This book introduces Quirke, a pathologist based in Dublin. He is a troubled man, perhaps because he appears to have no first name, being referred to as Quirke throughout.
Quirke is successful (a well regarded pathologist in a senior position), but miserable. We learn that his wife died years ago, he has a fractious relationship with Malachy his ‘brother’ in his adopted family. He yearns after Sarah, and wishes he had married her instead of her sister Delia. He is close to niece Phoebe in a wicked uncle role, while she is increasingly estranged from her parents.
This thriller is centered on a poor woman, Christine Falls, who died in childbirth. Her baby, named after her, is taken to America and adopted there. Quirke slowly investigates this child trafficking, whilst we also follow the baby’s life with new parents, Andy Stafford (no relation to Strafford, Banville’s other detective). This investigation is strongly discouraged by Malachy and his father, and Quirke is badly beaten up by thugs to dissuade him from continuing.
A bleak book, with such a wretched character as Quirke, who despite it all is endearing to read. The quality of writing is excellent.
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musingstudio 