"Cutting for Stone" by Abraham Verghese is a powerful and moving novel that tells the story of twin brothers, Marion and Shiva Stone, who are born to a nun and a surgeon in Ethiopia. The story follows their lives as they grow up in a mission hospital and eventually become doctors themselves.
Verghese's writing is rich and descriptive, bringing the setting of Ethiopia to life in vivid detail. The characters are complex and well-developed, each facing their own struggles and challenges as they navigate love, loss, and betrayal. The bond between Marion and Shiva is at the heart of the novel, and Verghese does an excellent job of exploring the complexities of their relationship.
The novel also delves into themes of family, identity, and the impact of choices made in the past. Verghese's background as a physician adds authenticity to the medical aspects of the story, and his knowledge of Ethiopia and its history shines through in his writing.
Overall, "Cutting for Stone" is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that will stay with readers long after they finish it. It is a story of love, loss, and redemption that is both heartbreaking and hopeful. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a compelling and thought-provoking read.