Book Review: Last Patient of the Night: An AJ Docker Medical Thriller by Gary Gerlacher
From the moment I stumbled upon Last Patient of the Night, I felt a peculiar tug at my curiosity. Perhaps it’s the allure of merging high-octane medical drama with thrilling detective work that piqued my interest; after all, who wouldn’t want to ride along with a physician as he dives into the murky depths of a crime investigation? Gary Gerlacher, an emergency physician himself, often fills his prose with authenticity and humor, and I was eager to see how he’d blend medical intrigue with suspense.
A Deep Dive into the Heart of the Story
The novel kicks off with the death of a nameless young woman—a tragedy that propels the protagonist, AJ Docker, into a quest for justice that soon spirals into a labyrinth of ethical dilemmas and criminal entanglements. AJ isn’t just a dedicated doctor; he’s a character teeming with swagger and wit, offering a delightful mix of levity in an otherwise intense narrative. What resonated with me was how Gerlacher so skillfully crafted a character who, in one moment, is rattling off medical jargon, and in the next, showing a lighter side through hilarious banter with his friends.
That mix of urgency and humor is what makes Last Patient of the Night stand out. Gerlacher’s writing style is crisp and engaging, making it hard to put the book down. With each chapter, I found myself eagerly flipping pages, not just for the unfolding mystery, but also to savor the insights into the ER culture that Gerlacher depicts with uncanny accuracy.
Memorable Characters and Realistic Conflict
The characters, from AJ’s loyal police dog to the strong, no-nonsense women in law enforcement, are well-drawn and relatable. Their interactions are punctuated with humor and camaraderie, striking a balance between lightheartedness and serious, life-altering events. It’s refreshing to see female characters portrayed with depth, not merely as sidekicks but as integral players in the narrative.
One standout moment in the story had me laughing out loud—AJ’s witty inner monologue during a particularly chaotic ER shift, which encapsulated the chaotic charm of medical life. I loved the moments that brought a smile to my face amidst the tension; it’s a testament to Gerlacher’s ability to blend the heart-pounding with the heartwarming.
Final Thoughts
Last Patient of the Night is a delightful ride that doesn’t shy away from the complexities of life, loss, and the pursuit of justice. The clever intertwining of medical knowledge with compelling storytelling makes it appealing to a diverse audience—whether you’re a medical professional, a crime thriller enthusiast, or just looking for a good yarn.
In conclusion, if you enjoy reading fast-paced thrillers that are peppered with humor and a touch of humanity, this book is a must-read. Gary Gerlacher’s debut in the AJ Docker series might very well leave you craving more, as it did for me. It’s a novel that not only entertains but also invites reflection on the ethical complexities faced in both medicine and life. I’m looking forward to what’s next for AJ and his merry band of misfits!
You can find Last Patient of the Night: An AJ Docker Medical Thriller here >>