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ashleyvharris 's review for:
The Silent Patient
by Alex Michaelides
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Michaelides’ debut is a mysterious, twisted tale inspired by Agatha Christie’s classic detective novels. The author has a writing style that is easy to fall into and compels me to read more.
I think the detective part of this novel was done very well. It checked the boxes of a good procedural without feeling stale. However, I was disappointed with the “big twist” as it felt played out and unoriginal. I wanted something that felt really twisted and unique, but I didn’t get it here.
Theo is a great unreliable narrator for the story who made me feel unsettled about his character for the whole book. Overall, a great mystery debut with a compelling premise and fantastic writing. I hope we will get to see Michaelides stretch his skills in the next novel.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Infidelity, Mental illness, Self harm, Violence, Forced institutionalization, Blood, Stalking, Suicide attempt, Death of parent, Murder, Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Child abuse, Emotional abuse, Toxic relationship, Grief, Sexual harassment