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Against Medical Advice
Frank's six-year-old daughter Maddie is sick. Very sick. Her mother is out of town and he's on his own to handle the emergency. But the doctors can't find anything wrong and money is quickly running out. Frank is desperate, and he begins to consider the unthinkable.
Shelly is a social worker with a pill problem. When a case spins out of control, she finds herself out of pills and at the end of her rope. Then she gets a call to check into a tip from an EMT: A father who may be making his own daughter ill. Will Shelly intervene in time, or will she fail to save a child...again?
From the author of OH FUCK OH FUCK IT HURTS comes this gripping, fast-paced novella of medical horror that will make you question: How far would you go when the only thing you can do is Against Medical Advice?
Shelly is a social worker with a pill problem. When a case spins out of control, she finds herself out of pills and at the end of her rope. Then she gets a call to check into a tip from an EMT: A father who may be making his own daughter ill. Will Shelly intervene in time, or will she fail to save a child...again?
From the author of OH FUCK OH FUCK IT HURTS comes this gripping, fast-paced novella of medical horror that will make you question: How far would you go when the only thing you can do is Against Medical Advice?
98 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 12, 2024
10 people are currently reading
254 people want to read
About the author
Ruth Anna Evans
52 books107 followersRuth Anna Evans is a writer of short horror fiction who lives in the heart of all that is sinister: the American Midwest. She has been composing prose of all types since childhood but finds something truly delightful in putting her nightmares on the page. Her stories are full of twists and turns with relatable protagonists and startling endings. If you like Grady Hendrix and Ira Levin, you'll like Ruth Anna Evans. Follow Ruth Anna on Twitter @ruthannaevans for updates on her work.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
June 19, 2024
Wow!
A man whose wife goes on a cruise is left to take care of his beloved daughter. She becomes sick and he is faced with not enough insurance and not enough upfront cash. He becomes completely unhinged. Another story within this one is a social worker who is getting burned out seeing so many kids taken away from their abusive homes. My gosh I needed a different ending. *sigh*
This book was amazing! I was flying through the pages…and abruptly the story ended. I’m thinking “no” please don’t end it this way. I’m giving this book 3 stars although it was a five star read until the end.
A man whose wife goes on a cruise is left to take care of his beloved daughter. She becomes sick and he is faced with not enough insurance and not enough upfront cash. He becomes completely unhinged. Another story within this one is a social worker who is getting burned out seeing so many kids taken away from their abusive homes. My gosh I needed a different ending. *sigh*
This book was amazing! I was flying through the pages…and abruptly the story ended. I’m thinking “no” please don’t end it this way. I’m giving this book 3 stars although it was a five star read until the end.
March 1, 2025
Wow! What a stressful ride this one was!
Against Medical Advice is horrific, terrifying & wonderfully executed!
I was relieved when this one was over!
Against Medical Advice is horrific, terrifying & wonderfully executed!
I was relieved when this one was over!
August 3, 2024
This book shattered me… it broke me apart and made me so sad and mad.
It was hard to read- both the father’s desperation, and the social worker’s day to day situations.
I was frustrated at the health system, but also the father for making uninformed decisions that put his daughter at risk. I’m so thankful I live in a country where the majority of medical procedures/visits are covered (however because of this you often wait months for certain specialists and procedures). We live in a world where there is a shortage of funding, health professionals, and sometimes certain medications- and it’s not fucking fair.
If you want to read a story that will shock, horrify, and make your blood boil- this is it.
A sick child and an impoverished father navigate the system to get treatment; soon he will try to fix her himself as he can’t bear to see his daughter suffer any longer.
It was hard to read- both the father’s desperation, and the social worker’s day to day situations.
I was frustrated at the health system, but also the father for making uninformed decisions that put his daughter at risk. I’m so thankful I live in a country where the majority of medical procedures/visits are covered (however because of this you often wait months for certain specialists and procedures). We live in a world where there is a shortage of funding, health professionals, and sometimes certain medications- and it’s not fucking fair.
If you want to read a story that will shock, horrify, and make your blood boil- this is it.
A sick child and an impoverished father navigate the system to get treatment; soon he will try to fix her himself as he can’t bear to see his daughter suffer any longer.
September 18, 2024
Not really up my alley but this was a quick read so I didn’t mind. It’s a pretty good story, I’m sure it’s horrific to read if you actually have children. The healthcare system (especially in the US) is absolute garbage so reading about a parent trying to take matters into his own hands is depressing. But somewhat understandable.
The writing was definitely good and the story was nerve-wrecking.
The writing was definitely good and the story was nerve-wrecking.
June 17, 2024
This was an absolutely amazing, and in some parts quite terrifying, short story!
I've read it in one sitting, more or less - had a break for something to eat in between - because I couldn't put it down.
Well-written, gripping, exciting, with twists and turns you didn't think were possible. Or maybe you did...
Read it, you will not regret it. Wow! Just wow!
I've read it in one sitting, more or less - had a break for something to eat in between - because I couldn't put it down.
Well-written, gripping, exciting, with twists and turns you didn't think were possible. Or maybe you did...
Read it, you will not regret it. Wow! Just wow!
July 21, 2024
This novella hits terrifyingly close to home if you've ever been a parent with a sick child and absolutely no money for proper treatment. Ruth Anna Evans takes these real life situations and manages to make them even more horrifying.
With his wife away and his six year old daughter having trouble breathing and complaining of stomach pains, Frank doesn't know where to turn. He takes her on for tests and blood work (which is a chore in itself because his daughter hates shots) but with inconclusive results. Further teats will cost money, which they do not have.
In the meantime, a social worker with a pill addiction starts slipping at her job. She's haunted by something in her childhood and her guilt weighs heavily on her soul. She wants to help children who are abused but her addiction is getting in the way of her job.
As Frank starts panicking as his daughters symptoms get worse, he's going to make a choice. A terrifying choice forced on him by a medical system which only cares about cash and fueled by his own paranoia.
When Shelly is called to his house by a paramedic, she sees nothing obviously wrong. But something very wrong is going to happen with horrifying results.
Mixing body horror with a heart tugging story of good parents who are at their wits end, this novella grabs you from the start. Realistically flawed characters, though basically decent people, brings a level of realism to the story.
This is a banger of a novella that will have you sympathise and squirm at the same time and I highly recommend it.
Thank you to the author for the copy. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
With his wife away and his six year old daughter having trouble breathing and complaining of stomach pains, Frank doesn't know where to turn. He takes her on for tests and blood work (which is a chore in itself because his daughter hates shots) but with inconclusive results. Further teats will cost money, which they do not have.
In the meantime, a social worker with a pill addiction starts slipping at her job. She's haunted by something in her childhood and her guilt weighs heavily on her soul. She wants to help children who are abused but her addiction is getting in the way of her job.
As Frank starts panicking as his daughters symptoms get worse, he's going to make a choice. A terrifying choice forced on him by a medical system which only cares about cash and fueled by his own paranoia.
When Shelly is called to his house by a paramedic, she sees nothing obviously wrong. But something very wrong is going to happen with horrifying results.
Mixing body horror with a heart tugging story of good parents who are at their wits end, this novella grabs you from the start. Realistically flawed characters, though basically decent people, brings a level of realism to the story.
This is a banger of a novella that will have you sympathise and squirm at the same time and I highly recommend it.
Thank you to the author for the copy. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
May 23, 2024
Okay. This was absolutely horrifying on so many levels! We follow two intertwined stories: a father who doesn't know what to do to help his sick child, and a social worker struggling with a Xanax addiction.
The characters feel extremely real, which makes the story all the more gripping and stressful.
The characters feel extremely real, which makes the story all the more gripping and stressful.
August 10, 2024
Once again, I find myself forgetting the mental post-it notes that I stick on my brain. That or they never stick right, because I am almost certain I wrote one out that said: “RUTH ANNA EVANS MAKES YOU CRY! YOU’VE BEEN WARNED, YOU CRYBABY!” If I remember correctly, her story in SCRAPS definitely made me get a little…something in my eye. 😿 Then she has the audacity to come back and give me all the horrible feels again and makes me worried sick about my own child (that I do not have nor ever will) & what I would sacrifice for them. 😿
Quick synopsis:
It was any parent’s worst nightmare. Your 6 yr old is sick, but it seems like something a lot worse than just some stomach bug. Your S/O is out of town, your cash is dwindling, and time is ticking. On the other side of the coin, a social worker is dealing with their own addiction problems while trying to do their job to the best of their abilities. What if you botches another case? What if your next call is about a father suspected of making his daughter sick, will you make the right decision?
I am an absolute nightmare as a “grownup” (see?), so I can’t imagine what I was like as a kid. (Sorry Mom.🖤) Just that fear alone made me say no kids, ever. The curse ends with me. So to have a story like this swoop in & make me have all these parental feels invade my head was pretty commendable. It speaks to how good of a writer Ruth is. It also speaks to what a brain bully she is too, cuz this book took me THROUGH IT, then picked me up and dragged me through it again. In the best/worst way possible. Just when you get to the end, you are like…ok so…I’m not crying; you’re crying. But is this horror? Then Ruth hits you with an ambulance going full speed and the MOST EMOTIONAL blood spilled I think I’ve witnessed in a story. WOW, just wow. I’m stapling that post-it note to my brain for next time. Ruth is a great author, maybe TOO good. Bring Kleenex. 🤧
Quick synopsis:
It was any parent’s worst nightmare. Your 6 yr old is sick, but it seems like something a lot worse than just some stomach bug. Your S/O is out of town, your cash is dwindling, and time is ticking. On the other side of the coin, a social worker is dealing with their own addiction problems while trying to do their job to the best of their abilities. What if you botches another case? What if your next call is about a father suspected of making his daughter sick, will you make the right decision?
I am an absolute nightmare as a “grownup” (see?), so I can’t imagine what I was like as a kid. (Sorry Mom.🖤) Just that fear alone made me say no kids, ever. The curse ends with me. So to have a story like this swoop in & make me have all these parental feels invade my head was pretty commendable. It speaks to how good of a writer Ruth is. It also speaks to what a brain bully she is too, cuz this book took me THROUGH IT, then picked me up and dragged me through it again. In the best/worst way possible. Just when you get to the end, you are like…ok so…I’m not crying; you’re crying. But is this horror? Then Ruth hits you with an ambulance going full speed and the MOST EMOTIONAL blood spilled I think I’ve witnessed in a story. WOW, just wow. I’m stapling that post-it note to my brain for next time. Ruth is a great author, maybe TOO good. Bring Kleenex. 🤧
May 19, 2024
Haven't felt this gutted since reading Angel Van Atta's latest. I blame you Ruth Anna Evans! And thank you from the heart for the experience...
This is one hell of a story. I mean it: a STORY - you have to tell yourself all the time, "it's fiction, it's fiction, it's fiction....," otherwise the impact will be traumatic. Because, first of all, it could happen; there's absolutely nothing here that feels far-fetched, bizarre or unreal: just a child getting suddenly sick, a mother absent due to a trip, a father who finds himself in deep waters, amid poverty, health insurance troubles, and the social services. Second, the characters are people, they're not there to prove a point or preach politics; they're hurting and you know it. Finally, this is us, today, our world, our country - you recognize everything, it all makes sense, you feel you'd do exactly the same as this poor father who has to parade his daughter around doctors, nurses, and (thankfully!) overworked social workers - a father who's devoured by worry from the inside. This might be you or me - where does he go wrong? I for one can't say. And therein lies the true horror of this novella: noone can be blamed, not really, everyone is doing the best they can, and we, as readers, find ourselves morally tongue-tied. An awesome story, superbly edited, stunningly imagined, one of Ruth Anna Evans' best!
This is one hell of a story. I mean it: a STORY - you have to tell yourself all the time, "it's fiction, it's fiction, it's fiction....," otherwise the impact will be traumatic. Because, first of all, it could happen; there's absolutely nothing here that feels far-fetched, bizarre or unreal: just a child getting suddenly sick, a mother absent due to a trip, a father who finds himself in deep waters, amid poverty, health insurance troubles, and the social services. Second, the characters are people, they're not there to prove a point or preach politics; they're hurting and you know it. Finally, this is us, today, our world, our country - you recognize everything, it all makes sense, you feel you'd do exactly the same as this poor father who has to parade his daughter around doctors, nurses, and (thankfully!) overworked social workers - a father who's devoured by worry from the inside. This might be you or me - where does he go wrong? I for one can't say. And therein lies the true horror of this novella: noone can be blamed, not really, everyone is doing the best they can, and we, as readers, find ourselves morally tongue-tied. An awesome story, superbly edited, stunningly imagined, one of Ruth Anna Evans' best!
May 30, 2024
Littered throughout my annotations is several “ohmygod ohmygod ohmygod”s because literally OH MY GOD. I went into this book thinking ‘little girl gets really sick and father is suspected of making her sick so shoddy social worker gets involved’ which already is enticing enough in my opinion. I mean, possible case of Munchausen by proxy plus the social worker working the case has a drug addiction? I’m already seated at the table for the feast that is about to be this story but then it goes and gives you even more than you’re expecting.
The father’s descent into madness was so shocking and unexpected. How quickly he fell out of touch with reality when under pressure was fascinating to observe. The social worker’s struggle through withdrawals after a very traumatic case leaves her teetering on the edge while lives are at stake and you can’t help but wonder when all her seams will come undone. A mother’s faraway anxiety about the health of her child has you hoping with everything in you that she beats the clock.
A truly gripping story but I warn you, the depictions of death, trauma, child abuse, and child neglect were heavy and gut wrenching so proceed with caution.
Finally, a huge thanks to Ruth Anna Evans herself for sending me an eARC ahead of its release. I really enjoyed this story.
The father’s descent into madness was so shocking and unexpected. How quickly he fell out of touch with reality when under pressure was fascinating to observe. The social worker’s struggle through withdrawals after a very traumatic case leaves her teetering on the edge while lives are at stake and you can’t help but wonder when all her seams will come undone. A mother’s faraway anxiety about the health of her child has you hoping with everything in you that she beats the clock.
A truly gripping story but I warn you, the depictions of death, trauma, child abuse, and child neglect were heavy and gut wrenching so proceed with caution.
Finally, a huge thanks to Ruth Anna Evans herself for sending me an eARC ahead of its release. I really enjoyed this story.
May 21, 2024
Wow.
I don't even know where to begin with this one, but I'll do my best! I read this in two sittings only because I absolutely had to put it down and go to bed right in the middle. This novella was gripping from page one, following Frank, who's trying desperately to figure out what's wrong with his sick daughter, and Shelly, a CPS worker with her own past trauma. I was panicking right along with Frank as Maddie's condition worsened and no one seemed to want to do anything, and my heart was pulled right out of my chest as I followed Shelly along to check on children who needed her.
But the ending is what really got me. I was absolutely not expecting what happened, and by the time I read the last line, I felt like I had just stepped off a roller coaster. This was a phenomenal read for anyone who enjoys medical horror (or even if you don't). Ruth Anna Evans has a serious knack for writing realistic characters, gripping plot points, and creating the perfect atmosphere to make the reader feel completely on edge. This one is a must read!
I don't even know where to begin with this one, but I'll do my best! I read this in two sittings only because I absolutely had to put it down and go to bed right in the middle. This novella was gripping from page one, following Frank, who's trying desperately to figure out what's wrong with his sick daughter, and Shelly, a CPS worker with her own past trauma. I was panicking right along with Frank as Maddie's condition worsened and no one seemed to want to do anything, and my heart was pulled right out of my chest as I followed Shelly along to check on children who needed her.
But the ending is what really got me. I was absolutely not expecting what happened, and by the time I read the last line, I felt like I had just stepped off a roller coaster. This was a phenomenal read for anyone who enjoys medical horror (or even if you don't). Ruth Anna Evans has a serious knack for writing realistic characters, gripping plot points, and creating the perfect atmosphere to make the reader feel completely on edge. This one is a must read!
October 7, 2024
Thank you, Ruth Anna Evans, for the free ebook in exchange for my honest review.
Frank's daughter wakes up feeling ill one morning while his wife is out of town. Always the anxious parent, he struggles to get someone to listen to him about his daughter's health. What ensues is a fast-paced, anxiety-inducing story about what parents are willing to do to protect their children.
I really enjoyed this quick read! It was fast-paced, and you could really feel Frank's anxiety coming through the pages as he struggles to get a diagnosis for his child. The second storyline that revolves around Shelly was equally as interesting and heartbreaking. Both storylines come together in the end, but I wish there had been just a *little* more to each separate storyline. Overall, it was an enjoyable read, and I would recommend it! This is the second book I've read by this author, and I really enjoy her writing and would encourage anyone to check her out.
Frank's daughter wakes up feeling ill one morning while his wife is out of town. Always the anxious parent, he struggles to get someone to listen to him about his daughter's health. What ensues is a fast-paced, anxiety-inducing story about what parents are willing to do to protect their children.
I really enjoyed this quick read! It was fast-paced, and you could really feel Frank's anxiety coming through the pages as he struggles to get a diagnosis for his child. The second storyline that revolves around Shelly was equally as interesting and heartbreaking. Both storylines come together in the end, but I wish there had been just a *little* more to each separate storyline. Overall, it was an enjoyable read, and I would recommend it! This is the second book I've read by this author, and I really enjoy her writing and would encourage anyone to check her out.
May 16, 2024
Frank’s 6yo daughter Maddie is visibly very ill. His wife is out of town, insurance is quickly draining them and preventing Maddie from getting adequate tests and treatment, and Frank’s own past medical trauma isn’t helping him keep it together. Shelly, addicted to the pills that barely keep her past from overtaking her, is a social worker who receives an unsettling call from an EMT who just treated a young girl with a frantic father acting suspiciously. How hard of a push would you need to go Against Medical Advice?
I fell asleep reading this ARC after getting my greedy little paws on it, and I had to finish it as soon as I woke up! Evans’ writing is so tight and well-crafted that I was filled with anxious dread from start to finish. It’s not an easy task to introduce two separate storylines that will intersect in just a novella, but Against Medical Advice manages this easily. Plus, I felt fully introduced and invested in each character we encounter - from the EMT who briefly treats Maddie to Shelly’s boss Mae.
My only frustration is that I wanted more of Frank’s backstory! But that’s also what I love from a gripping novella - I’m able to be left wanting more while still being able to meet the characters where they’re at and enjoy the hell out of a good story.
I fell asleep reading this ARC after getting my greedy little paws on it, and I had to finish it as soon as I woke up! Evans’ writing is so tight and well-crafted that I was filled with anxious dread from start to finish. It’s not an easy task to introduce two separate storylines that will intersect in just a novella, but Against Medical Advice manages this easily. Plus, I felt fully introduced and invested in each character we encounter - from the EMT who briefly treats Maddie to Shelly’s boss Mae.
My only frustration is that I wanted more of Frank’s backstory! But that’s also what I love from a gripping novella - I’m able to be left wanting more while still being able to meet the characters where they’re at and enjoy the hell out of a good story.
May 23, 2024
If you like medical horror, you’ll love this novella. As a mother of a 6 and a 9 year old, I could totally relate to the fear Frank felt, and I found it extremely anxiety-inducing right from the start. What’s horrifying is that something like this has probably happened somewhere in the world - the story is not far-fetched. Highly recommend!
Thanks to Ruth for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC!
Thanks to Ruth for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC!
May 17, 2024
Had the pleasure of receiving the ARC of Against Medical Advice by Ruth Anna Evans!
I love stories that make me just sit there with my mouth open while a character is completely fucking losing their mind. Unhinged, like Frank. The escalation of everything keeps you invested and needing to know what happens next.
Also, two things I am thankful for after reading this story:
1. Not having any children
2. My shitty health insurance
Stay well, and check out this story! 🤓
I love stories that make me just sit there with my mouth open while a character is completely fucking losing their mind. Unhinged, like Frank. The escalation of everything keeps you invested and needing to know what happens next.
Also, two things I am thankful for after reading this story:
1. Not having any children
2. My shitty health insurance
Stay well, and check out this story! 🤓
May 21, 2024
Against Medical Advice is told as two entwined stories, a woman whose job it is to protect children and a father who is quickly being driven crazy by "lack of" medical care who takes matters into his own hands. Things start bad, and they only get worse. When I tell you that I devoured this short story, I am not kidding. I HAD to know the resolution and quickly.
One thing I know as a mother is that when my children are sick and it seems like not enough is being done... that feeling of anxiety and hopelessness can be maddening. I have been driven mad a time or two, but never once to this extreme. This book literally had me screaming internally and constantly chewing off my nails. Red flags were blazing everywhere, and my momma heart was hurting.
Ruth, you nailed it with this one. You wrecked me, but man, what a ride! Readers, be warned, this book is going to give you anxiety, raise your blood pressure, and maybe even make you cry, but it's worth every bit.
I received a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
One thing I know as a mother is that when my children are sick and it seems like not enough is being done... that feeling of anxiety and hopelessness can be maddening. I have been driven mad a time or two, but never once to this extreme. This book literally had me screaming internally and constantly chewing off my nails. Red flags were blazing everywhere, and my momma heart was hurting.
Ruth, you nailed it with this one. You wrecked me, but man, what a ride! Readers, be warned, this book is going to give you anxiety, raise your blood pressure, and maybe even make you cry, but it's worth every bit.
I received a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2025
This short, sharp little novella was a surprisingly compelling story of parental anxiety (and I'm not a parent so I can't imagine how much more this hits for those with children) deftly woven into a blistering indictment of the American health care and child care systems.
I'm so very, very grateful to not have to experience this kind of medical horror as a Canadian. I think we often joke and make light of our neighbours to the south who endure this medical terror, but if this story is accurate in its depiction of the American health care system... I must, as a proper Canuck, deeply apologize for our thoughtless and easy dismissal. Your system holds you hostage in the most abominable ways.
I don't think I've ever read something quite so plausible framed in a horror story.
The author's style swiftly and stealthily pulls you in to the two parallel POVs while making the cleverest of several subtle observations: the alarming rise of those self-diagnosing health issues off the internet; the medical community's overburdened healthcare workers who don't seem to remember that vague information will lead people to desperate, horrifying alternatives; exhausted and burnt-out social workers who have seen it all and self-medicate...
This was a doozy.
I'm so very, very grateful to not have to experience this kind of medical horror as a Canadian. I think we often joke and make light of our neighbours to the south who endure this medical terror, but if this story is accurate in its depiction of the American health care system... I must, as a proper Canuck, deeply apologize for our thoughtless and easy dismissal. Your system holds you hostage in the most abominable ways.
I don't think I've ever read something quite so plausible framed in a horror story.
The author's style swiftly and stealthily pulls you in to the two parallel POVs while making the cleverest of several subtle observations: the alarming rise of those self-diagnosing health issues off the internet; the medical community's overburdened healthcare workers who don't seem to remember that vague information will lead people to desperate, horrifying alternatives; exhausted and burnt-out social workers who have seen it all and self-medicate...
This was a doozy.
July 29, 2024
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This was one of the most anxiety inducing books I’ve ever read! I don’t have children, but I could sympathize with this father who wanted to do whatever he had to do to save his daughter. I got so anxious while reading this book I had to read it in spurts. An amazing book overall, though, and I will definitely read more from this author.
October 2, 2024
Wow, this book has been on my TBR for some time and I recieved an ARC copy from the author (sorry it took so long to read it!)... But I started it today, and finished it... Today! What a book!
This story resonated to me on many levels. I am a health visitor so the part of the story relating to the social worker was really hard (but very true) to read in some parts. The part of the story relating to money issues also I think many people (including myself) really can understand the struggles with this.
I really enjoyed this book, it covered so many areas and loved how two people's stories come together. I couldn't stop reading it! Will definitely be recommending this to others!
This story resonated to me on many levels. I am a health visitor so the part of the story relating to the social worker was really hard (but very true) to read in some parts. The part of the story relating to money issues also I think many people (including myself) really can understand the struggles with this.
I really enjoyed this book, it covered so many areas and loved how two people's stories come together. I couldn't stop reading it! Will definitely be recommending this to others!
May 16, 2024
I should be asleep.
But, instead, I’m a mess.
This novella is heartbreakingly phenomenal. I don’t think I’ve ever read something so fast in my life. Each page had me wanting more and more, dying to know what was going to happen. My heart aches to think about how realistic this story is, in all aspects.
And now I think I’ve officially leaned towards a new favorite subgenre. And Ruth Anna Evans will forever have a place in my top 5 favorite authors list. 🖤
An astonishing 5/5! 🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸
But, instead, I’m a mess.
This novella is heartbreakingly phenomenal. I don’t think I’ve ever read something so fast in my life. Each page had me wanting more and more, dying to know what was going to happen. My heart aches to think about how realistic this story is, in all aspects.
And now I think I’ve officially leaned towards a new favorite subgenre. And Ruth Anna Evans will forever have a place in my top 5 favorite authors list. 🖤
An astonishing 5/5! 🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸
October 31, 2025
Geezus, the amount of anxiety i got from this. I'm a nurse, so seeing this through someone not medically inclined was frightening.
I really hope Shelly learned her lesson and makes a huge change.
I need a care bears book now, or something.
I really hope Shelly learned her lesson and makes a huge change.
I need a care bears book now, or something.
November 25, 2025
4.5
a father who is taking care of his daughter while his wife is away when the daughter suddenly becomes sick. the tests cost money, which they dont have, and the dad becomes desperate. how far will he go to save his daughter?
a father who is taking care of his daughter while his wife is away when the daughter suddenly becomes sick. the tests cost money, which they dont have, and the dad becomes desperate. how far will he go to save his daughter?
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June 6, 2024This was a very edge-of-your-seat read! I finished it in one sitting!
June 3, 2024
I have said it before and I will say it again, Ruth is one of my absolute favorite authors! How she comes up with these amazing stories I will never know. This story may be short, but it had me feeling so many emotions, mainly heartache and anger. The fact that there is so much truth involved, from the worried father to the social worker who isn’t fully invested, makes this story very relatable for many people.
April 29, 2024
A chilling tale about far we will go to do what we think needs to be done! This story will chill you to the bone!
May 24, 2025
Against Medical Advice blew me away and it was genuinely one of the most gut wrenching and horrifying books I’ve ever read. Frank is a loving father left on his own to care for his sick daughter. He runs into dead end after dead end trying to figure out how he can help his child. My heart bled for Frank and the book perfectly captured the absolute terror of being a parent with a frightened child in pain. The healthcare system in America can be both extremely difficult and unbelievably expensive, the panic that Frank feels as he finds himself in dire straits without support or resources was terrifying.
On the other side of the story the book follows Shelly, a social worker struggling to remain afloat. The book definitely reaffirmed my admiration of social workers, it is a brutal profession. As the story and the two narratives fell into place and it became clear to me where the story was headed I was absolutely heartbroken and sick with worry. This book genuinely made my stomach turn and I had to put the book down to breathe as the story ramped up to it’s denouement, the stress of the story was palpable. This book held me in a chokehold racing to finish. I couldn’t put the book down and I stayed up all night to read it, I had to know how it ended.
Another outstanding story by Ruth Anna Evans and one of her more heart wrenching. Against Medical Advice stands above as one of the best pieces of medical horror I’ve ever read.
On the other side of the story the book follows Shelly, a social worker struggling to remain afloat. The book definitely reaffirmed my admiration of social workers, it is a brutal profession. As the story and the two narratives fell into place and it became clear to me where the story was headed I was absolutely heartbroken and sick with worry. This book genuinely made my stomach turn and I had to put the book down to breathe as the story ramped up to it’s denouement, the stress of the story was palpable. This book held me in a chokehold racing to finish. I couldn’t put the book down and I stayed up all night to read it, I had to know how it ended.
Another outstanding story by Ruth Anna Evans and one of her more heart wrenching. Against Medical Advice stands above as one of the best pieces of medical horror I’ve ever read.
August 7, 2024
I hate to rate this a 5 because now I’m sitting here absolutely shattered; but I know it will stick with me.
I started out sad and upset. Ok, now worry about what might be coming. Ending with absolute heartbreak.
I started out sad and upset. Ok, now worry about what might be coming. Ending with absolute heartbreak.
September 26, 2024
Evans style of horror tends to strike for the heart and tug at the emotions while unnerving and repulsing, so medical themed horror is a great fit. Her prior collection was a good indication of that.
The story follows two separate points of view, one of a small family with a sick child, and another of an agent for a child welfare office. The family, Frank, the father, and Maddie, the suddenly and mysteriously ailing child are the primary focus of the A plot. Frank is taking care of Maddie while the mom, Tish, is on vacation. The couple came into some inheritance money and decided that Tish should be able to get away for a while and relax. It creates an interesting scenario and touches on realistic resentments. Should we allow ourselves to take our comforts when we can, or is it better to just sit and miserably wait, squirreling away money so we’re “prepared?” I don;t know that there’s a clear answer to that.
The other storyline follows Shelley, a woman whose job is to investigate potentially poor or dangerous living conditions for children and help them, checking in on situations or setting up foster care. Her own personal vices explore another angle of the modern medical industry with which many readers will be familiar.
I appreciated the questions this story posed and also the way it didn;t come across as too preachy. It gives decent motivations to its characters, and Evans doesn’t condemn her players the way we as readers may feel compelled to. Though I could relate to most of the ways in which Frank acts in his efforts to attempt to take care of Maddie without dooming the family to crippling and endless debt, I also totally see how some readers might find his actions unconscionable. I think that just comes down to the different ways people think and treat their own actions. Or maybe I’m a terrible person.
This one is pretty quick and the chapters are bite sized, so it keeps you reading. If you need clear-cut villains in your horror novellas, this one might leave you wanting, but there is definitely horror to be had here. There is some of the standard fare you’d expect in a book marketed as horror, but it tends more toward the overall dread a lot of us face day to day, hoping our health stays steady and our ills don’t exceed what our checkbook can back up. Those are decisions no one likes making.
The story follows two separate points of view, one of a small family with a sick child, and another of an agent for a child welfare office. The family, Frank, the father, and Maddie, the suddenly and mysteriously ailing child are the primary focus of the A plot. Frank is taking care of Maddie while the mom, Tish, is on vacation. The couple came into some inheritance money and decided that Tish should be able to get away for a while and relax. It creates an interesting scenario and touches on realistic resentments. Should we allow ourselves to take our comforts when we can, or is it better to just sit and miserably wait, squirreling away money so we’re “prepared?” I don;t know that there’s a clear answer to that.
The other storyline follows Shelley, a woman whose job is to investigate potentially poor or dangerous living conditions for children and help them, checking in on situations or setting up foster care. Her own personal vices explore another angle of the modern medical industry with which many readers will be familiar.
I appreciated the questions this story posed and also the way it didn;t come across as too preachy. It gives decent motivations to its characters, and Evans doesn’t condemn her players the way we as readers may feel compelled to. Though I could relate to most of the ways in which Frank acts in his efforts to attempt to take care of Maddie without dooming the family to crippling and endless debt, I also totally see how some readers might find his actions unconscionable. I think that just comes down to the different ways people think and treat their own actions. Or maybe I’m a terrible person.
This one is pretty quick and the chapters are bite sized, so it keeps you reading. If you need clear-cut villains in your horror novellas, this one might leave you wanting, but there is definitely horror to be had here. There is some of the standard fare you’d expect in a book marketed as horror, but it tends more toward the overall dread a lot of us face day to day, hoping our health stays steady and our ills don’t exceed what our checkbook can back up. Those are decisions no one likes making.
July 18, 2024
The desperation and poorly processed childhood trauma of both main characters, Shelly and Frank, are what makes this too-short novel really special. Shelly allows her dependence on Xanax to get in the way of her social worker job, and Frank allows his paranoia over his daughter’s illness and their lack of money to push him to do something completely irrational. They both make poor decisions that may or may not be totally their own fault.
When you have PTSD you aren’t always in your right mind when you get triggered, and Evans captures that perfectly in both people’s fractured thoughts and frazzled actions. I can’t say that I would have jumped straight to home surgery as quickly as Frank does, but he watched his mother waste away in the hospital when he was a teenager and has no trust left for the medical profession.
The descriptions of abused and neglected children are so heartbreakingly accurate, and I appreciate how good Shelly is at her job even as she’s wrestling with her own demons. It was refreshing to see a horror novel where the characters have consciences and good intentions, but everything still goes terribly wrong.
Solid plot, beautiful writing, realistic characters, and a strong resolution. My only complaint is that it was too short! I’d love to see a sequel about what happens to Frank in prison, his daughter and wife’s life without him as Maddie gets older, and Shelly checking in on them as her habits and PTSD either get better or much, much worse.
Ten Sentence Reviews – Against Medical Advice
When you have PTSD you aren’t always in your right mind when you get triggered, and Evans captures that perfectly in both people’s fractured thoughts and frazzled actions. I can’t say that I would have jumped straight to home surgery as quickly as Frank does, but he watched his mother waste away in the hospital when he was a teenager and has no trust left for the medical profession.
The descriptions of abused and neglected children are so heartbreakingly accurate, and I appreciate how good Shelly is at her job even as she’s wrestling with her own demons. It was refreshing to see a horror novel where the characters have consciences and good intentions, but everything still goes terribly wrong.
Solid plot, beautiful writing, realistic characters, and a strong resolution. My only complaint is that it was too short! I’d love to see a sequel about what happens to Frank in prison, his daughter and wife’s life without him as Maddie gets older, and Shelly checking in on them as her habits and PTSD either get better or much, much worse.
Ten Sentence Reviews – Against Medical Advice
July 20, 2024
Well this one REALLY tugged at my heart strings.
Against Medical Advice follows Frank and Shelly. Two separate people. Two point of views. Frank has a very sick 6 year old daughter, Maddie, and he's having trouble getting her the help she needs. Doctors make him jump through several hoops. We all know how this works. Insurance won't pay for this until a and b are crossed off first. After several tests, they all come back inconclusive. They put Maddie on a round of antibiotics and Frank is growing anxious more by the minute because Maddie isn't getting better. With no money, his wife out of town and no credit card, Frank does the unthinkable to do what he thinks is best to save his child.
Second point of view we have is Shelly. Shelly is a social worker that has a drug addiction. Her addiction is causing her to have several slip ups and is controlling every aspect of her life. It's hard to feel sorry for this woman but at the same time she is trying to help kids get out of life threatening situations.
This book was really difficult to read because these things happen EVERY DAY. The cost of medical care is outrageous, especially for someone who DOES NOT have insurance and not everyone has the funds to get their issues addressed like they need to be. Drug addiction is also very common. Especially when it comes to pills. Although, this book is fiction it shed some serious light on what can happen in every day life. You never know what someone is going through.
Thank you, Ruth Anna Evans for this digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
Highly Recommend this one. Grab the tissues though, you may need them.
Against Medical Advice follows Frank and Shelly. Two separate people. Two point of views. Frank has a very sick 6 year old daughter, Maddie, and he's having trouble getting her the help she needs. Doctors make him jump through several hoops. We all know how this works. Insurance won't pay for this until a and b are crossed off first. After several tests, they all come back inconclusive. They put Maddie on a round of antibiotics and Frank is growing anxious more by the minute because Maddie isn't getting better. With no money, his wife out of town and no credit card, Frank does the unthinkable to do what he thinks is best to save his child.
Second point of view we have is Shelly. Shelly is a social worker that has a drug addiction. Her addiction is causing her to have several slip ups and is controlling every aspect of her life. It's hard to feel sorry for this woman but at the same time she is trying to help kids get out of life threatening situations.
This book was really difficult to read because these things happen EVERY DAY. The cost of medical care is outrageous, especially for someone who DOES NOT have insurance and not everyone has the funds to get their issues addressed like they need to be. Drug addiction is also very common. Especially when it comes to pills. Although, this book is fiction it shed some serious light on what can happen in every day life. You never know what someone is going through.
Thank you, Ruth Anna Evans for this digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
Highly Recommend this one. Grab the tissues though, you may need them.
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