Shock. Anger. Love. Despair. These are feelings you soon acquire after beginning this riveting novel by Elizabeth Brundage.

Michael Knowles is an OB/GYN at a local hospital in New York. He also volunteers at an abortion clinic. Handling both jobs leaves very little time for a family life. Naturally, this makes his wife, Annie, upset. However, Annie has found her own diversion: Simon Haas, her colleague. But Simon's wife is far from an everyday little housewife.

This is not your typical love triangle. Illicit love is only one aspect in this story. There are also death threats, a horrible kidnapping and a horrendous assault. You name it, it's in the pages.

The novel is beautifully written and compelling. As an amazing first novel, Brundage digs deep into the souls of these complicating characters and brings them to life. The Doctor's Wife is a book to read with care, and a strong recommendation to book lovers everywhere.

- Rambles
written by Nicole van Zanten
published 6 November 2004