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As Swallows Fly
When Malika, a young orphan in rural Pakistan, is savagely attacked, her face is left disfigured and her self-esteem destroyed. Haunted by the assault, she hides from the world, finding solace in her mathematical theories. A few years later, her intellectual brilliance is discovered and she leaves conflict-stricken Pakistan for a better education in Melbourne, where she finds herself placed with Kate—a successful plastic surgeon facing emotional insecurities of her own. Malika and Kate’s lives slowly intertwine as they find within each other what each has lacked alone. At first, Kate’s skills appear to offer a simple solution to Malika’s anguish, but when tragedy strikes, the price of beauty is found to be much higher than either of them could have known. As Swallows Fly is a poignant portrayal of survival, identity and empowerment in a culture dominated by the pursuit of perfection. In a captivating and unforgettable debut, McMahon asks what might be possible if we have the courage to be flawed.
- GenresContemporary
289 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
February 28, 2021
Malika was orphaned when she was a young girl, and when she was placed in Ayesha’s home in a small Pakistan village, she was alone and lonely, missing her parents deeply. Gradually she made a few friends, while the mathematical brilliance of her mind was something she took for granted. But when she was brutally attacked and left for dead, Ayesha took her back to the house and cared for her. She was forever disfigured, embarrassed and ashamed at what had happened. When Malika eventually left Pakistan for Melbourne, Australia, it was after a long period of time, organizing her passport and visa – she was lucky she had Father Louis in her corner.
Dr Kate Davenport was a plastic surgeon, highly successful and extremely busy. When Father Mike asked Kate to befriend Malika, soon to arrive from Pakistan, Kate had no idea what was ahead. Malika always wore her hijab as she didn’t want anyone to see her face – she was different anyway, others noticed. With Malika at the boarding school through the week, and spending the weekend with Kate, they soon became close as Kate showed her around Melbourne’s tourist sites. Malika’s dearest wish was to see the ocean and it was on their visit to the seaside town of Lorne where tragedy struck.
What would be the outcome for Malika, a flawed but special girl? And Kate, who had her own problems to face?
As Swallows Fly is the debut novel by Aussie author L.P. McMahon (Lawrence) and it was exceptional. Very hard to believe it’s his debut! Malika was a beautiful soul; her kindness and sincerity shone through and although she was timid, she also said her piece; stood up to the bullies. She didn’t want to leave Pakistan, but took the guidance she was shown. As Swallows Fly is a captivating, poignant novel which I have no hesitation in recommending highly.
With thanks to Ventura Press for my uncorrected proof ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Dr Kate Davenport was a plastic surgeon, highly successful and extremely busy. When Father Mike asked Kate to befriend Malika, soon to arrive from Pakistan, Kate had no idea what was ahead. Malika always wore her hijab as she didn’t want anyone to see her face – she was different anyway, others noticed. With Malika at the boarding school through the week, and spending the weekend with Kate, they soon became close as Kate showed her around Melbourne’s tourist sites. Malika’s dearest wish was to see the ocean and it was on their visit to the seaside town of Lorne where tragedy struck.
What would be the outcome for Malika, a flawed but special girl? And Kate, who had her own problems to face?
As Swallows Fly is the debut novel by Aussie author L.P. McMahon (Lawrence) and it was exceptional. Very hard to believe it’s his debut! Malika was a beautiful soul; her kindness and sincerity shone through and although she was timid, she also said her piece; stood up to the bullies. She didn’t want to leave Pakistan, but took the guidance she was shown. As Swallows Fly is a captivating, poignant novel which I have no hesitation in recommending highly.
With thanks to Ventura Press for my uncorrected proof ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
April 1, 2021
*https://theburgeoningbookshelf.blogsp...
L. P. McMahon's debut novel As Swallows Fly is poignant and moving. McMahon uses perfection as the driving force behind this story of two women thrown together by circumstance, each finding their new friendship offering the emotional support they lacked.
Kate is a successful plastic surgeon spending her days saving limbs and saving lives. She is overworked and over stressed, always striving for perfection.
The medical procedures and hospital scenes are well described, believable and not overly technical. I wasn't surprised when I later read that the author has an extensive medical background.
Malika, orphaned at the age of 12, is taken to another village and raised as one of their own but when jealousy raises its head and Malika is savagely attacked it is decided she will be safer in Australia to continue her education.
I really enjoyed Malika's part of the story. Her life in Pakistan was realistically described and I can imagine a village accepting a young orphan into their mix and bringing her up as their own. When Malika started teaching lessons to the other girls she was told to stop by the village elders but they also showed how proud they were of her academic achievements.
McMahon has included themes of belonging, jealousy, secrets, moving on from the past, the pursuit of perfection and the importance of friendship.
From the life of a young girl in Pakistan to the rooms of the University of Melbourne deciphering theories and equations Malika's story is heart-breaking and awe inspiring.
Together Kate and Malika learn that an unlikely friendship can lead to healing and self acceptance.
*I received my copy from the publisher
L. P. McMahon's debut novel As Swallows Fly is poignant and moving. McMahon uses perfection as the driving force behind this story of two women thrown together by circumstance, each finding their new friendship offering the emotional support they lacked.
Kate is a successful plastic surgeon spending her days saving limbs and saving lives. She is overworked and over stressed, always striving for perfection.
The medical procedures and hospital scenes are well described, believable and not overly technical. I wasn't surprised when I later read that the author has an extensive medical background.
Malika, orphaned at the age of 12, is taken to another village and raised as one of their own but when jealousy raises its head and Malika is savagely attacked it is decided she will be safer in Australia to continue her education.
I really enjoyed Malika's part of the story. Her life in Pakistan was realistically described and I can imagine a village accepting a young orphan into their mix and bringing her up as their own. When Malika started teaching lessons to the other girls she was told to stop by the village elders but they also showed how proud they were of her academic achievements.
McMahon has included themes of belonging, jealousy, secrets, moving on from the past, the pursuit of perfection and the importance of friendship.
From the life of a young girl in Pakistan to the rooms of the University of Melbourne deciphering theories and equations Malika's story is heart-breaking and awe inspiring.
Together Kate and Malika learn that an unlikely friendship can lead to healing and self acceptance.
*I received my copy from the publisher
September 28, 2021
In As Swallows Fly by L.P. McMahon, Kate is a plastic surgeon living in Melbourne and Malika is an orphan from a remote village in Pakistan. Their lives unexpectedly converge thanks to the well meaning intentions of an uncle and priest and each of the women seem to directly - and sometimes indirectly - help one another with their struggles.
Malika's childhood upbringing in rural Pakistan was tough, yet full of love and her joy of learning and mathematics was a pleasure to read about. I learned that the author volunteered as a medic in Pakistan and his experience definitely shines through in his writing.
Malika struggles with a facial disfigurement after an horrific assault and insists on keeping her face concealed by wearing a veil and hijab. Arguably one of the most moving scenes in the entire book should have been the moment Malika reveals her face to Dr Kate for the first time. I was eagerly anticipating this moment, but the conversation between the characters is held 'off stage' so to speak. In my opinion the author missed an opportunity for these characters to experience a powerful scene and without it, I felt bereft.
Meanwhile, Kate is hardworking and overworked and she's constantly running late for things which really irked me. I know the author needed to demonstrate the demanding nature of Kate's job and how 'busy busy' she is, but it just made me roll my eyes.
I was enjoying the growing trust between Kate and Malika, but by the close of the book there were too many unanswered questions for my liking. There were unresolved character arcs and a glaring oversight right at the end.
As Swallows Fly is the debut novel for Melbourne surgeon L.P. McMahon and will be an enjoyable contemporary read for those who don't mind an ambiguous or unresolved ending.
* Copy courtesy of Ventura Press *
Malika's childhood upbringing in rural Pakistan was tough, yet full of love and her joy of learning and mathematics was a pleasure to read about. I learned that the author volunteered as a medic in Pakistan and his experience definitely shines through in his writing.
Malika struggles with a facial disfigurement after an horrific assault and insists on keeping her face concealed by wearing a veil and hijab. Arguably one of the most moving scenes in the entire book should have been the moment Malika reveals her face to Dr Kate for the first time. I was eagerly anticipating this moment, but the conversation between the characters is held 'off stage' so to speak. In my opinion the author missed an opportunity for these characters to experience a powerful scene and without it, I felt bereft.
Meanwhile, Kate is hardworking and overworked and she's constantly running late for things which really irked me. I know the author needed to demonstrate the demanding nature of Kate's job and how 'busy busy' she is, but it just made me roll my eyes.
I was enjoying the growing trust between Kate and Malika, but by the close of the book there were too many unanswered questions for my liking. There were unresolved character arcs and a glaring oversight right at the end.
As Swallows Fly is the debut novel for Melbourne surgeon L.P. McMahon and will be an enjoyable contemporary read for those who don't mind an ambiguous or unresolved ending.
* Copy courtesy of Ventura Press *
March 13, 2021
Utterly wonderful book. Pleasure to read and, at times, found myself holding my breath in anticipation of what was to come. Medical procedures written well, gripping but not overly visceral. Loved the unfolding of the story complete with its beautiful ending. Well done!
September 5, 2021
*3.5
This book had a lot of potential but unfortunately did not quite make the mark for me. It had really interesting themes and some fantastic ideas, however I found that the themes could have been more developed and the ideas more consistent.
This book had a lot of potential but unfortunately did not quite make the mark for me. It had really interesting themes and some fantastic ideas, however I found that the themes could have been more developed and the ideas more consistent.
May 9, 2021
As Swallows Fly is the first novel for author, L.P.
McMahon that focused on the parallel stories of two protagonists, Dr. Kate Davenport, skilful plastic surgeon and Maliki, the Pakistani orphan who finds herself in Melbourne Australia as a result of her exceptional mathematical potential. Both have their own individual challenges and personal insecurities to try and surmount yet Maliki’s facial disfigurement becomes an immediate medical challenge that Kate tries to address with mixed success.
Ultimately, their two lives become unpredictably intertwined as a result of sharing increased time together on weekends when Malika is able to leave her boarding school existence for brief but welcome respite at Kate’s home.
Having spent extended time in Pakistan myself and being very familiar with many of the Melbourne and Victorian venues featured in the novel, I was particularly drawn to both the setting and the cultural distinctions each character displayed.
The writing itself was very readable and the narrative straightforward if not somewhat Hollywoodlike in parts.
The climactic crisis that results in a dramatic dash to hospital at the end of the novel forces a number of unresolved decisions particularly for Kate and suggests that not all decisions we make will necessarily result in the most desired outcomes.
Overall, As Swallows Fly is an enjoyable read that overcomes any unlikely if not occasionally dubious storyline developments that occur from time to time.
McMahon that focused on the parallel stories of two protagonists, Dr. Kate Davenport, skilful plastic surgeon and Maliki, the Pakistani orphan who finds herself in Melbourne Australia as a result of her exceptional mathematical potential. Both have their own individual challenges and personal insecurities to try and surmount yet Maliki’s facial disfigurement becomes an immediate medical challenge that Kate tries to address with mixed success.
Ultimately, their two lives become unpredictably intertwined as a result of sharing increased time together on weekends when Malika is able to leave her boarding school existence for brief but welcome respite at Kate’s home.
Having spent extended time in Pakistan myself and being very familiar with many of the Melbourne and Victorian venues featured in the novel, I was particularly drawn to both the setting and the cultural distinctions each character displayed.
The writing itself was very readable and the narrative straightforward if not somewhat Hollywoodlike in parts.
The climactic crisis that results in a dramatic dash to hospital at the end of the novel forces a number of unresolved decisions particularly for Kate and suggests that not all decisions we make will necessarily result in the most desired outcomes.
Overall, As Swallows Fly is an enjoyable read that overcomes any unlikely if not occasionally dubious storyline developments that occur from time to time.
April 28, 2021
My experience reading this novel can best be described as quiet enthralment.
It is hard to believe As Swallows Fly is McMahon’s debut, such is the precision of his prose and his patient and nuanced character development. Even while depicting horrific events and deeply confronting subject matter, his narrative eschews ‘drama’ and instead zeroes in on the substance. By that, I mean the inner turmoil and insecurities of the perfectionist/high achiever, the outsider, the trauma survivor. The effect is haunting.
But do not for one minute think this novel lacks pace. McMahon taps into the subtle intrigue and suspense of everyday interactions so effectively. I found myself glued to As Swallows Fly‘s pages… utterly engrossed and reading for large stints at a time. In that respect, the reading experience comparable to Elliot Perlman’s 'The Street Sweeper' and Elizabeth Kostova’s 'The Historian'. Continue reading >> https://www.bookloverbookreviews.com/...
It is hard to believe As Swallows Fly is McMahon’s debut, such is the precision of his prose and his patient and nuanced character development. Even while depicting horrific events and deeply confronting subject matter, his narrative eschews ‘drama’ and instead zeroes in on the substance. By that, I mean the inner turmoil and insecurities of the perfectionist/high achiever, the outsider, the trauma survivor. The effect is haunting.
But do not for one minute think this novel lacks pace. McMahon taps into the subtle intrigue and suspense of everyday interactions so effectively. I found myself glued to As Swallows Fly‘s pages… utterly engrossed and reading for large stints at a time. In that respect, the reading experience comparable to Elliot Perlman’s 'The Street Sweeper' and Elizabeth Kostova’s 'The Historian'. Continue reading >> https://www.bookloverbookreviews.com/...
July 12, 2021
It took me a while to get into this story. But it was well worth it, as this is a wonderful book. It basically tells the story of a young girl, living in a village in Pakistan after her patents are killed. Malika and a young orphaned boy live in the village until it is discovered that Malika has a great capacity for mathematics. On the night before shie sent away to school, the young boy rapes her and viciously attacks her, almost destroying her face. Eventually Malika is sent to Melbourne to attend a boarding school and to meet Dr Kate, a plastic surgeon. A debut novel, written by a doctor As Swallows Fly is a beautifully crafted story, with characters you can relate to and understand.
July 16, 2021
I can’t believe this was a debut. I was troubled at first because the villain is a Muslim, it did feel unfair. But it reads beautifully. It’s a novel concerned with friendship, mentorship and belonging. I loved the intricacies of Dr Kate’s backstory. I thought her realisation that busyness ‘so she didn’t have to think’ was perfect. We know exactly who she is. The statement this book makes on our health system and overwhelmed doctors is powerful. There is no need for ‘fatigue to be a fact of life’. The cosmetic surgery insights were so interesting.
August 2, 2023
What is it about Aussie fiction? It's not American fiction, and it's definitely not British fiction. There's some quiet idiosyncrasy there. This is tender, intimate, right-up-close-to-the-heart writing. 'As Swallows Fly' is a truly excellent novel: a character study of two brimming-with-life women. Excellent.
October 17, 2020
I thought this was a solid debut novel. It held my attention and I liked the characters, although felt that more of their background experiences could have been elaborated on.
May 28, 2021
The story of Malika, starts in Pakistan. A young orphaned Catholic girl, she and Tahir, an orphaned Muslim boy are given to Ayesha to care for in a small village. As she grows her priest Father Louis discovers her mathematical talent and encourages her education although the elders ensure she does not teach other children, especially girls.
Some years later Tahir attempts to sexually assault Malika and his punch breaks her nose and facial bones, leaving her with a disfiguring facial injury. She wins a scholarship to a school abroad in Melbourne and leaves the village for further development of her undoubted intellect. Kate, a plastic surgeon whose uncle Michael is also a priest in Pakistan, agrees to act as her foster mother by taking Malika out from the boarding school at weekends. Kate is coping after the death of her mother with renewed feelings of their unhappy relationship and is initially reluctant to carry out her caring of the girl from Pakistan. Malika is very different culturally from the girls at boarding school but pursues her education doggedly.
Malika is working on a mathematical solution to non -linear fractal equations; for things we cannot directly measure or that have too many operative factors to be soluble. Malika contends that studying the outliers of events may make a difference in developing a set of equations to effect change ; her theory was inspired by the flight of swallows. Kate gradually finds out more about her charge's remarkable talents, her tutoring with the University,as well as her physical deformity and Malika makes some connections with the girls at school through her teaching as well as shared grief.
I loved the quote about Malika;
' She'd knock Spock off the bridge of the Enterprise'
Kate's complex life, her stressful work and promotion to seniority through the illness of her mentor, competition with colleagues, prior failed relationships and isolation from her mother are all part of the complex story that develops around the story of Malika.
Kate develops feelings for her head of department Andrew, a widowed English man with two children and make a connection to a US surgeon who offers her a research position. As she deals with stress of patients, staff problems and relationship issues she gets closer to Malika and involved in decisions about her facial surgery.
Malika's visit to the sea results in a menigeal tear at the site of the injury and infection, and the tension of possible medical results is told in a tense and realistic manner, where Kate is thrown into saving Malika's life, then reconstructing her face alongside Andrew.
There is heightened tension as Malika survives meningitis but faces a long period of coma and/ intubation and physical decay, let alone possible impaired cogntion. Kate sits a vigil with her as the deadline for intubation looms and fortunately Malika rallies and recovers. She has residual deafness and vertigo but improved well.
Kate had been successful in saving Malika but there are points in the story where she is makes other choices: sacking her time serving secretary Sam, coming to terms with her mother who was disappointed with Kate's pregnancy and abortion as a young woman, and choosing to operate on Malika despite the potential future risks to promotion.
"'Her career blown away. For a girl from nowhere. She turned to them. ' For me it's straightforward' she said, ' I'm operating' "
The feedback on her paper submitted was
positive, and Malika decided to do further study in Pakistan so Kate travelled with her to see the village she had grown up in. The two travelled as close friends or family, having survived so much together. Malika had chosen to return to her roots despite the difficulty of achieving her goals as a woman. Kate had chosen her new role in research but with the new relationship with Andrew and his family to develop in the future.
This book was written with the assurance of a doctor, the medical story rang true but the professional relationships and interpersonal jostling for place also seemed realistic in the hospital setting. Kate was a woman but that wasn't the whole story, she had no life but that also seems to be the norm in the competitive world of medicine. I loved the developing story of Kate and Malika even if I had little understanding of the mathematical theory Malika was developing, and the story was really involving.Highly recommended.
Some years later Tahir attempts to sexually assault Malika and his punch breaks her nose and facial bones, leaving her with a disfiguring facial injury. She wins a scholarship to a school abroad in Melbourne and leaves the village for further development of her undoubted intellect. Kate, a plastic surgeon whose uncle Michael is also a priest in Pakistan, agrees to act as her foster mother by taking Malika out from the boarding school at weekends. Kate is coping after the death of her mother with renewed feelings of their unhappy relationship and is initially reluctant to carry out her caring of the girl from Pakistan. Malika is very different culturally from the girls at boarding school but pursues her education doggedly.
Malika is working on a mathematical solution to non -linear fractal equations; for things we cannot directly measure or that have too many operative factors to be soluble. Malika contends that studying the outliers of events may make a difference in developing a set of equations to effect change ; her theory was inspired by the flight of swallows. Kate gradually finds out more about her charge's remarkable talents, her tutoring with the University,as well as her physical deformity and Malika makes some connections with the girls at school through her teaching as well as shared grief.
I loved the quote about Malika;
' She'd knock Spock off the bridge of the Enterprise'
Kate's complex life, her stressful work and promotion to seniority through the illness of her mentor, competition with colleagues, prior failed relationships and isolation from her mother are all part of the complex story that develops around the story of Malika.
Kate develops feelings for her head of department Andrew, a widowed English man with two children and make a connection to a US surgeon who offers her a research position. As she deals with stress of patients, staff problems and relationship issues she gets closer to Malika and involved in decisions about her facial surgery.
Malika's visit to the sea results in a menigeal tear at the site of the injury and infection, and the tension of possible medical results is told in a tense and realistic manner, where Kate is thrown into saving Malika's life, then reconstructing her face alongside Andrew.
There is heightened tension as Malika survives meningitis but faces a long period of coma and/ intubation and physical decay, let alone possible impaired cogntion. Kate sits a vigil with her as the deadline for intubation looms and fortunately Malika rallies and recovers. She has residual deafness and vertigo but improved well.
Kate had been successful in saving Malika but there are points in the story where she is makes other choices: sacking her time serving secretary Sam, coming to terms with her mother who was disappointed with Kate's pregnancy and abortion as a young woman, and choosing to operate on Malika despite the potential future risks to promotion.
"'Her career blown away. For a girl from nowhere. She turned to them. ' For me it's straightforward' she said, ' I'm operating' "
The feedback on her paper submitted was
positive, and Malika decided to do further study in Pakistan so Kate travelled with her to see the village she had grown up in. The two travelled as close friends or family, having survived so much together. Malika had chosen to return to her roots despite the difficulty of achieving her goals as a woman. Kate had chosen her new role in research but with the new relationship with Andrew and his family to develop in the future.
This book was written with the assurance of a doctor, the medical story rang true but the professional relationships and interpersonal jostling for place also seemed realistic in the hospital setting. Kate was a woman but that wasn't the whole story, she had no life but that also seems to be the norm in the competitive world of medicine. I loved the developing story of Kate and Malika even if I had little understanding of the mathematical theory Malika was developing, and the story was really involving.Highly recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2021
It was serendipity at the library that led me to this debut novel... that, and blurbs from three authors whose opinions I take seriously:
Yes. I agree. And I would add, that it's rare to find a story of hope that isn't sentimental or nostalgic or naïve. As Swallows Fly is firmly grounded in reality but it's perfect for all those readers who are tired of the current onslaught of depressing books.
This is a story of two worlds that intersect when Malika, a teenage girl gifted in mathematics is brutally attacked because she dares to offer education to the other girls in her Pakistani village. To protect her life and to give her educational opportunities not available in Pakistan, she is evacuated to a boarding school in Melbourne, where she is nominally under the reluctant short-term care of Dr Kate Davenport, a successful plastic surgeon.
The network of Catholic priests who set up the evacuation is sketched only lightly; they are not the focus of the story though it's important to join the dots to understand the risk to Malika—whose circumstances are not unlike those of Malala Yousafzai, who was shot by a Pakistani gunman in an attempt to curtail her activism for the education of girls. Two of these priests go missing in the badlands of north-western Pakistan, and the third risks his own life to go and look for them. Although he must have entertained hopes about it, Father Mike does not suggest to Doctor Kate that she might be able to help reconstruct Malika's ruined face, and she does not know anything about it until Malika eventually chooses to remove the veil that covers all but her eyes. Malika does not know Kate's profession until she accompanies Kate to her Saturday appointments.
It is only after some weeks when they have had terrible news from Pakistan that Malika's calm acceptance wavers:
Readers expecting the predictable miracle of genre fiction will be disappointed. Kate is a flawed human being, overworked and harried by demands coming at her from all directions. Miracles are rare, and the surgeons in Islamabad are accorded the respect they deserve by this author: they have done the best that could be done without risking Malika's life. As one of the characters finds out, plastic surgery in pursuit of perfection is often disappointing because the desire for perfection often masks personality flaws or other underlying issues in a relationship.
To read the rest of my review please visit https://anzlitlovers.com/2021/04/25/a...
'Intuitive and visceral and sharp as a scalpel. Malika will claim a chunk of your heart.' Kristina Olsson
'McMahon's rare insight and empathy make As Swallows Fly an unforgettable, compelling story of hope.' Toni Jordan
'A powerful, poignant and thought-provoking novel featuring an unforgettable character in Kate. As Swallows Fly is a remarkable achievement by a debut author!'
Yes. I agree. And I would add, that it's rare to find a story of hope that isn't sentimental or nostalgic or naïve. As Swallows Fly is firmly grounded in reality but it's perfect for all those readers who are tired of the current onslaught of depressing books.
This is a story of two worlds that intersect when Malika, a teenage girl gifted in mathematics is brutally attacked because she dares to offer education to the other girls in her Pakistani village. To protect her life and to give her educational opportunities not available in Pakistan, she is evacuated to a boarding school in Melbourne, where she is nominally under the reluctant short-term care of Dr Kate Davenport, a successful plastic surgeon.
The network of Catholic priests who set up the evacuation is sketched only lightly; they are not the focus of the story though it's important to join the dots to understand the risk to Malika—whose circumstances are not unlike those of Malala Yousafzai, who was shot by a Pakistani gunman in an attempt to curtail her activism for the education of girls. Two of these priests go missing in the badlands of north-western Pakistan, and the third risks his own life to go and look for them. Although he must have entertained hopes about it, Father Mike does not suggest to Doctor Kate that she might be able to help reconstruct Malika's ruined face, and she does not know anything about it until Malika eventually chooses to remove the veil that covers all but her eyes. Malika does not know Kate's profession until she accompanies Kate to her Saturday appointments.
'Do you fix all these people? Malika asked.
'I operate on many of them,' she said, 'to try and fix what's gone wrong.'
'That is a good thing,' Malika replied. She turned her head and gazed out of the window. 'It is different in my village.'
'What happens there?'
'In the village we must live with what happens. Even when it is very wrong.' (p.168)
It is only after some weeks when they have had terrible news from Pakistan that Malika's calm acceptance wavers:
They didn't speak in the car. At the house, Malika went to her room and closed the door. Kate waited in the lounge for a while, pacing up and down and eyeing Malika's door. She hoped she would reappear, but there was no sign of her, no sound. She decided it was better to leave her: she would emerge when she was ready, even if that wasn't until morning.
She was watching TV when she heard the door open again, quietly—like a secret whispered. It closed again and there was silence. Kate found herself listening acutely, feeling rather than hearing the presence behind her.
'You fix things, Dr Kate,' said Malika. You fix things very well.' Her inhalation was loud. 'Can you fix this?'
Kate turned. In the doorway, Malika was standing with her head raised, her veil and hijab gone. She met Kate's eyes, her face clear beneath the glare of the downlights. The remote control fell from Kate's hand. (p.184)
Readers expecting the predictable miracle of genre fiction will be disappointed. Kate is a flawed human being, overworked and harried by demands coming at her from all directions. Miracles are rare, and the surgeons in Islamabad are accorded the respect they deserve by this author: they have done the best that could be done without risking Malika's life. As one of the characters finds out, plastic surgery in pursuit of perfection is often disappointing because the desire for perfection often masks personality flaws or other underlying issues in a relationship.
To read the rest of my review please visit https://anzlitlovers.com/2021/04/25/a...
June 15, 2021
(3.5)
McMahon's poignant novel focused on the rebuilding of the self-image of Malika, a young Pakistani woman, orphaned at a young age and discovered to be a gifted mathematician in her adolescent years. Sent to Melbourne for education deemed more appropriate to her special talent, Malika was taken under the wing of Dr. Kate Davenport, a well-respected plastic surgeon in a metropolitan hospital. Whereas the horrific facial scars Malika endured in a sexual attack were hidden by her choice of traditional garments, Kate's emotional vulnerabilities were more easily camouflaged by her workaholic schedule and dedication to her patients. The two become close throughout Malika's Melbourne stay, Kate finally taking on the responsibility to help Malika heal from the trauma, physical and psychological, of her past.
The story line is compelling, but fell over the line of melodrama in its latter half. It was not surprising to read of the author's medical credentials as Professor of Nephrology at Monash University. So much of the concluding chapters was focused on the inner workings of Kate's hospital, its expertise as well as its competitive staff relationships and, particularly, the meticulous details of the intensive care provided to Malika after she became so ill. I was more interested in the details of both Malika's and Kate's psychological pasts rather than the load of medical information, especially since Kate's personal details were infrequently referred to. Equally, I did not understand Malika's mathematical theorems or even how they would be applied to the human experience, as she tried to explain.
I was pleased that the novel was set in Melbourne so I could easily relate to the sights and sounds of my home city. The narrative itself was strong and portrayed each of the women with sensitivity as both Kate and Malika had to make room in their lives for imperfection.
McMahon's poignant novel focused on the rebuilding of the self-image of Malika, a young Pakistani woman, orphaned at a young age and discovered to be a gifted mathematician in her adolescent years. Sent to Melbourne for education deemed more appropriate to her special talent, Malika was taken under the wing of Dr. Kate Davenport, a well-respected plastic surgeon in a metropolitan hospital. Whereas the horrific facial scars Malika endured in a sexual attack were hidden by her choice of traditional garments, Kate's emotional vulnerabilities were more easily camouflaged by her workaholic schedule and dedication to her patients. The two become close throughout Malika's Melbourne stay, Kate finally taking on the responsibility to help Malika heal from the trauma, physical and psychological, of her past.
The story line is compelling, but fell over the line of melodrama in its latter half. It was not surprising to read of the author's medical credentials as Professor of Nephrology at Monash University. So much of the concluding chapters was focused on the inner workings of Kate's hospital, its expertise as well as its competitive staff relationships and, particularly, the meticulous details of the intensive care provided to Malika after she became so ill. I was more interested in the details of both Malika's and Kate's psychological pasts rather than the load of medical information, especially since Kate's personal details were infrequently referred to. Equally, I did not understand Malika's mathematical theorems or even how they would be applied to the human experience, as she tried to explain.
I was pleased that the novel was set in Melbourne so I could easily relate to the sights and sounds of my home city. The narrative itself was strong and portrayed each of the women with sensitivity as both Kate and Malika had to make room in their lives for imperfection.
May 16, 2022
Although this book is fiction, it evokes shades of the story of Malala Yousafzai, who was severely injured after a Taliban assassination attempt, and was treated in a UK hospital. In this book, however, young Pakistani and Christian Malika was attacked as a more personalized act of resentment and power, and she ended up in Australia more on account of her mathematical brilliance which was being wasted in a small village, than because of her injuries.
The book has several 'starts' before arriving at the present day. The opening pages are a prologue set in Melbourne, twenty-three years earlier where we sense the tension between a teenaged Kate and her mother; Part One commences in Rural Pakistan five years earlier as we learn how Malika came to live in the Christian village and come under the care of Ayesha, her foster mother, along with Tahir, a Muslim boy, after a car accident. Part Two finally brings us to present-day Melbourne where Kate, now a successful plastic surgeon, is cleaning out her now-deceased mother's house when she is approached to care for Malika on the weekends. Part Three takes us to Malika's boarding school, where she struggles with the other girls, who are jealous of her brilliance. Part Four explores the evolving relationship between Malika and Kate, and expands on Kate's own working life and the political struggles in a high-stress, ego-driven profession, along with the family emotional baggage that she is still dealing with.
In spite of my reservations about aspects of this book, I found myself more emotionally engaged with the characters than I expected to be, and sat up in bed until quite late to finish the book. And I'm always attracted to books set in my own home town, and he wrote Melbourne well.
For my complete review, please visit
https://residentjudge.com/2022/05/16/...
The book has several 'starts' before arriving at the present day. The opening pages are a prologue set in Melbourne, twenty-three years earlier where we sense the tension between a teenaged Kate and her mother; Part One commences in Rural Pakistan five years earlier as we learn how Malika came to live in the Christian village and come under the care of Ayesha, her foster mother, along with Tahir, a Muslim boy, after a car accident. Part Two finally brings us to present-day Melbourne where Kate, now a successful plastic surgeon, is cleaning out her now-deceased mother's house when she is approached to care for Malika on the weekends. Part Three takes us to Malika's boarding school, where she struggles with the other girls, who are jealous of her brilliance. Part Four explores the evolving relationship between Malika and Kate, and expands on Kate's own working life and the political struggles in a high-stress, ego-driven profession, along with the family emotional baggage that she is still dealing with.
In spite of my reservations about aspects of this book, I found myself more emotionally engaged with the characters than I expected to be, and sat up in bed until quite late to finish the book. And I'm always attracted to books set in my own home town, and he wrote Melbourne well.
For my complete review, please visit
https://residentjudge.com/2022/05/16/...
August 17, 2021
As Swallows Fly - L. P. McMahon
This is a debut novel by an Australian author. As soon as I read the blurb of this one I knew it would be a book I enjoyed! I’m drawn to any book that has a medical element to it. The main character, Kate being a surgeon was a big draw card here.
It didn’t take long to get into and was a very palatable read. Kate felt like an easy character to get to know and like because there was a real familiarity about her.
There was the perfect amount of stuff going on and a clash of many interesting topics such as medicine, religion, culture, health vs. illness, body image, work-life balance, navigating friendships and other relationships.
Kate and Malika’s friendship was particularly special and due to coming from totally different worlds there was a brilliant contrast between them that worked really well and was very interesting to read about.
I felt this was a book I could linger in. I was in absolutely no hurry to finish it and was just enjoying the ride. In saying this it still wasn’t a 5 star. Close but no cigar- it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what element felt like it was missing. I’m thinking maybe a little more emotional depth was somehow needed, as that can be what really hooks us as readers!
A super enjoyable read to quench that medical themed thirst.
4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a debut novel by an Australian author. As soon as I read the blurb of this one I knew it would be a book I enjoyed! I’m drawn to any book that has a medical element to it. The main character, Kate being a surgeon was a big draw card here.
It didn’t take long to get into and was a very palatable read. Kate felt like an easy character to get to know and like because there was a real familiarity about her.
There was the perfect amount of stuff going on and a clash of many interesting topics such as medicine, religion, culture, health vs. illness, body image, work-life balance, navigating friendships and other relationships.
Kate and Malika’s friendship was particularly special and due to coming from totally different worlds there was a brilliant contrast between them that worked really well and was very interesting to read about.
I felt this was a book I could linger in. I was in absolutely no hurry to finish it and was just enjoying the ride. In saying this it still wasn’t a 5 star. Close but no cigar- it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what element felt like it was missing. I’m thinking maybe a little more emotional depth was somehow needed, as that can be what really hooks us as readers!
A super enjoyable read to quench that medical themed thirst.
4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 10, 2021
A debut novel that is well written, thought provoking and features big themes without becoming overly dramatic.
Malika is orphaned and taken to a small Christian village in Pakistan to live. As Malika becomes older, it becomes clear that she has a rare mathematical genius, which is nurtured by the visiting Catholic priests. When a horrific act of violence leaves Malika disfigured, she is eventually flown to Melbourne to a Catholic boarding school, and spends weekends with Kate, a doctor. That Kate is a plastic surgeon seems too coincidental, but the book does a good job of explaining how it is that Kate and Malika are brought together. Kate herself is suffering from her past and absolutely inability to enjoy her present, beyond work. The friendship between the two helps heal them both.
The sparseness of the writing stop this book becoming over emotional, but at the same time there were a lot of unanswered questions at the end. Kate is a believable character, Malika less so. She seems very mature and knowing at times, and I wondered how she could be so unscathed from some of the cruelties of her life.
The author has worked in Pakistan and is an Australian doctor, so the medical situations and scenes of village life feel very true.
Malika is orphaned and taken to a small Christian village in Pakistan to live. As Malika becomes older, it becomes clear that she has a rare mathematical genius, which is nurtured by the visiting Catholic priests. When a horrific act of violence leaves Malika disfigured, she is eventually flown to Melbourne to a Catholic boarding school, and spends weekends with Kate, a doctor. That Kate is a plastic surgeon seems too coincidental, but the book does a good job of explaining how it is that Kate and Malika are brought together. Kate herself is suffering from her past and absolutely inability to enjoy her present, beyond work. The friendship between the two helps heal them both.
The sparseness of the writing stop this book becoming over emotional, but at the same time there were a lot of unanswered questions at the end. Kate is a believable character, Malika less so. She seems very mature and knowing at times, and I wondered how she could be so unscathed from some of the cruelties of her life.
The author has worked in Pakistan and is an Australian doctor, so the medical situations and scenes of village life feel very true.
June 16, 2021
What a pleasure it was to read L P McMahon's debut novel,
As Swallows Fly
. The storyline is topical and relatable and the characters are so true to life.
The companionship leading to deep friendship which develops slowly but surely between the protagonist Kate and her young, intellectually gifted charge from conflict ridden Pakistan, Malika is at the heart of this wise and moving novel.
As Swallows Fly brought to mind another excellent Australian novel, Room for a Stranger by Melanie Cheng in which characters from disparate cultural backgrounds and older and younger ages over time develop an unexpected, strong alliance. If you read one or both of these novels I don't think you will be disappointed!
The companionship leading to deep friendship which develops slowly but surely between the protagonist Kate and her young, intellectually gifted charge from conflict ridden Pakistan, Malika is at the heart of this wise and moving novel.
As Swallows Fly brought to mind another excellent Australian novel, Room for a Stranger by Melanie Cheng in which characters from disparate cultural backgrounds and older and younger ages over time develop an unexpected, strong alliance. If you read one or both of these novels I don't think you will be disappointed!
September 21, 2021
A heart-breaking, heart-opening book. A young orphan in rural Pakistan, who refuses the advances of a brooding admirer, is thrust into the dilemma of living with disfigurement. A few years later, a young surgeon in Australia is drawn into the story.
We've all been drawn into the horrors of women horribly disfigured by men, or families, who insist they adhere to cultural "norms". McMahon's novel puts a face to the stories. Not an easy story to read, it is, nonetheless, a triumph of the human spirit.
We've all been drawn into the horrors of women horribly disfigured by men, or families, who insist they adhere to cultural "norms". McMahon's novel puts a face to the stories. Not an easy story to read, it is, nonetheless, a triumph of the human spirit.
August 21, 2021
This debut novel by a Melbourne medico is well written and engaging. Orphan Malika has been disfigured in Pakistan by an attack. She leaves danger to come to school in Melbourne and stays with Kate who is a plastic surgeon. Malika has amazing mathematical skills. Both are struggling to make sense of their lives. (Some medical procedures at the end). I look forward to reading more by this author.
September 3, 2021
Thought provoking, raw and the beauty of human nature shine in this debut novel. From horror comes devotion, admiration and empathy. A traumatic event sees the journey of how helping to heal others allows us to heal ourselves too. Smoothly written, true characters and a flowing storyline make this an intriguing, deep and recommendable read.
May 19, 2021
This book is a gem! I was most surprised that it is written by a male as the central characters are female. It’s written with knowledge, authenticity and compassion and was thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish. I would definitely recommend.
September 26, 2021
Kate is a workaholic hiding from life. Malika is wise beyond her years and mathematically gifted. There were gaps in the story that were never answered but for a debut beautifully written. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, but I'm honestly not sure why.
January 31, 2021
Powerhouse debut novel from a very promising voice
April 15, 2021
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator was fantastic. An interesting story that was well written and I loved the Melbourne setting. I just found the story/flow a bit slow.
April 29, 2021
A good debut!! A touching story with characters that grab your attention and how strangers can make a difference in life...
June 14, 2021
Set in Melbourne. Refugee genius girl with severe facial injuries sent to Melbourne to board at school with facial doctor as guardian.
Very good
Very good
August 27, 2021
3.5 stars.
Maybe I’m misunderstanding, but I though Maliki was meant to have gone deaf, but it seemed like she could hear straight after it was stated.
Maybe I’m misunderstanding, but I though Maliki was meant to have gone deaf, but it seemed like she could hear straight after it was stated.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2021
Not great, started with promise then slid into medical jargon and predictable pathos. Disappointing.
February 20, 2022
A must read
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