriguing, did not fully captivate me the way Psycho did. Not even close to the edge of your seat, biting your nails type of plot. And parts of the twist was a little bit obvious, but it played out well(unfortunately not really for Norman).
Speaking of, Norman was so pathetic he actually made the whole book. He really was trying to be a better person and get rid of all bad influences of his life/mind. Every single encounter, we realize he is basically a weak man in need of a guiding hand, but will never in his life get it.
So to recap, Norman and the "extras", were okay, but the plot and pacing left a lot to be desired. It's, an alright sequel, but, more often than not with sequels, never needed. I'm still glad I read it.
"First, do no harm."
This "official" sequel gives us a look at what happened to Norman Bates after the horrible crimes at Bates Hotel committed by "Mother". Here we see Norman come to terms with himself and try to figure out if he is strong enough to keep his sanity and his own self from disappearing with the help of a sympathetic doctor. Alongside his sessions, employee's of Sanitarium go missing, creating an atmosphere of terror and paranoia.
The story as a whole, while intriguing, did not fully captivate me the way Psycho did. Not even close to the edge of your seat, biting your nails type of plot. And parts of the twist was a little bit obvious, but it played out well(unfortunately not really for Norman).
Speaking of, Norman was so pathetic he actually made the whole book. He really was trying to be a better person and get rid of all bad influences of his life/mind. Every single encounter, we realize he is basically a weak man in need of a guiding hand, but will never in his life get it.
So to recap, Norman and the "extras", were okay, but the plot and pacing left a lot to be desired. It's, an alright sequel, but, more often than not with sequels, never needed. I'm still glad I read it.
December 13, 2019
Such an intriguing read!
August 3, 2021
Bagaimana jika kepala didiami oleh banyak persona: semua saling berebut untuk menjadi alpha & kemudi utama.
Kalau nak tahu kehidupan penjenayah yang ditempatkan di institut mental, bacalah Psycho: Sanitarium ini.
3.7/5 ⭐
Boleh beli di: https://t.co/nN147HUXN2
Kalau nak tahu kehidupan penjenayah yang ditempatkan di institut mental, bacalah Psycho: Sanitarium ini.
3.7/5 ⭐
Boleh beli di: https://t.co/nN147HUXN2
October 14, 2025
Wenn die Irrenärzte verrückter sind als ihre Patienten, muss Mutter zu Hilfe kommen.
August 22, 2016
Set after the events of Psycho, Norman Bates is now in a sanitarium for the criminally insane, he refuses to talk and has conversations in his head with mother, wresting long with his actions and believing, whole-heartedly, that she did hose horrible things, not him.
We're soon introduced to Dr Reed, the one who's treating Norman and a cast of characters who are well written, nicely developed and a good mix of very nice and incredibly horrible.
The action is slow to pick up, setting the scene and making sure you know the key players in the game, but once the first death happens it continues in wonderfully horrible fashion until the end.
There's secrets, lies, tricksy people and some backstory to the sanitarium.
What's happening to those people? Is a person on the loose, killing all they stumble across or is it the ghosts of former patients?
The setting is creepy and I love it! I do so love books set in asylums!!
*Huge thanks to Chet Williamson, Canelo and NetGalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review*
We're soon introduced to Dr Reed, the one who's treating Norman and a cast of characters who are well written, nicely developed and a good mix of very nice and incredibly horrible.
The action is slow to pick up, setting the scene and making sure you know the key players in the game, but once the first death happens it continues in wonderfully horrible fashion until the end.
There's secrets, lies, tricksy people and some backstory to the sanitarium.
What's happening to those people? Is a person on the loose, killing all they stumble across or is it the ghosts of former patients?
The setting is creepy and I love it! I do so love books set in asylums!!
*Huge thanks to Chet Williamson, Canelo and NetGalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review*
September 27, 2016
This book would make a great movie, or a series. An old mental institution for the criminally insane, the personalities of the various staff and their own issues, people disappearing, ghost roaming around, cruel psychiatrists, the insanity of the patients/prisoners. As a book it was a bit slow, but still I stayed with it. The who might be sane and who might not was interesting. The ending was a little fast for me, the tying up of everything so nicely a bit irritating, and more than a bit unrealistic, but still an enjoyable read.
April 19, 2016
Norman Bates has been institutionalized, the deaths of four people on his hands, four murders that we know about.
If you've never read Robert Bloch's 1959 novel Psycho, not to worry, Chet Williamson provides an excellent synopsis to get the reader up to speed on the events which precede Psycho: Sanitarium. Personally, I went back and read the original work so it was fresh in my mind as I read this new volume. I'm glad I did as this gave me a feel for the writing in both books. If I didn't know better, I could easily see how the two could have been written by the same author.
Psycho Sanitarium takes place at a time when Fuller Brush men still fooled around with other men's wives. It tells the chilling tale of Norman Bates' struggle to keep his mother from taking over his mind and just when it looks like she's gone, a shocker, a game changer. From here, the tale goes in delightfully new directions. To say anything more would reveal too much and I certainly don't want to spoil any of the multiple surprises.
Psycho: Sanitarium succeeds on many levels. The depiction of life in the asylum rings true with patients running the gamut from calm to violent and a professional staff of both caring individuals and a few that should be committed themselves. The tone and pacing of the story matches up well with Robert Bloch's original work. All of the characters are well developed, and the story features a number of delicious twists, all within the realm of possibility.
Published by St. Martin's press, Robert Bloch's Psycho: Sanitarium is available in hardcover, e-book, and audible formats.
I give this new book my highest recommendation.
Chet Williamson has been writing horror, science fiction, and suspense since 1981. His novels include Second Chance, Hunters, Defenders of the Faith, Ash Wednesday, Reign, Dreamthorp, and now Robert Bloch's Psycho Sanitarium. He is the recipient of the International Horror Guild Award and has been nominated six times for the HWA's Stoker Award. Chet is also a stage and film actor who has recorded over 40 unabridged audiobooks.
If you've never read Robert Bloch's 1959 novel Psycho, not to worry, Chet Williamson provides an excellent synopsis to get the reader up to speed on the events which precede Psycho: Sanitarium. Personally, I went back and read the original work so it was fresh in my mind as I read this new volume. I'm glad I did as this gave me a feel for the writing in both books. If I didn't know better, I could easily see how the two could have been written by the same author.
Psycho Sanitarium takes place at a time when Fuller Brush men still fooled around with other men's wives. It tells the chilling tale of Norman Bates' struggle to keep his mother from taking over his mind and just when it looks like she's gone, a shocker, a game changer. From here, the tale goes in delightfully new directions. To say anything more would reveal too much and I certainly don't want to spoil any of the multiple surprises.
Psycho: Sanitarium succeeds on many levels. The depiction of life in the asylum rings true with patients running the gamut from calm to violent and a professional staff of both caring individuals and a few that should be committed themselves. The tone and pacing of the story matches up well with Robert Bloch's original work. All of the characters are well developed, and the story features a number of delicious twists, all within the realm of possibility.
Published by St. Martin's press, Robert Bloch's Psycho: Sanitarium is available in hardcover, e-book, and audible formats.
I give this new book my highest recommendation.
Chet Williamson has been writing horror, science fiction, and suspense since 1981. His novels include Second Chance, Hunters, Defenders of the Faith, Ash Wednesday, Reign, Dreamthorp, and now Robert Bloch's Psycho Sanitarium. He is the recipient of the International Horror Guild Award and has been nominated six times for the HWA's Stoker Award. Chet is also a stage and film actor who has recorded over 40 unabridged audiobooks.
May 12, 2016
An unnecessary book for the psycho series. It is well written and doesn't feel too different tone wise from the original but... there is no need for this book! So slow with many sub plots and shallow characters. As for the twist, what twist? Predictable but not in bad taste just not surprising.
Book picked up in the last two chapters the rest just didn't capture my interest nor did I feel like any of it was important. I wanted more into Norman's mind and what makes him work but rarely do you follow Norman.
Just disappointing...
Book picked up in the last two chapters the rest just didn't capture my interest nor did I feel like any of it was important. I wanted more into Norman's mind and what makes him work but rarely do you follow Norman.
Just disappointing...
September 2, 2016
It’s 1960 Norman Bates is in the State Hospital for the Criminally Insane and it’s up to Dr. Felix Reed to bring him out of his catatonic state. Soon Bates is joined by Robert Newman, Norman’s twin brother, taken away at birth after a doctor pronounced him brain damaged. As Robert and Norman grow to know each other, Norman senses a darkness in Robert, perhaps even deeper than that which has lurked in Norman himself.
Psycho-Sanitarium is an intense psychological thriller of murder and deranged madness, which gripped me from the first introduction to Norman Bates and his infamous “mother”. As anyone who has read or watched Psycho knows Norman is a very complex character to say the least, and Chett Williamson manages to portray his character very effectively. I couldn’t help but feel some sympathy for Norman, as he struggles with the voice of his “mother” inside his head, he appeared vulnerable and timid, but unfortunately there are many sides to Norman and the author manages to describe the psyche of his character with such conviction that by the end of the book I was terrified! This book also explores the treatment of the insane, which makes for a dark and uncomfortable read at times (some of the treatments were barbaric to say the least).
I hold my hands up and admit I have never read Psycho (I’ve watched the film numerous times, but I never got around to reading the book), so I am not in a position to compare the two books. Personally I found Psych -Sanitarium to be a very a dark and chilling read, and thanks to Chet Williamson’s very descriptive writing it was fairly easy to conjure up images of the mental asylum, the madness that surrounded it, as well as the evil that lurked inside the walls. This is very much a character driven book, but the plot was well developed, with plenty of dark and twisted moments. Psycho-sanitarium reads and feels like the horror stories I use to read many moons ago, atmospheric and full of suspense and intrigue which makes for a very compelling read
First published at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
Psycho-Sanitarium is an intense psychological thriller of murder and deranged madness, which gripped me from the first introduction to Norman Bates and his infamous “mother”. As anyone who has read or watched Psycho knows Norman is a very complex character to say the least, and Chett Williamson manages to portray his character very effectively. I couldn’t help but feel some sympathy for Norman, as he struggles with the voice of his “mother” inside his head, he appeared vulnerable and timid, but unfortunately there are many sides to Norman and the author manages to describe the psyche of his character with such conviction that by the end of the book I was terrified! This book also explores the treatment of the insane, which makes for a dark and uncomfortable read at times (some of the treatments were barbaric to say the least).
I hold my hands up and admit I have never read Psycho (I’ve watched the film numerous times, but I never got around to reading the book), so I am not in a position to compare the two books. Personally I found Psych -Sanitarium to be a very a dark and chilling read, and thanks to Chet Williamson’s very descriptive writing it was fairly easy to conjure up images of the mental asylum, the madness that surrounded it, as well as the evil that lurked inside the walls. This is very much a character driven book, but the plot was well developed, with plenty of dark and twisted moments. Psycho-sanitarium reads and feels like the horror stories I use to read many moons ago, atmospheric and full of suspense and intrigue which makes for a very compelling read
First published at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
April 12, 2016
Few will forget the last image in that great Alfred Hitchcock classic Psycho when Norman Bates is seen isolated in a protected cell with the immortal words from his mother incarcerated in his mind..."She wouldn't even harm a fly"
In many ways Sanitarium by Chet Williamson tries to encapsulate both the mood of the movie and the somewhat concerning "mother" thoughts that still dwell within the mind of Norman. Added to this is the deep feeling of uneasiness that exist not only in the hospital itself but also amongst fellow residents who have similar murderous afflictions to Norman. This creates a constant tension, the reader can never feel complacent as the volatile residents are liable to explode into violence at any time.
One such resident is a man called Miller who, as a great admirer of Norman Bates, is hoping to learn from him. Miller is a convicted rapist and he feels that by introducing murder into his rapist illusions he can create the ultimate sexual high. Episodes such as this are an everyday occurrence and the staff and doctors must remain vigilant and at a high state of readiness. This story is really a glimpse inside the walls of a building where the patients have no hope of release and must live a day to day existence in the human equivalent of a fish bowl where their every move is observed, their every action noted, and where violence and the unexpected are the accepted norm (no pun intended)
This is an enjoyable but unsettling tale and shows a world where all hope is gone. It was a help to me as I had seen the original movie and the images created by that classic fitted perfectly into the story. I received an advance copy of Sanitarium for an honest review and that is what I have written.
In many ways Sanitarium by Chet Williamson tries to encapsulate both the mood of the movie and the somewhat concerning "mother" thoughts that still dwell within the mind of Norman. Added to this is the deep feeling of uneasiness that exist not only in the hospital itself but also amongst fellow residents who have similar murderous afflictions to Norman. This creates a constant tension, the reader can never feel complacent as the volatile residents are liable to explode into violence at any time.
One such resident is a man called Miller who, as a great admirer of Norman Bates, is hoping to learn from him. Miller is a convicted rapist and he feels that by introducing murder into his rapist illusions he can create the ultimate sexual high. Episodes such as this are an everyday occurrence and the staff and doctors must remain vigilant and at a high state of readiness. This story is really a glimpse inside the walls of a building where the patients have no hope of release and must live a day to day existence in the human equivalent of a fish bowl where their every move is observed, their every action noted, and where violence and the unexpected are the accepted norm (no pun intended)
This is an enjoyable but unsettling tale and shows a world where all hope is gone. It was a help to me as I had seen the original movie and the images created by that classic fitted perfectly into the story. I received an advance copy of Sanitarium for an honest review and that is what I have written.
June 10, 2016
I've always been a fan of Norman Bates, ever since discovering the original Robert Bloch book in the library as an inquisitive ten year old and then seeing Hitchcock's classic a few years later. I've since read Bloch's other two entries in the Bates series (Psycho 2 - very different to the movie - and Psycho House) so it was with some trepdiation that I approached Chet Williamson's continuation of the mythology.
Thankfully my fears were unfounded, as Williamson treats the character of Bates with respect and reverence, perfectly nailing the feel of Bloch's character and telling a fascinating story of Norman's time locked away without compromising either the literary or cinematic canon (well, any more than it has been already, but I'm generally in favour of all things Bates in whatever medium they appear).
Definitely recommended for fans of Norma Bates's little boy, and even if you're not familiar (really?) then Psycho: Sanitarium is a deftly written, entertaining thriller.
Thankfully my fears were unfounded, as Williamson treats the character of Bates with respect and reverence, perfectly nailing the feel of Bloch's character and telling a fascinating story of Norman's time locked away without compromising either the literary or cinematic canon (well, any more than it has been already, but I'm generally in favour of all things Bates in whatever medium they appear).
Definitely recommended for fans of Norma Bates's little boy, and even if you're not familiar (really?) then Psycho: Sanitarium is a deftly written, entertaining thriller.
April 2, 2016
I was given a copy from Netgalley for a unbiased review.
Norman Bates is placed in a sanatorium after being charged with the murder of four people.
Norman is non responsive and even needs someone to feed him.
Dr Reed is Norman's therapist and doesn't believe in rough treatment for patients, so psychotherapy starts with just conversations and a little coercion.
Norman very slowly starts to come out of himself but only with Dr Reed and Nurse Marie who feeds him.
Then Norman finds out that he has a brother Robert!!! What a wonderful surprise!
As the story unfolds with the progress of Norman's therapy so does the story of people going missing in the sanatorium??
Who is the murderer and why are they killing??
Good story keeps you guessing and not the story I expected.
Norman Bates is placed in a sanatorium after being charged with the murder of four people.
Norman is non responsive and even needs someone to feed him.
Dr Reed is Norman's therapist and doesn't believe in rough treatment for patients, so psychotherapy starts with just conversations and a little coercion.
Norman very slowly starts to come out of himself but only with Dr Reed and Nurse Marie who feeds him.
Then Norman finds out that he has a brother Robert!!! What a wonderful surprise!
As the story unfolds with the progress of Norman's therapy so does the story of people going missing in the sanatorium??
Who is the murderer and why are they killing??
Good story keeps you guessing and not the story I expected.
April 29, 2016
I received a free copy of this from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Norman Bates has always been my favourite serial killer. From the first time I saw Psycho as a child, I have adored him, so when I saw this book I just had to read it. I thought Norman was written perfectly in this story. It was a bit slow to start with but there are plenty of twists after just half way through to make up for it.
Norman Bates has always been my favourite serial killer. From the first time I saw Psycho as a child, I have adored him, so when I saw this book I just had to read it. I thought Norman was written perfectly in this story. It was a bit slow to start with but there are plenty of twists after just half way through to make up for it.
December 23, 2016
Having been a fan of the character of Norman Bates for quite a while, I was really looking forward to reading this story set in the hospital for the criminally insane where he is incarcerated after his murder spree has come to light. Sadly, this novel didn't quite live up to my expectations, however, was still a good read. 3 stars
June 6, 2018
Set between the first two books in the original trilogy, Williamson perfectly captures the feel of Bloc’s brilliant character of Norman Bates.
Set entirely in the asylum, the story tackles Norman’s state on mind whilst plunging the reader into a mystery as a murder has been committed at the penetration centre.
Gripping, it’s a welcome addition to the cannon.
Set entirely in the asylum, the story tackles Norman’s state on mind whilst plunging the reader into a mystery as a murder has been committed at the penetration centre.
Gripping, it’s a welcome addition to the cannon.
May 2, 2016
Wow! A surprising shift in the story line! Very good!
January 17, 2026
Very interesting take on what happened to Norman Bates after he is committed. Definitely for fans of Psycho both the book and movie
August 28, 2021
Pure and 1950's Horror Inpired Classic Horror! Norman Bates and his 'Mother' are back! And you thought you had seen it all with the 'original Psycho; Norman Bates!'
I went into this thinking that it was going to be as bad and terrible as the original author; Robert Bloch's sequels were......wrong! I loved this.
I listened to the audiobook version that was narrated by the author; Chet Williamson and I loved it. The 50's inspired sound effects and eerie music, and radio sounds were dead on. The scenes with Norman and 'Mother' were so well done, and he even sounded JUST like Anthony Perkins, that it was eerie as hell. Now, we see Norman right after the murders of Marie Crane and Detective Arbogast, and his being admitted to the sanitarium. Norman keeps to himself and is the perfect patient....that is until he finds out that he was NOT his mother's only child!!! What the HELL are we in for?
4 🔪🔪🔪🔪
I went into this thinking that it was going to be as bad and terrible as the original author; Robert Bloch's sequels were......wrong! I loved this.
I listened to the audiobook version that was narrated by the author; Chet Williamson and I loved it. The 50's inspired sound effects and eerie music, and radio sounds were dead on. The scenes with Norman and 'Mother' were so well done, and he even sounded JUST like Anthony Perkins, that it was eerie as hell. Now, we see Norman right after the murders of Marie Crane and Detective Arbogast, and his being admitted to the sanitarium. Norman keeps to himself and is the perfect patient....that is until he finds out that he was NOT his mother's only child!!! What the HELL are we in for?
4 🔪🔪🔪🔪
October 5, 2016
Good story and characters. The plot did drag for a while and I didn't see the twist coming but it felt forced in order to have the book come to a dramatic closing.
February 10, 2018
I really enjoyed this book! I went into it not expecting much because it's not by Robert Bloch, the original author of the Psycho novels but honestly, I enjoyed it just as much as the original Psycho novel! I chose to read this book in between Psycho and Psycho II since it's written that way chronologically. I plan to read Psycho II and Psycho House by Robert Bloch next.
May 22, 2018
psycho: sanitarium by Chet Williamson.
in October 1960 the state hospital for the criminally insane housed prisoners who were too sick to be executed or to be set free. Norman Bates was sent here.this book is about him. did he kill 4 people or was it more? and is he really insane?
This was a good read with likeable characters. A little slow in places. but still read it. 4*.
in October 1960 the state hospital for the criminally insane housed prisoners who were too sick to be executed or to be set free. Norman Bates was sent here.this book is about him. did he kill 4 people or was it more? and is he really insane?
This was a good read with likeable characters. A little slow in places. but still read it. 4*.
March 14, 2017
keeps you guessing. loved the book!
March 24, 2024
A solid book based on Norman Bates and the world of Psycho. This book does not give us anything new but it gives us a story of Norman b4 he dies in the other Robert Bloch books. If u read the other novels and liked them, give this one a try.
Read
June 2, 2024Psycho: Sanitarium
In Lincoln a boy is reading a “Monsters” magazine (his favorite). It’s about the favorite monsters from the movies. He asks his dad can he stay up to watch “Horror Theatre” (Phantom of the Opera). The dad says the week he turns 12 he can stay up and watch horror theatre. The boy is satisfied with this. We skip to Myron Gunn whose harassing Norman Bates and taunting him to let “Mother” out. He telling him Satan got into him not his mother. Norman is now in a facility for “patients” (aka inmates). “Mother” (who’s in charge now) watches all this and keeps Norman silent. Luckily Dr. Reed comes in and interfers. Reed have taken over Norman’s case. Notman noe has gone into catatonia as if “Norma” has shut down all communication because he’s said too much. Reed encourages him to “come back” so he can help him. Marie (the nurse) then comes in to feed Norman. During the feedings he’s docile. Her touch tho sparks and sets off “Mother” who scolds him for his “dirty thoughts”. After finishing his cake, he’s helped into bed by Ben and Dick.
After this they take a smoke and coffee break and talk about Halloween coming up. They talk briefly about some of the things the patients could have seen because the facility is built by a cemetary. Since Myron can’t take the meaness in him out on Norman, he goes to find the head nurse Eleanor. So, they screw in the laundry room. Afterward, we find out Myron is married to a woman named Mary but they haven’t had sex in nine years. So, he “made an arrangement with Jesuss” that if he stayed with Mary Jesus would turn a blind eye to him being with Eleanor. Even tho Eleanor has been asking him for more (to leave his wife). Only that “would be going against the bible”. When they’re done, they hear a sound, but Myron says it’s just pipes.
Reed meets with Goldberg (the head supervior) and Goldberg wants to know if there’s been any progress with Norman. He says he’s allowed physical contact but as yet isn’t talking. He says he thinks he can get to him. Goldberg wants to try shock therapy but Reed says Norman isn’t violent and Goldberg backs down. But he says he won’t hold off forever. “Mother” shows Norman a vision of himself killing Mary Crane to prove it was him not her.
Norman begins to progress slowly over time. There are slight movements to indicate he’s listening and hearing. He tries to techniques to show “Mother” has no control over him by using gentle tones. Marie also nurtures him with non judgemental words, food, and drink. Norman grows the confidence to tell “Mother” to go away. As he progresses further Norman starts to establish eye contact with Reed and Marie, feed himself, give audible responses, and then the sounds become words. He also begins to smile and he starts to open up to Reed about his thoughts. Reed learns that generally Norman just wants to be good but there’s a darkness in him that better left alone. He tells Reed it’s “Mother” who made him kill and he realizes it’s best he be locked up, but Reed gives him encouragement that if he keeps her under control, he might be able to leave there a free man. He keeps conversation short with Marie fearing hell say something inappropriate. Dr. Reed starts to share books with him.
He shuts down tho when bombarded by the visits of Reed, Stein, and Goldberg. Steiner pressures Reed after this to get Norman to be more social (to which he’s hesitant saying he’s not ready). Reed encourages Norman to go to the Social Center but when he gets there it’s a bit too much for Norman to process. He sits down to read a magazine and is approached by Reginald miller. He wants to kill someone and is the one “claiming instanity” so he’ll stay in the asylum and not have a lenghtly prison stay by pretending to be a bat shit crazy rapist. He’s a “super fan” of Norman’s and can’t imagine the feeling of not only raping a woman but the power of killing one and taking it all away. Ronald blabs on and on about their reputations and Norman remains silent. Then he starts to ask Norman’s questions about the details of how he’d killed Mary Crane. He asks a question so vile that Norman pukes all over the floor. Dr. Reed then escorts him back to his room and Ronald plays dumb, but he knows he wants to talk to him again if only to disturb him. Marie comes by with dinner. For bravery she gives Norman a piece of petrified wood that her father gave her for courage.
The sessions with Reed continue. One day Reed gives Norman the news that he’s been given documentation that he has a twin brother (non identical). Norman notices the resemblance in a picture. The man also noticed the resemblance and decided to look into it. He’d been adopted and had been left at a chirty home. He was disfigured and had an abnormal skull. The man wants to meet him and doesn’t care if he’s a little off. Reed thinks it’ll be good for him. Reed says he wouldn’t have to see him again after the first time and he doesn’t have to at all if he doesn’t want too. Oh and by the way he’s *there* and his name is Robert Newman. Norman agrees to meet him. That sets off “Mother” who says the man is lying and he must want something, but Norman tells her he thinks she abandoned him. Then Robert arrives
After talking about Robert’s life Norman tells him about his. When he gets to the part about their mother he breaks down and admits to Robert that he killed her Robert hugs and comforts him and tells him it’s ok. He understands. Shortly after Reed ends the visit and Robert says he’d like to see him again. Norman says he’d like this. After this its arranged for Robert to visit regularly. Reed wants to keep it from Goldberg. Norman actually wants to go to the Social Center to make Reed and his brother proud, but he finds out Reed won’t be staying. Ronald shows up and starts harassing Norman again, but he gets up and walks to another chair. This doesn’t deter Ronald and he follows him and keeps taunting him and talking. Ronald says if he doesn’t tell him something, eventually he’ll rape Norman. Norman shows restraint and doesn’t hit him. Instead, he starts to cry. Miller takes his nail and scrapes Norman’s hand telling him to think about it. Reed says Miller will be “reprimanded” and won[‘t be allowed further in the Social Hall.
Robert visits and they talk about miller. Robert says it’s guys like that who make him undersand why Norman is the way he is. He tells him he respects him for killing people when he felt he had too. Then he starts to show his dark side and talks about how it was (him) who did the killings, not “Mother”. Then “Mother” is in his ear about maybe he is her son because he sees the truth. Robert says he wishes he had the nerve to feel more power. But Norman tells him he does not want that. If he could take it back (all the lives he took) he would. He says if he could kil they’re linked so he can to. He says that Norman wouldn’t take it back. Hed just be more careful and Norman realizes this truly is his brother. Ronald Miller is fantasizing about raping and killing one of the nurses and then hers noises (scratching). He finds himself dying after a knife plunge into him.
Norman has a nightmare of a bloody room. He sees a naked man covered in blood with a knife. Just as he’s about to see the man’s face, blood rains down on him obscuring his sight and he begins to scream. After seeing that it was just a nightmare, Tom goes to check the other inmates and discovers Miller gone. A search is called. The building is check top to bottom. There’s no trace of Ronalad. It’s said he’s escaped and it’s feared he might rape again. The sheriffs and the heads even talk about could someone have gotten in, helped him escape, killed him, and taken the body with them. Norman is told the next day and the news comes as a relief. There’s a patient that even thinks the ghosts ate Miller and starts to starve himself. Wesley ends up being force feed by Myron and some of the other attendants. Myron of course takes it too far. Norman happens to see this as he’s taking one of his daily walks and Myron taunts him about using some of the torture methods on him. Marie comes in and blasts out Frank (who let him see the procedure) and Myron. Myron brushes Marie off and explains it off as doing good (while putting the blame on Frank). Frank then escorts Norman back to his room. Reed comes to give Norman a pill to calm him and they have a session. Robert tells him when he visits he had a psychic vision and he saw some of what Norman was seeing. Norman remembers his dream and wonders was he seeing through his eyes. Norman says he doesn’t think so but he had a bad drams and tells him about it. Robert asks if it’s possible he can see into his thoughts. Then he asks was he the man in the dream. Norman gets uncomfortable and changes the subject. Eleanor makes Marie write Myron a letter of apology after he vents to her.
On a stormy night, Elenor and Myron *after calming the patients* they slip off to have sex. While making love, Elenor notices Myron bledding and sees a man towering over her. Eleanor tries to get away and hide in the darkness. There’s no where to hide and she can’t fight it off. It grabs her by the neck and stabs her. Myron is slit up the nose and knows it’s his own sins that did it (in earlier thinking of leaving his wife for Elenor). Just as his brother did, Robert sinks a car with his victims inside. Norman has another dream about two familiar faces (Myron and Elenor). There’s red around them and they’re shuttering and cringing. He thinks maybe he wants to see them suffer and that’s why his subconscious placed them in the dream.
Myron and Elenor don’t show the next day. Searches are done in the building again. Elenors keys and purse are still there. It’s decided they drove off in Myron’s car. Hers is still there. They check Eleanor’s house. It’s empty. They also discuss the possibility Ronald might be behind the disappearance. The police and staff frind Eleanor’s “just in case” suitcase and some towels are reported missing. The cover of the towels is missing as well. Norman overhears some of the other patients talking about Myron and Eleanor’s disappearance. They say the ghosts got em. Norman thinks about how all the victims posed a threat to him, Norman talks to Reed about his concerns but he says the dreams are projecting onto Myron and Eleanor what hed felt (and wants them to feel) and it’s natural that his brother would want to protect him. He points out how in each situation it wouldn’t be logical to keep them out.
After twp weels, Robert comes to visit again, They talk about Norman’s dream and Norman asks did he make them go away. He says he made Norman a promise that no one would bother him, but says Myron and Elenor ran off together and that’s that. Goldberg pays Norman another visit and he tries to talk to him but can’t because of fear. Goldberg tells him that if he can’t hold a conversation with him in the near future he’ll be getting shock therapy and Reed will no longer be over him. Norman tells his brother about his problem and his brother tells him he will not be getting shock therapy, Norman gives him his lucky piece of wood. Robert slips into Goldberg’s office, turns out the lights, (while he’s drifted off listening to opera), bites him, then stabs him.
Ben sees a shadow and he and Dick follow it outside the grounds. When Ben has him cornered, he pulls a gun. The gun goes off but Dick hits him from behind. They don’t recognize the man. They then tie him up and call the police. Norman has another bad dream and wakes up in a cold sweat. Marie goes into Goldsberg’s office and finds the wood she gave Norman on the floor. Goldsberg isn’t there. Robert steals a car and adds Goldsberg and it to the collection in the swamp, The man caught (Bergman) says he was sent there to assassinate Goldsberg whose real name is Gephard and turns out he’s a (war criminal?) Goldsberg when they try to find him to question him has disappeared. Marie goes to Norman’s dr with her concerns and tells him about the wood.
Wjem asled anpit the wiped. Mpr,am tells Reed he gave it to his brother for luck. Reed tells him the stone was found in Goldberg’s office but says they’ll figure something out. When Robert visist he tells him he probably didn’t have the stone in his pocket deep enough and Goldsberg found it. From what I can tell during the sessions, Reed created another personality in Norman (Robert) that convinced him to kill again. “Mother” convinces Norman to let Robert back in and promises she won’t let him hurt Marie. Throughout the book, the original owner of the institute is keeping a journal that goes from his initial idea to treat paitents, to his failed attempts (and eventually closing of the institute). Reed finds his diary in the ceiling and the blue prints of the building with all it’s hidden passages and tunnels. He’s hyptnotized Norman to help him carry out these killings in his best interest under the guise of “Robert”. Now he has to get rid of Marie. “Mother” tells Normon all this and then steps in to confront “Reed”. “Reed” says there is a “Robert” and then his features change into Robert. “Mother” finishes him off. After this, “Mother” says she won’t let anyone fool Norman again. Norman goes back to barely communicating, Reed isn’t found, Steiner takes over, and much later Reeds notes are found by a custodian and burned.
My Thoughts
Toward the end this got “thick”. There were some things I felt that were expanded *too* much. Such as the back story of Goldberg. During this part it lost me just a ittle bit (and my interest). Honestly it also did feel slightly unnecessary with the originators thoughts of how he wanted the facility to be used and the past history of his methods. It was ,, I guess useful to know but I was focusing on Norman’s story in itself. Until the end the story was going at an *even* pace and was building. Then it got to Reed’s notes and it felt like a HUGE info dump. Robet was talking. Norman was talking. Norma was talking. I was thinking WHAT THE .. IS GOING ON? ! It got real confusing real quick. Then the twist was revealed. The twist was again AMAZING! There were NO TRACES WHATSOEVER that it was coming. I did go back and think about the hypnosis Reed was doing, but that was so slightly done that it could easily not be connected to bringing out a whole nother person. This book did a great job of pulling at your heart strings and making you actually feel sympathy for Norman despite him being CRAZY and for the way people are treated in institutions like this. The force feeding and the thought of the shock therapy actually makes my stomach want to turn but then the acts people in these places commit it kinda goes all out the window. This was another GREAT addition to this series. It was one of those books that I was so determined to read I bought it.
Rating: 8 This has GOT to be the world’s biggest swamp and the foulest smelling one in creation!
In Lincoln a boy is reading a “Monsters” magazine (his favorite). It’s about the favorite monsters from the movies. He asks his dad can he stay up to watch “Horror Theatre” (Phantom of the Opera). The dad says the week he turns 12 he can stay up and watch horror theatre. The boy is satisfied with this. We skip to Myron Gunn whose harassing Norman Bates and taunting him to let “Mother” out. He telling him Satan got into him not his mother. Norman is now in a facility for “patients” (aka inmates). “Mother” (who’s in charge now) watches all this and keeps Norman silent. Luckily Dr. Reed comes in and interfers. Reed have taken over Norman’s case. Notman noe has gone into catatonia as if “Norma” has shut down all communication because he’s said too much. Reed encourages him to “come back” so he can help him. Marie (the nurse) then comes in to feed Norman. During the feedings he’s docile. Her touch tho sparks and sets off “Mother” who scolds him for his “dirty thoughts”. After finishing his cake, he’s helped into bed by Ben and Dick.
After this they take a smoke and coffee break and talk about Halloween coming up. They talk briefly about some of the things the patients could have seen because the facility is built by a cemetary. Since Myron can’t take the meaness in him out on Norman, he goes to find the head nurse Eleanor. So, they screw in the laundry room. Afterward, we find out Myron is married to a woman named Mary but they haven’t had sex in nine years. So, he “made an arrangement with Jesuss” that if he stayed with Mary Jesus would turn a blind eye to him being with Eleanor. Even tho Eleanor has been asking him for more (to leave his wife). Only that “would be going against the bible”. When they’re done, they hear a sound, but Myron says it’s just pipes.
Reed meets with Goldberg (the head supervior) and Goldberg wants to know if there’s been any progress with Norman. He says he’s allowed physical contact but as yet isn’t talking. He says he thinks he can get to him. Goldberg wants to try shock therapy but Reed says Norman isn’t violent and Goldberg backs down. But he says he won’t hold off forever. “Mother” shows Norman a vision of himself killing Mary Crane to prove it was him not her.
Norman begins to progress slowly over time. There are slight movements to indicate he’s listening and hearing. He tries to techniques to show “Mother” has no control over him by using gentle tones. Marie also nurtures him with non judgemental words, food, and drink. Norman grows the confidence to tell “Mother” to go away. As he progresses further Norman starts to establish eye contact with Reed and Marie, feed himself, give audible responses, and then the sounds become words. He also begins to smile and he starts to open up to Reed about his thoughts. Reed learns that generally Norman just wants to be good but there’s a darkness in him that better left alone. He tells Reed it’s “Mother” who made him kill and he realizes it’s best he be locked up, but Reed gives him encouragement that if he keeps her under control, he might be able to leave there a free man. He keeps conversation short with Marie fearing hell say something inappropriate. Dr. Reed starts to share books with him.
He shuts down tho when bombarded by the visits of Reed, Stein, and Goldberg. Steiner pressures Reed after this to get Norman to be more social (to which he’s hesitant saying he’s not ready). Reed encourages Norman to go to the Social Center but when he gets there it’s a bit too much for Norman to process. He sits down to read a magazine and is approached by Reginald miller. He wants to kill someone and is the one “claiming instanity” so he’ll stay in the asylum and not have a lenghtly prison stay by pretending to be a bat shit crazy rapist. He’s a “super fan” of Norman’s and can’t imagine the feeling of not only raping a woman but the power of killing one and taking it all away. Ronald blabs on and on about their reputations and Norman remains silent. Then he starts to ask Norman’s questions about the details of how he’d killed Mary Crane. He asks a question so vile that Norman pukes all over the floor. Dr. Reed then escorts him back to his room and Ronald plays dumb, but he knows he wants to talk to him again if only to disturb him. Marie comes by with dinner. For bravery she gives Norman a piece of petrified wood that her father gave her for courage.
The sessions with Reed continue. One day Reed gives Norman the news that he’s been given documentation that he has a twin brother (non identical). Norman notices the resemblance in a picture. The man also noticed the resemblance and decided to look into it. He’d been adopted and had been left at a chirty home. He was disfigured and had an abnormal skull. The man wants to meet him and doesn’t care if he’s a little off. Reed thinks it’ll be good for him. Reed says he wouldn’t have to see him again after the first time and he doesn’t have to at all if he doesn’t want too. Oh and by the way he’s *there* and his name is Robert Newman. Norman agrees to meet him. That sets off “Mother” who says the man is lying and he must want something, but Norman tells her he thinks she abandoned him. Then Robert arrives
After talking about Robert’s life Norman tells him about his. When he gets to the part about their mother he breaks down and admits to Robert that he killed her Robert hugs and comforts him and tells him it’s ok. He understands. Shortly after Reed ends the visit and Robert says he’d like to see him again. Norman says he’d like this. After this its arranged for Robert to visit regularly. Reed wants to keep it from Goldberg. Norman actually wants to go to the Social Center to make Reed and his brother proud, but he finds out Reed won’t be staying. Ronald shows up and starts harassing Norman again, but he gets up and walks to another chair. This doesn’t deter Ronald and he follows him and keeps taunting him and talking. Ronald says if he doesn’t tell him something, eventually he’ll rape Norman. Norman shows restraint and doesn’t hit him. Instead, he starts to cry. Miller takes his nail and scrapes Norman’s hand telling him to think about it. Reed says Miller will be “reprimanded” and won[‘t be allowed further in the Social Hall.
Robert visits and they talk about miller. Robert says it’s guys like that who make him undersand why Norman is the way he is. He tells him he respects him for killing people when he felt he had too. Then he starts to show his dark side and talks about how it was (him) who did the killings, not “Mother”. Then “Mother” is in his ear about maybe he is her son because he sees the truth. Robert says he wishes he had the nerve to feel more power. But Norman tells him he does not want that. If he could take it back (all the lives he took) he would. He says if he could kil they’re linked so he can to. He says that Norman wouldn’t take it back. Hed just be more careful and Norman realizes this truly is his brother. Ronald Miller is fantasizing about raping and killing one of the nurses and then hers noises (scratching). He finds himself dying after a knife plunge into him.
Norman has a nightmare of a bloody room. He sees a naked man covered in blood with a knife. Just as he’s about to see the man’s face, blood rains down on him obscuring his sight and he begins to scream. After seeing that it was just a nightmare, Tom goes to check the other inmates and discovers Miller gone. A search is called. The building is check top to bottom. There’s no trace of Ronalad. It’s said he’s escaped and it’s feared he might rape again. The sheriffs and the heads even talk about could someone have gotten in, helped him escape, killed him, and taken the body with them. Norman is told the next day and the news comes as a relief. There’s a patient that even thinks the ghosts ate Miller and starts to starve himself. Wesley ends up being force feed by Myron and some of the other attendants. Myron of course takes it too far. Norman happens to see this as he’s taking one of his daily walks and Myron taunts him about using some of the torture methods on him. Marie comes in and blasts out Frank (who let him see the procedure) and Myron. Myron brushes Marie off and explains it off as doing good (while putting the blame on Frank). Frank then escorts Norman back to his room. Reed comes to give Norman a pill to calm him and they have a session. Robert tells him when he visits he had a psychic vision and he saw some of what Norman was seeing. Norman remembers his dream and wonders was he seeing through his eyes. Norman says he doesn’t think so but he had a bad drams and tells him about it. Robert asks if it’s possible he can see into his thoughts. Then he asks was he the man in the dream. Norman gets uncomfortable and changes the subject. Eleanor makes Marie write Myron a letter of apology after he vents to her.
On a stormy night, Elenor and Myron *after calming the patients* they slip off to have sex. While making love, Elenor notices Myron bledding and sees a man towering over her. Eleanor tries to get away and hide in the darkness. There’s no where to hide and she can’t fight it off. It grabs her by the neck and stabs her. Myron is slit up the nose and knows it’s his own sins that did it (in earlier thinking of leaving his wife for Elenor). Just as his brother did, Robert sinks a car with his victims inside. Norman has another dream about two familiar faces (Myron and Elenor). There’s red around them and they’re shuttering and cringing. He thinks maybe he wants to see them suffer and that’s why his subconscious placed them in the dream.
Myron and Elenor don’t show the next day. Searches are done in the building again. Elenors keys and purse are still there. It’s decided they drove off in Myron’s car. Hers is still there. They check Eleanor’s house. It’s empty. They also discuss the possibility Ronald might be behind the disappearance. The police and staff frind Eleanor’s “just in case” suitcase and some towels are reported missing. The cover of the towels is missing as well. Norman overhears some of the other patients talking about Myron and Eleanor’s disappearance. They say the ghosts got em. Norman thinks about how all the victims posed a threat to him, Norman talks to Reed about his concerns but he says the dreams are projecting onto Myron and Eleanor what hed felt (and wants them to feel) and it’s natural that his brother would want to protect him. He points out how in each situation it wouldn’t be logical to keep them out.
After twp weels, Robert comes to visit again, They talk about Norman’s dream and Norman asks did he make them go away. He says he made Norman a promise that no one would bother him, but says Myron and Elenor ran off together and that’s that. Goldberg pays Norman another visit and he tries to talk to him but can’t because of fear. Goldberg tells him that if he can’t hold a conversation with him in the near future he’ll be getting shock therapy and Reed will no longer be over him. Norman tells his brother about his problem and his brother tells him he will not be getting shock therapy, Norman gives him his lucky piece of wood. Robert slips into Goldberg’s office, turns out the lights, (while he’s drifted off listening to opera), bites him, then stabs him.
Ben sees a shadow and he and Dick follow it outside the grounds. When Ben has him cornered, he pulls a gun. The gun goes off but Dick hits him from behind. They don’t recognize the man. They then tie him up and call the police. Norman has another bad dream and wakes up in a cold sweat. Marie goes into Goldsberg’s office and finds the wood she gave Norman on the floor. Goldsberg isn’t there. Robert steals a car and adds Goldsberg and it to the collection in the swamp, The man caught (Bergman) says he was sent there to assassinate Goldsberg whose real name is Gephard and turns out he’s a (war criminal?) Goldsberg when they try to find him to question him has disappeared. Marie goes to Norman’s dr with her concerns and tells him about the wood.
Wjem asled anpit the wiped. Mpr,am tells Reed he gave it to his brother for luck. Reed tells him the stone was found in Goldberg’s office but says they’ll figure something out. When Robert visist he tells him he probably didn’t have the stone in his pocket deep enough and Goldsberg found it. From what I can tell during the sessions, Reed created another personality in Norman (Robert) that convinced him to kill again. “Mother” convinces Norman to let Robert back in and promises she won’t let him hurt Marie. Throughout the book, the original owner of the institute is keeping a journal that goes from his initial idea to treat paitents, to his failed attempts (and eventually closing of the institute). Reed finds his diary in the ceiling and the blue prints of the building with all it’s hidden passages and tunnels. He’s hyptnotized Norman to help him carry out these killings in his best interest under the guise of “Robert”. Now he has to get rid of Marie. “Mother” tells Normon all this and then steps in to confront “Reed”. “Reed” says there is a “Robert” and then his features change into Robert. “Mother” finishes him off. After this, “Mother” says she won’t let anyone fool Norman again. Norman goes back to barely communicating, Reed isn’t found, Steiner takes over, and much later Reeds notes are found by a custodian and burned.
My Thoughts
Toward the end this got “thick”. There were some things I felt that were expanded *too* much. Such as the back story of Goldberg. During this part it lost me just a ittle bit (and my interest). Honestly it also did feel slightly unnecessary with the originators thoughts of how he wanted the facility to be used and the past history of his methods. It was ,, I guess useful to know but I was focusing on Norman’s story in itself. Until the end the story was going at an *even* pace and was building. Then it got to Reed’s notes and it felt like a HUGE info dump. Robet was talking. Norman was talking. Norma was talking. I was thinking WHAT THE .. IS GOING ON? ! It got real confusing real quick. Then the twist was revealed. The twist was again AMAZING! There were NO TRACES WHATSOEVER that it was coming. I did go back and think about the hypnosis Reed was doing, but that was so slightly done that it could easily not be connected to bringing out a whole nother person. This book did a great job of pulling at your heart strings and making you actually feel sympathy for Norman despite him being CRAZY and for the way people are treated in institutions like this. The force feeding and the thought of the shock therapy actually makes my stomach want to turn but then the acts people in these places commit it kinda goes all out the window. This was another GREAT addition to this series. It was one of those books that I was so determined to read I bought it.
Rating: 8 This has GOT to be the world’s biggest swamp and the foulest smelling one in creation!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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