Monday, April 22, 2013

Book Review: Stress Test by Richard Mabry


Once again, Richard Mabry has done a great job with a medical thriller that hooked me from the first few paragraphs.  Oftentimes, when starting a book, I have to read a couple of chapters before I can get "into" the story.  Not the case with Mabry's writings- and Stress Test is no exception!

The story begins by introducing the reader to Dr. Matt Newman, a likable, ordinary guy who is in the process of moving to the next stage of his life- a less-stressful job means finally moving forward in his current romantic relationship with a woman who might be "the one".  As Newman finishes up his last shift, he is abducted in the parking garage.  Knowing that the abductors intend to murder him, he risks everything to escape- a move that gains his freedom but results in a cat-and-mouse game which includes his being framed for murder.  He is connected with Sandra Murray, an attorney who willingly accepts the challenge to exonerate him from false charges.  

Throughout this fast-paced novel, I found myself feeling a connection to the characters.  It contains just enough medical jargon to be entirely believable {which should be expected when the author's name is followed by M.D., right?! ;)} and the description of legal proceedings was consistent and accurate.  Excellent job, Dr. Mabry!

I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity from Thomas Nelson Publishing to read and review this book, as I have all of Mabry's previous writings.  I was not encouraged to write a positive review- in fact, honestly, I recommend it highly!

Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Book Review: A Matter of Trust by Lis Wiehl



I love a good murder mystery, and so when Thomas Nelson Publishing offered me an opportunity to read and review Lis Wiehl's "A Matter of Trust", I jumped at the opportunity.  I was quite pleased with the book, and feel certain I've found a new author to follow.

As you can read in the description, the book is about a prosecutor who faces the task of solving the murder of her closest friend- which she also 'witnessed' over the phone.  Mia Quinn is a likable, believable character who most people can relate to on at least one level.  I found myself getting so "into" the story that I experienced the emotional rollercoaster that Mia rode through the entire book.  

I was thankful to discover that "A Matter of Trust" is a series debut, because there are several characters and minor plot elements that are mostly well-developed, but not fully resolved in the course of this novel.  I felt as though I was missing part of the resolution- then I realized that it might be several books before I understand the introduction of some characters.  

Through the twists and turns of the plot, the "whodunit?" question that keeps circling, and the relatability of this young mom, recently widowed, who must keep too many plates spinning, Wiehl has written an excellent story that kept me interested from the first moments of reading.  I look forward to reading the rest of the Mia Quinn series! 

{Disclaimer: I was offered the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.  Any opinions expressed in this review are mine, and not at all influenced by the publisher.}