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Heroic Measures
The medical examiner’s job is to speak for the dead,
and protect the living.
But what happens when the dead speak for themselves?
Stephen Englehart, an Armed Forces medical examiner. dedicates his life to bringing peace to the families of fallen soldiers. Tagged as one of the best, he’s able to spot forensic clues others miss. But when the body of a US Marine, supposedly burned beyond recognition, shows up with hardly a scratch, even Stephen is stumped. Were the bodies switched? Then, in the middle of the autopsy, the impossible happens.
The soldier wakes up.
Something incredible—and dangerous—is happening to the military’s elite, and Stephen may be the only one who can figure it out. And when Stephen’s sister, a Green Beret, goes missing, the entire military machine seems designed to stop him from finding her. To find the truth and save his sister, one man must stand against an army. Can he be the hero he never thought he could?
“A roller coaster ride filled with thrills and intrigue.” – Alma Boucher, Reader’s Favorite
and protect the living.
But what happens when the dead speak for themselves?
Stephen Englehart, an Armed Forces medical examiner. dedicates his life to bringing peace to the families of fallen soldiers. Tagged as one of the best, he’s able to spot forensic clues others miss. But when the body of a US Marine, supposedly burned beyond recognition, shows up with hardly a scratch, even Stephen is stumped. Were the bodies switched? Then, in the middle of the autopsy, the impossible happens.
The soldier wakes up.
Something incredible—and dangerous—is happening to the military’s elite, and Stephen may be the only one who can figure it out. And when Stephen’s sister, a Green Beret, goes missing, the entire military machine seems designed to stop him from finding her. To find the truth and save his sister, one man must stand against an army. Can he be the hero he never thought he could?
“A roller coaster ride filled with thrills and intrigue.” – Alma Boucher, Reader’s Favorite
Audiobook
Published September 17, 2024
25 people are currently reading
197 people want to read
About the author
Joel Shulkin
7 books363 followersJoel Shulkin, MD, is a developmental-behavioral pediatrician and United States Air Force veteran with a master’s in public health. Having been lucky enough to be mentored by the legendary Michael Palmer, his short stories have appeared in various print and online journals, and he has won several national and local writing awards for fiction and poetry. He lives in Florida with his wife and twin daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
September 13, 2024
Heroic Measures is a fast paced military action thriller about an American Medical Examiner working on an army base in Germany, who uncovers a shocking conspiracy to create unkillable supersoldiers. It’s the opener for a planned series and according to the author’s afterword, was inspired by his love of superhero stories.
Stephen Englehart never got over the violent deaths of his parents when he was only young, and threw himself into a pathology career so he could give other families the answers he never got for himself. When bodies from a massacre in the Middle East are diverted to his base, the initial autopsy findings don’t match the information his team have been given, and Stephen suspects something sinister is afoot - and then a supposedly dead soldier wakes up! Meanwhile his sister Sharon, a formidable Green Beret, is looking forward to catching up with him en route to her next posting - but then she goes missing…
Not knowing much about the US military hierarchy and structure, I initially found this a bit bewildering, between all the different ranks, acronyms and base names, but once the plot got going that didn’t matter and this turned into a fun adventure story with fantastical elements straight out of Marvel. It’s well written - the author is a practising physician and it shows in the various forensic details described.
There’s murder, intrigue, twists, a little romance, a female protagonist who’s way more kick-ass than her geek-hero brother, and dastardly villains - I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to the sequel, Extraordinary Measures, which is due out next year.
Thanks to the author for the ARC. Heroic Measures is published on September 17th 2024.
Stephen Englehart never got over the violent deaths of his parents when he was only young, and threw himself into a pathology career so he could give other families the answers he never got for himself. When bodies from a massacre in the Middle East are diverted to his base, the initial autopsy findings don’t match the information his team have been given, and Stephen suspects something sinister is afoot - and then a supposedly dead soldier wakes up! Meanwhile his sister Sharon, a formidable Green Beret, is looking forward to catching up with him en route to her next posting - but then she goes missing…
Not knowing much about the US military hierarchy and structure, I initially found this a bit bewildering, between all the different ranks, acronyms and base names, but once the plot got going that didn’t matter and this turned into a fun adventure story with fantastical elements straight out of Marvel. It’s well written - the author is a practising physician and it shows in the various forensic details described.
There’s murder, intrigue, twists, a little romance, a female protagonist who’s way more kick-ass than her geek-hero brother, and dastardly villains - I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to the sequel, Extraordinary Measures, which is due out next year.
Thanks to the author for the ARC. Heroic Measures is published on September 17th 2024.
March 11, 2024
I read this as an ARC read. It was a quick easy read that held my attention. If you’re into superhero stories with a mix of mystery and action this is the book for you!
September 20, 2024
This is a military technology thriller read involving military members. The way that the author writes the first chapter involving US Marine Corporal Mark Greenwood is the MMC that starts out this book. As a reader we know Mark is something other than just a normal human being. He has gone rogue and is currently having a breakdown of some sort and hearing internal voices that came from inside his own head.
I loved the author’s way of writing this story as it was engaging for the readers and also made you want to read the book from the first pages. The story then changes to our for the rest of the book, MMC named Stephen Engleheart who is the medical examiner for the Armed Forces at a base in Germany. He has many interesting cases in this book about unkillable super soldiers. He is especially surprised when one wakes up after they die during an autopsy. And then his sister goes missing and he needs to find out what happens to Sharon.
The author wrote compelling technothriller and I can not wait for the next book!
I loved the author’s way of writing this story as it was engaging for the readers and also made you want to read the book from the first pages. The story then changes to our for the rest of the book, MMC named Stephen Engleheart who is the medical examiner for the Armed Forces at a base in Germany. He has many interesting cases in this book about unkillable super soldiers. He is especially surprised when one wakes up after they die during an autopsy. And then his sister goes missing and he needs to find out what happens to Sharon.
The author wrote compelling technothriller and I can not wait for the next book!
October 1, 2024
“Heroic Measures” by Joel Shulkin, MD, had me hooked from the very first page. As a forensic thriller, it brilliantly weaves together action, conspiracies, and intense suspense. The story follows Stephen Englehart, a top Armed Forces medical examiner, whose routine autopsy of a supposedly dead Marine turns into a nightmare when the soldier wakes up mid-procedure. From there, the mystery unravels at a breathtaking pace. Each chapter uncovers another layer of conspiracy, and the stakes keep getting higher, leaving me on the edge of my seat the entire time. It gave me serious Captain America: Winter Soldier vibes, with its mix of high-octane action and shady government dealings.
I absolutely loved how “Heroic Measures” portrays the military machine as a flawed entity, full of secrets that go beyond what even its most loyal servants know. The sense that something larger and far more dangerous is lurking behind the scenes added an incredible sense of tension. Every time I thought I knew what was happening, the plot took another twist, ramping up the insanity in a way that was both thrilling and jaw-dropping. The conspiracies felt so complex, and yet the author made it easy to follow while keeping me guessing. It was one of those books that had me saying, “What could possibly happen next?” at every turn.
What made this even more fun was the forensic approach to the storytelling. Stephen’s expertise as a medical examiner grounds the more fantastical elements of the plot, making them feel plausible. I loved how Shulkin used forensic science to drive the mystery forward, revealing clues that only someone like Stephen could find. It added a unique layer of intrigue and realism to the story. Overall, “Heroic Measures” was pure entertainment, full of action, suspense, and a mystery that kept getting crazier with every chapter.
I absolutely loved how “Heroic Measures” portrays the military machine as a flawed entity, full of secrets that go beyond what even its most loyal servants know. The sense that something larger and far more dangerous is lurking behind the scenes added an incredible sense of tension. Every time I thought I knew what was happening, the plot took another twist, ramping up the insanity in a way that was both thrilling and jaw-dropping. The conspiracies felt so complex, and yet the author made it easy to follow while keeping me guessing. It was one of those books that had me saying, “What could possibly happen next?” at every turn.
What made this even more fun was the forensic approach to the storytelling. Stephen’s expertise as a medical examiner grounds the more fantastical elements of the plot, making them feel plausible. I loved how Shulkin used forensic science to drive the mystery forward, revealing clues that only someone like Stephen could find. It added a unique layer of intrigue and realism to the story. Overall, “Heroic Measures” was pure entertainment, full of action, suspense, and a mystery that kept getting crazier with every chapter.
July 16, 2024
Heroic Measures is such an interesting read! Once you start reading the book, you won’t be able to put it down!
It’s about Stephen, a medical examiner for the military, who finds out that bodies of soldiers are being misidentified. As Stephen does his own research, he stumbles upon the nefarious plot that others are trying to cover up. In order to do the right thing, Stephen has to face his past trauma and risk his life.
The plot in this book was very well thought out, and the mystery was captivating. It could be just my interest in biology, but I loved how medicine and forensics was a big part of the book. I also loved this author’s writing style and how invested I was in the plot (which wasn’t predictable! thank god!).
It’s about Stephen, a medical examiner for the military, who finds out that bodies of soldiers are being misidentified. As Stephen does his own research, he stumbles upon the nefarious plot that others are trying to cover up. In order to do the right thing, Stephen has to face his past trauma and risk his life.
The plot in this book was very well thought out, and the mystery was captivating. It could be just my interest in biology, but I loved how medicine and forensics was a big part of the book. I also loved this author’s writing style and how invested I was in the plot (which wasn’t predictable! thank god!).
November 21, 2024
Thank you to Joel Shulkin for the ARC!
The medical examiner's job is to speak for the dead…but what happens when the dead speak for themselves?
Stephen Englehart is an Armed Forces medical examiner, whose job it is to bring peace to the families of fallen soldiers. He’s also fantastic at spotting forensic clues that others often miss. But when the body of a fallen Marine, supposedly burned beyond recognition, shows up without a scratch, Stephen is confused. But then, in the middle of the autopsy - somehow the soldier wakes up. Something is going on that even Stephen can’t understand. When his own sister goes missing, he knows he has to get to the truth to save her.
The whole concept of waking up during an autopsy sold me on this book - how wild! As someone who didn’t respond well to anesthesia, and felt the majority of my c-section operation years ago, the idea of something like this happening terrifies me. Stephen’s confusion was all too understandable as he tried to get to the bottom of things. With a fast pace, lots of action, and a dash of a superhero story, “Heroic Measures” is a unique techno-thriller. If you enjoy action-packed stories with a military setting, give this one a try! It looks to be the beginning of a series as well.
This book is out now! This review will be shared to my instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly :)
The medical examiner's job is to speak for the dead…but what happens when the dead speak for themselves?
Stephen Englehart is an Armed Forces medical examiner, whose job it is to bring peace to the families of fallen soldiers. He’s also fantastic at spotting forensic clues that others often miss. But when the body of a fallen Marine, supposedly burned beyond recognition, shows up without a scratch, Stephen is confused. But then, in the middle of the autopsy - somehow the soldier wakes up. Something is going on that even Stephen can’t understand. When his own sister goes missing, he knows he has to get to the truth to save her.
The whole concept of waking up during an autopsy sold me on this book - how wild! As someone who didn’t respond well to anesthesia, and felt the majority of my c-section operation years ago, the idea of something like this happening terrifies me. Stephen’s confusion was all too understandable as he tried to get to the bottom of things. With a fast pace, lots of action, and a dash of a superhero story, “Heroic Measures” is a unique techno-thriller. If you enjoy action-packed stories with a military setting, give this one a try! It looks to be the beginning of a series as well.
This book is out now! This review will be shared to my instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly :)
August 1, 2024
Heroic Measures is a military mystery. I really enjoyed the story line; it was easy to read, full of action/drama, with a small secret romance. I thought the characters were well developed. I thought it was nice to put in some of the past childhood history and mixed it in with today's timeline. I really felt with all the action I was in the middle of a actual movie scene. This story kept me on my toes, and I wanted to see how it was going to end. The ending is not what I expected. I also, loved the medical part and solving mysteries it is one of my most favorite genres. I highly recommend if you love anything mysterious, medical, or military.
This was given as an e-book arc in exchange for an honest review.
This was given as an e-book arc in exchange for an honest review.
February 20, 2024
Can I just start by saying, this book intimidated me before starting. As a previous healthcare professional, I was afraid it would be over my head. Especially throwing in the military based plot. However, I needed a palette cleanser from romantasy.
I found very few medical and military references that I had to research. This was an easy read with enough suspense and action to keep me glued to the story. I truly enjoyed the main characters and the surprises they brought along the way. I enjoyed the realistic aspect of the plot, location and characters.
Imagine, as a medical examiner, finding out the deceased soldiers in front of you aren’t who you thought they were? Then, finding out that everything you knew your whole life was a memory created by someone who was supposed to care for you and your sister? Add in the fact that everything is tied in together and overlaps in a way that makes you question everyone’s loyalties and motives. This is the premise of this book.
We follow Stephen, a military medical examiner stationed in Germany. Several fallen soldiers have arrived at his base but while doing identifications of them, he realizes they all are not tagged correctly and one is actually not deceased. He decides to do his own investigation and as things began to come to light, he is faced with his own personal dangers and traumas. Information is hidden, lost, and changed but it didn’t deter him to finding out a major military cover up.
This was a gripping, high action, deep plotted book that I am glad I signed up for. Mr Shulkins writing style keeps you flipping pages without being lost in a sea of information. The suspense will ground you into the story as will the twists and turns the story takes. I did not have one predictable scene and I love that type of suspense/thriller. I will definitely be waiting for the next book in this series. I will also be reading other works by Mr Shulkin in the future.
I received an arc copy in exchange for my honest review.
I found very few medical and military references that I had to research. This was an easy read with enough suspense and action to keep me glued to the story. I truly enjoyed the main characters and the surprises they brought along the way. I enjoyed the realistic aspect of the plot, location and characters.
Imagine, as a medical examiner, finding out the deceased soldiers in front of you aren’t who you thought they were? Then, finding out that everything you knew your whole life was a memory created by someone who was supposed to care for you and your sister? Add in the fact that everything is tied in together and overlaps in a way that makes you question everyone’s loyalties and motives. This is the premise of this book.
We follow Stephen, a military medical examiner stationed in Germany. Several fallen soldiers have arrived at his base but while doing identifications of them, he realizes they all are not tagged correctly and one is actually not deceased. He decides to do his own investigation and as things began to come to light, he is faced with his own personal dangers and traumas. Information is hidden, lost, and changed but it didn’t deter him to finding out a major military cover up.
This was a gripping, high action, deep plotted book that I am glad I signed up for. Mr Shulkins writing style keeps you flipping pages without being lost in a sea of information. The suspense will ground you into the story as will the twists and turns the story takes. I did not have one predictable scene and I love that type of suspense/thriller. I will definitely be waiting for the next book in this series. I will also be reading other works by Mr Shulkin in the future.
I received an arc copy in exchange for my honest review.
April 15, 2024
I know this is fiction, but these types of stories always resonate with me, because I
worked in the medical field 40 years. After reading this I felt a bit lost and sad but hopeful. There's so much to process and think about- ethics, morales,and more. It was one heck of a good complex story that gave me much to think about as I read and afterwards too. The people, the technology, and the consequences. This was a very impactful story that had me crying and laughing, along with a great deal of thinking.
Any book that can make you think or moves you, I feel is a great read and a better reread.I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest opinion.
worked in the medical field 40 years. After reading this I felt a bit lost and sad but hopeful. There's so much to process and think about- ethics, morales,and more. It was one heck of a good complex story that gave me much to think about as I read and afterwards too. The people, the technology, and the consequences. This was a very impactful story that had me crying and laughing, along with a great deal of thinking.
Any book that can make you think or moves you, I feel is a great read and a better reread.I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest opinion.
September 17, 2024
Heroic Measures by Joel Shulkin, M. D. is one of the best books I have read this year. This is a fast-paced forensic technothriller, and the entire time Shulkin has you begging for more. His writing style is superb, and I was hooked from page 1. The plot was well thought out, and the character development was phenomenal. A huge plus…There was a twist I NEVER saw coming! Throughout the book it is obvious that the author is knowledgeable about the content of the story. I highly recommend you pick this story up!
September 26, 2024
MY THOUGHTS -
OH SO GOOD! Masterfully done, that’s what this was. Scary, intense, and crazy good.
I love these kinds of books! Medical suspense, forensics, a little bit mystery, a little bit sci-fi/paranormal-ish, a lot of suspense, and tons of action! You may think that I am over exaggerating but I’m telling you… I am not.
The visuals were amazing making me feel like I was right there with them. And sometimes glad I wasn't really there!
Great character development. I loved Stephen, our main character but I really loved Sharon, the secondary main character. I can't wait to read more about both of them... as there will be sequels!!!!! Woot woot!!!
I would definitely reading more by this author. What a fantastic writer!
Sidenote - I really got into the whole hacker thing. I may have to read more books involving a hacker.
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from Partners in Crime Tours
Thank You!!
OH SO GOOD! Masterfully done, that’s what this was. Scary, intense, and crazy good.
I love these kinds of books! Medical suspense, forensics, a little bit mystery, a little bit sci-fi/paranormal-ish, a lot of suspense, and tons of action! You may think that I am over exaggerating but I’m telling you… I am not.
The visuals were amazing making me feel like I was right there with them. And sometimes glad I wasn't really there!
Great character development. I loved Stephen, our main character but I really loved Sharon, the secondary main character. I can't wait to read more about both of them... as there will be sequels!!!!! Woot woot!!!
I would definitely reading more by this author. What a fantastic writer!
Sidenote - I really got into the whole hacker thing. I may have to read more books involving a hacker.
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from Partners in Crime Tours
Thank You!!
September 10, 2024
This was my first audiobook ARC! I enjoyed the story. There were a few times the military and medical terms went over my head but the author did a really good job at explaining the terms right away so I knew what was going on.
This story reminded me a lot of Captain America but with a more thriller and villainous feel. I laughed when Captain America was mentioned in the book as well.
Overall a good mystery thriller with medical and military themes!
This story reminded me a lot of Captain America but with a more thriller and villainous feel. I laughed when Captain America was mentioned in the book as well.
Overall a good mystery thriller with medical and military themes!
July 10, 2025
Oh. My. Gosh.
This book was fantastic. I love how it is a bit of a genre mash of military, crime, science fiction, and thriller. I also learned the difference between a coroner and a medical examiner! (The more you know…) And the references to superhero characters throughout this work made me smile. Nice to see an author get his geek on.
So, Lt. Colonel Stephen Englehart is a medical examiner whose job it is to autopsy and process fallen soldiers. Things go awry when one soldier doesn’t stay dead, and is instead the key to unlock a project the military has wanted to keep hidden since the late 1980s. Woven into this forensic technothriller is a highly complicated familial past that haunts Stephen’s memories and seems to be connected to that secret project. And our medical examiner protagonist isn’t the type to let any mystery go, often to his detriment. But he’s always wanted to be a superhero, so…
Anyway, the pace of this story is incredible, and I was in it right from the first page. I also love the character development (I need more Sharon stories!) and the twists and turns in the plot made me gasp at times.
Can’t wait to read more from this author!
This book was fantastic. I love how it is a bit of a genre mash of military, crime, science fiction, and thriller. I also learned the difference between a coroner and a medical examiner! (The more you know…) And the references to superhero characters throughout this work made me smile. Nice to see an author get his geek on.
So, Lt. Colonel Stephen Englehart is a medical examiner whose job it is to autopsy and process fallen soldiers. Things go awry when one soldier doesn’t stay dead, and is instead the key to unlock a project the military has wanted to keep hidden since the late 1980s. Woven into this forensic technothriller is a highly complicated familial past that haunts Stephen’s memories and seems to be connected to that secret project. And our medical examiner protagonist isn’t the type to let any mystery go, often to his detriment. But he’s always wanted to be a superhero, so…
Anyway, the pace of this story is incredible, and I was in it right from the first page. I also love the character development (I need more Sharon stories!) and the twists and turns in the plot made me gasp at times.
Can’t wait to read more from this author!
February 20, 2024
I read this book after signing up for the arc. It’s not my usual genre by any means and I was unsure if I would really enjoy it.
It kept me guessing all the way through. Well written and a good story line.
Sharon needs her own book now 😁 I would love to know how her story goes on.
I plan to now read more by this author ☺️
It kept me guessing all the way through. Well written and a good story line.
Sharon needs her own book now 😁 I would love to know how her story goes on.
I plan to now read more by this author ☺️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2024
I enjoy medical mysteries and medical thrillers, and when you add a bit scifi into the mix, all the better. Heroic Measures doesn't disappoint. It starts off with a bang and there are plenty of twists and turns along the way, as well as many "aha" moments that made me gasp. A real page turner. Readers who enjoy military fiction will like this one. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 9, 2024
A first for me with this author and it won’t be my last. A well written storyline that had me gripped from the start. As I got deeper in to the story I questioned whether it would get a little “too far fetched” but it didn’t, not at all, it had me wanting to pick up and read at every opportunity.
September 19, 2024
A fabulous ride, a pure rollercoaster thriller!
I was hooked within the first few pages. It was definitely like an awesome rollercoaster ride. With lots of thrills, unexpected twists and turns. Fabulous for fans of sci-fi thrillers like the Jason Bourne series. I highly recommend.
I was hooked within the first few pages. It was definitely like an awesome rollercoaster ride. With lots of thrills, unexpected twists and turns. Fabulous for fans of sci-fi thrillers like the Jason Bourne series. I highly recommend.
March 3, 2024
I was lucky enough to be picked as an advanced reader of this book. It was outside my typical go to books and I'm so glad. This book had me hooked pretty quickly to the point I finished it in a weekend. I will absolutely be reading more from this author in the future.
August 13, 2024
A gripping and fast paced medical military thriller. A great combination. Shulkin delivers a great read filled with action, medical science and military operations. Without getting to deep into the science, he delivers on the level that the reader can grasp. You will not be disappointed in this novel.
Read
January 31, 2025MWSA Review
If you are looking for a medical sci-fi technothriller to read, look no further than Heroic Measures, Book 1 of the Death Benefits series, by Joel Shulkin, MD. Shulkin has crafted a roller coaster ride of a thriller.
Stephen Englehart is a top Armed Forces medical examiner, whose goal in life is to help bring peace to families of the fallen. But during a not-quite-routine, combat-death autopsy, he stumbles onto a mystery when the photos of the body and rank of the servicemember don’t match the physical remains on his autopsy table. During the procedure, the supposedly dead marine wakes up and creates havoc in the morgue. Englehart refuses to let the misidentification mystery rest and pursues what looks like a military conspiracy.
Just when I thought I knew who the good guys were, the author flipped the script, keeping me in suspense to the end. Characters were believable, and the medical sci-fi aspects were explained with enough techy-talk to make them plausible. The surprises just kept coming. There is a bit of a Captain America comic book feel to the book, and the author explains that very well.
Review by Betsy Beard (February 2025)
If you are looking for a medical sci-fi technothriller to read, look no further than Heroic Measures, Book 1 of the Death Benefits series, by Joel Shulkin, MD. Shulkin has crafted a roller coaster ride of a thriller.
Stephen Englehart is a top Armed Forces medical examiner, whose goal in life is to help bring peace to families of the fallen. But during a not-quite-routine, combat-death autopsy, he stumbles onto a mystery when the photos of the body and rank of the servicemember don’t match the physical remains on his autopsy table. During the procedure, the supposedly dead marine wakes up and creates havoc in the morgue. Englehart refuses to let the misidentification mystery rest and pursues what looks like a military conspiracy.
Just when I thought I knew who the good guys were, the author flipped the script, keeping me in suspense to the end. Characters were believable, and the medical sci-fi aspects were explained with enough techy-talk to make them plausible. The surprises just kept coming. There is a bit of a Captain America comic book feel to the book, and the author explains that very well.
Review by Betsy Beard (February 2025)
February 12, 2024
This book did not disappoint! Lots of action suspense mystery
August 9, 2024
A captivating and engaging read that held my attention from the outset. The plot was rife with intrigue and suspenseful action. As someone who hasn't explored the medical thriller or military genres before, I found this book to be quite an enjoyable experience, full of unexpected twists and turns.
February 20, 2024
Well-written, thrilling tale about a medical examiner’s worst nightmare come true— with a twist that makes the entire situation hit much closer to home. This book kept me enthralled from the first page, and did a great job balancing the realistic concepts with more “science fiction-y” aspects… and the comic book parallels were perfectly incorporated. Overall, a solid read and I can’t wait for the next in the series!
May 14, 2024
Heroic Measures is a forensic thriller that features unbelievable twists, drawing the reader back in for more with every page. The military and superhero theme of the book is also very appealing, making it a great choice for anyone who enjoys action.
You can tell that the author has thoroughly thought through every detail of this novel, including the development of the characters and storyline. Stephen, in particular, is a very likable main character.
It is also worth noting that Heroic Measures should have a very high ratings amongst readers. The ending of the novel brings with it a major plot twist that you will not see coming. The story will stay with you for a while after you finish reading it, which is the sign of a good book.
However, certain chapters and sections of the book feel longer than they need to be. In some cases, it feels as though you are reading unnecessary information that makes no real difference to the story.
Overall, Heroic Measures is a fantastic novel that fills the reader with intrigue. If you enjoy a good action, thriller, or mystery, I would highly recommend this book.
June 29, 2024
Heroic Measures starts in high gear and never slows down. The "supersoldier serum" story has been used throughout comic book history (and even those who've never read comics are familiar with it these days, thanks to the MCU), but in this book, it's grounded in reality, making the concept more frightening than anything else. "You'll be on the edge of your seat" is oftentimes a cliché, but not here--don't be surprised if you read the book in one sitting. It's an outstanding story and I can't wait to see what happens next.
June 7, 2024
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
If I could have read this faster I would have! This story pulled me in from the beginning and I instantly wanted to know what was happening next!
I did not expect the way that this novel ended and I loved it.
I cannot wait to see what this author comes out with next!
If I could have read this faster I would have! This story pulled me in from the beginning and I instantly wanted to know what was happening next!
I did not expect the way that this novel ended and I loved it.
I cannot wait to see what this author comes out with next!
February 19, 2024
Joel Shulkin was an author that I was made aware of thanks to a Facebook group I joined (Military Thriller Book Group) a little over eighteen months ago. This is the first book in his Death Benefits series.
This story follows the creed "The medical examiner’s job is to speak for the dead
and protect the living." as Stephen Englehart, an Armed Forces medical examiner, in the course of performing his duties - bringing peace to the families of fallen soldiers - discovers a striking anomaly as a fallen member of the United States Marine Corps, supposedly burned beyond recognition, shows up with hardly a scratch. This anomaly causes our protagonist some major consternation and he decides to investigate further, violating orders from an officer outside his direct chain of command. Then, in the middle of the autopsy, the impossible happens.
The soldier wakes up. The soldier mysteriously heals and attacks Stephen’s friend before escaping.
In the course of his inquiries, memories of Stephen’s father’s death thirty years before. Stephen recognizes certain features that remind him of his father before he died. Our protagonist is further spurred on in his investigations as his sister goes missing and he is forced to face the command juggernaut that is the United States military to find her.
This novel examines a premise as the United States military has developed a program akin to that of Marvel Comics' "Captain America" known as the "Perfect Soldier Program", whereby elite members of the United States armed forces have "volunteered" (some willingly, some not so much) to have their bodies medically altered so that they are now stronger and faster.
On a scale of five stars, I would easily rate Shulkin's novel a solid four-and-a-half stars. I found that this beginning of a new series is well-planned and executed an interesting and complex plot with skill. The action starts on the first page and never stops. I believe that this book would sure be a favourite of aficionados of both medical thrillers and military action thrillers. The story is exceptionally well-written and magnificent and some unexpected twists that the reader will not see coming.
As with all of my literary ramblings, this is just a few of my five cents worth.
This story follows the creed "The medical examiner’s job is to speak for the dead
and protect the living." as Stephen Englehart, an Armed Forces medical examiner, in the course of performing his duties - bringing peace to the families of fallen soldiers - discovers a striking anomaly as a fallen member of the United States Marine Corps, supposedly burned beyond recognition, shows up with hardly a scratch. This anomaly causes our protagonist some major consternation and he decides to investigate further, violating orders from an officer outside his direct chain of command. Then, in the middle of the autopsy, the impossible happens.
The soldier wakes up. The soldier mysteriously heals and attacks Stephen’s friend before escaping.
In the course of his inquiries, memories of Stephen’s father’s death thirty years before. Stephen recognizes certain features that remind him of his father before he died. Our protagonist is further spurred on in his investigations as his sister goes missing and he is forced to face the command juggernaut that is the United States military to find her.
This novel examines a premise as the United States military has developed a program akin to that of Marvel Comics' "Captain America" known as the "Perfect Soldier Program", whereby elite members of the United States armed forces have "volunteered" (some willingly, some not so much) to have their bodies medically altered so that they are now stronger and faster.
On a scale of five stars, I would easily rate Shulkin's novel a solid four-and-a-half stars. I found that this beginning of a new series is well-planned and executed an interesting and complex plot with skill. The action starts on the first page and never stops. I believe that this book would sure be a favourite of aficionados of both medical thrillers and military action thrillers. The story is exceptionally well-written and magnificent and some unexpected twists that the reader will not see coming.
As with all of my literary ramblings, this is just a few of my five cents worth.
September 18, 2024
So You're Investigating A Dead Body - That Moves. What Do You Do? And thus, the critical hook here. Shulkin combines his own military experience generally with his general medical knowledge as a working MD and spins a tale he openly admits (in the Author's Note) was designed to pay homage to some of the great comic book tales of old - and it absolutely works. The Nick Fury level spy story, the Purple Man horror of not being in complete control of your own body, in addition to the far more obvious Captain America and Hulk aspects here. Indeed, Shulkin takes nearly the entirety of the Marvel *comic* stories - where *oh so much* of the villains' actions revolved around some version of trying to recreate the Super Soldier program that turned Steve Rogers into Captain America - and manages to use that as inspiration for a plausible-enough real-world tale of how those things could actually play out.
Thus, for those looking for a fun action read with balls to the wall "total nonstop" action... this is going to be a ride you're going to love. For those needing a palate/ mind cleanse from the seriousness of whatever drama/ suspense/ thriller had your brain in a twist or from the latest bubblegum pop saccharine sweet romance (with perhaps some ghost pepper spice, if that is your thing)... this is going to give you exactly that. A fun few hours of engaging your brain just enough to follow along with all the twists here - and shutting it down enough to simply enjoy the ride. (At nearly 400 pages, this is on the longer side for many readers, though perhaps fantasy readers will enjoy the "speed read", since their books generally double that length. ;) )
Overall a fun read that does everything Shulkin set out to do and likely then some, this is absolutely one to check out almost no matter your normal preferences.
Very much recommended.
Thus, for those looking for a fun action read with balls to the wall "total nonstop" action... this is going to be a ride you're going to love. For those needing a palate/ mind cleanse from the seriousness of whatever drama/ suspense/ thriller had your brain in a twist or from the latest bubblegum pop saccharine sweet romance (with perhaps some ghost pepper spice, if that is your thing)... this is going to give you exactly that. A fun few hours of engaging your brain just enough to follow along with all the twists here - and shutting it down enough to simply enjoy the ride. (At nearly 400 pages, this is on the longer side for many readers, though perhaps fantasy readers will enjoy the "speed read", since their books generally double that length. ;) )
Overall a fun read that does everything Shulkin set out to do and likely then some, this is absolutely one to check out almost no matter your normal preferences.
Very much recommended.
October 4, 2024
Heroic Measures
Death Benefits Book 1
September 17, 2024
Books Go Social
I am in the habit of reading author’s notes and about his or her background before I pick up the first book by them. For me, as a reviewer, this puts some pieces together and helps me to understand the writer’s perspective and what they draw from. Reading Heroic Measures by Joel Shulkin, MD is a perfect example of what those things are important. He is a developmental-behavioral pediatrician and a United States Air Force Veteran and clearly a comic book lover from a young age.
Heroic Measures grabbed me and refused to let go. My only regret is that I did not start it the day it arrived on my doorstep. The prologue set the pace, and it never let up. Stephen Englehart, an Armed Forces medical examiner takes pride in his job. He wants to give the soldiers he sees peace and gives respect to those who have fallen. He is a stickler for details and a problem solver. So when a solider comes in that is supposed to be burned beyond recognition, but the only injury he can see is a broken jaw, Stephen starts to ask questions.
Thriller lovers know, there is no such thing as a coincidence and so begins the chase for the truth. This story has the perfect blend of fantasy/sci fi/supernatural elements, forensic science, military background and deceit. Secrets so big that the higher ups will do what is necessary to keep it quiet. The pieces to the puzzle come together relentlessly so that you know that there is something lurking in the shadows of the military, but who has the most to lose? This is a jaw dropping, nonstop ride that should not be missed!
Death Benefits Book 1
September 17, 2024
Books Go Social
I am in the habit of reading author’s notes and about his or her background before I pick up the first book by them. For me, as a reviewer, this puts some pieces together and helps me to understand the writer’s perspective and what they draw from. Reading Heroic Measures by Joel Shulkin, MD is a perfect example of what those things are important. He is a developmental-behavioral pediatrician and a United States Air Force Veteran and clearly a comic book lover from a young age.
Heroic Measures grabbed me and refused to let go. My only regret is that I did not start it the day it arrived on my doorstep. The prologue set the pace, and it never let up. Stephen Englehart, an Armed Forces medical examiner takes pride in his job. He wants to give the soldiers he sees peace and gives respect to those who have fallen. He is a stickler for details and a problem solver. So when a solider comes in that is supposed to be burned beyond recognition, but the only injury he can see is a broken jaw, Stephen starts to ask questions.
Thriller lovers know, there is no such thing as a coincidence and so begins the chase for the truth. This story has the perfect blend of fantasy/sci fi/supernatural elements, forensic science, military background and deceit. Secrets so big that the higher ups will do what is necessary to keep it quiet. The pieces to the puzzle come together relentlessly so that you know that there is something lurking in the shadows of the military, but who has the most to lose? This is a jaw dropping, nonstop ride that should not be missed!
June 28, 2024
I want to clarify that I received this e-book as an advance reading copy from the author in exchange for a review. While I appreciate receiving the book, my opinions are entirely my own and have not been influenced by getting a copy for review.
The story is undeniably complex and thought-provoking, with the perfect amount of detail to make it a realistic medical thriller while still being effortless to read and absolutely gripping.
The main character, Stephen Englehart, is extremely likable and relatable. I found myself rooting for him and hoping that he solves the mystery, finds his sister, and sets everything right. The concept of military personnel being experimented upon is not novel, but the author has managed to make it feel fresh and completely original.
As someone who collected comic books in my youth, I relished this aspect of the storyline, as it helped me identify with Stephen and root for his success in his adventures.
Overall, this is an impeccably written and meticulously plotted medical mystery. It's the first in a series, and I'm eagerly looking forward to delving into more stories featuring Stephen Englehart.
The story is undeniably complex and thought-provoking, with the perfect amount of detail to make it a realistic medical thriller while still being effortless to read and absolutely gripping.
The main character, Stephen Englehart, is extremely likable and relatable. I found myself rooting for him and hoping that he solves the mystery, finds his sister, and sets everything right. The concept of military personnel being experimented upon is not novel, but the author has managed to make it feel fresh and completely original.
As someone who collected comic books in my youth, I relished this aspect of the storyline, as it helped me identify with Stephen and root for his success in his adventures.
Overall, this is an impeccably written and meticulously plotted medical mystery. It's the first in a series, and I'm eagerly looking forward to delving into more stories featuring Stephen Englehart.
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