"The Silent Patient" by Alex Michaelides is a masterful exploration of trauma, mental illness, and the pursuit of truth. Through the lens of Alicia Berenson, a woman accused of murdering her husband and refusing to speak since the crime, Michaelides explores the ways in which trauma can shape and define a person's identity, as well as the complex interplay between the mind and the body.

One of the key themes of the novel is the idea that the past is never truly gone, but rather lingers on in the present, affecting our thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. Alicia's trauma is deeply ingrained in her psyche and continues to shape her thoughts and actions long after the traumatic event has occurred. By exploring Alicia's past and her relationship with her husband, Gabriel, Michaelides shows how trauma can have lasting effects on a person's mental health.

Another major theme of the novel is the idea that the mind and body are intimately connected, and that mental illness can have physical symptoms. Through Alicia's muteness and her physical deterioration in the aftermath of the murder, Michaelides portrays the way in which trauma can manifest itself physically, as well as mentally. Theo Faber's own experiences with mental illness also serve to underscore this theme, as he struggles to come to terms with his own past trauma and the effect it has had on his own mental health.

The characters in the novel are also complex and well-developed, each with their own flaws and motivations. Alicia is a particularly intriguing character, as she remains silent throughout the majority of the novel, yet her presence is felt throughout. Michaelides effectively uses her diary entries to provide insight into her psyche, while also heightening the sense of suspense and intrigue.

The author's writing style and pacing also contribute to the novel's success. Michaelides' concise and evocative prose keeps the reader engaged throughout, while his use of suspense and plot twists effectively builds tension and keeps the reader guessing. The twist ending is particularly well-executed and will leave readers stunned.

Overall, "The Silent Patient" is a masterful exploration of trauma, mental illness, and the pursuit of truth. Through the compelling characters, evocative prose, and fast-paced plot, Michaelides creates a gripping and thought-provoking psychological thriller that is not to be missed. ( )

I’m sorry I spent the time on this. It was a muddle with too many threads that didn’t go anywhere. Why didn’t his old therapist report him - confidentiality?? Why wasn’t Kathy working? No one was likable. ( )

So many red herrings! Agatha Christie would love Alex Michaelides’ The Silent Patient. The last chapters reveal the killer and what a surprise! Alicia and Gabriel shine as the ideal couple with the perfect marriage and fabulous careers. Then tragedy strikes and handsome Gabriel sits wired to a chair with his body covered with bullets and Alicia stands in front of Gabriel holding a gun. Police arrest the mute Alicia for her husband’s murder and commit her to a mental hospital. No one can coerce Alicia to speak. Enter Theo Faber, a criminal psychotherapist, determined to win Alicia’s trust and ease her into telling her story. The Silent Patient follows Theo and Alicia and the events leading to Gabriel’s murder. This story and Ruth Ware’s The It Girl shake one’s faith in the medical profession. Should we trust doctors? Alex Michaelides unfolds a story rich in scenery and characters. A real page turner. ( )

Kinda disappointed. In ways I really liked it, in other ways it was so unbelievable and I had to pretend I was stupid to go along with it. It started out really strong and got me hooked— but then it started to go down all these rabbit holes and none of them led anywhere. And THEN the ending came and I saw it coming and was hoping I was wrong— and there are so many unbelievable elements in it ( )

Great plot--enjoyed it more than The Maidens. Definitely a page-turner ( )