By integrating themes of obsession and the effects of secrecy, Alex Michaelides analyses the convolution of the human mind.
His works appeal to literary enthusiasts gripped by innovative and unique storylines. Before becoming an author, he worked as a screenwriter and wrote some unsuccessful films. In 2019, he transitioned to writing novels, and with the publication of ‘The Silent Patient,’ he created a universal stir.
Generally, critics commend Michaelides for his brilliant plot twists, exciting narration, and artful character development. He was named the “master of deception” in an article written by The New York Times.
The Silent Patient
This clutching murder mystery, published in February 2019, explores topics like mental health and undisclosed facts. The novel follows the story of Alicia Berenson, a talented painter of authentic art.
Accused of shooting her husband, Gabriel, multiple times in the face, she refuses to debunk or assent to the claim. Her refusal to speak before and during trial earns her a bad reputation, and her defense takes a plea of diminished culpability. Eventually, she gets constrained to a psychiatric hospital called The Grove.
Soon, a zealous psychotherapist driven by professional ambition obtains a job at The Grove. Intrigued by Alicia and her works of art, Theo Faber utilizes the opportunity to satisfy his curiosity about Alicia’s silence. Determined to unravel the truth and get her to converse again, he probes Alicia’s past empathetically.
Throughout the novel, Michaelides compares the lives of Alicia and Theo. Revealed to have suffered childhood trauma like his patient, he struggles with his psychological well-being. His romantic life, a former solace, also sets him back from the progress of several therapy sessions when he gets cheated on.
As Theo Faber digs deeper into Alicia’s background and present state, the reader discovers interlacing secrets and neglected traumatic experiences that eventually lead to crime.
‘The Silent Patient’ delves into the impact of psychological damage from childhood, the intricacies of mental disorders, the effect of disloyalty, and protective devotion to lovers.
This novel, which challenges human perception, amassed significant approval and received various awards. Also, it got condemned by critics who found the storyline predictable and the characters lacking depth and complexity.
The Maidens
This fascinating psychological thriller weaves Greek mythology, murder, and mystery. In this novel, Michaelides analyses the iniquitous recesses of the human psyche. By examining themes of obsession and deceit, the novel tells the story of Mariana Andros.
Still mourning the loss of her husband, the therapist becomes involved in an ominous whodunnit when her niece’s best friend gets savagely murdered at Cambridge University. Trying to investigate the murder story, she becomes obsessed with a secret society called “The Maidens,” known as a private group of female students led by a Greek professor named Edward Fosca.
Convinced that the occultic and charming professor is responsible for Zoe’s murder, she tries to bring him to the book. Using Mariana’s despair and sensitivity, Michaelides adds another layer of complication as she becomes consumed with the desire to uncover the truth. Her persistence to get justice puts her life at risk as she challenges the atrocious parts of human nature.
In ‘The Maidens,’ Greek mythology is a notable subject. Edward Fosca is compared with Apollo because of his charm and manipulation. The book contrasts current events and ancient myths, analyzing the influence of these stories on human behavior.
Known to have received recognition upon release, ‘The Maidens’ won the category of Best Mystery and Thriller in the 2022 Goodreads Choice Awards. The book was praised for its atmospheric setting, sustenance of uncertainty, and fusion of Greek mythology, highlighting the richness of the narrative.
Still, some critics believed that the Greek motif concealed the novel’s primary plot, making it tortuous for readers.
FAQs
What connection does ‘The Silent Patient’ share with ‘The Maidens?’
Known as Alex Michaelides’ debut novel, ‘The Silent Patient’ tells the story of a famous artist who becomes wordless after being accused of killing her husband. ‘The Maidens,’ on the other hand, revolves around Mariana Andros, a group therapist who investigates a series of murders at a University. The plot and characters of both novels differ, yet they explore the concepts of obsession, love, deceit, trauma, and manipulation.
What role does trauma play in the characters’ lives in Alex Michaelides’ books?
In ‘The Silent Patient,’ Alicia experiences a scarring event leading to speech loss. Theo Faber’s obsession with Alicia is driven by childhood trauma and personal challenges. In ‘The Maidens,’ Mariana deals with losing her husband. Her pain fuels her obsession with solving the murder mystery at Cambridge University. Fosca also embodies the effects of lingering trauma as he becomes manipulative.
In what ways does Michaelides challenge the idea of perception and reality in his stories?
Using intertwined narratives, Michaelides smears the lines between truth and misconception. He utilizes erratic narrators, different perspectives, and plot twists to challenge readers to question their assumptions and biases. By creating an ambiance of suspense and intrigue, readers can compare their opinions of events and characters with the book’s complete storytelling.
How does Greek mythology influence Michaelides’ novels?
The author uses Greek mythology to add symbolism and depth to the plot. By interlacing mythological subjects, Michaelides forms clues that intensify the conceptual analysis of his stories. Greek myths also address moral dilemmas and evaluate the repercussions of behavioral choices.
