Don't Go

Dr. Mike Scanlon, an Army doctor serving in Afghanistan, receives news that his wife died in a household accident back home in Philadelphia. He returns to care for their newborn daughter while grappling with questions about the circumstances of his wife's death. As Mike adjusts to single parenthood and civilian life, he begins to investigate inconsistencies in the official explanation of the accident. His search for answers leads him through medical facilities and research labs while he struggles to connect with his infant daughter. The story moves between Mike's military experience and present-day Philadelphia as he pursues the truth. His medical expertise and combat training become crucial tools as he faces mounting dangers on the homefront. This military thriller explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the complex bonds between soldiers, family members, and colleagues. The narrative examines how trauma and loss can reshape a person's understanding of both their past and future.

Readers found the military medical details authentic and appreciated the research into combat surgery and prosthetics. Many noted the fast-paced plot kept them engaged through the first half. Positives: - Accurate portrayal of military life and medical procedures - Strong emotional connection to the main character Mike - Quick-moving first half - Effective handling of grief themes Negatives: - Plot becomes unrealistic in second half - Too many coincidences in the mystery elements - Romance subplot feels forced - Several readers noted the ending was rushed Multiple readers commented that the book starts strong but loses credibility as it shifts from military drama to thriller. One reader stated "the final act reads like a different book entirely." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (5,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (1,100+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.1/5 (200+ ratings) The book ranks in the middle range compared to Scottoline's other works based on reader reviews.

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The Things We Do for Love by Kristin Hannah A widow rebuilds her life and forms an unexpected bond with a troubled teenager while processing her husband's death in military service.

🔹 Author Lisa Scottoline was inspired to write Don't Go after learning about the high suicide rates among military veterans and wanted to explore the challenges faced by soldiers returning from war. 🔹 The medical details in the story were thoroughly researched through consultations with both military doctors and civilian podiatric surgeons to ensure accuracy. 🔹 Like the main character Dr. Mike Scanlon, approximately 15% of military medical personnel deployed to combat zones are surgeons who must balance their civilian and military duties. 🔹 The book was released in 2013, during a time when over 2 million American service members had been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, making its themes particularly relevant. 🔹 Lisa Scottoline wrote this book, her first military-themed novel, while simultaneously teaching a law class at the University of Pennsylvania Law School, where she is an alumna.