I found this book in the League of Friends coffee shop. The garish cover and even more garish title initially put me off. I am glad that I persevered; this is simply a brilliant book. In short, it is a novel about murder, greed and … doctors. It is set in Scotland, specifically Midlothian, and sparkles with dark Caledonian wit. The characters are well-drawn and the story crackles along at a breathless pace, the dialogue is first rate. The language is often ‘strong’ and the action is often gruesome; however, it is all very much part of the plot and sets the tone of the whole book.
Christopher Brookmyre was a journalist. He has a huge insight into the NHS of Gordon Brown and the world of the junior doctor in the 90s. Where he got it from God only knows, but he draws a very real picture of the NHS in the throes of covert privatisation and the lengths that managers will go to achieve it. The picture the author draws is realistic enough to be frankly disturbing and highly plausible.
This book will not be to everyone's taste. Orthopaedic surgeons should approach with caution. It is possible that some may find offence in the language and gory scenes. Perhaps it sags a bit in the middle and maybe it gets a bit carried away by its own exuberance, but the book as a whole is hard to put down. Every one of the characters is a person that I would like to meet again (on paper that is!) and get to know better, no small praise. Read it and pass it on. Everyone who cares for the NHS needs to read it.
- © British Journal of General Practice, 2009.