Cutting Edge

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“If John Harvey’s novels were songs, Charlie Parker would play them. Cutting Edge sings the blues for people too bruised to carry the tune for themselves. Writing in a minor key to tell this moody revenge tragedy, Mr. Harvey creates characters of astonishing psychological diversity. Their voices are abrasive and often husky with pain; but in the end, they all sing their song.”—The New York Times Book ReviewSeveral members of staff at the local hospital have been seriously attacked at night with a scalpel. Charlie Resnick strives to find a connection between them before assault becomes murder.From Publishers WeeklyIn his third outing, after Rough Treatment , tough and reflective British copper Charlie Resnick investigates a series of brutal attacks on medical personnel at a large Midlands hospital. The perpetrator of the crimes exhibits an appalling ability to maim his victims in a manner that, besides traumatizing them, will destroy their careers. A promising young surgeon is dealt a crippling assault to his leg and hand; a male nurse, whose parents consider his work not quite "manly," is almost emasculated. The assailant's psychological insight and understanding of anatomy suggest that he belongs to the medical commuity. As Resnick acquaints himself with the lives of the victims, their families and lovers, he discovers a level of desperation where reality is denied and self-worth destroyed. Credibly portrayed policewomen add further interest to this superior novel in which suspense derives not only from questions about what will happen next, but from Harvey's talent in creating a sense of wonder about the depths of human character. Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. From Kirkus ReviewsThird in the author's compelling series featuring Detective Inspector Charlie Resnick and the men and women he works with in a northern English city. Charlie--introspective, divorced, comforted by his cats and jazz records--is, at the moment, immersed in trying to find the culprit in three slashing attacks, one of them fatal, all seemingly related in some way to the city's major hospital. Subplots abound; major and minor characters cut in and out--all of them vital whether revolting, respectable, or in-between. Tension mounts as Charlie and his team slog away at the investigation; overcome a major glitch; save a fourth victim--and solve their case. Harvey's police procedurals are in a class by themselves (Lonely Hearts, etc.)--near Dickensian in their portrayal of human frailty; cinematic in their quick changes of scene and character; totally convincing in their plotting and motivation. His latest is all of these--one more to be prized. -- Copyright ©1991, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.