Forensic Pathologist Anya Crichton is asked to investigate the death of Anoub Deab’s sister who allegedly committed suicide by overdosing on heroin in a toilet block. The manner of her death totally contradicts the way that she led her life.
On post mortem a fibre is found in Fatima’s lung that has not been previously catalogued. As other suicides emerge following the same pattern as Fatima – sudden disappearance prior to suicide, a sexually contracted disease and the mysterious lung fibre, Anya is convinced that all women have stayed in the same place and slept with the same man prior to their deaths. All indications point to involvement in a cult.
Trying to balance life as an independent professional woman, a part time single parent to her son Ben, fighting with her ex husband, and learning to play the drums Anya doesn’t seem to have a moment to draw breath. Lucky she has Elaine the wonder secretary who keeps her diary in order, makes the coffee and remembers to buy biscuits for morning tea. Yawn.
I did not expect to enjoy the first novel by this Queensland writer and doctor, after reading her third novel Skin and Bones, but as I had bought the book at a library talk she gave I thought I should read it. As expected the characters were superficial and the dialogue and storyline at times corny and annoying; however, the discovery of the fibre and its investigation was intriguing and I found myself want to know the answer. The plot line developed fairly slowly with a couple of red herrings thrown in, but when we finally reached the climax the conclusion was rushed and silly.
I doubt I will read her second novel Without Consent.
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