Dark Room Etiquette
Author:
Robin Roe
Review by Mel on 2023-12-02
A harrowing psychological thriller that explores trauma and survival, Dark Room Etiquette by Robin Roe is a gripping YA read that’s hard to put down.
Sayers Waites has lived a privileged life, never needing to work hard or face real hardship. But everything changes when he is kidnapped by a man named Caleb, who believes Sayers is his long-lost son, Daniel. Locked in a small, windowless room and chained to a bed, Sayers fights to escape—but soon realizes that in order to survive, he may need to become Daniel. As his identity starts to blur, the novel delves deep into the effects of Stockholm syndrome and psychological manipulation.
This fast-paced thriller keeps you on edge with its high-stakes premise and emotional depth. Some aspects felt unrealistic, but given the YA audience, it’s easy to let go and just enjoy the tension-filled journey. The author’s note at the end adds even more weight to the story, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.