Keep the Doctor Away by James Caine

Keep The Doctor Away by James Caine is a gripping, fast-paced thriller that plays with the tension of isolation, secrecy, and paranoia. The story follows Lily Parker, whose life takes a dark turn when her husband accepts a prestigious position as the new plastic surgeon at Northwind Clinic, a secluded island facility for the rich and famous. From the moment she arrives, Lily feels that something is off, and her suspicions grow as she’s watched by cameras, guarded by security, and surrounded by tall walls that trap her in this mysterious place.

Caine builds suspense as Lily's unease escalates, and the death of a clinic worker only deepens the sense of foreboding. The whispered warning from the dying woman—“You shouldn’t have come here”—launches Lily into a web of questions about the true nature of Northwind Clinic and the people around her.

While the plot is engaging and keeps readers turning the pages, it's not entirely plausible, often feeling like a plot-driven roller coaster rather than a nuanced, character-focused narrative. There are moments where you might think you're watching a Lifetime movie in book form: suspenseful, dramatic, but at times, lacking depth or realism. Nevertheless, the novel delivers in terms of entertainment, making it an easy and satisfying read for anyone who enjoys light thrillers with a hint of psychological tension.

If you’re looking for a thriller that will keep you engaged without requiring too much suspension of disbelief, Keep The Doctor Away might just be the perfect beach read or weekend escape.

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