Alex Michaelides’ The Silent Patient is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. The pacing is perfect, with the author expertly weaving together a complex plot filled with unexpected twists and turns. The characters are well-developed and believable, making it easy to become immersed in their world. One of the most impressive aspects of this book is the way Michaelides keeps the reader guessing. Just when you think you’ve figured out the mystery the story takes a surprising turn - and then another turn and then another. The ending is both satisfying and thought-provoking, leaving you wanting more. If you’re looking for a fast-paced thriller that will keep you in suspense, I highly recommend The Silent Patient.

This was absolutely brilliant. I felt like I was reading a true life event. The way this author writes is absolutely enthralling and is incredibly intelligent. I was caught off guard so many times. I couldn’t stop the pages from turning. I gasped and physically covered my mouth when truth came to light. I truly can’t put into words how impressed I am.

The book was good, the twist was unexpected and I even had to reread the last couple chapters to understand it fully. The characters were decent, some of the psych stuff was a bit overplayed but, it was still a well rounded work. 7/10👁️(362pgs)

This one was painful. The writing itself is fine, but the bulk of the book is deeply boring at the best of times and weirdly stigmatizing of cluster B disorders at the worst. The twist is interesting leading to a brief period in the last 10% of the book in which you think for a moment perhaps the book was good after all and not a complete waste of your time. Unfortunately that doesn't last. The story quickly reverts to boring, but now with a sense of rushing to the finish about it. 3 stars because while I didn't really enjoy it the writing itself is pretty good and I think if it had been given a few more revisions and rewrites it could have shined.

I'm pretty picky about books but this book is amazing and keeps you interested. I love that it's well written and twisty. I've read the second book in the series now too and it's just as good. Definitely recommend!!

I don't think I have read a book like this where the plot twists and twists and twists and then twists again. The characters were well defined; the book hard to put down. I was so shocked at the end that I had to sit and recover. A mystery to end all mysteries!

It is difficult to review this book without inadvertently revealing too much. I can usually see a startling plot twist or a surprising character disclosure on the far horizon, but the stunner plot twist genuinely shocked me. It was original and inventive, but disturbing. The reader embarks on a journey with the book. A psychological thriller that is equal parts detective story. It begin with an earnest forensic psychotherapist, who is hired to treat a mute patient at a facility, who hasn’t spoken since she shot and killed her husband several years ago. Theo is determined to be the one to reach Alicia, who was once a famous painter. He theorizes that if he can renew her desire to paint, perhaps he can break her silence and heal the trauma that’s impeding her voice. This is the crux of the tale. Why did Alicia murder her spouse and why won’t she speak? The reader is lulled into believing that the story will lead down a particular path, and then, suddenly, the narrative becomes something else entirely. I was disappointed that I’d been fooled by the misdirection, but this was cleverly done by Michaelides. Several red herrings were introduced by the author, making many characters into potential culprits, capable of misdeeds. I enjoyed the psychological aspects of the book, and found the discussions regarding early childhood development and trauma exposure to be compelling. This is a dark and atmospheric tale, in which art and weather figure prominently. Actions and motivations are as mercurial as the humid heat, the respite of falling snow or an angry, careless brushstroke. The book concludes abruptly, and is left open-ended, which is decidedly frustrating, given the powerful reveal that was the point of the entire endeavor. Michaelides mentions his wish to revisit Theo’s character again in the future, so perhaps more will be forthcoming. The story is already provocative. The ambiguous, unfinished ending just invites more intrigue, speculation and individual interpretation. This is a chilling mystery and a worthy debut.

Such a good book! The twists and turns! I couldn't put it down! It's fast paced and witty, not to mention shocking!