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Critical Decision
IT BEGAN WITH AN INNOCENT-APPEARING PACKAGE ON HER FRONT PORCH
The box contained a cell phone, which rang as soon as she opened the package. A voice that called Dr. Kathy Hoover by name said that her husband had been kidnapped. To get him back she would have to poison one of her patients.
At first, she didn’t believe that her husband had been taken from the conference he was attending, but soon she discovered that the kidnappers really had Darren. If she wanted to see him again, she had to give medication that would murder Kelton Rush, former Vice-President. What was she to do? How would she handle this critical decision?
The box contained a cell phone, which rang as soon as she opened the package. A voice that called Dr. Kathy Hoover by name said that her husband had been kidnapped. To get him back she would have to poison one of her patients.
At first, she didn’t believe that her husband had been taken from the conference he was attending, but soon she discovered that the kidnappers really had Darren. If she wanted to see him again, she had to give medication that would murder Kelton Rush, former Vice-President. What was she to do? How would she handle this critical decision?
192 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 9, 2020
108 people are currently reading
93 people want to read
About the author
Richard L. Mabry
34 books521 followersDr. Richard Mabry is a retired physician, past Vice-President of the American Christian Fiction Writers, and the author of twelve published novels of medical suspense and six novellas. His books have been finalists in competitions including ACFW’s Carol Award and Romantic Times’ Inspirational Book of the Year, and have won the Selah Award from the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference.
Richard’s non-fiction book, The Tender Scar: Life After The Death Of A Spouse (Kregel Publishers), has ministered to multiple thousands of grieving individuals. His meditations and short pieces have appeared in The Upper Room, In Touch, and several other periodicals.
When Richard is not writing, he spends his time reading, working fruitlessly to improve his golf game, and defending his title as the world’s best Granddad. He and his wife live in north Texas and are active members of Stonebriar Community Church, pastored by Dr. Chuck Swindoll.
Richard’s non-fiction book, The Tender Scar: Life After The Death Of A Spouse (Kregel Publishers), has ministered to multiple thousands of grieving individuals. His meditations and short pieces have appeared in The Upper Room, In Touch, and several other periodicals.
When Richard is not writing, he spends his time reading, working fruitlessly to improve his golf game, and defending his title as the world’s best Granddad. He and his wife live in north Texas and are active members of Stonebriar Community Church, pastored by Dr. Chuck Swindoll.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
March 17, 2020
4.5 stars
Kathy Hoover is immediately relatable in Critical Decision, the opening scenes a glimpse of her going through her typical day … until a mysterious cell phone shows up on her doorstep and sends ‘typical’ into a vortex of kidnapping, attempted murder, and a fight for her life, her husband’s, and that of a former Vice President of the United States.
Intrigued yet? So was I! So much so that I read this short novel in one sitting, flipping the pages in my Kindle as fast as I could. The plot is complex and layered, with a handful of likely suspects and a few other characters you want to trust but aren’t sure you can. I was suspicious of everyone at one point – even completely innocuous characters who didn’t have anything to do with anything except scene setting haha!
I also really liked Kathy’s husband Darren. He may ‘just’ be a professor but he surprised me with his will to survive and figure out a plan to escape. He is definitely not a passive character, though for some reason I was expecting him to be. The dynamic between Darren and Kathy is realistic for a married couple – both when they are getting along and when they aren’t lol – and provided more dimension to their situation as well.
Bottom Line: Critical Decision is another stellar offering from Richard Mabry – combining medical drama with high-stakes suspense & a bit of intrigue thrown in for good measure. All of the above is set against a backdrop of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances (and can’t we all relate to that right now?) with a gentle thread of faith that uplifts, convicts, and inspires. A great reminder that God is with us, no matter our situation, and that He is always working on our behalf even when we don’t readily see it.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
Kathy Hoover is immediately relatable in Critical Decision, the opening scenes a glimpse of her going through her typical day … until a mysterious cell phone shows up on her doorstep and sends ‘typical’ into a vortex of kidnapping, attempted murder, and a fight for her life, her husband’s, and that of a former Vice President of the United States.
Intrigued yet? So was I! So much so that I read this short novel in one sitting, flipping the pages in my Kindle as fast as I could. The plot is complex and layered, with a handful of likely suspects and a few other characters you want to trust but aren’t sure you can. I was suspicious of everyone at one point – even completely innocuous characters who didn’t have anything to do with anything except scene setting haha!
I also really liked Kathy’s husband Darren. He may ‘just’ be a professor but he surprised me with his will to survive and figure out a plan to escape. He is definitely not a passive character, though for some reason I was expecting him to be. The dynamic between Darren and Kathy is realistic for a married couple – both when they are getting along and when they aren’t lol – and provided more dimension to their situation as well.
Bottom Line: Critical Decision is another stellar offering from Richard Mabry – combining medical drama with high-stakes suspense & a bit of intrigue thrown in for good measure. All of the above is set against a backdrop of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances (and can’t we all relate to that right now?) with a gentle thread of faith that uplifts, convicts, and inspires. A great reminder that God is with us, no matter our situation, and that He is always working on our behalf even when we don’t readily see it.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
April 27, 2020
This book started out with a bang. Dr. Kathy Hoover was getting ready for work, but heard the doorbell ring. A package was left on her doorstep. Even though Kathy needed to get ready for work she was too curious about this package and opened it up. As soon as she opened the box a cell phone inside started to vibrate. There was an urgent call on this phone. This began a series of dangerous events for Kathy and her husband Darren.
Kathy and Darren had to work through some very scary moments and Kathy needed to make a decision that could have ruined her medical career. There was danger of death for a lot of people in this book. I don't want to give many details away, but this book was very intriguing.
Kathy and Darren had to work through some very scary moments and Kathy needed to make a decision that could have ruined her medical career. There was danger of death for a lot of people in this book. I don't want to give many details away, but this book was very intriguing.
March 18, 2020
What would you do if someone kidnapped your husband and demanded that you murder your patient to get him back? That's Dr. Kathy Hoover's dilemma in Dr. Richard Mabry's latest medical thriller.
He was kind enough to send me an advance copy that I read as fast as I could turn the pages. (I liked it so well, I also purchased a copy) This twisting story had me on the first page when Dr. Kathy Hoover was threatened with the death of her husband if she didn't commit a murder. An unimaginable choice.
Mabry's characters are well defined and the reader quickly comes to care about the couple. I especially loved the relationship between Kathy and her husband Darren. They were a solid couple and both were very resourceful against a formidable foe. It was hard to tell the good guys from the bad sometimes. This is a story I believe readers of suspense will not be able to put down.
He was kind enough to send me an advance copy that I read as fast as I could turn the pages. (I liked it so well, I also purchased a copy) This twisting story had me on the first page when Dr. Kathy Hoover was threatened with the death of her husband if she didn't commit a murder. An unimaginable choice.
Mabry's characters are well defined and the reader quickly comes to care about the couple. I especially loved the relationship between Kathy and her husband Darren. They were a solid couple and both were very resourceful against a formidable foe. It was hard to tell the good guys from the bad sometimes. This is a story I believe readers of suspense will not be able to put down.
March 3, 2020
When one looks at a picture of Dr. Richard L. Mabry, retired physician, educator, and contributor to medical texts, one doesn't envision rapid paced life, kidnappings, and murderous events. Truly, doctors are faced the many cases where their "Critical Decision" invokes life and death options for their patients. And so to think of Dr. Mabry engaging his writing skills, capturing the essence of a medical event involving decisions that are critical for life, death, and unspeakable possibilities could be birthed in his mind and onto the screen of his computer truly stretches my imagination.
So as I began reading his latest novella, Critical Decision, I embarked on a fast emotional ride where one decision is critical and leads to others. And it all began with a package on the front porch, totally unexpected, and immediately compelling with the demands it elicited the recipient, Dr. Kathy Hoover.
From that moment on, the raw emotions of Kathy as she pursued this daunting task and the decision she made drove her forward and kept me turning the pages to see what was next on the scene.
Frankly, I couldn't figure out the mystery and the climatic end was such a surprise. I highly recommend. Dr. Mabry continues to be one of my favorite authors.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary Advanced Reader copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
So as I began reading his latest novella, Critical Decision, I embarked on a fast emotional ride where one decision is critical and leads to others. And it all began with a package on the front porch, totally unexpected, and immediately compelling with the demands it elicited the recipient, Dr. Kathy Hoover.
From that moment on, the raw emotions of Kathy as she pursued this daunting task and the decision she made drove her forward and kept me turning the pages to see what was next on the scene.
Frankly, I couldn't figure out the mystery and the climatic end was such a surprise. I highly recommend. Dr. Mabry continues to be one of my favorite authors.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary Advanced Reader copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
June 26, 2020
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
Another great book from Richard Mabry. The story always feels very authentic and I love the obvious medical expertise in the way he writes about the doctors experiences. Also I’m biased as Bill Nevitt is one of my favourite narrators and his tone on audiobooks I just love so this who audio did not disappoint.
Another great book from Richard Mabry. The story always feels very authentic and I love the obvious medical expertise in the way he writes about the doctors experiences. Also I’m biased as Bill Nevitt is one of my favourite narrators and his tone on audiobooks I just love so this who audio did not disappoint.
July 9, 2020
When Cathy finds an unexpected package on the door step her life changes. Her husband Darren has been kidnapped and to get him back alive she must give medication to one of her patients which may kill him. She has no choice but to go through with it, or does she? An intriguing tale beautifully narrated by Bill Nevitt.
July 11, 2020
This is my second Richard L Mabry MD book. I have also read and enjoyed 'Emergency Case'.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one as I really like stories where characters have a dilemma to cope with really early on in the book. I liked the fact that we have both sides of the narrative too so we know the thoughts and feelings of the husband and his wife.
The narrator Bill Nevitt was brilliant. I always know I'm in for a treat when I see that he is reading a book! The story flows well and he makes it such fun.
I will definitely be checking out more of Richard's books in the future.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one as I really like stories where characters have a dilemma to cope with really early on in the book. I liked the fact that we have both sides of the narrative too so we know the thoughts and feelings of the husband and his wife.
The narrator Bill Nevitt was brilliant. I always know I'm in for a treat when I see that he is reading a book! The story flows well and he makes it such fun.
I will definitely be checking out more of Richard's books in the future.
July 31, 2020
It was fun, quaint. The Hoovers get caught up in this kidnapping & attempted murder. The main plot was fine, though a little predictable. I liked that the story was always moving forward. There were no boring parts, no slumps.
Kathy is the only woman who makes a difference in the plot. There are at least 2 other ladies with small roles, but they do have names and lines. Still, there was room in this cast of characters for a few more ladies, ones who actually matter to the plot. Sometimes Kathy is over emotional and lacking wits, and sometimes she’s doing OK at coping and making decisions. She never really shined and often took direction from her husband, Darren. In fact, sometimes Darren actually commands her. He was a bit overbearing at times.
Even though Darren is the one who was kidnapped, he is really, really calm about it. So calm, that it seemed odd, like Darren wasn’t fully fleshed out as a character. He has little to no emotions through out this whole story. Those few times he does show emotion is when he’s short tempered with his wife. As a main character, I didn’t get attached to him.
There’s an underlying Christian theme too. At first, it comes off a little strong. Like Kathy is at her wits end (which happened frequently and too easily) so she hands it all over to God. It’s a weak plot device, showing a lack of creativity. The middle of the story puts the Christian theme in the backseat so we can just focus on the mystery (yay!) but then comes back to the forefront near the end. Still, it is written in as part of the personalities of the main characters. Not my cup of tea but not a deal breaker either.
The story does have a small twist near the end, which made the story worth the read. I liked how Kelton, the ultimate target, turns the tables. Over all, 3/5 stars.
The Narration: Bill Nevitt has a great voice for Darren and I liked his voice for the secret service body guard. Sometimes his voices for Darren and Kelton blended together and sometimes they were distinct. While Nevitt’s voice for Kathy was feminine, it was sometimes a little bit cartoony, especially when Kathy is emotional. He has a great little old lady voice for the neighbor who babysits Hoovers’s dog. The kidnappers use an electronically-modified voice for the phone calls and Nevitt’s voice for this didn’t sound electronically modified at all. The pacing was good and there were no tech issues with the recording. 4/5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book. My opinions are 100% my own.
Kathy is the only woman who makes a difference in the plot. There are at least 2 other ladies with small roles, but they do have names and lines. Still, there was room in this cast of characters for a few more ladies, ones who actually matter to the plot. Sometimes Kathy is over emotional and lacking wits, and sometimes she’s doing OK at coping and making decisions. She never really shined and often took direction from her husband, Darren. In fact, sometimes Darren actually commands her. He was a bit overbearing at times.
Even though Darren is the one who was kidnapped, he is really, really calm about it. So calm, that it seemed odd, like Darren wasn’t fully fleshed out as a character. He has little to no emotions through out this whole story. Those few times he does show emotion is when he’s short tempered with his wife. As a main character, I didn’t get attached to him.
There’s an underlying Christian theme too. At first, it comes off a little strong. Like Kathy is at her wits end (which happened frequently and too easily) so she hands it all over to God. It’s a weak plot device, showing a lack of creativity. The middle of the story puts the Christian theme in the backseat so we can just focus on the mystery (yay!) but then comes back to the forefront near the end. Still, it is written in as part of the personalities of the main characters. Not my cup of tea but not a deal breaker either.
The story does have a small twist near the end, which made the story worth the read. I liked how Kelton, the ultimate target, turns the tables. Over all, 3/5 stars.
The Narration: Bill Nevitt has a great voice for Darren and I liked his voice for the secret service body guard. Sometimes his voices for Darren and Kelton blended together and sometimes they were distinct. While Nevitt’s voice for Kathy was feminine, it was sometimes a little bit cartoony, especially when Kathy is emotional. He has a great little old lady voice for the neighbor who babysits Hoovers’s dog. The kidnappers use an electronically-modified voice for the phone calls and Nevitt’s voice for this didn’t sound electronically modified at all. The pacing was good and there were no tech issues with the recording. 4/5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book. My opinions are 100% my own.
February 23, 2020
If a box with only my name on it appeared on my doorstep, I am not certain I would have responded as Dr. Kathy Hoover did. I think at that moment, she was faced with the first of a number of critical decisions. That was only the beginning, but it led to one exceptionally critical decision that would determine whether her husband lived or died. Doctors are often faced with decisions that may result in death for a patient, but the choice is seldom clear-cut like this was. They deal with making educated decisions that might have a fatal outcome, but it could also lead to an extended life for the patient. The situation in which Kathy was placed involved giving someone else a lethal medication to save the life of her husband. When she met the patient to whom she was to give the lethal drug, she could not fathom why someone else would want him dead. She was in an awful dilemma with no apparent way out if she wanted to see her husband again. Little did she know that the plot was more horrendous than she ever dreamed. The shining ray of hope came when she chose to go to church alone on Sunday as she was accustomed to doing, and the message delivered by her pastor spoke directly to her heart. Many people find all kinds of excuses to skip church and certainly would have stayed at home if they were in the situation Kathy found herself in. Somehow, she knew deep inside that she needed to be there. Toward the end of the story, a similar scene occurred. Again, God spoke directly to her heart through the sermon delivered by the pastor. I have often heard that God is faithful to us when we are faithful to Him. I believe it to be true. Some may say this is just a fiction book, but the life lessons are timeless. The book is well worth the time it takes to read it. I received an advance copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
March 3, 2020
Richard Mabry has long been a favorite author of mine. He blends medical drama with suspense as his characters deal with some very shady characters. In Critical Decision, his latest novella, he again created a page turner that kept me up past my bedtime. If you are looking for a puzzling mystery then I recommend you check this book out.
Kathy and Darren Hoover are very ordinary people. She is a physician in private practice and he is a professor of mathematics in Dallas, Texas. But their life soon spirals out of control as they are involved in a kidnapping and murder plot. While Critical Decision is plot-driven, I did like how Mabry puts these two characters through their paces. Much of the direction of the novel is due to their resourcefulness. I also liked that they are a married couple — their relationship is real and relatable. The story line kept me guessing and turning the pages as fast as I could. There is a good bit of the cloak and dagger as well as some really sinister bad guys. As always, Mabry adds a spiritual element in this book. The main characters attend church while in the midst of their crisis. They (and the reader) don’t get a long-winded sermon, but some good teaching on God’s wisdom. This element was naturally integrated into the book.
I read Critical Decision at a time when I needed a good distraction from the cares of the day. It proved a great one! A quick read, this novella will appeal to all who love a good whodunit.
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
(Thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
Kathy and Darren Hoover are very ordinary people. She is a physician in private practice and he is a professor of mathematics in Dallas, Texas. But their life soon spirals out of control as they are involved in a kidnapping and murder plot. While Critical Decision is plot-driven, I did like how Mabry puts these two characters through their paces. Much of the direction of the novel is due to their resourcefulness. I also liked that they are a married couple — their relationship is real and relatable. The story line kept me guessing and turning the pages as fast as I could. There is a good bit of the cloak and dagger as well as some really sinister bad guys. As always, Mabry adds a spiritual element in this book. The main characters attend church while in the midst of their crisis. They (and the reader) don’t get a long-winded sermon, but some good teaching on God’s wisdom. This element was naturally integrated into the book.
I read Critical Decision at a time when I needed a good distraction from the cares of the day. It proved a great one! A quick read, this novella will appeal to all who love a good whodunit.
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
(Thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
June 24, 2020
I enjoyed this story. It was a very different story and really made you think how one act can change lives so easily. The story was well crafted to build the tension and keep you in suspense as to what the out come would be. The story is told from two perspectives, by the husband and wife, while one tries to stay alive the other one tries to save his life, this works really well for the story because it kept you informed of what was happening with the kidnappers and what they were thinking. I did wonder if it wasn't safe to go home, why would going to work be any safer? Other than that, it is a good mystery as you try to work out who wants the ex vice president dead.
Dr Kathy Hoover comes home from a long day at work to find a package on her door step. By opening the box she sets in motion a game of cat and mouse, to keep her husband alive she must swop some tablets for patient and give him the ones they are going provide. As a Doctor Kathy to took an oath to do no harm, if she does what they say is she sentencing a man to death? But if she doesn't is she sentencing her own husband? Then she finds out the patient is the former vice president. What should she do? Other than hope her husband can find away to escape. With time running out she might just have to break the client confidentiality act and tell someone but who to trust?
The narrator did another excellent job with the narrating by giving the characters there own voices and bringing the story to life with tension and suspense
Dr Kathy Hoover comes home from a long day at work to find a package on her door step. By opening the box she sets in motion a game of cat and mouse, to keep her husband alive she must swop some tablets for patient and give him the ones they are going provide. As a Doctor Kathy to took an oath to do no harm, if she does what they say is she sentencing a man to death? But if she doesn't is she sentencing her own husband? Then she finds out the patient is the former vice president. What should she do? Other than hope her husband can find away to escape. With time running out she might just have to break the client confidentiality act and tell someone but who to trust?
The narrator did another excellent job with the narrating by giving the characters there own voices and bringing the story to life with tension and suspense
April 4, 2020
“Don’t hang up. This is deadly serious. Carry out my instructions or your husband will die.”
“She’d do anything to free her husband—even sacrificing her own freedom for his.”
‘We’ve been surrounded and battered by troubles, but we’re not demoralized; we’re not sure what to do, but we know that God knows what to do; we’ve been spiritually terrorized, but God hasn’t left our side; we’ve been thrown down, but we haven’t broken.’”
What began as an intense, action-packed beginning and premise unfortunately morphed into an unbelievable and convoluted climax. I really enjoyed the first half. Richard L Mabry has a way of drawing you into a story and presenting characters that you immediately feel like you know. I liked the premise, as I mentioned, but after about the halfway point, the storyline began to fizzle and it was a lot of talking back and forth with characters. I found a lot of the actions of the main characters to be implausible and far fetched. But in the end, I did enjoy the story enough to give it 3 stars.
I also found it had a lot of typos. It mentions Herb Peterson’s The Message Bible instead of Eugene Peterson. And then one line made me laugh out loud: “Remember how that phone blow up?” And a few others here and there.
Hoping the next Mabry book will be more enjoyable for me.
For more reviews, please check out my blog!
https://wadeurspider01.wixsite.com/we...
“She’d do anything to free her husband—even sacrificing her own freedom for his.”
‘We’ve been surrounded and battered by troubles, but we’re not demoralized; we’re not sure what to do, but we know that God knows what to do; we’ve been spiritually terrorized, but God hasn’t left our side; we’ve been thrown down, but we haven’t broken.’”
What began as an intense, action-packed beginning and premise unfortunately morphed into an unbelievable and convoluted climax. I really enjoyed the first half. Richard L Mabry has a way of drawing you into a story and presenting characters that you immediately feel like you know. I liked the premise, as I mentioned, but after about the halfway point, the storyline began to fizzle and it was a lot of talking back and forth with characters. I found a lot of the actions of the main characters to be implausible and far fetched. But in the end, I did enjoy the story enough to give it 3 stars.
I also found it had a lot of typos. It mentions Herb Peterson’s The Message Bible instead of Eugene Peterson. And then one line made me laugh out loud: “Remember how that phone blow up?” And a few others here and there.
Hoping the next Mabry book will be more enjoyable for me.
For more reviews, please check out my blog!
https://wadeurspider01.wixsite.com/we...
May 15, 2020
So much of life depends upon simple decisions. What if I hadn’t . . .
What if I had?
Dr.’s Kathy and Darren Hoover are about to experience this principle in the truest sense of the word.
A former E.R. physician, Dr. Kathy Hoover felt that she’d exchanged the stress of the emergency room for a more wholesome work environment. Married to Darren, a mathematician and professor, theirs was an idyllyic life that should have been the envy of any couple.
Then the door bell rang.
Now, Kathy has to come to grips with two horrific facts: 1) Her husband Darren has been kidnapped, and will be killed if Kathy doesn’t do as she is told. 2) She is being told to violate the medical oath that she swore to uphold upon being conferred the degree, Doctor of Medicine.
Now, it seems that every decision she has to make is a Critical Decision.
Writing with seasoned skill, Dr. Richard Mabry creates strong characters and places them in memorable settings, allowing the suspense to stir the pot until the final result is a well-crafted novella that is seasoned with just the right amount of faith, love and hope to keep the reader savoring the finished product long after the last page has been turned.
I received this book free of charge in exchange for my open and honest review.
What if I had?
Dr.’s Kathy and Darren Hoover are about to experience this principle in the truest sense of the word.
A former E.R. physician, Dr. Kathy Hoover felt that she’d exchanged the stress of the emergency room for a more wholesome work environment. Married to Darren, a mathematician and professor, theirs was an idyllyic life that should have been the envy of any couple.
Then the door bell rang.
Now, Kathy has to come to grips with two horrific facts: 1) Her husband Darren has been kidnapped, and will be killed if Kathy doesn’t do as she is told. 2) She is being told to violate the medical oath that she swore to uphold upon being conferred the degree, Doctor of Medicine.
Now, it seems that every decision she has to make is a Critical Decision.
Writing with seasoned skill, Dr. Richard Mabry creates strong characters and places them in memorable settings, allowing the suspense to stir the pot until the final result is a well-crafted novella that is seasoned with just the right amount of faith, love and hope to keep the reader savoring the finished product long after the last page has been turned.
I received this book free of charge in exchange for my open and honest review.
March 10, 2020
Dr. Richard Mabry is the absolute master of medical suspense stories and Critical Decision is no exception! The characters win your heart and you hold your breath every time they are sucked into a dangerous situation.
Imagine being Kathy, by herself at home, when her doorbell rings. She finds a package on her porch with no indication of who left it. When she opens it she finds a cell phone. As she picks it up it rings. She is told her husband has been kidnapped and he will live only if she administers certain capsules that will insure the death of one of her patients. What is she to do?
This was a quick read for me. I had to know who was behind the plot and why. (I did not cheat and look at the back of the book.) My heart beat faster with each opened door, each lonely walk down a sidewalk, and each drive down numerous streets. Were they being followed? A university professor and a medical doctor are not used to cloak and dagger or spy situations and one of their main contacts has disappeared!
I guarantee this one will have you biting your nails and listening to every creak or bump in your house as you read late into the night. Good stuff Dr. Mabry!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but was not required to write a review.
Imagine being Kathy, by herself at home, when her doorbell rings. She finds a package on her porch with no indication of who left it. When she opens it she finds a cell phone. As she picks it up it rings. She is told her husband has been kidnapped and he will live only if she administers certain capsules that will insure the death of one of her patients. What is she to do?
This was a quick read for me. I had to know who was behind the plot and why. (I did not cheat and look at the back of the book.) My heart beat faster with each opened door, each lonely walk down a sidewalk, and each drive down numerous streets. Were they being followed? A university professor and a medical doctor are not used to cloak and dagger or spy situations and one of their main contacts has disappeared!
I guarantee this one will have you biting your nails and listening to every creak or bump in your house as you read late into the night. Good stuff Dr. Mabry!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but was not required to write a review.
September 19, 2020
What would you do if you had to allow someone to die in order to save someone you love? Dr. Kathy Hoover faces such a decision when a mysterious package arrives on her doorstep. Inside is a cell phone and when it rings, her life is changed.
Without giving away too much of the story, Kathy and her husband, Darren, are drawn into a conspiracy that involves a former Vice President and a group of men who will stop at nothing to get what they want. There are plenty of twists to the story before the resolution at the end.
As a medical professional, I always enjoy Dr. Mabry's books. He has a way of intertwining medical information/actions with intrigue and mystery. This book is entertaining and a good way to spend a few hours in reading enjoyment. Dr. Mabry also adds in just enough of a faith-based element without being preachy to make this book unique. It is refreshing to read/listen to a book without cursing and gratuitous sex.
The narrator, Bill Nevitt, does his usual excellent job in pacing and voices and his performance added a lot to the book. I was given the chance to listen to the audiobook version of this book by the author/narrator/publisher and chose to review it.
Without giving away too much of the story, Kathy and her husband, Darren, are drawn into a conspiracy that involves a former Vice President and a group of men who will stop at nothing to get what they want. There are plenty of twists to the story before the resolution at the end.
As a medical professional, I always enjoy Dr. Mabry's books. He has a way of intertwining medical information/actions with intrigue and mystery. This book is entertaining and a good way to spend a few hours in reading enjoyment. Dr. Mabry also adds in just enough of a faith-based element without being preachy to make this book unique. It is refreshing to read/listen to a book without cursing and gratuitous sex.
The narrator, Bill Nevitt, does his usual excellent job in pacing and voices and his performance added a lot to the book. I was given the chance to listen to the audiobook version of this book by the author/narrator/publisher and chose to review it.
July 3, 2020
This story started off pretty good, jumping straight into the action and it had my interest right from the start. Unfortunately about halfway through, the plot started to unravel and things were pretty far-fetched and unrealistic for the type of story it was. I would've liked to see more of the reasoning behind the attempted assassination and maybe explore that a bit more, but the 2nd half of the book is mainly about characters talking and not reacting to situations in a normal way at all. I also didn't like the religious aspects in the book, for me, it wasn't necessary and didn't add anything to the plot and personally I didn't like it. So all in all, this was an ok story that started off really well but then fizzled at about the halfway mark.
March 3, 2020
‘Why had she just agreed to double-cross the people who held the love of her life?’
Dr. Karen Hoover finds a package on her door step with a burner phone in it. The phone rings and an electronic voice tells her that she is going to see a patient that she is supposed to kill. What? If she doesn’t, her husband will die. Things take off from this point and don’t let up until the last few pages of the book. I was completely all in from the very beginning of this one. Despite my best efforts at sleuthing, I could not figure out the culprit of this book. Dr. Mabry has done a very fine job here. Well done! Recommended.
Dr. Karen Hoover finds a package on her door step with a burner phone in it. The phone rings and an electronic voice tells her that she is going to see a patient that she is supposed to kill. What? If she doesn’t, her husband will die. Things take off from this point and don’t let up until the last few pages of the book. I was completely all in from the very beginning of this one. Despite my best efforts at sleuthing, I could not figure out the culprit of this book. Dr. Mabry has done a very fine job here. Well done! Recommended.
June 29, 2020
Okay, this was entertaining, and if what you are looking for is a book that will keep you amused, this will do that. But if you are looking for a tight plot... well... not so much.
The plot has many, many holes, the characters keep making decisions that make no sense even when they are, in theory, highly intelligent people and the whole thing takes a hysterical turn when auto-destructing phones show up. No, seriously, auto-destructing phones!
So, if you just want some inconsequential fun, and don't get bothered by some very preachy moments, go ahead, this will fill that expectative.
Bill Nevitt narration, though, is excellent. As always :)
The plot has many, many holes, the characters keep making decisions that make no sense even when they are, in theory, highly intelligent people and the whole thing takes a hysterical turn when auto-destructing phones show up. No, seriously, auto-destructing phones!
So, if you just want some inconsequential fun, and don't get bothered by some very preachy moments, go ahead, this will fill that expectative.
Bill Nevitt narration, though, is excellent. As always :)
July 14, 2020
Have you ever felt the need to yell at the characters in a book or movie or tv show? Critical Decision is an entertaining story, but I was literally yelling “call the cops” and “go to the police” in several spots. I have to wonder how such smart people (a doctor and a professor) can make such stupid decisions. Other then that, it’s a good book, and I was clearly involved in the story. Religion does play into the story, but it us not overly preachy.
The narrator does a good job of bringing the story and characters to life.
I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook. This is my honest and voluntary review.
The narrator does a good job of bringing the story and characters to life.
I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook. This is my honest and voluntary review.
December 4, 2021
Critical Decision was a good ready by Richard L. Mabry. Dr. Kathy Hoover found a box that contained a cell phone that rang once she opened it. The voice on the other end called her by her name and said her husband has been kidnapped. She must poison one of her patients in order to get him back. She didn't believe her husband was actually kidnapped but quickly found out that they were telling the truth. She needed to murder Kelton Rush, the former vice-president, if she wanted she him again. I enjoyed reading this book and can't wait to read more by the author.
March 10, 2020
Cardiac suspense
Dr. Richard Mabry has written yet another medical thriller, with twists and turns to keep the reader turning pages. Dr. Kathy Hoover receives a mysterious package containing a burner phone and a caller assigns her the task of killing a former vice president of the US. Meantime, to ensure she carries out their plots, the perps kidnap her husband Darren. He escapes after days in captivity but then he must figure out why the VP was targeted for death, as well as how to stay alive. Highly recommended reading.
Dr. Richard Mabry has written yet another medical thriller, with twists and turns to keep the reader turning pages. Dr. Kathy Hoover receives a mysterious package containing a burner phone and a caller assigns her the task of killing a former vice president of the US. Meantime, to ensure she carries out their plots, the perps kidnap her husband Darren. He escapes after days in captivity but then he must figure out why the VP was targeted for death, as well as how to stay alive. Highly recommended reading.
July 2, 2020
I have submitted this review after listening to the audiobook of this title.
This is one of those dramas that "would only happen in the movies".
However, our author and narrator brings this saga to life. The characters are believable, the plot is plausible, but there is still too many working parts involved.
There is always that question of why the victims don't get the authorities involved? Intriguing tale, that have you wondering what you would do.
This is one of those dramas that "would only happen in the movies".
However, our author and narrator brings this saga to life. The characters are believable, the plot is plausible, but there is still too many working parts involved.
There is always that question of why the victims don't get the authorities involved? Intriguing tale, that have you wondering what you would do.
July 2, 2020
This is definitely a book that keeps your attention.
I really like the Christian element, and was able to relate to it.
Spoiler Alert:
When Dr Hoover confesses to Kelton about the plot, his reaction didn’t really seem real. Presidents and Vice Presidents (of the USA) face death threats quite a lot and from what I’ve seen and read in newspapers, their reaction would have been take Dr Hoover into custody for attempted murder. Apart from that, everything else flowed quite well.
I really like the Christian element, and was able to relate to it.
Spoiler Alert:
When Dr Hoover confesses to Kelton about the plot, his reaction didn’t really seem real. Presidents and Vice Presidents (of the USA) face death threats quite a lot and from what I’ve seen and read in newspapers, their reaction would have been take Dr Hoover into custody for attempted murder. Apart from that, everything else flowed quite well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2020
I listened to most of the book through Audible. I will say, I liked reading it vs listening. For me, the narrator's tone didn't match the seriousness of the story. I found that reading the last part was much more enjoyable.
The story was ok. I think it was too fast paced with not a lot of details. I felt no connection to the people in the story. I thought it was going to be more thrilling I was left feeling disappointed.
The story was ok. I think it was too fast paced with not a lot of details. I felt no connection to the people in the story. I thought it was going to be more thrilling I was left feeling disappointed.
August 4, 2020
I received this book for free. I am voluntarily posting this review and any opinions expressed herein are my own.
This book starts out with a bang, which draws you in and makes you want more. Unfortunately, about halfway through, it peters out. The actions of the two main characters in the second half of the book - given the conclusion - seemed like a complete waste of time and did not make any sense.
The narrator, Bill Nevitt, did a good job overall.
This book starts out with a bang, which draws you in and makes you want more. Unfortunately, about halfway through, it peters out. The actions of the two main characters in the second half of the book - given the conclusion - seemed like a complete waste of time and did not make any sense.
The narrator, Bill Nevitt, did a good job overall.
November 15, 2021
Critical Decision (Audible Audio), my seventh read/listen from author Richard Mabry who is always high on my TBR list, I always look forward to reading any book by him. Bill Nevitt’s narration is, as always, excellent & adds greatly to the book’s enjoyment and seems the perfect complement to Mabry’s work.. “I received a free Audible copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
April 27, 2020
A delightful read
I usually read historical fiction, so it was fun to step out of my comfortable genre. Dr. Mabry does a good job speaking from both a man’s as well as a woman’s point of view. I felt a little distanced from the characters, however, when both the husband and wife were in the same room and a narrator’s voice took over.
I usually read historical fiction, so it was fun to step out of my comfortable genre. Dr. Mabry does a good job speaking from both a man’s as well as a woman’s point of view. I felt a little distanced from the characters, however, when both the husband and wife were in the same room and a narrator’s voice took over.
September 5, 2020
This retired nurse/mystery geek really loves Mabry's books, and this is one of the best. Among other things it demonstrates the logic disconnect that happens to anyone under severe emotional stress. The suspense is well drawn out.
Bill Nevitt always does an excellent job of getting inside the character's head and bringing those emotions alive.
I won this audio in a giveaway! Yay me!
Bill Nevitt always does an excellent job of getting inside the character's head and bringing those emotions alive.
I won this audio in a giveaway! Yay me!
January 30, 2021
A woman returns home at lunch time to let her dog out.As she leaves a package is delivered.Her life won't be the same after she opens it. I liked this story.There was a lot of re explaining things,like we are in elementary school.Bill Nevitt was a fine narrator. I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
June 4, 2022
Great book
This book was a great story about a professor and his wife who is a doctor. He gets kidnapped while at a conference in DC and his wife is ordered to give medication to the former VP that will kill him. She panics when she realizes that her husband has been kidnapped and freaks out about killing the VP. The story works out in the end.
This book was a great story about a professor and his wife who is a doctor. He gets kidnapped while at a conference in DC and his wife is ordered to give medication to the former VP that will kill him. She panics when she realizes that her husband has been kidnapped and freaks out about killing the VP. The story works out in the end.
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