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Dr. Zack Winston #5
Dead Will
He’s saved countless lives in the ER. Now his patients are losing something beyond life. Will his daughter be next?
When patients arrive in the emergency department awake and stable—but unable to make even simple decisions—Dr. Zack Winston knows this isn’t a coincidence. A new threat has arrived, and it’s spreading.
As Zack searches for answers, the danger propagates. His daughter, a first-year neurosurgery resident, questions high-tech procedures meant to heal, and the mentors who should guide her career.
His wife, a US Attorney, watches a federal case collapse when a key witness unravels to utter apathy before the grand jury.
These apparently isolated cases now congeal and point to a hidden abuse of power. To what extent will the perpetrators go to avoid exposure?
This time, the enemy doesn’t kill. It controls. Without mercy.
DEAD WILL is the gripping fifth installment in the Dr. Zack Winston Medical Conspiracy Thriller Series. If you enjoy stories about advanced medicine, secret plots, and a doctor who risks everything to save their family, you'll love this high-stakes medical thriller.
When patients arrive in the emergency department awake and stable—but unable to make even simple decisions—Dr. Zack Winston knows this isn’t a coincidence. A new threat has arrived, and it’s spreading.
As Zack searches for answers, the danger propagates. His daughter, a first-year neurosurgery resident, questions high-tech procedures meant to heal, and the mentors who should guide her career.
His wife, a US Attorney, watches a federal case collapse when a key witness unravels to utter apathy before the grand jury.
These apparently isolated cases now congeal and point to a hidden abuse of power. To what extent will the perpetrators go to avoid exposure?
This time, the enemy doesn’t kill. It controls. Without mercy.
DEAD WILL is the gripping fifth installment in the Dr. Zack Winston Medical Conspiracy Thriller Series. If you enjoy stories about advanced medicine, secret plots, and a doctor who risks everything to save their family, you'll love this high-stakes medical thriller.
343 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 17, 2026
About the author
Mike Krentz
17 books116 followersMike Krentz writes medical suspense, psychological thrillers, and military fiction featuring complex characters and relationships.
Born and raised in Arizona, Mike earned a classical degree in English from the University of San Francisco, a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin, and a Master of Public Health Degree from Johns Hopkins University.
Following a civilian career as an emergency physician, Mike rededicated his professional life to serve America's Navy and Marine Corps heroes and their families, and to honor their sacrifices in defending our freedom and way of life. His last active duty assignment was as 7th Fleet Surgeon on board the flagship, USS BLUE RIDGE.
After retiring from the US Navy, Dr. Krentz continued his service as a consultant supporting the Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center. Upon completion of that mission, he returned to his earliest life passion as a full-time writer.
Dr. Krentz sits on the Board of Directors of The Muse Writers' Center where he teaches fiction writing and participates in advanced studios.
Mike's fiction works include the DR. ZACK WINSTON SERIES of medical conspiracy thrillers, the MAHONEY & SQUIRE SERIES of military fiction, and a standalone psychological thriller, ANGELS FALLING.
www.mikejkrentz.com
www.facebook.com/MikeJKrentzAuthor
https://twitter.com/MikeJKrentz
https://www.instagram.com/mjkrentz/
Born and raised in Arizona, Mike earned a classical degree in English from the University of San Francisco, a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin, and a Master of Public Health Degree from Johns Hopkins University.
Following a civilian career as an emergency physician, Mike rededicated his professional life to serve America's Navy and Marine Corps heroes and their families, and to honor their sacrifices in defending our freedom and way of life. His last active duty assignment was as 7th Fleet Surgeon on board the flagship, USS BLUE RIDGE.
After retiring from the US Navy, Dr. Krentz continued his service as a consultant supporting the Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center. Upon completion of that mission, he returned to his earliest life passion as a full-time writer.
Dr. Krentz sits on the Board of Directors of The Muse Writers' Center where he teaches fiction writing and participates in advanced studios.
Mike's fiction works include the DR. ZACK WINSTON SERIES of medical conspiracy thrillers, the MAHONEY & SQUIRE SERIES of military fiction, and a standalone psychological thriller, ANGELS FALLING.
www.mikejkrentz.com
www.facebook.com/MikeJKrentzAuthor
https://twitter.com/MikeJKrentz
https://www.instagram.com/mjkrentz/
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
February 18, 2026
This is the fifth book in this series; I’ve only read book 4 so far, but I have books 1 and 2 ready to read, because I love this series and these characters. This book could stand alone pretty well, though, even if you haven’t read the previous books. Zack Winston, a self described bad ass ER doctor, lives in DC and is working temporarily in an ER that’s not in his usual hospital. His daughter, Jennifer, happens to be a first year neurosurgery resident there, and she is thought to have high potential. The two start seeing signs of a nefarious plot by some neurosurgeons, and the danger to them begins. It’s a fascinating and exciting book, and most of it is pretty realistic. I was an RN, and although I was mostly in obstetrics, not ER, I tend to be a harsh judge of medical dramas on TV or books in a medical setting. As Zack’s wife, Bridget, is a high-placed prosecutor in DC, she has a role in the investigation, and my concern about the realism of all 3 of these professionals (and to a lesser degree, a paramedic) sharing details about patients, due to privacy concerns. It’s for a good reason that they’re investigating, of course, but Bridget also shares information regarding an investigation and grand jury process that is supposed to be secret. Other than that, I absolutely loved the book; I eagerly await the next books in the series. I was provided an ARC, which I appreciate, but these opinions are my own.
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February 9, 2026Dead Will by Mike Krentz promises a sharp, tightly wound legal thriller that explores how unresolved intentions can continue to shape and endanger the living long after death. With a title that signals both legal intrigue and moral complexity, the novel positions itself at the intersection of law, motive, and buried truth.
Krentz builds suspense through a measured, deliberate pace, allowing tension to emerge from questions of ownership, intent, and consequence rather than spectacle alone. The narrative suggests a world where documents are never just paperwork, and where a single will can trigger conflict, exposure, and reckoning. There is a strong sense of inevitability running beneath the surface, giving the story a grounded, realistic weight.
Dead Will will appeal to readers who enjoy intelligent legal thrillers stories driven by ethical dilemmas, strategic maneuvering, and the slow unraveling of secrets. It’s a novel that leans into precision and restraint, inviting readers to pay attention to what’s written, what’s hidden, and what can no longer be undone.
Krentz builds suspense through a measured, deliberate pace, allowing tension to emerge from questions of ownership, intent, and consequence rather than spectacle alone. The narrative suggests a world where documents are never just paperwork, and where a single will can trigger conflict, exposure, and reckoning. There is a strong sense of inevitability running beneath the surface, giving the story a grounded, realistic weight.
Dead Will will appeal to readers who enjoy intelligent legal thrillers stories driven by ethical dilemmas, strategic maneuvering, and the slow unraveling of secrets. It’s a novel that leans into precision and restraint, inviting readers to pay attention to what’s written, what’s hidden, and what can no longer be undone.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am frightened out of my mind after finishing this medical thriller. I know it is fiction, but it makes you wonder just how far some will go.
This is another hotshot installment in the Dr. Zack Winston series, and chilling is putting it mildly.
The author takes you on a wild ride into the underbelly of medical testing where seemingly anything goes and greed is more important than saving lives.
Zack's daughter, Jennifer, joins the story as a first year neurosurgery resident. Dr. Jennifer Winston is a lot like her father. She takes her oath to do no harm seriously and is willing to sacrifice everything to uncover and shut down the despicable actions of some who take playing God to a new level. Add in Zack's wife, Brittany, who is a US attorney, and I call that a force to be reckoned with.
Once again the author has left me shocked and chilled, as well as amazed at the way the story is expertly woven so that once you start it, you are fully invested in it until you finish it.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is another hotshot installment in the Dr. Zack Winston series, and chilling is putting it mildly.
The author takes you on a wild ride into the underbelly of medical testing where seemingly anything goes and greed is more important than saving lives.
Zack's daughter, Jennifer, joins the story as a first year neurosurgery resident. Dr. Jennifer Winston is a lot like her father. She takes her oath to do no harm seriously and is willing to sacrifice everything to uncover and shut down the despicable actions of some who take playing God to a new level. Add in Zack's wife, Brittany, who is a US attorney, and I call that a force to be reckoned with.
Once again the author has left me shocked and chilled, as well as amazed at the way the story is expertly woven so that once you start it, you are fully invested in it until you finish it.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The story begins with Zack on a one month assignment at DCUMC ER, Locum tenens, acting as supervisor of others in the department. At the same time his daughter Jennifer is a 1st year resident in the neurosurgery section. During his time there he and his daughter have several instances where the are referrals to her section. A couple of the patients Zack had come in are referred and after Jenn's examination, several concerns pop up. These issues eventually involve Zack's wife Bridget's responsibilities. The three of them as well as Johnny, an EMT, lead to discovery of goings on by others which need to be addressed and resolved.
Read along and discover what is going at DCUMC which causes repercussions for both Jenn and Zack. Discover what role Bridget has that intersects with what is happening. Learn what the end result is regarding those items which are brought forward.
The ending is well done and the book is well worth reading, don't miss out!
The story begins with Zack on a one month assignment at DCUMC ER, Locum tenens, acting as supervisor of others in the department. At the same time his daughter Jennifer is a 1st year resident in the neurosurgery section. During his time there he and his daughter have several instances where the are referrals to her section. A couple of the patients Zack had come in are referred and after Jenn's examination, several concerns pop up. These issues eventually involve Zack's wife Bridget's responsibilities. The three of them as well as Johnny, an EMT, lead to discovery of goings on by others which need to be addressed and resolved.
Read along and discover what is going at DCUMC which causes repercussions for both Jenn and Zack. Discover what role Bridget has that intersects with what is happening. Learn what the end result is regarding those items which are brought forward.
The ending is well done and the book is well worth reading, don't miss out!
February 17, 2026
If you’re looking for a gripping read that will keep you on the edge of your seat, look no further than Mike Krentz’s latest medical/legal thriller. Intrepid ER physician Zack Winston is back, and this time he’s unraveling a complex crime syndicate right in the heart of the nation’s capital. With the help of his US Attorney wife and neurosurgical resident daughter, Zack dives deep into a world of medical corruption and cover-ups, facing off against powerful hospital medical staff and ruthless players in risk management and medical supply.
Krentz’s storytelling is absolutely riveting—his fast-paced narrative propels you through twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very last page. The stakes are high, the tension is palpable, and the characters are compelling. I couldn’t put this book down; I ended up reading it in one sitting! If you love medical thrillers with a legal edge and a touch of family dynamics, you’ll want to block off your whole evening before you start. Trust me, you’ll thank me later!
I received an advance copy of this book for my honest review.
Krentz’s storytelling is absolutely riveting—his fast-paced narrative propels you through twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very last page. The stakes are high, the tension is palpable, and the characters are compelling. I couldn’t put this book down; I ended up reading it in one sitting! If you love medical thrillers with a legal edge and a touch of family dynamics, you’ll want to block off your whole evening before you start. Trust me, you’ll thank me later!
I received an advance copy of this book for my honest review.
February 23, 2026
Another phenomenal Zack Winston medical thriller!
Dead Will, book 5 in the outstanding Dr. Zack Winston medical thriller series, revolves around patients turning up with grossly altered mental status without an obvious cause. Zack, His wife Bridget, A US attorney, his daughter Jennifer, A neurosurgery resident and a paramedic, Johnny Davis, are all pulled into a conspiracy involving a fellow physician and others. As the investigation progresses, danger comes from all sides. Like the previous 4 books in the series, the writing is as good as it gets! The plot well constructed, the pace fast, the characters well rounded and dynamic, and medical authenticity gives the book, and series, a very genuine feel. This is by a wide margin my favorite medical thriller series. 5/5 stars! Highly recommended for fans of medical thrillers, conspiracy thrillers and thrillers as a whole. The series is so good that even those who don't generally read medical thrillers will still find themselves rapidly engrossed if they give the book and series a chance! Book 6 can't come soon enough!
Dead Will, book 5 in the outstanding Dr. Zack Winston medical thriller series, revolves around patients turning up with grossly altered mental status without an obvious cause. Zack, His wife Bridget, A US attorney, his daughter Jennifer, A neurosurgery resident and a paramedic, Johnny Davis, are all pulled into a conspiracy involving a fellow physician and others. As the investigation progresses, danger comes from all sides. Like the previous 4 books in the series, the writing is as good as it gets! The plot well constructed, the pace fast, the characters well rounded and dynamic, and medical authenticity gives the book, and series, a very genuine feel. This is by a wide margin my favorite medical thriller series. 5/5 stars! Highly recommended for fans of medical thrillers, conspiracy thrillers and thrillers as a whole. The series is so good that even those who don't generally read medical thrillers will still find themselves rapidly engrossed if they give the book and series a chance! Book 6 can't come soon enough!
July 16, 2026
This is the second of Mike Krentz's books that I have read so far, and certainly not the last. Dead Will was a great read and it was hard to put my Kindle down. So........off to Amazon to find another Krentz book
February 28, 2026
This was awesome. It can be a stand alone thriller and Mike Krentz, I really loved this whole series. Great thriller.
May 3, 2026
Great read about a family of medical professionals fall into a suspicious trap.
May 10, 2026
Sweet HEA to a good series
Now if only a certain lady doctor and paramedic have their own spinoff! That would be the icing on the cake!
Now if only a certain lady doctor and paramedic have their own spinoff! That would be the icing on the cake!
September 26, 2026
very good
Sorry to have finished all 5 books. Very hard to put down. Now to find another series to keep me reading!
Sorry to have finished all 5 books. Very hard to put down. Now to find another series to keep me reading!
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews