Psychiatrist Haleigh Hugo thinks he’s found the perfect setting for his experimental treatment plan -- an isolated home in the middle of a small lake in the high Sierras. Dr. Hugo’s office mate and life partner, Guy Sanford, is unconvinced that the benefits of the treatment plan outweigh the risks, but soon gives in to the charm and boundless enthusiasm of his lover.<br><br>Dr. Hugo’s subjects are six female patients who have failed to make what he considers significant progress in one-to-one therapy. They all share something in common: grief over the loss of a loved one, a psychological barrier that prevents them from moving on. Hilary Colbert lost her life partner to a serious illness; Jennie Travers no longer trusts her unfaithful husband; Meeda O’Connell’s infant son died in his crib; Vera Field wakes from a coma to learn her father has committed a senseless crime: Sarah/April Preston no longer knows who she is and suffers from a loss of identity; and Emily West has psychic abilities yet longs for a normal human existence.<br><br>The six patients, overseen by Dr. Hugo and Dr. Sanford, descend on Devonshire, a simple mountain home on the lake for a weekend of intense therapy. Yet within the walls of the home lies a terrible and painful secret that haunts anyone who comes near.

Too Long Among the Dead

Hal brushed the comment away and continued to pace back and forth by the fire.


“Then why bring these fragile women here? People aren’t machines. You can’t control them, least of all their emotions. Besides, this weekend was youridea, not mine.”


“Nice to have your undying support, lover.”


“You found Devonshire, rented it, took care of all the particulars, the food, the van, and even saw to the launch that was ready and waiting when we arrived.” Guy took a breather and stepped back a bit from his diatribe. It seemed to be doing neither of them much good. “Just let them enjoy each other’s company, their developing friendships, and see where it goes. They might even achieve together what we’ve failed miserably at during months of therapy. How’s that for experimental? I’m just surprised you haven’t fallen right in line with what’s happening here.”


Chapter 36