Book Review: Last Patient of the Night by Gary Gerlacher
As a lover of thrillers, "Last Patient of the Night" caught my eye immediately with its intriguing premise—a mix of medical drama and investigative mystery. The description promised an action-packed narrative intertwined with lighthearted moments, which seemed like the perfect blend for late-night reading. I was curious to see how Gerlacher, drawing from his experience as an emergency physician, would portray the world of ER medicine.
From the very first chapter, I was drawn into the life of AJ Docker, the protagonist, whose charm and wit made the reading experience enjoyable. The book indeed delivers on its promise of being an engaging thriller, reminiscent of "MASH" meets "Harry Bosch," as highlighted in the description. Docker’s quest for justice for a nameless young woman who dies in his care sets off a series of events that reveal just how deeply intertwined the medical and criminal worlds can be.
One of the standout aspects of the book is Gerlacher’s ability to balance tension with humor. Many readers, like Bugycleaner who remarked on the excitement and emotional range, will find themselves laughing as much as gasping at the nail-biting situations Docker encounters. The comic relief feels authentic and offers a glimpse into the chaotic yet humorous life of an ER physician, making it relatable even for those outside the medical world.
However, while the writing shines in many areas, it isn’t without its drawbacks. A common critique mentioned by readers, including Sherryle Givens, is the use of profanity. For some, this added to the realism of the high-stress environment of an emergency room, but others felt it detracted from the narrative. Personally, I found it a bit excessive at times, though it didn’t overshadow my overall enjoyment of the story.
Another point raised by various reviewers, like redpen321, was the blend of genres—medical thriller and espionage. While I found it refreshing, the combination might not sit well with all readers. Some may prefer a more straightforward approach, focusing on either the medical aspect or the mystery without the crossover theatrics.
The pacing is generally brisk, keeping the reader engaged. I finished the book in a couple of sittings; Gerlacher’s storytelling certainly keeps you turning pages late into the night. As the plot unfolded, I was captivated by both the unfolding mystery and the development of Docker’s character. His interactions with a police dog and a covert criminal underworld reveal not just his skills as a physician but his resourcefulness as a makeshift detective.
In conclusion, "Last Patient of the Night" delivers an impressive debut for the AJ Docker series. It is engaging, humorous, and filled with a host of interesting characters that make the reading experience unforgettable. Despite a few drawbacks, including language that may not resonate with all readers and the genre blend that could confuse some, I found it a thoroughly enjoyable read. The balance of thrilling action with lighthearted moments provides a unique take on the medical thriller genre that I believe many readers will appreciate.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone looking for an engaging, fast-paced story that will entertain and perhaps even enlighten about the realities of life in an ER. I am excited to see where Gerlacher takes Docker next!