Silence for the Dead

Wonderfully gothic, creepy post-WWI historical fiction. The plot is an embarrassment of riches: an old mansion full of mental patients (or PTSD survivors to use 21st century vernacular); a not-quite-Nurse-Ratched; odious smells, mysterious noises and ghostly visions; and a romance between Kitty, who's not quite a nurse, and Jack, who's more than a patient. Very atmospheric and compelling.

Docked one star for the secondary character who knows exactly what is going on, but won't tell Kitty because Reasons.

So far my very favorite of St. James' historical horrors. Absolutely loved everything about this story, the characters, the plot, the outcome all so well done. My only hitch was the slow start.

I actually finished this a few days ago but am being really bad about updating goodreads. This is probably closer to a 4.5 but I'm going to round up because this held my interest which right now is almost impossible. Great writing and atmosphere build up. Good ghost story.

Topics of PTSD and mental health were way sadder than I expected so keep that in mind before diving in

I love the strength and capability of Kitty. I like how St. James portrays what PTSD really looks like and how shameful that was for families. And yet elk the characters have dignity. That is a great strength. And it all ends fairly happy.

The happy ending kind of annoyed me.