The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
Book review by: Deena Ejaz
Have you ever read a book that left you sitting in stunned silence, flipping back through the pages to see how you missed the clues? That’s exactly what The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides did to me. This psychological thriller isn’t just a story—it’s an experience, one that pulls you in, messes with your mind, and leaves you reeling.
As I read, I found myself completely hooked by the way Michaelides wove the story. The narrative alternates between Theo’s perspective and excerpts from Alicia’s diary, giving us little puzzle pieces of the bigger picture. At first, I wasn’t sure how much I liked Theo—he’s far from perfect and, honestly, a little unsettling at times. But that’s what makes him so intriguing. And Alicia? Even in her silence, she feels so alive on the page.
What I loved most about this book was the constant sense of tension. You know something isn’t right, but you can’t quite put your finger on it. The twists and turns kept me second-guessing myself the entire time. And then there’s that twist. When I got to the big reveal, I literally had to close the book and take a moment. It’s the kind of ending that makes you question everything you thought you knew about the story.
Now, I’ll be honest—some parts of the book felt a bit slow, especially in the beginning when Theo’s personal life takes center stage. But looking back, I realize how cleverly Michaelides used those moments to build the tension and lay the groundwork for the ending.
If you’re into psychological thrillers that challenge your perceptions, The Silent Patient is well worth your time. The beauty of this book isn’t just in its shocking twist but in how it changes the way you see every moment leading up to it. For me, it wasn’t just a read—it was an experience that left me questioning how easily the truth can hide in plain sight. If you enjoy stories that make you think, this one won’t disappoint. So, if you haven’t read it yet, do yourself a favor and pick it up—you’re in for a wild ride. And if you have, let’s talk because I’m still not over that ending!
