"The Silence of the Lambs" is a psychological thriller novel written by Thomas Harris, first published in 1988. It is the sequel to Harris's earlier novel "Red Dragon" and introduces one of fiction's most iconic villains, Dr. Hannibal Lecter.The novel is known for its intense psychological tension, complex characters, and themes of identity, trauma, and the nature of evil. It has been praised for its gripping narrative and has become a classic in the suspense and thriller genres. "The Silence of the Lambs" was also adapted into an acclaimed film in 1991, which won multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture.