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Menzies Mental Health #3
The General Hospital
Trainee psychiatrist Doctor Hannah Wright is back where she worked as an the general hospital. This time, instead of dealing with patients' broken bodies, she's tackling their mental health issues, with a roving commission to cover the medical, surgical and obstetric wards. All the while learning that mental and physical health are inextricably linked.
Christina is planning to sue her obstetrician - Hannah's ex-boyfriend - for mental distress during labour. Junjie's Olympic dream has been shattered by injury. Is he at risk of taking his own life? Max's bipolar medication might keep him level-headed, but it is destroying his kidneys. And Ishani claims that setting herself on fire was an accident, but her story doesn't stack up.
When she's not on call, Hannah finds herself navigating an unexpected friendship and the promising early days of a new relationship with fellow trainee Alex, before her grandmother reveals an explosive family secret.
Christina is planning to sue her obstetrician - Hannah's ex-boyfriend - for mental distress during labour. Junjie's Olympic dream has been shattered by injury. Is he at risk of taking his own life? Max's bipolar medication might keep him level-headed, but it is destroying his kidneys. And Ishani claims that setting herself on fire was an accident, but her story doesn't stack up.
When she's not on call, Hannah finds herself navigating an unexpected friendship and the promising early days of a new relationship with fellow trainee Alex, before her grandmother reveals an explosive family secret.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 31, 2026
About the author
Anne Buist
12 books173 followersAnne Buist is the Chair of Women’s Mental Health at the University of Melbourne and has over 25 years clinical and research experience in perinatal psychiatry. She works with Protective Services and the legal system in cases of abuse, kidnapping, infanticide and murder. Medea’s Curse is her first mainstream psychological thriller.
Professor Buist is married to novelist Graeme Simsion and has two children.
Professor Buist is married to novelist Graeme Simsion and has two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
December 14, 2025
4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vibes: Compassionate Care, Mental Health Matters
—-
This was my third visit with the Menzies Mental Health team and I absolutely loved stepping back into this world.
The signature structure in this series continues here with each patient’s story gently introduced through a glimpse into their life before their path leads them to the Menzies team. It’s such an effective storytelling approach and one I’ve really grown to love across the series.
Familiar characters returned too which brought a comforting sense of continuity. It was enjoyable to get to see them further along in their lives and careers with more experience, growth and emotional depth.
What really stands out is how well the book balances tone and subject matter. Heavy mental health themes are handled with warmth, compassion and a lightness that never feels dismissive. It captures both the reality of living with mental illness and the emotional impact on those working in the field.
Some topics may be triggering for readers, but everything is written with such care that it genuinely helps break down stigma rather than reinforce it.
If you’re new to the Menzies series I’d strongly recommend starting from book one so you can grow alongside the characters and follow the recurring patients. I’ve loved every instalment so far, so starting at the beginning is an absolute treat and this third book is a wonderful continuation.
Huge thanks to Hachette and NetGalley for the sneak peek of this excellent read.
—-
This was my third visit with the Menzies Mental Health team and I absolutely loved stepping back into this world.
The signature structure in this series continues here with each patient’s story gently introduced through a glimpse into their life before their path leads them to the Menzies team. It’s such an effective storytelling approach and one I’ve really grown to love across the series.
Familiar characters returned too which brought a comforting sense of continuity. It was enjoyable to get to see them further along in their lives and careers with more experience, growth and emotional depth.
What really stands out is how well the book balances tone and subject matter. Heavy mental health themes are handled with warmth, compassion and a lightness that never feels dismissive. It captures both the reality of living with mental illness and the emotional impact on those working in the field.
Some topics may be triggering for readers, but everything is written with such care that it genuinely helps break down stigma rather than reinforce it.
If you’re new to the Menzies series I’d strongly recommend starting from book one so you can grow alongside the characters and follow the recurring patients. I’ve loved every instalment so far, so starting at the beginning is an absolute treat and this third book is a wonderful continuation.
Huge thanks to Hachette and NetGalley for the sneak peek of this excellent read.
June 13, 2026
I absolutely love this series and live in hope that someone picks it up and develops it into a tv series.
Our lead, Hannah, is still working towards becoming a psychiatrist, based at a [fictional but obviously based on a real] Melbourne general hospital, where she does her rotations through the various wards where she treats various characters and their mental health issues.
There's also a focus on the understaffing and underfunding of mental health and one of my favourite sections in the book was when Hannah visits the cancer wing, with its space, coffee machines and volunteers.
I will admit I shaved off half a star for this installment due to the new cases and characters. I probably wasn't as invested in their stories and issues quite as much as of those in the first two books. The one stand out case and character was Ishani, an aspiring actress of Indian heritage who comes to the hospital with severe burns.
Luckily for me, this third book also revisits many of the characters from the previous two books with leads to quite a few humorous and poignant scenes. I highly recommend you go back and read the series from book one, The Glass House, to fully appreciate their stories.
This installment also seemed to wrap up at the end. If this is truly the end, it is quite a satisfying one but I will be a little sad to know this might be the last I read of Hannah, Prof, Max and co.
4 1/2 out of 5
Our lead, Hannah, is still working towards becoming a psychiatrist, based at a [fictional but obviously based on a real] Melbourne general hospital, where she does her rotations through the various wards where she treats various characters and their mental health issues.
There's also a focus on the understaffing and underfunding of mental health and one of my favourite sections in the book was when Hannah visits the cancer wing, with its space, coffee machines and volunteers.
I will admit I shaved off half a star for this installment due to the new cases and characters. I probably wasn't as invested in their stories and issues quite as much as of those in the first two books. The one stand out case and character was Ishani, an aspiring actress of Indian heritage who comes to the hospital with severe burns.
Luckily for me, this third book also revisits many of the characters from the previous two books with leads to quite a few humorous and poignant scenes. I highly recommend you go back and read the series from book one, The Glass House, to fully appreciate their stories.
This installment also seemed to wrap up at the end. If this is truly the end, it is quite a satisfying one but I will be a little sad to know this might be the last I read of Hannah, Prof, Max and co.
4 1/2 out of 5
May 28, 2026
A hospital is like a mini society where patients, doctors and visitors mix in an environment that produces joy, heartbreak and death.
The best and worst of human behaviour osmotically seep through the corridors.
Doctor Hannah Wright is back and works in the large Menzies hospital.
A hospital that caters for most ailments, diseases and birthing.
Specialising in psychiatric well being she discovers the link between physical and mental health.
Observing the lack of priority and economic focus compared to other health units.
Roving around the different sections she encounters patients suffering all types of conditions and the plight of motherhood.
Long hours and professional dilemmas are not the only ripples in her life, she is involved in family dynamics that require her involvement.
This is the third book in this series and exposes truths and hardships that occur daily in the place where most of us start and depart life.
Through the encounters we are exposed to daily life in a general hospital. Realities the front line endure daily.
The best and worst of human behaviour osmotically seep through the corridors.
Doctor Hannah Wright is back and works in the large Menzies hospital.
A hospital that caters for most ailments, diseases and birthing.
Specialising in psychiatric well being she discovers the link between physical and mental health.
Observing the lack of priority and economic focus compared to other health units.
Roving around the different sections she encounters patients suffering all types of conditions and the plight of motherhood.
Long hours and professional dilemmas are not the only ripples in her life, she is involved in family dynamics that require her involvement.
This is the third book in this series and exposes truths and hardships that occur daily in the place where most of us start and depart life.
Through the encounters we are exposed to daily life in a general hospital. Realities the front line endure daily.
Read
January 17, 2026The General Hospital is a compassionate, engaging novel that offers a rare and insightful look at the intersection of mental and physical health. Through Hannah’s journey, the book explores complex cases with realism, warmth, and subtle humour.
The characters feel deeply human, and the storytelling balances emotional weight with hope and levity. A timely, empathetic, and thoroughly absorbing read that both informs and moves.
The characters feel deeply human, and the storytelling balances emotional weight with hope and levity. A timely, empathetic, and thoroughly absorbing read that both informs and moves.
January 31, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Hachette, this is an ARC review.
This book is the third in the Menzies Mental Health series where we follow Hannah on her journey as a psychiatric registrar. If you haven’t read the first 2 books, it works fine as a stand alone as well.
This book handles some pretty heavy themes very delicately. The book doesn’t shy away from showing the grittier side to mental illness and working in the mental health sector, and yet it treats the subject with such compassion and respect. The authors’ passion, experience and expertise in this field is clear, and it makes for an engaging novel without being too complex.
I found the ending to be a little bit deflating, however I appreciate all the story lines being wrapped up.
TW: The novel talks about mental health, self harm and suicide in great detail. Read at your discretion.
Overall, this was a great read and I think the book contributes something really powerful towards reducing mental health stigma.
This book is the third in the Menzies Mental Health series where we follow Hannah on her journey as a psychiatric registrar. If you haven’t read the first 2 books, it works fine as a stand alone as well.
This book handles some pretty heavy themes very delicately. The book doesn’t shy away from showing the grittier side to mental illness and working in the mental health sector, and yet it treats the subject with such compassion and respect. The authors’ passion, experience and expertise in this field is clear, and it makes for an engaging novel without being too complex.
I found the ending to be a little bit deflating, however I appreciate all the story lines being wrapped up.
TW: The novel talks about mental health, self harm and suicide in great detail. Read at your discretion.
Overall, this was a great read and I think the book contributes something really powerful towards reducing mental health stigma.
May 7, 2026
The General Hospital is the third books in the Menzies Mental Health series, but it’s easy to pick up and follow the story without having read any of the prior books. (But be warned – it will lead you to immediately seek out all the other novels in the series). It’s a smart story that focuses on mental health, fully engaging the reader.
Dr Hannah Wright is a trainee psychiatrist (aka training registrar) who has been assigned to consultation liaison, which means she is there to provide psychiatric advice to patients of the hospital admitted for other reasons. The hospital areas are ‘split’ between the registrars and Hannah finds herself working with a number of patients and their treating teams to provide the best outcome physically and mentally. There’s Nova, who Hannah has to tell that her child has died (not strictly her role, but also to provide support to emergency department trainee Kate) and Max, a barrister with bipolar disorder who can only function on lithium (even though his kidneys can’t). There’s Ishani, a young actress with burns and a tricky home life and Christina, whose anxiety is worsened after the birth of her child doesn’t go to plan (and further exacerbated by the poor beside manner of the obstetrician, who happens to be Hannah’s ex). Outside of work life, Hannah’s in a new relationship with fellow trainee psychiatrist Alex. Her housemate and friend experiences a horror road crash that has her reevaluating whether she wants to be a paramedic and Hannah’s brother Lennon is suffering after the trauma of his youth. When Hannah’s grandmother drops a bombshell to her, it’s the last straw in trying to work out the complexities of her family. Can they open about what’s happened in the past?
I found this review difficult to write because I really wanted to do this excellent book justice. It’s a brilliant insight into the many different ways mental health is shaped by who we are and what happens along the way and how to manage things. The patients all manage their issues differently, from loudly and passionately (Max, who puts the renal team offside because he chooses mental wellness over functional kidneys) to quietly and slowly (Ishani, who has a lot to reveal over the course of the book). It’s complex and one of the highlights of The General Hospital is how Buist and Simsion weave all these stories together. The other medical characters are just as nuanced, revealing more about themselves as the story continues. I thought it was very clever how great Alex seemed at first and then not so great as he got more involved with his Lacanian analysis and his own psychoanalysis. I enjoyed seeing Hannah’s growth and that of the patients. All interactions are empathetic and without judgement, which was great to read (especially in the patient with cancer who wished to access voluntary assisted dying, I thought the experiences of the patient, the cancer doctor and Hannah and team were dealt with realistically and sensitively). I loved reading this book because I was so invested in all the characters and wanted to support them by reading more and more. It’s brilliantly written and should not be missed.
Thank you to Hachette for the copy of this book. My review is honest.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
Dr Hannah Wright is a trainee psychiatrist (aka training registrar) who has been assigned to consultation liaison, which means she is there to provide psychiatric advice to patients of the hospital admitted for other reasons. The hospital areas are ‘split’ between the registrars and Hannah finds herself working with a number of patients and their treating teams to provide the best outcome physically and mentally. There’s Nova, who Hannah has to tell that her child has died (not strictly her role, but also to provide support to emergency department trainee Kate) and Max, a barrister with bipolar disorder who can only function on lithium (even though his kidneys can’t). There’s Ishani, a young actress with burns and a tricky home life and Christina, whose anxiety is worsened after the birth of her child doesn’t go to plan (and further exacerbated by the poor beside manner of the obstetrician, who happens to be Hannah’s ex). Outside of work life, Hannah’s in a new relationship with fellow trainee psychiatrist Alex. Her housemate and friend experiences a horror road crash that has her reevaluating whether she wants to be a paramedic and Hannah’s brother Lennon is suffering after the trauma of his youth. When Hannah’s grandmother drops a bombshell to her, it’s the last straw in trying to work out the complexities of her family. Can they open about what’s happened in the past?
I found this review difficult to write because I really wanted to do this excellent book justice. It’s a brilliant insight into the many different ways mental health is shaped by who we are and what happens along the way and how to manage things. The patients all manage their issues differently, from loudly and passionately (Max, who puts the renal team offside because he chooses mental wellness over functional kidneys) to quietly and slowly (Ishani, who has a lot to reveal over the course of the book). It’s complex and one of the highlights of The General Hospital is how Buist and Simsion weave all these stories together. The other medical characters are just as nuanced, revealing more about themselves as the story continues. I thought it was very clever how great Alex seemed at first and then not so great as he got more involved with his Lacanian analysis and his own psychoanalysis. I enjoyed seeing Hannah’s growth and that of the patients. All interactions are empathetic and without judgement, which was great to read (especially in the patient with cancer who wished to access voluntary assisted dying, I thought the experiences of the patient, the cancer doctor and Hannah and team were dealt with realistically and sensitively). I loved reading this book because I was so invested in all the characters and wanted to support them by reading more and more. It’s brilliantly written and should not be missed.
Thank you to Hachette for the copy of this book. My review is honest.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
May 4, 2026
Having worked in the mental health field, this book really appealed to me as did The Oasis and The Glass House. Great to follow characters in the book through their learning and the cases they handle.
Especially nice to read about patients as they live with their diagnosis's through the continuing storyline.
Especially nice to read about patients as they live with their diagnosis's through the continuing storyline.
May 1, 2026
So many threads, so neatly tied. Very satisfying.
May 23, 2026
A big thank you to Hachette Auatralia for sending me a copy of The General Hospital! This is the third installment in the Menzies Mental Health series, and while my gratitude is later than intended, it was absolutely worth the wait.
Mental health is a theme incredibly close to my heart, and the authors have delivered again.
I've followed trainee psychiatrist Dr Hannah Wright across all three books now, through her difficult upbringing and various work rotations, and appreciate the authentic, respectful, and empathetic storytelling. The General Hospital again navigates the complexities of psychiatric care, with several patients returning in this installment.
I highly recommend the series, starting with book one, The Glass House.
Mental health is a theme incredibly close to my heart, and the authors have delivered again.
I've followed trainee psychiatrist Dr Hannah Wright across all three books now, through her difficult upbringing and various work rotations, and appreciate the authentic, respectful, and empathetic storytelling. The General Hospital again navigates the complexities of psychiatric care, with several patients returning in this installment.
I highly recommend the series, starting with book one, The Glass House.
September 3, 2026
I've said it once and I'll say it again, I'm absolutely in love with this series and am genuinely elated every time a new book appears.
This was probably my least favourite of the three so far, but it still holds strong.
My biggest mild gripe was the relationship storyline with Alex. It felt a little brushed over and unfinished by the end, particularly with how quickly it was wrapped up. I also wasn’t a huge fan of the change in narrative voice towards the final few chapters. I can understand why it was done for some of the bigger reveals, but it took away from the momentum a bit.
That said, I’m still a massive fan. I will never not aggressively recommend this series and I’ll be eagerly awaiting a (hopefully 🤞🤞) book 4!
This was probably my least favourite of the three so far, but it still holds strong.
My biggest mild gripe was the relationship storyline with Alex. It felt a little brushed over and unfinished by the end, particularly with how quickly it was wrapped up. I also wasn’t a huge fan of the change in narrative voice towards the final few chapters. I can understand why it was done for some of the bigger reveals, but it took away from the momentum a bit.
That said, I’m still a massive fan. I will never not aggressively recommend this series and I’ll be eagerly awaiting a (hopefully 🤞🤞) book 4!
May 31, 2026
5 stars ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
book 22 of 2026
i love this series so much! each book has just been better and better. i hope they write these forever. the writing is amazing, the character snippets are so diverse, im never bored.
pros:
• australian setting
• hospital drama
• side of romance
• family dramas
no cons here!!
book 22 of 2026
i love this series so much! each book has just been better and better. i hope they write these forever. the writing is amazing, the character snippets are so diverse, im never bored.
pros:
• australian setting
• hospital drama
• side of romance
• family dramas
no cons here!!
April 18, 2026
First there is the review in Italian then the English one –
Prima c'è la recensione in italiano poi quella in inglese
4,7
Letto in inglese.
Emozionante. Mi ha fatto ridere, pensare e commuovere. È il terzo libro della serie australiana Menzies Mental Health, ed è consigliabile leggerlo dopo gli altri due.
La protagonista principale è Hannah, una specializzanda in psichiatria, di cui seguiamo le traversie professionali (i dubbi, le intuizioni e i “successi”) e personali, molto impegnative soprattutto per la complessità della sua famiglia d’origine, e un po’ anche per le sue relazioni sentimentali. Il tono del racconto è brillante e non mancano le notazioni ironiche e paradossali. Gli altri protagonisti sono altrettanto interessanti e se nei libri precedenti forse era dato molto spazio ai suoi colleghi, in questo terzo volume molti capitoli introducono pazienti dei quali poi seguiamo le vicende, ovviamente complicate e spesso difficili da “decifrare”. Alcuni protagonisti hanno una diagnosi, mentre di altri non è chiaro se sia richiesto un approfondimento diagnostico; diversi pazienti e medici vengono da altri paesi e altre culture, e anche questi aspetti aggiungono sfumature e contraddizioni interessanti. La famiglia di origine di Hannah, poi, è un mondo a parte: i suoi genitori accoglievano bambini in affido senza sosta, perciò Hannah, sua sorella e suo fratello hanno dunque vissuto l’infanzia e l’adolescenza insieme a più di cinquanta bambini e ragazzi.
Un tema importante è quello della paura di deludere le persone che amiamo, oppure di venire giudicati da loro: è un sentimento normale ma purtroppo spesso crea nuovi problemi senza risolvere nessuno di quelli che già c’erano. Proprio perché si tratta di relazioni d’amore, anche in senso familiare oltre che sentimentale, è però possibile continuare ad avere fiducia, assumersi responsabilità e affrontare anche questioni gravi in modo costruttivo.
4.7
Read in English.
Moving. It made me laugh, think and get emotional. It’s the third book in the Australian Menzies Mental Health series, and it’s worth reading it after the other two.
The main character is Hannah, a resident in psychiatry, whose professional struggles (her doubts, insights and ‘successes’) and personal trials we follow; these are particularly challenging due to the complexity of her family of origin, and to some extent also because of her romantic relationships. The writing style is lively, and there is no shortage of ironic and paradoxical observations. The other characters are equally fascinating, and whilst previous books perhaps devoted a great deal of space to his colleagues, in this third volume many chapters introduce patients whose stories we then follow – stories that are, of course, complicated and often difficult to ‘decipher’. Some of the protagonists have been diagnosed, whilst for others it is unclear whether further diagnostic investigation is required; several patients and doctors come from other countries and cultures, and these aspects too add interesting nuances and contradictions. Hannah’s family of origin, moreover, is a world of its own: her parents took in foster children constantly, so Hannah, her sister and her brother spent their childhood and adolescence alongside more than fifty children and teenagers.
One important issue is the fear of letting down the people we love, or of being judged by them: it is a normal feeling, but unfortunately it often creates new problems without resolving any of the existing ones. Precisely because these are loving relationships – based on family ties as well as romantic feelings – it is still possible to maintain trust, take responsibility and tackle even serious issues in a positive way.
Prima c'è la recensione in italiano poi quella in inglese
4,7
Letto in inglese.
Emozionante. Mi ha fatto ridere, pensare e commuovere. È il terzo libro della serie australiana Menzies Mental Health, ed è consigliabile leggerlo dopo gli altri due.
La protagonista principale è Hannah, una specializzanda in psichiatria, di cui seguiamo le traversie professionali (i dubbi, le intuizioni e i “successi”) e personali, molto impegnative soprattutto per la complessità della sua famiglia d’origine, e un po’ anche per le sue relazioni sentimentali. Il tono del racconto è brillante e non mancano le notazioni ironiche e paradossali. Gli altri protagonisti sono altrettanto interessanti e se nei libri precedenti forse era dato molto spazio ai suoi colleghi, in questo terzo volume molti capitoli introducono pazienti dei quali poi seguiamo le vicende, ovviamente complicate e spesso difficili da “decifrare”. Alcuni protagonisti hanno una diagnosi, mentre di altri non è chiaro se sia richiesto un approfondimento diagnostico; diversi pazienti e medici vengono da altri paesi e altre culture, e anche questi aspetti aggiungono sfumature e contraddizioni interessanti. La famiglia di origine di Hannah, poi, è un mondo a parte: i suoi genitori accoglievano bambini in affido senza sosta, perciò Hannah, sua sorella e suo fratello hanno dunque vissuto l’infanzia e l’adolescenza insieme a più di cinquanta bambini e ragazzi.
Un tema importante è quello della paura di deludere le persone che amiamo, oppure di venire giudicati da loro: è un sentimento normale ma purtroppo spesso crea nuovi problemi senza risolvere nessuno di quelli che già c’erano. Proprio perché si tratta di relazioni d’amore, anche in senso familiare oltre che sentimentale, è però possibile continuare ad avere fiducia, assumersi responsabilità e affrontare anche questioni gravi in modo costruttivo.
4.7
Read in English.
Moving. It made me laugh, think and get emotional. It’s the third book in the Australian Menzies Mental Health series, and it’s worth reading it after the other two.
The main character is Hannah, a resident in psychiatry, whose professional struggles (her doubts, insights and ‘successes’) and personal trials we follow; these are particularly challenging due to the complexity of her family of origin, and to some extent also because of her romantic relationships. The writing style is lively, and there is no shortage of ironic and paradoxical observations. The other characters are equally fascinating, and whilst previous books perhaps devoted a great deal of space to his colleagues, in this third volume many chapters introduce patients whose stories we then follow – stories that are, of course, complicated and often difficult to ‘decipher’. Some of the protagonists have been diagnosed, whilst for others it is unclear whether further diagnostic investigation is required; several patients and doctors come from other countries and cultures, and these aspects too add interesting nuances and contradictions. Hannah’s family of origin, moreover, is a world of its own: her parents took in foster children constantly, so Hannah, her sister and her brother spent their childhood and adolescence alongside more than fifty children and teenagers.
One important issue is the fear of letting down the people we love, or of being judged by them: it is a normal feeling, but unfortunately it often creates new problems without resolving any of the existing ones. Precisely because these are loving relationships – based on family ties as well as romantic feelings – it is still possible to maintain trust, take responsibility and tackle even serious issues in a positive way.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
EXCERPT: 'Hannah Wright, late on her first day,' says Sally, laughing. 'Lucky for you, Prof's postponed the kick-off meeting till tomorrow. Some management drama. So, gather round, newbies,' she says, indicating all of the doctors and the social worker, 'and I'll tell you what you need to know. And the first thing you need to know is, don't order anything for lunch that's not already prepared. Because by the time it's ready, you'll have been called.'
I knew it was going to be frantic. What I want to know is which wards we're assigned to. I'm going to have to wait - that's Prof's call.
'We cover each other, anyway,' says Sally. 'If Prof was here, he'd say, "because we're a team".'
'And since Prof isn't here . . .' says Jon.
'It's because we're understaffed.'
ABOUT 'THE GENERAL HOSPITAL': Trainee psychiatrist Doctor Hannah Wright is back where she worked as an intern: the general hospital. This time, instead of dealing with patients' broken bodies, she's tackling their mental health issues, with a roving commission to cover the medical, surgical and obstetric wards. All the while learning that mental and physical health are inextricably linked.
Christina is planning to sue her obstetrician - Hannah's ex-boyfriend - for mental distress during labour. Junjie's Olympic dream has been shattered by injury. Is he at risk of taking his own life? Max's bipolar medication might keep him level-headed, but it is destroying his kidneys. And Ishani claims that setting herself on fire was an accident, but her story doesn't stack up.
When she's not on call, Hannah finds herself navigating an unexpected friendship and the promising early days of a new relationship with fellow trainee Alex, before her grandmother reveals an explosive family secret.
MY THOUGHTS: Doctor Hannah Wright is back again in this, book #3 of the Menzies Mental Health series. This time she is working in the General Hospital in Mental Health. I think this is my favorite of the series so far.
As I have said in each of my reviews of the previous two books, I love the realism with which Buist and Simsion write. Mental Health is a tough field and it is only in recent years that it has been accepted as part of the holistic treatment of patients. The situations that Buist and Simsion write about, the cases Hannah and other members of the team deal with, are very real although they may not often be dealt with with the same empathy, kindness, humor and wit that is present in Buist's and Simsion's writing.
Often chapters featuring new patients are precised by a brief look at the episode preceding the patient's admission.
The General Hospital is full of interesting cases and interesting people, not all of them patients.
A superb read.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#TheGeneralHospital #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHORS: ANNE BUIST is the Chair of Women’s Mental Health at the University of Melbourne and has over 25 years clinical and research experience in perinatal psychiatry. She works with Protective Services and the legal system in cases of abuse, kidnapping, infanticide and murder.
Professor Buist is married to novelist Graeme Simsion and has two children.
GRAEME SIMSION lives in Melbourne with Anne, and is a frequent traveller, walker, jogger, and drinker of wine and cocktails. He is active in amplifying autistic voices through books, events and social media and has spoken at autism conferences and seminars.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Hachette Australia & New Zealand via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The GENERAL HOSPITAL by Anne Buist and Graeme Simsion for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
I knew it was going to be frantic. What I want to know is which wards we're assigned to. I'm going to have to wait - that's Prof's call.
'We cover each other, anyway,' says Sally. 'If Prof was here, he'd say, "because we're a team".'
'And since Prof isn't here . . .' says Jon.
'It's because we're understaffed.'
ABOUT 'THE GENERAL HOSPITAL': Trainee psychiatrist Doctor Hannah Wright is back where she worked as an intern: the general hospital. This time, instead of dealing with patients' broken bodies, she's tackling their mental health issues, with a roving commission to cover the medical, surgical and obstetric wards. All the while learning that mental and physical health are inextricably linked.
Christina is planning to sue her obstetrician - Hannah's ex-boyfriend - for mental distress during labour. Junjie's Olympic dream has been shattered by injury. Is he at risk of taking his own life? Max's bipolar medication might keep him level-headed, but it is destroying his kidneys. And Ishani claims that setting herself on fire was an accident, but her story doesn't stack up.
When she's not on call, Hannah finds herself navigating an unexpected friendship and the promising early days of a new relationship with fellow trainee Alex, before her grandmother reveals an explosive family secret.
MY THOUGHTS: Doctor Hannah Wright is back again in this, book #3 of the Menzies Mental Health series. This time she is working in the General Hospital in Mental Health. I think this is my favorite of the series so far.
As I have said in each of my reviews of the previous two books, I love the realism with which Buist and Simsion write. Mental Health is a tough field and it is only in recent years that it has been accepted as part of the holistic treatment of patients. The situations that Buist and Simsion write about, the cases Hannah and other members of the team deal with, are very real although they may not often be dealt with with the same empathy, kindness, humor and wit that is present in Buist's and Simsion's writing.
Often chapters featuring new patients are precised by a brief look at the episode preceding the patient's admission.
The General Hospital is full of interesting cases and interesting people, not all of them patients.
A superb read.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#TheGeneralHospital #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHORS: ANNE BUIST is the Chair of Women’s Mental Health at the University of Melbourne and has over 25 years clinical and research experience in perinatal psychiatry. She works with Protective Services and the legal system in cases of abuse, kidnapping, infanticide and murder.
Professor Buist is married to novelist Graeme Simsion and has two children.
GRAEME SIMSION lives in Melbourne with Anne, and is a frequent traveller, walker, jogger, and drinker of wine and cocktails. He is active in amplifying autistic voices through books, events and social media and has spoken at autism conferences and seminars.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Hachette Australia & New Zealand via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The GENERAL HOSPITAL by Anne Buist and Graeme Simsion for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
September 3, 2026
The General Hospital is the third book in a series of novels centred on a female trainee psychiatrist, Dr. Hannah Wright set in Australia, who is learning how to treat mental health patients. The story revolves around many characters (some were in the previous books too). I never worried about forgetting all their names or losing track of their different medical cases because of the way the authors wrote about the people. Anne and Graeme did an excellent job in creating realistic and likable characters and bringing those characters to life.
Each chapter begins with a snapshot about a character. It leads to learning about their mental health condition--all told in third person narration. Then after about a page, the chapter starts with Hannah at work in the hospital and the writing is now in first person narration. It reminds me of episodes in an American show called Grey's Anatomy (except that it's all forms of health conditions in that show).
The cases are somewhat sensitive. Since the characters are in the hospital and each of their conditions have something to do with mental health. Developing an attachment to the characters may be uncomfortable for the reader because the patients don't all survive. Keep in mind, it's just a story.
Reading The Glass House, The Oasis and The General Hospital changed my life and no other author has done that. One of Hannah's doctor friends asked her if she wanted to go for a run with her on Saturday. Hannah agreed. They met at a park and there were a lot of people standing around. "So what is this?" Hannah asked. The other training psychiatrist answered, "it's parkrun. It's every Saturday morning, all around the world." THIS EXISTS! It wasn't just fiction. That Saturday, July 26 of last year, after downloading the app parkrun, I went to my first ever parkrun in Australia. Ever since reading The Glass House a year ago, parkrun became a part of my life. I now go every Saturday, I think about parkrun all week long, and I've travelled to over 30 different parkruns in 7 different countries. A big part of it is the "park" aspect as there are trees and nature and it helps to maintain mental health. Which is the subject of all three books.
Thank you so much for the book! And thank you again for introducing me to parkrun.
Each chapter begins with a snapshot about a character. It leads to learning about their mental health condition--all told in third person narration. Then after about a page, the chapter starts with Hannah at work in the hospital and the writing is now in first person narration. It reminds me of episodes in an American show called Grey's Anatomy (except that it's all forms of health conditions in that show).
The cases are somewhat sensitive. Since the characters are in the hospital and each of their conditions have something to do with mental health. Developing an attachment to the characters may be uncomfortable for the reader because the patients don't all survive. Keep in mind, it's just a story.
Reading The Glass House, The Oasis and The General Hospital changed my life and no other author has done that. One of Hannah's doctor friends asked her if she wanted to go for a run with her on Saturday. Hannah agreed. They met at a park and there were a lot of people standing around. "So what is this?" Hannah asked. The other training psychiatrist answered, "it's parkrun. It's every Saturday morning, all around the world." THIS EXISTS! It wasn't just fiction. That Saturday, July 26 of last year, after downloading the app parkrun, I went to my first ever parkrun in Australia. Ever since reading The Glass House a year ago, parkrun became a part of my life. I now go every Saturday, I think about parkrun all week long, and I've travelled to over 30 different parkruns in 7 different countries. A big part of it is the "park" aspect as there are trees and nature and it helps to maintain mental health. Which is the subject of all three books.
Thank you so much for the book! And thank you again for introducing me to parkrun.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“The General Hospital is the third in Anne Buist and Graeme Simsion’s series on the life of a psychiatric trainee – a pathway that Anne and I have both walked/ran/tripped on although in different States of Australia and at different times. Despite those geographical and time differences we are colleagues and friends so this review is colored, informed and enhanced by those facts and here is my review!
Hannah Wright has made it through part of her training and the intermix of her professional and personal lives, introduced in books one (The Glass House) and two (The Oasis) of this series, not only rolls along but the writing of Anne and Graeme together matures as this series moves along. The patient scenarios that are thrown at Hannah (a burns victim in a complex extended family dynamic, the road crash victim, the lawyer with his out-of-control bipolar mood disorder and others I hadn’t seen before) expose the very real dilemmas that medical staff deal with on the frontline. The patients, the families and their health care staff share life and death questions, empathy, emotions and very real lives. The authors provide nuanced and humorous dissections of the interactions of staff, patients and family members, with a lighter touch perhaps than in the previous two in this series, making it easy reading. And that's the joy of the book – the sly fun (yes Graeme – The Rosie Project) as Hannah steers herself in and out of relationships, deals with the expectations and complications of her family of origin, and yet reveals the complexities of working in a demanding job with very troubled (and real) people (Anne). Do I know Hannah? I almost certainly do as she is part of me, part of Anne and known to many of my psychiatric colleagues who are perhaps her supervisors – and as it turns out, readers of this series. Why would psychiatrists and other mental health staff read this book? “It isn’t ME that has to deal with this situation so I can be a voyeur for these challenging and gripping stories that sound oh-so-credible”. Of course Anne knows the territory so well – Anne’s work in her field has taken her to high honors in her profession and she can share and entertain you simultaneously. Why would others read this book? It is a great read, well-portrayed personalities and a further clear view of the world of acute mental health, highly nuanced and perceptive. So much easier reading about it sometimes than unravelling those dilemmas.
Hannah Wright has made it through part of her training and the intermix of her professional and personal lives, introduced in books one (The Glass House) and two (The Oasis) of this series, not only rolls along but the writing of Anne and Graeme together matures as this series moves along. The patient scenarios that are thrown at Hannah (a burns victim in a complex extended family dynamic, the road crash victim, the lawyer with his out-of-control bipolar mood disorder and others I hadn’t seen before) expose the very real dilemmas that medical staff deal with on the frontline. The patients, the families and their health care staff share life and death questions, empathy, emotions and very real lives. The authors provide nuanced and humorous dissections of the interactions of staff, patients and family members, with a lighter touch perhaps than in the previous two in this series, making it easy reading. And that's the joy of the book – the sly fun (yes Graeme – The Rosie Project) as Hannah steers herself in and out of relationships, deals with the expectations and complications of her family of origin, and yet reveals the complexities of working in a demanding job with very troubled (and real) people (Anne). Do I know Hannah? I almost certainly do as she is part of me, part of Anne and known to many of my psychiatric colleagues who are perhaps her supervisors – and as it turns out, readers of this series. Why would psychiatrists and other mental health staff read this book? “It isn’t ME that has to deal with this situation so I can be a voyeur for these challenging and gripping stories that sound oh-so-credible”. Of course Anne knows the territory so well – Anne’s work in her field has taken her to high honors in her profession and she can share and entertain you simultaneously. Why would others read this book? It is a great read, well-portrayed personalities and a further clear view of the world of acute mental health, highly nuanced and perceptive. So much easier reading about it sometimes than unravelling those dilemmas.
September 14, 2026
‘If I’m learning one thing in psychiatry, it’s to shut up and wait … And if I’m learning a second thing in psychiatry, it’s that more than study, more than peer review, more than online modules, more even than professors whispering wise words in your ear, it’s your patients who school you.’
Hannah Wright is a second-year trainee in psychiatry and she’s learning fast. In The General Hospital, Hannah is undertaking a placement in the Consulation-Liason Department of a major metropolitan hospital. The work is varied, demanding and intense. A trainee’s personal life is pushed to the margins. For time-poor Hannah, complex and messy personal issues – romantic relationships, friendships, and family bonds – compete for attention.
Author Anne Buist knows a thing or two about psychiatry; she has decades of experience in the field. Her accumulated wisdom shines through in The General Hospital, the third book in The Menzies Mental Health series which she co-writes with her husband Graeme Simsion. (The first two books are The Glass House and The Oasis . The series aims to ‘represent authentically the mental health system and the people involved’.)
* * * * * * * * * *
The General Hospital is a deceptively ‘easy’ read. Hannah is an engaging protagonist, the Melbourne and country Victoria scenes buzz with authenticity, and the hospital setting is evoked with hectic realism. Within this easy flow lie stories of patients whose lives have been upended and for whom the future, if there is one, will never look the same. The novel offers insights for patients and practitioners alike.
* * * * * * * * * *
You can find more book reflections on my blog, Thoughts from an Idle Hour.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
And so, I return to the third book in this series, renewing old acquaintances and making new ones. One of the strengths of this series is the way in which the authors create real, flawed characters and set before them the sorts of challenges of which many of us are only peripherally aware. I read this novel as someone who has been both the giver of care, and the recipient of it.
Doctor Hannah Wright is a trainee psychiatrist, working in a general hospital. Her role, in mental health, is to cover mental health issues arising in medical, surgical and obstetric wards. We have met some of her patients before, including Chloe whose battle with anorexia continues, and Max whose bipolar disorder may be controlled (most of the time) by lithium but the lithium is destroying his kidneys. Other patients include a young woman who claims to have set herself on fire accidently, but aspects of her story don’t make sense. And then there’s a woman with an alcohol problem, a young man whose dreams of Olympic participation have been destroyed by injury, and a woman planning to sue her obstetrician because of the way her labour was managed.
In addition to her professional workload, Hannah is also in the early days of a new relationship, and of a possible new friendship. Family issues are also part of what Hannah must navigate: her brother has problems and it looks like her sister may as well. But that is not all.
I have enjoyed each of the novels in this series, watching Hannah navigate the challenging aspects of both medicine and life. This novel is particularly valuable as it clearly illustrates the links between physical and mental health.
While it is not necessary to have read the first novels in the series, I would recommend doing so because (to me, anyway) the backstory and character development are important.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Hachette Australia & New Zealand for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Doctor Hannah Wright is a trainee psychiatrist, working in a general hospital. Her role, in mental health, is to cover mental health issues arising in medical, surgical and obstetric wards. We have met some of her patients before, including Chloe whose battle with anorexia continues, and Max whose bipolar disorder may be controlled (most of the time) by lithium but the lithium is destroying his kidneys. Other patients include a young woman who claims to have set herself on fire accidently, but aspects of her story don’t make sense. And then there’s a woman with an alcohol problem, a young man whose dreams of Olympic participation have been destroyed by injury, and a woman planning to sue her obstetrician because of the way her labour was managed.
In addition to her professional workload, Hannah is also in the early days of a new relationship, and of a possible new friendship. Family issues are also part of what Hannah must navigate: her brother has problems and it looks like her sister may as well. But that is not all.
I have enjoyed each of the novels in this series, watching Hannah navigate the challenging aspects of both medicine and life. This novel is particularly valuable as it clearly illustrates the links between physical and mental health.
While it is not necessary to have read the first novels in the series, I would recommend doing so because (to me, anyway) the backstory and character development are important.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Hachette Australia & New Zealand for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Review of advance copy received from Author
(Co) author here a day before publication, sharing what I've learned from early readers and answering the question 'should I buy it'. If you've read the first two books in the series, you're well placed to answer that without any help from me. If not, I'd suggest you start with The Glass House, but you can read The General Hospital as a stand-alone book. One reason to do so is that you prefer the setting of a general hospital rather than a specialised mental-health service. You may have to work just a little harder in Chapter 1 to meet the characters, but you have to do that sometime anyway.
A few more reasons to read:
1. You enjoy medical drama. It's structured like a TV season: each chapter an episode.
2. You work in or are interested in mental health - and want to read the book or give it to someone to show them what it's like (perhaps after doing an authenticity check!)
3. You're interested in an insider's take on what goes on in a big hospital, with an emphasis on mental health - but our protagonist has a roving commission across the wards. We've had a LOT of readers tell us the books have helped them understand what was going on behind the scenes when they or someone close to them was receiving treatment.
A few reasons not to read:
1. There's a lot of potentially triggering stuff: mental health issues, suicide, family violence.
2. Some characters die. There are light (and I hope uplifting) moments too (I wrote The Rosie Project and I figure that's my job) but there's no getting away from the fact that the stakes in a hospital are life and death, and with a dozen stories, some aren't going to make it.
3. Potential publishers had doubts about the episodic structure (like a TV series, with a 'case of the week' as well as ongoing cases) of the whole series. Readers seem to get it okay, but if you think it'd be a drag - well, I'd encourage you to try, but it's your call.
Hope that helps.
Graeme
A few more reasons to read:
1. You enjoy medical drama. It's structured like a TV season: each chapter an episode.
2. You work in or are interested in mental health - and want to read the book or give it to someone to show them what it's like (perhaps after doing an authenticity check!)
3. You're interested in an insider's take on what goes on in a big hospital, with an emphasis on mental health - but our protagonist has a roving commission across the wards. We've had a LOT of readers tell us the books have helped them understand what was going on behind the scenes when they or someone close to them was receiving treatment.
A few reasons not to read:
1. There's a lot of potentially triggering stuff: mental health issues, suicide, family violence.
2. Some characters die. There are light (and I hope uplifting) moments too (I wrote The Rosie Project and I figure that's my job) but there's no getting away from the fact that the stakes in a hospital are life and death, and with a dozen stories, some aren't going to make it.
3. Potential publishers had doubts about the episodic structure (like a TV series, with a 'case of the week' as well as ongoing cases) of the whole series. Readers seem to get it okay, but if you think it'd be a drag - well, I'd encourage you to try, but it's your call.
Hope that helps.
Graeme
April 12, 2026
The General Hospital by Anne Buist (AO), Graeme Simsion Menzies
A Menzies Mental Health Novel 3.
The whole gang from the first book are in this one, too. Trainee psychiatrist Doctor Hannah Wright deals with mental health issues, covering the medical, surgical and obstetric wards. This book in the series shows how mental and physical health are linked.
In this book, Hannah navigates the early stages of a relationship with co-worker Alex (in what feels like fast-forward) and reflects that the lessons she has needed from each patient outweigh those she has learned from a textbook. There is authenticity and humour in these books that offset the serious issues of mental health and the complexity of the healthcare system. Having read the first two books in the series fairly recently, this third book wraps everything up quite neatly, so I'm assuming this is intended to be the final book in this particular series (I don't know this for certain; that's just the impression that I get).
This book covers mental health subjects that may require trigger warnings: obstetric trauma/mental distress, suicide, and voluntary assisted dying (VAD), among others, but much like in the first two books, these topics are covered sensitively and with knowledge.
Thanks to NetGalley and Hachette Australia for the eARC of this book.
Side note: Because I had eARCs of four books that released on the same day, I was running behind on my reading, so I decided to grab the audiobook to multitask. I finished off a sushi illustration for a friend.
Thumbs up!
All three books in this series are out now.
#designnerd #booksdeevaareads #2026bookshelf #TheGeneralHospital #NetGalley @NetGalley @gcsimsion @anneebuist @hachetteaus
A Menzies Mental Health Novel 3.
The whole gang from the first book are in this one, too. Trainee psychiatrist Doctor Hannah Wright deals with mental health issues, covering the medical, surgical and obstetric wards. This book in the series shows how mental and physical health are linked.
In this book, Hannah navigates the early stages of a relationship with co-worker Alex (in what feels like fast-forward) and reflects that the lessons she has needed from each patient outweigh those she has learned from a textbook. There is authenticity and humour in these books that offset the serious issues of mental health and the complexity of the healthcare system. Having read the first two books in the series fairly recently, this third book wraps everything up quite neatly, so I'm assuming this is intended to be the final book in this particular series (I don't know this for certain; that's just the impression that I get).
This book covers mental health subjects that may require trigger warnings: obstetric trauma/mental distress, suicide, and voluntary assisted dying (VAD), among others, but much like in the first two books, these topics are covered sensitively and with knowledge.
Thanks to NetGalley and Hachette Australia for the eARC of this book.
Side note: Because I had eARCs of four books that released on the same day, I was running behind on my reading, so I decided to grab the audiobook to multitask. I finished off a sushi illustration for a friend.
Thumbs up!
All three books in this series are out now.
#designnerd #booksdeevaareads #2026bookshelf #TheGeneralHospital #NetGalley @NetGalley @gcsimsion @anneebuist @hachetteaus
September 19, 2026
Psychiatrist Hannah Wright is back, taking on a new challenge with the Consultation-Liaison team to manage the mental health of general ward patients at a major hospital. From medically unexplained physical symptoms to patients making life-threatening treatment refusals, Hannah and her colleagues navigate the delicate intersection of mind and body. But as hospital politics, personal dilemmas, and heavy workloads mount, a sudden crisis hits the hospital - forcing Hannah to fight to protect her patients and secure her own future.
This is such a fantastic series. By book three, I felt as though I knew Hannah and co really well. I’m glad to see her continue working on herself - both her professional skills and her own mental health. The world introduced in this series is so intriguing that it would make a brilliant TV medical drama!
Just like its predecessors, this story is filled with fascinating characters, each carrying their own baggage. Hannah’s colleagues make a return, along with some beloved patients from the previous books. The dry humour still makes me chuckle, especially since the workplace dynamics feel so close to reality. There was one scene regarding a company policy requiring staff to support five different contact methods just to appear more available that had me laughing out loud!
I was completely hooked by the specific case involving Hannah’s ex. Everything surrounding Hannah’s personal life and relationships kept me glued to the pages. I hope to read more books set in this world, as I truly welcome the sense of familiarity by this point!
(Thanks to Hachette Australia for a gifted review copy)
See my bookstagram review.
This is such a fantastic series. By book three, I felt as though I knew Hannah and co really well. I’m glad to see her continue working on herself - both her professional skills and her own mental health. The world introduced in this series is so intriguing that it would make a brilliant TV medical drama!
Just like its predecessors, this story is filled with fascinating characters, each carrying their own baggage. Hannah’s colleagues make a return, along with some beloved patients from the previous books. The dry humour still makes me chuckle, especially since the workplace dynamics feel so close to reality. There was one scene regarding a company policy requiring staff to support five different contact methods just to appear more available that had me laughing out loud!
I was completely hooked by the specific case involving Hannah’s ex. Everything surrounding Hannah’s personal life and relationships kept me glued to the pages. I hope to read more books set in this world, as I truly welcome the sense of familiarity by this point!
(Thanks to Hachette Australia for a gifted review copy)
See my bookstagram review.
April 13, 2026
Thank you Hatchette Australia and NZ and NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
Two of my favourite workplace subjects inter-weaved; medicine and the mind.
I loved sharing Hannah’s residency term in the Psychiatric Department of a busy Melbourne hospital, Hannah shares her daily struggles and joys with her colleagues and her patients. I loved reading about her life as it often became entangled professionally and personally, since of course, her friends and boyfriend are also in the medical profession.
The patients we get to know through consults with Hannah are so realistic, I was cheering for them throughout, for their recover,, well-being and often hoping they make it home well. Sadly not all of them survived, however it was never through Hannah and her colleagues care and lack of trying.
Through the connection of medicine and psychiatry this book covers heavy topics which may cause upset to some readers. I found the subjects were raised sensitivity and the characters were really well-developed, not always likeable but always guaranteed to formulate an opinion of them! The topics covered were realistic and provided a small window into the moral, legal and of course medical world in which doctors routinely tread.
I loved the characters, particuarly Max and often laughed out loud at the comments they made,
This is the third book in the series but I read it as a stand alone, however I enjoyed it immensely so now will go back and start with book one, hoping that I haven’t ruined it for myself since I’ll know the ending !
Thank you Hachette for the opportunity to read and review this book, I highly recommend it.
Two of my favourite workplace subjects inter-weaved; medicine and the mind.
I loved sharing Hannah’s residency term in the Psychiatric Department of a busy Melbourne hospital, Hannah shares her daily struggles and joys with her colleagues and her patients. I loved reading about her life as it often became entangled professionally and personally, since of course, her friends and boyfriend are also in the medical profession.
The patients we get to know through consults with Hannah are so realistic, I was cheering for them throughout, for their recover,, well-being and often hoping they make it home well. Sadly not all of them survived, however it was never through Hannah and her colleagues care and lack of trying.
Through the connection of medicine and psychiatry this book covers heavy topics which may cause upset to some readers. I found the subjects were raised sensitivity and the characters were really well-developed, not always likeable but always guaranteed to formulate an opinion of them! The topics covered were realistic and provided a small window into the moral, legal and of course medical world in which doctors routinely tread.
I loved the characters, particuarly Max and often laughed out loud at the comments they made,
This is the third book in the series but I read it as a stand alone, however I enjoyed it immensely so now will go back and start with book one, hoping that I haven’t ruined it for myself since I’ll know the ending !
Thank you Hachette for the opportunity to read and review this book, I highly recommend it.
July 11, 2026
Having thoroughly enjoyed The Glass House and The Oasis, I was eager to catch up with Hannah Wright in this third instalment of the Menzies series.
Now working in the General Hospital, Hannah is assigned to patients across a variety of wards, while her on-call duties often see her involved in other areas when the need arises. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a number of new patients, learning about both their illnesses and the personal journeys that have shaped their lives. It was also wonderful to reconnect with familiar faces from the previous books and discover how their stories have progressed.
Hannah’s own journey takes centre stage more than ever in this novel, particularly her developing romance with fellow trainee Alex. We also gain deeper insight into her family history, including a shocking secret revealed by her elderly grandmother. The book explores some very challenging mental health issues, but does so with great empathy, compassion and warmth. Moments of humour and lightness are woven throughout, preventing the story from becoming overly heavy while keeping the reader fully engaged. The novel also highlights the emotional impact that caring for vulnerable patients can have on healthcare professionals themselves.
I would strongly recommend reading the Menzies series in order, as each book adds new depth to the characters and allows their stories and relationships to evolve naturally over time.
I thoroughly enjoyed this third instalment and hope there will be future books so we can continue to follow these characters and see where their journeys lead next.
Now working in the General Hospital, Hannah is assigned to patients across a variety of wards, while her on-call duties often see her involved in other areas when the need arises. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a number of new patients, learning about both their illnesses and the personal journeys that have shaped their lives. It was also wonderful to reconnect with familiar faces from the previous books and discover how their stories have progressed.
Hannah’s own journey takes centre stage more than ever in this novel, particularly her developing romance with fellow trainee Alex. We also gain deeper insight into her family history, including a shocking secret revealed by her elderly grandmother. The book explores some very challenging mental health issues, but does so with great empathy, compassion and warmth. Moments of humour and lightness are woven throughout, preventing the story from becoming overly heavy while keeping the reader fully engaged. The novel also highlights the emotional impact that caring for vulnerable patients can have on healthcare professionals themselves.
I would strongly recommend reading the Menzies series in order, as each book adds new depth to the characters and allows their stories and relationships to evolve naturally over time.
I thoroughly enjoyed this third instalment and hope there will be future books so we can continue to follow these characters and see where their journeys lead next.
April 30, 2026
This is the third in the Menzies Mental Health Series following trainee Psychiatrist Dr Hannah Wright as she navigates her way through her training in a strained medical system. Hannah is now a second year registrar and part of the Consultation Psychiatry team at the Menzies Hospital, a group consulting with other health care professionals on the hospital wards, where treating and supporting a patient’s mental health may be just as much needed as treating their physical problems.
Hannah sees a range of cases in this novel, all with interesting mental health issues deriving from or feeding into their health issues. Many topics are raised, including assisted dying, coercive marriages, family expectations and respecting a patient’s wishes, even if it’s not in line with what is considered the best medical treatment for them. Working within a team, Hannah has others to provide her with different expertise and approaches and learns through her experiences.
Hannah’s own family and upbringing was dysfunctional and as she becomes better equipped to discuss the issues that affected her and her siblings with her parents, she starts to mend some fences for all of them. It all makes for an interesting read and a glance into the complex world of psychiatry. Author Prof. Anne Buist is a clinical psychiatrist and Chair of Women’s Mental Health, University of Melbourne so the description of the cases and their individual treatment is grounded in experience.
With thanks to Hachette ANZ via Netgalley for a copy to read
Hannah sees a range of cases in this novel, all with interesting mental health issues deriving from or feeding into their health issues. Many topics are raised, including assisted dying, coercive marriages, family expectations and respecting a patient’s wishes, even if it’s not in line with what is considered the best medical treatment for them. Working within a team, Hannah has others to provide her with different expertise and approaches and learns through her experiences.
Hannah’s own family and upbringing was dysfunctional and as she becomes better equipped to discuss the issues that affected her and her siblings with her parents, she starts to mend some fences for all of them. It all makes for an interesting read and a glance into the complex world of psychiatry. Author Prof. Anne Buist is a clinical psychiatrist and Chair of Women’s Mental Health, University of Melbourne so the description of the cases and their individual treatment is grounded in experience.
With thanks to Hachette ANZ via Netgalley for a copy to read
March 30, 2026
The General Hospital is #3 in the Menzies Mental Health by Anne Buist and Graeme Simsion. Again we follow Hannah Wright psychiatric trainee as she wends her way in the hospital on various wards as she attends to the mental health issues of some patients.
I was fully immersed in this exploration of what it is like for Hannah as she takes on this role with compassion and warmth and intelligence. I felt myself hoping that things would turn out the way Hannah hoped for each of her patients.
I liked the way many of the chapters began with some incident and then later we meet them in the hospital. Throughout the book we follow them with the various interventions the staff explore. My heart lifted when things worked out or felt sad at what had to be left to the patient's choice.
We met with Hannah's family again and there were developments there that were really good for the family, although tough too. Her work colleagues too it was great to meet up with, and to see how Hannah's relationships were turning out.
I really liked that we learned how life had turned out for the patients and how it was written in an intertwining kind of way. There are some events at the end that I sort of predicted to myself, only because I had read something similar in a book this year, but this went even one step better.
I loved this story and very much hope there is another in the series. I want to meet Hannah, her colleagues and family again.
I was fully immersed in this exploration of what it is like for Hannah as she takes on this role with compassion and warmth and intelligence. I felt myself hoping that things would turn out the way Hannah hoped for each of her patients.
I liked the way many of the chapters began with some incident and then later we meet them in the hospital. Throughout the book we follow them with the various interventions the staff explore. My heart lifted when things worked out or felt sad at what had to be left to the patient's choice.
We met with Hannah's family again and there were developments there that were really good for the family, although tough too. Her work colleagues too it was great to meet up with, and to see how Hannah's relationships were turning out.
I really liked that we learned how life had turned out for the patients and how it was written in an intertwining kind of way. There are some events at the end that I sort of predicted to myself, only because I had read something similar in a book this year, but this went even one step better.
I loved this story and very much hope there is another in the series. I want to meet Hannah, her colleagues and family again.
July 26, 2026
‘Trainee psychiatrist Doctor Hannah Wright is back where she worked as an intern: the general hospital. This time, instead of dealing with patients’ broken bodies, she’s tackling their mental health issues, with a roving commission to cover the medical, surgical and obstetric wards. All the while learning that mental and physical health are inextricably linked.
Christina is planning to sue her obstetrician – Hannah’s ex-boyfriend – for mental distress during labour. Junjie’s Olympic dream has been shattered by injury. Is he at risk of taking his own life? Max’s bipolar medication might keep him level-headed, but it is destroying his kidneys. And Ishani claims that setting herself on fire was an accident, but her story doesn’t stack up.
When she’s not on call, Hannah finds herself navigating an unexpected friendship and the promising early days of a new relationship with fellow trainee Alex, before her grandmother reveals an explosive family secret.’
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I didn’t know anything about this book going into it, so I wasn’t disappointed when it was a little slow to start. But I was very excited once the pace picked up and I became so drawn into the story that I didn’t want to put it down.
I loved that this book takes place in Australia, and I really loved that it dealt with mental health issues both in and out of the hospital setting. As someone who has mental health concerns, this book really connected with me in a way that is quite rare for me.
The way in which the characters navigated both their own lives as well as the needs of their patients made for some really wonderful conversations and insights into the well-being of front-line workers. I think this book perfectly walked the line between important and serious issues, while still being entertaining and at times truly amusing.
Anne Buist and Graeme Simsion have done a wonderful job with this book. The writing was detailed yet still emotive, the storylines were interesting and at times heartbreaking, and the characters were relatable and fully formed, which made it easy to fall in love with them.
After having a truly beautiful reading experience with this book, I was very excited to find out that there are two more books in the series, which I have now added to my shopping cart.
The General Hospital by Anne Buist and Graeme Simsion is well and truly worth the read.
Geramie Kate Barker
gemsbooknook.wordpress.com
Christina is planning to sue her obstetrician – Hannah’s ex-boyfriend – for mental distress during labour. Junjie’s Olympic dream has been shattered by injury. Is he at risk of taking his own life? Max’s bipolar medication might keep him level-headed, but it is destroying his kidneys. And Ishani claims that setting herself on fire was an accident, but her story doesn’t stack up.
When she’s not on call, Hannah finds herself navigating an unexpected friendship and the promising early days of a new relationship with fellow trainee Alex, before her grandmother reveals an explosive family secret.’
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I didn’t know anything about this book going into it, so I wasn’t disappointed when it was a little slow to start. But I was very excited once the pace picked up and I became so drawn into the story that I didn’t want to put it down.
I loved that this book takes place in Australia, and I really loved that it dealt with mental health issues both in and out of the hospital setting. As someone who has mental health concerns, this book really connected with me in a way that is quite rare for me.
The way in which the characters navigated both their own lives as well as the needs of their patients made for some really wonderful conversations and insights into the well-being of front-line workers. I think this book perfectly walked the line between important and serious issues, while still being entertaining and at times truly amusing.
Anne Buist and Graeme Simsion have done a wonderful job with this book. The writing was detailed yet still emotive, the storylines were interesting and at times heartbreaking, and the characters were relatable and fully formed, which made it easy to fall in love with them.
After having a truly beautiful reading experience with this book, I was very excited to find out that there are two more books in the series, which I have now added to my shopping cart.
The General Hospital by Anne Buist and Graeme Simsion is well and truly worth the read.
Geramie Kate Barker
gemsbooknook.wordpress.com
October 9, 2026
I was so happy to discover this book at the library, having read and enjoyed The Glass House. It gives quite a bit of insight into the behind the scenes complexities in Australian hospitals from many angles, focussing on mental health. However this book just didn’t quite work for me.
One issue was I found it hard at times keeping track of all the characters. There were stories around patients and their issues as would be expected and also the staff, their work and personal dramas and interactions. The main character, Dr Hannah Wright for example.
Hannah’s family and their issues were full on with far reaching consequences, yet this was almost skipped over in parts.
I think there was a lack of depth given to the main characters and there were some stories/ sub plots that added nothing much and just diluted the overall effect of the book.
The book jumped around a lot, following numerous different character’s plot lines. There was a great deal going on and the jumping around made it difficult for me to process it all.
On another level, having a family member suffering from bipolar disorder, there were many mixed emotions the book raised. I can only hope a psychiatrist with the same levels of dedication can help us.
Maybe I’ll give it another try when I’m in a different head space, but I wonder whether I’ll still find this book was just trying to cover too much and remain disappointed.
One issue was I found it hard at times keeping track of all the characters. There were stories around patients and their issues as would be expected and also the staff, their work and personal dramas and interactions. The main character, Dr Hannah Wright for example.
Hannah’s family and their issues were full on with far reaching consequences, yet this was almost skipped over in parts.
I think there was a lack of depth given to the main characters and there were some stories/ sub plots that added nothing much and just diluted the overall effect of the book.
The book jumped around a lot, following numerous different character’s plot lines. There was a great deal going on and the jumping around made it difficult for me to process it all.
On another level, having a family member suffering from bipolar disorder, there were many mixed emotions the book raised. I can only hope a psychiatrist with the same levels of dedication can help us.
Maybe I’ll give it another try when I’m in a different head space, but I wonder whether I’ll still find this book was just trying to cover too much and remain disappointed.
April 27, 2026
4.5 stars
I was thrilled when I saw book three in the Menzies Mental Health series had been released. This time, we follow Dr Hannah during her psychiatric rotation in a general hospital. Like the previous books, it’s full of quirky characters—some make you laugh, some you want to wrap your arms around and hug, and others leave you wondering.
Several familiar characters return, and I loved getting updates on them. While much of the story centres around Hannah’s management of patients, there’s also a compelling side story as she navigates a new relationship. We also learn more about Hannah’s backstory—her parents, siblings, and the foster children who passed through their home while she was growing up. This gave me a more personal glimpse into Hannah, which I really loved.
Given this is a book dealing with mental health, I’d recommend checking the trigger warnings beforehand, as there were a few moments that caught me by surprise.
These books are written by Annie, a psychiatrist herself, and her husband Graeme, author of The Rosie Project. Together, they bring both the expertise of working in the mental health field and fabulous research and storytelling.
I don’t know how many more books they plan to release in the Menzies series, but I’ll be there for all of them. Happy Reading 🩷📚🩷
I was thrilled when I saw book three in the Menzies Mental Health series had been released. This time, we follow Dr Hannah during her psychiatric rotation in a general hospital. Like the previous books, it’s full of quirky characters—some make you laugh, some you want to wrap your arms around and hug, and others leave you wondering.
Several familiar characters return, and I loved getting updates on them. While much of the story centres around Hannah’s management of patients, there’s also a compelling side story as she navigates a new relationship. We also learn more about Hannah’s backstory—her parents, siblings, and the foster children who passed through their home while she was growing up. This gave me a more personal glimpse into Hannah, which I really loved.
Given this is a book dealing with mental health, I’d recommend checking the trigger warnings beforehand, as there were a few moments that caught me by surprise.
These books are written by Annie, a psychiatrist herself, and her husband Graeme, author of The Rosie Project. Together, they bring both the expertise of working in the mental health field and fabulous research and storytelling.
I don’t know how many more books they plan to release in the Menzies series, but I’ll be there for all of them. Happy Reading 🩷📚🩷
September 21, 2026
The Menzies Mental Health series is back with its third instalment; this time trainee psychiatrist Hannah is working in the general hospital.
Hannah 3.0 is notably more confident and self-assured. She walks tall in her doc martens. She understands the importance of her role within the hospital even if she has to demonstrate this time and time again.
The ongoing push/pull between physical health and mental health. The frequent advocating for her patients’ and her role within the health network.
We track her patients through clinical vignettes, with further exploration into her personal life.
These stories are deliciously human, (emotional) warts and all.
I loved seeing some return patients; this felt so very real and prompts an emotive response from dedicated readers who have been on their journey.
Loved it- I get lost in these stories and am fascinated as they talk through these cases, as well as their own self reflection.
If nothing else, the power of the pause is something I’ve taken from these stories. With my own patients, with my kids.
Stop, slow down, give them a chance to speak and then really listen.
Magic.
Hannah 3.0 is notably more confident and self-assured. She walks tall in her doc martens. She understands the importance of her role within the hospital even if she has to demonstrate this time and time again.
The ongoing push/pull between physical health and mental health. The frequent advocating for her patients’ and her role within the health network.
We track her patients through clinical vignettes, with further exploration into her personal life.
These stories are deliciously human, (emotional) warts and all.
I loved seeing some return patients; this felt so very real and prompts an emotive response from dedicated readers who have been on their journey.
Loved it- I get lost in these stories and am fascinated as they talk through these cases, as well as their own self reflection.
If nothing else, the power of the pause is something I’ve taken from these stories. With my own patients, with my kids.
Stop, slow down, give them a chance to speak and then really listen.
Magic.
May 5, 2026
We catch up with Dr Hannah Wright on her second-year traineeship as a consultation liaison psychiatrist. I really enjoy how each chapter begins with a vignette on the patient that is going to be introduced in further detail in the subsequent pages. (Though I'm not sure if Chapter 9 relates to Hannah's mum???)
The subject material is heavy, both the patients and some of Hannah's family members/friends experience traumatic events, yet the delivery is light and engaging. The characters are well fleshed out, and it is nice to get to know some of them in more detail, their idiosyncrasies, wit and charm.
I just didn't buy into Hannah's relationship with Alex, there was no real connection, and I was at a loss as to why she moved in with him. I haven't read The Oasis (book 2) yet, so maybe I missed out on the developing relationship there.
Overall, a great read shedding some light onto mental illness. And no, (from bookclub suggested questions), I don't think psychiatry is a poor relation to other specialities.
The subject material is heavy, both the patients and some of Hannah's family members/friends experience traumatic events, yet the delivery is light and engaging. The characters are well fleshed out, and it is nice to get to know some of them in more detail, their idiosyncrasies, wit and charm.
I just didn't buy into Hannah's relationship with Alex, there was no real connection, and I was at a loss as to why she moved in with him. I haven't read The Oasis (book 2) yet, so maybe I missed out on the developing relationship there.
Overall, a great read shedding some light onto mental illness. And no, (from bookclub suggested questions), I don't think psychiatry is a poor relation to other specialities.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2026
The General Hospital follows Hannah Wright during her junior years as a psychiatrist. It’s the third book in the Menzie’s Mental Health series, and this time Hannah is working in a general hospital, caring for a number of patients over the course of the book.
I really resonated with Hannah’s family life, particularly the way her family had taken in so many people over the years. I was also intrigued by how she never seemed to stop being a psychiatrist when she was at home, whether she was with her family or in her relationship. It made me wonder if that’s what life is really like for psychiatrists, constantly observing and analysing the people around them.
This a great series if you’re interested in getting a glimpse into the inner workings of psychiatry and hospitals. It’s given me a much better sense of what the work actually involves, while still telling an engaging story.
Content note: The book includes patients experiencing eating disorders, death and voluntary assisted dying, which some readers may find confronting.
I really resonated with Hannah’s family life, particularly the way her family had taken in so many people over the years. I was also intrigued by how she never seemed to stop being a psychiatrist when she was at home, whether she was with her family or in her relationship. It made me wonder if that’s what life is really like for psychiatrists, constantly observing and analysing the people around them.
This a great series if you’re interested in getting a glimpse into the inner workings of psychiatry and hospitals. It’s given me a much better sense of what the work actually involves, while still telling an engaging story.
Content note: The book includes patients experiencing eating disorders, death and voluntary assisted dying, which some readers may find confronting.
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