47 pages • 1 hour read
Psycho
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Book Brief
208
Novel • Fiction
Fairvale, California • 1950s
1959
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Psycho by Robert Bloch, a timid, middle-aged man named Norman Bates runs the Bates Motel, where he lives under the oppressive influence of his domineering mother, Norma. When a woman named Mary Crane, fleeing with stolen money, checks into the motel, an increasingly sinister series of events unfold, revealing dark secrets about Norman's past and mental health. The novel contains depictions of trauma, abuse, and outdated mental health practices.
Mysterious
Dark
Unnerving
Suspenseful
Gritty
Reviews & Readership
74,139 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Robert Bloch’s Psycho captivates with its psychological depth and chilling narrative. The novel excels in building tension and delivering twists, earning high praise for its suspense and intricate character development. However, some critics find parts of the prose dated and pacing uneven. Overall, it remains a seminal work in horror fiction.
Who Should Read Psycho?
A reader who enjoys psychological thrillers and horror with intricate, suspenseful plots will find Psycho by Robert Bloch captivating. Fans of Stephen King's The Shining or Shirley Jackson's The Haunting of Hill House will appreciate Bloch's masterful blend of terror and psychological complexity.
74,139 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mary Crane
Mary Crane
A kind young woman who becomes unwittingly entangled in events at the Bates Motel, with her actions and decisions influencing the trajectory of the story.
Lila Crane
Lila Crane
Mary's determined and analytic sister who becomes involved in the investigation following Mary's disappearance, showcasing her strong-willed nature.
Sam Loomis
Sam Loomis
Mary's fiancée and the proprietor of a Fairvale hardware store, who becomes involved in the search for Mary, demonstrating a balance between pride and affection.
208
Novel • Fiction
Fairvale, California • 1950s
1959
Adult
18+ years
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