Silent Rape: Veiled crimes of an evil physician

by Tony Scott

It's hard to imagine that a physician we think we know well could have an obscure dark side. We have the affirmation of our family and friends that our physician is trustworthy, competent, and our advocate. This riveting novel dares to What evil can a physician inflict behind the exam room door?

New obstetric residency graduate Dr. Faith Pernitelli is settling into her career when a fellow provider is accused of taking advantage of his position. After she divulges her patients’ stories, Pernitelli discovers that doing the right thing for victims isn’t as straightforward or well received as she expects. Moreover, her Asperger’s diagnosis, which once served as a gift to her profession, is now a curse that threatens everything—including her reputation.

As relationships change during stormy efforts to do the right thing, Pernitelli must decide if fighting for the truth is worth the lies with which her adversaries retaliate. Who will stick with her when their lives are threatened in the crossfires of justice? The consequences of fighting for justice in a quiet New Mexico community are unfathomable in this intense medical thriller where powerful enemies hide the truth—no matter the human cost. The truth may not set you free after all in this riveting medical thriller from a seasoned physician author.

Genres: Thriller

295 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 17, 2023

Reviews

[Momma Says: To Read or Not to Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

As the parent of a child with Asperger’s, I tend to be drawn to books with characters that have the same diagnosis. I'm always interested to see how the author will portray those characters. I'd say Tony Scott did very well in showing the struggles and triumphs of Dr, Faith, including the way she thinks and expresses herself. Her thoughts and actions come across as very realistic, which won me over pretty quickly.
The story is gritty and tension-filled, but I expected that given the subject matter. To be honest, I probably would've passed on this one had it not been for Faith's Asperger's, but I'm glad I didn't pass it up. I don't read many medical thrillers, and that was my first thought when I checked out the synopsis. This may be about doctors and one's abuse of power, but it's not what I would consider a medical thriller. It's about so much more than that. The abuse here can and does happen in so many walks of life, and it's something that needs to be brought to light. This may be fiction, but the author tells the story in a way that feels real. He certainly got my blood pumping right along with the characters.
The more I read, the more invested I became in these characters, and the more I wanted to see justice done. I was so engrossed in the story that I read the book in a day. I won't go further into the story to avoid spoilers, so I'll just leave it at Silent Rape is a hard-to-put-down thriller that I definitely recommend. It's very well-written, gripping, and Tony Scott does an excellent job of bringing these characters to life. I for one will be watching for the next Dr. Faith Pernitelli, MD thriller.

[L.E.A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Silent Rape is INTENSE. When Dr. Faith Pernitelli must respond to her patient's allegations that another physician has sexually abused her, Dr. Faith's high-functioning autism quickly becomes a curse rather than a blessing. Thrust into trying to handle it, every action she makes effects her loved ones and the victim even more. The sleepy town becomes homebase for drama, lies, and betrayal...and even a question of who can survive all of the fallout.

I loved the entire plot of this book. Each character was so interesting and I lost sleep over having to finish it in one sitting (well worth it). Dr. F is the perfect protagonist. I adored how her autism served as such a super power so much of her life (right on!!!). The stuff she's up against throughout the book were realistic and hard. I was yelling at the book at certain points. So much corruption!!! And, I'm sad to say, probably very realistic in how these cases are handled.

Just a really, really good book (I love the subtitle of this story, too. Very true).

[Kathy Kemp · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the honest explanation of how autism manifests in our main character, Dr. Pernitelli. I identified with her right away. She is a recent medical school graduate, finally learning her way around the practice and hit with a bomb from a patient, and it takes her a while to process.

Our system of justice is broken in this country when it comes to sexual abuse, but never more so than when faced with money and power. With a strong, quick-thinking lawyer, Dr. Pernitelli is able to navigate the threats to her own livelihood to help her patients get the justice they deserve. This was an excellent read, and I also hope that it helps others who have been in similar situations.

[Olivia Gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book draws you in right away! The dialogue is fantastic, and the main character really stands out. Dr. Faith can really hold her own as the protagonist of this story! Then there’s the plot! I loved all the twists and turns as well as the allies and enemies. I also appreciated that the medical side of the drama feels real and genuine, and the harsh topics are treated with sensitivity and care. I tore through this book so quickly that I almost regret not savoring it longer. Hopefully, there’s more on the way from this author and these characters!

[T Barrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I often find a lot of first-person perspective stories that center around a neurodivergent protagonist, especially one with Aspergers, don’t often have a style of narration that supports that. They read too gracefully, too much like a slow river or even too much like a gentle meander through the woods. This one feels correct. There’s a sort of blunt-forced, through-the-teeth way of narration here that focuses on what Faith finds important and only that. I like it. I like it a lot. As someone who is neurodivergent, it was enjoyable to read in a way I don’t believe I’ve ever experienced before.

[Samantha Turley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is too close to what could/has happened and really makes you think and scares you.
I loved the overall flow and how everything unfolded, I thought that part was perfectly done.
It’s mind-blowing and the stakes are so very high and the main character’s reactions and train of thought so clearly matched my own at certain points.
I really enjoyed the trials the characters went through and the different thinking that was used throughout. It really makes you think what would you do in a similar situation? Would you fight for what is right even at your own demise?

[Emily Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is more than a medical thriller it’s a bold exploration of justice, neurodiversity, and the costs of telling the truth. Dr. Faith Pernitelli’s journey is painful, gripping, and inspiring. Scott’s insider view of the healthcare system lends unsettling authenticity. With sharp writing and emotional depth, Silent Rape exposes the dangers lurking behind closed doors and the resilience of those brave enough to speak out.

[Glyn Abigeal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tony Scott masterfully exposes the corrupt underbelly of a trusted profession in Silent Rape. Faith Pernitelli’s voice clear, determined, and deeply human leads a gripping tale of betrayal, power, and resilience. The novel explores how institutions often fail victims, even when the truth is evident. A haunting story of courage, loss, and the emotional toll of doing what’s right in a world that prefers silence.

[Kenny Oliver · Rating 5 out of 5]

A tense, thought-provoking novel that hits like a gut punch. Silent Rape brings the hidden darkness of institutional abuse into the light. Faith’s voice is authentic and powerful, especially as she battles both societal expectations and internal fears. Tony Scott uses his medical background to create a realistic, terrifying world where truth has consequences and silence has victims. An unforgettable story.

[Alice J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Silent Rape is a raw, compelling thriller that digs deep into the hidden horrors of abuse within the medical profession. Dr. Faith Pernitelli is a brilliant, courageous heroine whose voice challenges the silence. Tony Scott’s portrayal of neurodivergence adds nuance, and the suspense kept me glued to every page. A haunting, thought-provoking story that dares to ask: what happens when the truth threatens powerful systems?

[Thomas J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Faith Pernitelli is a rare and unforgettable protagonist. Diagnosed with Asperger’s, her unique voice cuts through lies and denial as she uncovers a dark secret within her profession. Silent Rape hits hard, offering insight into the complexities of abuse, institutional cover-ups, and the personal costs of advocacy. Scott’s writing is sharp, empathetic, and deeply unsettling in all the right ways. A tense, timely, and important read.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intense!

Not my usual thriller. But the author kept the tension a constant throughout. The characters were so real to me. Also a riveting portrayal of the difficulty in convicting a sexual offender with status in a community. The workings of the legal system added another layer of interest for me as well. Well done.

[R.K. Emery · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book by this author. It's a deeply troubling tale that is well told.. The villain is obvious, yet as you are reading things just become more and more hard to belive.
If you enjoy a solid drama with characters that fight for what is right, then this is for you.
The characters are believable and the storyline is well plotted.
Check trigger warnings!

[Lennox Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most intense medical thrillers I’ve read. The antagonist is terrifying because he feels real. The system protects him, and that’s what makes this story so timely and terrifying. Faith’s voice is honest and strong. She’s not perfect, but she’s brave—and that makes all the difference. Absolutely riveting.

[Thomas Galloway · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is both disturbing and captivating. Tony Scott paints a chilling picture of abuse hidden behind professionalism. Faith Pernitelli is a compelling, complex character whose bravery drives the story. A medical thriller that feels too real at times but that’s what makes it so powerful. Gripping, emotional, and impossible to ignore.

[Edward Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

An unflinching look at the dark side of medicine. Dr. Faith Pernitelli faces injustice, silencing, and personal sacrifice in her quest for truth. The pacing is tight, the writing is sharp, and the emotional depth is profound. A story that feels necessary in today’s world. I couldn’t stop thinking about it long after I finished.

[Eleanor Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tony Scott uses his medical expertise to craft a thriller that’s not only suspenseful but deeply thought-provoking. Faith’s Asperger’s is portrayed with nuance, adding layers to her character. This book does a fantastic job of showing how hard it is to stand up against systemic abuse. A must-read for fans of real-world thrillers.

[Delilah Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Silent Rape is not your typical medical thriller it’s smarter, deeper, and more emotionally resonant. Faith’s fight for justice is powerful and painful, especially as she faces betrayal from her peers. Scott’s prose is clinical yet moving, balancing tension and empathy masterfully. This book is both an urgent call to awareness and a riveting, page-turning story. It deserves to be widely read.

[Lauren Hayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping medical thriller that dives beneath the surface of professionalism to reveal shocking abuse and injustice. Faith Pernitelli is a strong, complex heroine who challenges corruption at great personal cost. Tony Scott weaves a chilling, realistic tale that blends suspense, emotion, and social relevance. This book is not only riveting but also deeply important in today’s world.

[Zachary Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Faith Pernitelli’s story is brave, bold, and heartbreaking. As a newly minted doctor with Asperger’s, she confronts the horrifying truth about a colleague, only to find the system stacked against her. Silent Rape is fast-paced and emotionally heavy, shedding light on topics too often ignored. Tony Scott writes with both clinical precision and raw emotional truth. Highly recommended.

[Addison Lowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Faith Pernitelli is a protagonist you’ll root for and remember. Her Asperger’s gives her a unique, compelling voice in a world that’s quick to silence outliers. Tony Scott’s Silent Rape is raw and unnerving, but it’s also beautifully written and courageously honest. This isn’t just fiction—it’s a mirror to real injustices that demand our attention. A must-read for fans of serious thrillers.

[Sienna Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Silent Rape is a deeply affecting story that blends psychological suspense with sharp commentary on institutional failures. Faith’s personal and professional challenges are presented with nuance, especially through the lens of her Asperger’s. Scott’s experience in the medical field gives the story authenticity. It’s a bold, brave book that stays with you long after reading.

[Aurora Simmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Faith Pernitelli’s journey is both inspiring and heartbreaking. In Silent Rape, Tony Scott takes us into a world where silence protects predators and one woman’s voice threatens to expose them all. The plot is intense, the writing precise, and the emotional weight undeniable. This book is more than a thriller it’s a call to stand up, speak out, and fight for truth.

[Layla Jennings · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping, emotional page-turner, Silent Rape is unflinching in its depiction of abuse and the ripple effect it causes. Faith is an unforgettable character who stands tall despite fear, backlash, and betrayal. Her diagnosis makes her perspective richer and more honest. This novel is not for the faint-hearted but it’s a necessary, brilliant work of fiction grounded in disturbing reality.

[Eden Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Silent Rape pulls no punches. Tony Scott takes readers behind the exam room door, where one doctor’s evil threatens lives and another’s courage could save them. Faith Pernitelli is compelling, her Asperger’s giving her a unique strength and vulnerability. This isn’t just a thriller—it’s a story about power, silence, and the consequences of telling the truth. A bold and vital read.

[Matilda Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

A medical thriller with a conscience, Silent Rape dives into the dark secrets hiding behind professional respectability. Faith’s voice is both clinical and emotional a powerful combination that anchors the entire story. Scott’s writing is deliberate and intense, revealing hard truths with every page. The tension is real, and the message is urgent. A brave, haunting book.

[Emily King · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tony Scott’s Silent Rape is a gripping and courageous exploration of abuse, truth, and institutional denial. Dr. Faith Pernitelli stands out as a unique, principled heroine who refuses to stay silent. Her Asperger’s doesn’t weaken her it sharpens her resolve. This thriller is not only suspenseful but deeply important. It forces readers to confront what happens when justice is inconvenient.

[Layla Jennings · Rating 5 out of 5]

A stunning, hard-hitting novel, Silent Rape dares to go where few thrillers do. Tony Scott crafts a believable, disturbing world where justice is anything but easy. Faith Pernitelli is a beacon of strength, her neurodivergent mind cutting through deception. The tension builds beautifully, and the payoff is powerful. An important book that challenges silence and celebrates courage.

[Scarlett Knight · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me feel everything anger, fear, admiration, and sorrow. Silent Rape is gripping, emotional, and above all, necessary. Faith is a protagonist I’ll never forget. Her moral compass and personal struggles are portrayed with care. Scott exposes the darkness that can lurk behind trust and respect, making this one of the most important thrillers I’ve read in years.

[Summer Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

Silent Rape is a compelling indictment of the silence surrounding abuse in professional settings. With vivid writing and raw honesty, Scott introduces us to Faith a brilliant, socially misunderstood doctor fighting a system built to ignore her. The stakes are high, the enemies powerful, and the cost of speaking out is enormous. A deeply unsettling but empowering read.