The Silent Patient by AlexMichaelides
Alicia shot her husband five times and hasn’t spoken since. Her only communication is one last painting, The Alcestis, who sacrificed for her husband and didn’t speak again. Psychiatrist Theo takes an interest in Alicia. Nothing is as it seems.
Our narrator is Theo Faber, a psychiatrist who transfers from Broadmoor (prison) to The Grove (mental hospital) to work with Alicia Berenson. Since Alicia won’t speak, he investigates through witnesses. Christian West is another psychiatrist whom Theo discovers has a long-hidden relationship with Alicia. Jean-Felix Martin owns the gallery that shows Alicia’s work. Max Berenson is Alicia’s brother-in-law, who has a problematic relationship with her. Theo is interested in Alicia because they share childhoods in dysfunctional families. They also share difficult marriages. Theo’s wife, Kathy, is having a passionate affair. Theo uses his experience and empathy, together with his research, to inform his therapeutic approach to Alicia.
The book is best read as a mystery. Alicia is the murderer, and Theo is the detective. As Theo interviews people in Alicia’s life, he uncovers clues and makes revelations about Alicia. Many people benefit from Alicia’s continued silence. Theo presses his investigation forward despite making these people uncomfortable and angry. Alicia’s stepmother, Lydia Rose, never liked Alicia. Gallery owner Jean-Felix benefits from her notoriety. Her brother-in-law and former therapist could be embarrassed if Alicia speaks. The book builds to a final surprise ending.
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