Madness

New York Times bestselling author Zac Brewer delivers his most honest and gripping novel yet, about a girl who believes she’s beyond saving—until she realizes the only person who can save her is herself.

Brooke Danvers is pretending to be fine. She’s gotten so good at pretending that they’re letting her leave inpatient therapy. Now she just has to fake it long enough for her parents and teachers to let their guard down. This time, when she's ready to end her life, there won’t be anyone around to stop her.

Then Brooke meets Derek. Derek is the only person who really gets what Brooke is going through, because he’s going through it too. As they start spending more time together, Brooke suddenly finds herself having something to look forward to every day and maybe even happiness.

But when Derek’s feelings for her intensify, Brooke is forced to accept that the same relationship that is bringing out the best in her might be bringing out the worst in Derek—and that Derek at his worst could be capable of real darkness.

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Published Sep 19, 2017

786 pages

Average rating: 9.14

21 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

Anonymous
Nov 01, 2024
8/10 stars
I was reluctant to read this book and I'm not sure why. Once I actually gave it time, I did enjoy it. I definitely don't think this book is suitable for YA. Maybe certain mature young people, but I think it could be really triggering and confusing to some teens dealing with emotional issues and unsure of how to deal with difficult feelings. This book was also a bit unrealistic. Mid book, Brooke is suddenly not depressed anymore and wants to live. Because of her relationship with Derek? Maybe. But I felt like a big chunk of book was almost missing. Suddenly Brooke goes from suicidal (attempting suicide a second time?) to happy and wanting to live. Ideal for real life, but not realistic by any means. Also, the murder-suicide attempt was a bit.. strange? I'll admit I was not expecting that, but it just didn't feel real enough. I did connect with the characters, although the dad really pissed me off at times. I absolutely loved Duckie. Overall, I'm glad I decided to read this book.
LDew
Jun 26, 2025
8/10 stars
With all the hype surrounding this book I guess I was expecting more? It was good, don't get me wrong, but Ryat, Tyson and Saint were my favorites in the series. Again, another DR with trigger warnings. Good plot overall and gave clues to things from other books to help unravel small details as well as set up for the next book.
@thekimlewis
Jun 25, 2025
10/10 stars
I am going to do my best to write this review with no spoilers, but it may happen so be warned!

WHATTTTTT!!!! There are so many secrets that came out in this book that, a day later, my head is still spinning. There was a LOT that happened in the last 25% of the book that I was having to go back to verify what I read was what I read!

I will say, I did not care for Charlotte at first, but after hearing Bill's side of the story, I understand a lot more that happened at the beginning of the book. (Mostly with her neediness/clenching thighs and the serum she was given to make her needier.)

I can't wait for the audiobook to come out so I can give it a re-read and are we taking bets on who the next MMC will be about?!
CPaine
Feb 25, 2025
9/10 stars
He is my favorite of all love love love

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