Do No Harm, by Carol Topolski (Fig Tree, RRP $40):
Everyone knows about Virginia: about her stellar reputation as a gynaecologist; about her commitment to her women patients.
But does anyone know about the knives?
Everyone knows about Faisal too: about his gentle charm and his delight in his family; about his brilliance in the operating theatre.
But does anyone know he’s a traitor?
And Gilda – everyone knows about Gilda: knows that she never poops a party; that she struts about town with her cackling posse; that she’s a loyal friend.
But does anyone know about the rubber?
Author Carol Topolski goes behind the busy routine of a hospital to build a dark, compelling portrait of a good, upright life going horribly wrong.
Topolski’s disturbing debut novel – Monster Love – was long listed for the Orange prize back in 2008 and this latest novel is every bit as good, and every bit as disturbing.
A good, juicy read that will leave you feeling a little creeped out. Recommended.