Book Review: The Silent Patient
The Silent Patient, the debut novel by Alex Michaelides, has quickly become a sensation in the psychological thriller genre, and for good reason. This gripping story revolves around Alicia Berenson, a celebrated painter who seemingly has the perfect life until she is found standing over the body of her husband, Gabriel, who has been shot multiple times in the face. What makes the case even more perplexing is Alicia’s complete and utter silence following the murder—she refuses to speak a word, leaving the world to wonder about the motive and circumstances behind her shocking act. Enter Theo Faber, a forensic psychotherapist with a deep fascination for Alicia’s case. Theo is determined to break her silence and uncover the truth behind the murder. He takes up a job at The Grove, the psychiatric facility where Alicia is held, and begins a meticulous investigation into her past. As Theo delves deeper, the lines between his professional objectivity and personal obsession begin to blur, creat...