Cutting Through Skin

Cutting Through Skin was published in 2001 by Sceptre. Its writing was assisted by funding from Arts Victoria and the Australia Council.

The blurb goes like this:

“Sometimes I would close my eyes with the tip of the scalpel poised and ready and just feel its progress as it cut through the skin. I’d hold the blade in my hand and press, expectantly and sightlessly through the skin. Feeling the release. Feeling the joy.”

Not long finished his Ph.D, Matthew Bass is adrift in his work as a prosector in the Department of Anatomy. He becomes attracted to the well-practiced sexuality and strange religion of Zoe, a fellow ‘cutter’. Almost willingly, Matt lets slip his grip on reality until, with Zoe’s encouragement, he pushes his newly charted beliefs of life and death to their ultimate extreme.

The author of the acclaimed Burning Sunday has written an extraordinary novel in which conflicting systems of faith clash against each other with frightening consequences.

Some reviews:

‘McCoy’s second novel is remarkably powerful and evocative. Cutting Through Skin is not only a sophisticated novel, but an entertaining one as well.’ Sarah Hudson, The Herald Sun

‘It is rare to find a novel written from the viewpoint of four unique voices, and even rarer to find one written with such passion. This is another compelling and affecting read from the acclaimed author of Burning Sunday.’ Todd Alexander, Dymocks Category Manager

I’d like to tell you they’re both available ‘in all good book stores’ and that you can purchase them online, but I can’t. They’re out of print. Best bet is your local library for now.