When I downloaded a sample of this book in my kindle as an addition to a never-ending list of fascinating reads, I never expected this one to influence me to such vast extent. It would be an understatement to say that this book left a solid mark in my mind. I couldn’t imagine reading another heavy thriller after this because the narration and aftermath weighed me down.
I might be hyping the read a bit too much without even revealing it’s identity. So ladies and gentlemen, shall I have a drumroll, a few cheers would be better……
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides.
If you have already read it, then I sincerely apologize for wasting 30 seconds. But if you have not then it’s time to dim the lights and start my PowerPoint presentation.
The main protagonist, Theo Faber, a forensic psychotherapist is fascinated and intrigued by the murder case of Gabriel Berenson. But the protagonist is not as interested in the mystery of the actual murder but rather on Gabriel’s wife, Alicia Berenson. She is allegedly charged for the murder of her husband for being the only one present at the crime scene. The police found Alicia with a gun and the brutally murdered body of Gabriel. But she was not given jail imprisonment and rather kept at The Grove for therapy. Why you ask, because she refused to utter a single word. The investigation was of no use if the possible murderer did not start a conversation. She appeared blanked out and in a deep trauma.
This is were our psychotherapist comes into the picture. He finds interest in Alicia’s outlandish case and tries humanly to make her talk. The therapy is a slow process but the author keeps us on the edge with frequent mentions of Theo’s personal life and his abusive childhood. Additional characters like Kathy Theo’s wife, Max Gabriel’s brother, Paul Alicia’s cousin, all enhance the complexity of the plot.
Being an artist Alicia takes Solace in painting. Her last painting named the Alcestis inspired by The Athenian tragedy Alcestis, by Euripides adds another mystery and dimension to the storyline.
I completed this book within 2 to 3 days but would have completed it in a single day if not for my school work. The part that actually makes it a fulfilling read is the ultimate twist in the story. The plot of the story is very refreshing and pristine which automatically draws you towards it. This may or may not be an extremely well written book but the plot distracted me from all other technical aspects.
Then what are you waiting for? Grab a copy and commence your lofty venture. Oh and you might want to have a room you can scream your frustration out once you terminate the read. Good Luck!!
