The Empty Calling: A Novel

by Maren Cliff, Elysia Caplain (Illustrator), Highline Editorial NY (Editor)

Dr. Rivien Gilrie had given much of her life to the practice of medicine until one day, a violent incursion extinguishes any remaining joy in her calling. To support her young daughter, she takes a short locum in a largely deserted northern Canadian mining town. When a patient casualty is compounded by further death and intrigue, Rivien joins the local Mountie to try to uncover secrets forged by the bond of isolation. But in this remote land, who defines justice?

287 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 20, 2023

About the author

Maren Cliff is a debut fiction author and a physician from Alberta, Canada. She lives with her husband, young daughter, and a belligerent cat. A self-assessed rolling stone, her writing comes from an ingrained need for challenge, a trait currently manifesting through accordion lessons. When she is not wrist deep in bodily fluids, she enjoys travel, camping, wine, and wine.

Reviews

[Kerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good read! I could not put it down. Touched on so many real subjects in today's world. Kept me guessing throughout.

[Francesca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!!

[Chelisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a thrill start to finish. So many relatable tones and shared so many thoughts with the main character. Never put it down by choice. Once I got into the climax of the book I finished it in two sittings.

“The constant peril of doing a reasonably competent job- you are just asked to do more” - Maren Cliff.

[Tamara Stokes · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a thriller that will keep you guessing, this one is it!!
Dr Rivien Gilrie goes through a traumatic event (no spoilers) and survives, and that path leads her to a small mining town in Canada, where some murder and mayhem ensues! The Canadian descriptives in the landscape are totally spot on, too!
I loved the twists and trying to figure out who was to blame, and the final pages tie everything together in an unexpected but ultimately fulfilling way.
The author is a Canadian Doctor, and the way the book is written really reflects this, with very succinct descriptives and great details on the medical information and terminology!
Excellent debut!