Close to Where the Heart Gives Out

A fascinating memoir… an ode to island life in all its glorious foibles and heart-soaring delights * The Herald *Orkney, more than any other place that I’ve been, really did get under my skin… I love the descriptions of the landscape and everyday life in Close to Where the Heart Gives Out * Dolly Alderton *Wind-whipped and salt-stung, Malcom’s account of island life is both grounding and immensely heart-warming. He is to GP’s what James Herriot is to vets * Matt Gaw *A fascinating, funny and utterly heart-warming family adventure. Beautifully written and completely unforgettable * Ruth Hogan, author of ‘The Keeper of Lost Things’ *[An] utterly enchanting casebook * Daily Mail *A mesmerising read about a personal journey, this book is all versions of love (with the island of Eday in starring role) * Hannah Persuad *

Dr. Malcolm Alexander graduated from Edinburgh University in 1980 with the single thought of becoming a General Practitioner. Life had other plans, and he became Medical Director for Orkney Health Board. He finished his career working for 11 years as Associate Medical Director for the Scottish National Telephone Triage service, NHS 24, before finally returning to face-to-face practice in his local GP practice on one of the Scottish islands. He lives in an old Victorian home on the Isle of Bute.