FASCIOLA: story 2022-2023, PUBLISHED 2026

Veterinary epidemiologist Maya Maguire escapes from tragic memories and waffles on a permanent job commitment. She joins World Health Organization physician Stefan Duda in Norway as they recover from the fatal consequences of a recent Ebola investigation. 

A Norwegian farm infested with Fasciola hepatica, a parasitic liver fluke, lures her back into disease detective mode. Then Maya and Stefan track down a horse infection in Northern Ireland assisted by senior public health veterinarian Faye Simpson. Maya, born in China, treasures the chance to explore the Maguire homeland of her adopted father’s ancestors.

After encountering sectarian violence in Belfast, Maya and Stefan join up again at the volcanic hot springs of Rotorua. New Zealand’s fluke infections in livestock are cratering exports of their livers. Stefan tries to salvage his domestic partnership by bringing along his family. 

He finally chooses them over mission when he sends Maya to Bolivia without him. In one of the most hyperendemic countries in the world, climate change and poverty escalate the risk. Maya counters the increasing threat with academic partners from the high-altitude Altiplano. One is an intriguing climate scientist who appears to share her budding attraction. 

With any luck, she’ll wrap up her liver fluke investigations in time to return home for her 30th birthday party with her family. Too much death and suffering—can she conquer her demons?

The novel overall fits best as a medical thriller with strong elements of climate fiction and contemporary literary drama.