Book Review: Stress Test by Richard L Mabry, M.D.

About the Book: They may not have enough evidence to convict him, but they have enough to ruin his life.

Dr. Matt Newman thought he was leaving his life in private practice for a better one in academic medicine. But the kidnappers who attacked him as he left his last shift in the ER have no such plans-they just want him dead. Bound and in the trunk of his car, Matt's only thought is escape. He does so, but at a price: a head injury that lands him in the ICU . . . where he awakens to discover he's being charged with murder.

Sandra Murray is a fiery, redheaded lawyer who swore she was done with doctors. But when Matt calls, she knows she can't walk away from defending someone who is truly innocent.

Matt's career is going down the drain. His freedom and perhaps his life may be next. But with the police convinced he's a murderer and the kidnappers still trying to finish what they started, finding the truth-and the faith to keep going-will be the toughest stress test Matt has ever endured.

My Thoughts: I absolutely loved this book and would've read it in one sitting if I'd had the time, instead I think it took me 2 days. :)

This medical suspense novel (with a hint of romance) is chock full of fast-paced twist and turns that will keep you guessing till the very end.  The medical aspects are fascinating, not overly dominant and not overly medical so as to confuse or annoy the reader - it was just right.  The two main characters, Matt and Sandra, are very likable and have depth to them.  I liked the subtle romantic friction going on between the two of them.  I also liked it that the conversations about faith worked well with the storyline and didn't come across as heavy handed or forced.

The only downside I can think of is that perhaps Dr Newman got out of a few too many certain death situations for it to be realistic - but then again, realistic isn't usually what you're looking for in a work of suspense - book or movie.

I loved it and can't wait to read more from this author.


Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for organizing this tour and providing me with my complimentary review copy.