What do you think?
Rate this book
A Dr. Kate Morrison Mystery #2
Pathogen
When a deadly virus surfaces in the small, wealthy town of Hidden Valley, British Columbia, Dr. Kate Morrison and Sergeant Andy Wyles work together to uncover the source of the outbreak. As the two women navigate their new relationship, Kate and Andy are also forced to navigate a highly political and increasingly panicked community. Still bearing the scars of her recent abduction, Kate is driven to discover how this virus attacks her critically ill patients while Andy investigates suspicions of bioterrorism. As the death count rises, Kate struggles with a crushing sense of helplessness, the pressure to keep the residents of Hidden Valley alive, and Andy’s growing concern that maybe Kate hasn’t yet dealt with her troubled past.
The sequel to Trigger.
The sequel to Trigger.
281 pages, Paperback
First published December 13, 2016
28 people are currently reading
367 people want to read
About the author
Jessica L. Webb
6 books205 followersJessica L. Webb spends her professional days working with educators to find the why behind the challenging behaviors of the students they support. Limitless curiosity about the motivations and intentions of human behavior is also a huge part of what drives her to write stories and understand the complexities of her characters and their actions.
When she's not working or writing, Jessica is spending time with her wife and child, usually planning where they will travel next. Jessica can be found most often on her favorite spot on the couch with a book and a cup of tea.
When she's not working or writing, Jessica is spending time with her wife and child, usually planning where they will travel next. Jessica can be found most often on her favorite spot on the couch with a book and a cup of tea.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
April 3, 2019
'NetGalley ARC provided by The Publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review'
**'A good piece of fiction in my view,does not offer solutions..writing is a performance..'
Captivating read!
Amazing 2nd installment in this series with a well rounded cast of some exceptional characters from the previous series with a few noted new ones added to the plotline that also had lots of evocative scenes,compelling narrative and lets not forget that never ever ending attraction and constant chemistry going on between both leading ladies which was really telling because readers saw the tenderness whenever there was any kind of interaction --plus another thing readers also saw clearly was that mutual respect towards each other even after any disagreements and both were willing to do anything just to protect each other too. Enjoyable plot twist & turns with some very intensive fight scenes -- saving lives was critical due to an unnamed virus (man made) :- all the medical terminologies included in this series and plotline was a good way to introduce the non-science public to some of the many modern stuff of today and of the past/old virology. The story had some great writing,fast-paced and editing even some great dialogue to go with that climax ending--nice way to keep a good series going --highly recommended series to everyone!
**'A good piece of fiction in my view,does not offer solutions..writing is a performance..'
Captivating read!
Amazing 2nd installment in this series with a well rounded cast of some exceptional characters from the previous series with a few noted new ones added to the plotline that also had lots of evocative scenes,compelling narrative and lets not forget that never ever ending attraction and constant chemistry going on between both leading ladies which was really telling because readers saw the tenderness whenever there was any kind of interaction --plus another thing readers also saw clearly was that mutual respect towards each other even after any disagreements and both were willing to do anything just to protect each other too. Enjoyable plot twist & turns with some very intensive fight scenes -- saving lives was critical due to an unnamed virus (man made) :- all the medical terminologies included in this series and plotline was a good way to introduce the non-science public to some of the many modern stuff of today and of the past/old virology. The story had some great writing,fast-paced and editing even some great dialogue to go with that climax ending--nice way to keep a good series going --highly recommended series to everyone!
November 11, 2016
Edited 11/11/2016 for some thoughts regarding the ending (see bottom of review).
Because Trigger is one of my
all-time favorite thrillers, this sequel was an easy choice, a drop-everything-you're-doing-and-grab-it read for me. Lead character Kate Morrison is a hardworking but unassuming ER doctor working in a busy Vancouver hospital. The harrowing events in Trigger has added a few more physical and psychological scars to the ones she's carried from before--a life-long guilt over a death she was helpless to prevent. Meanwhile, RCMP sergeant Andy Wyles, her erstwhile protector and savior from Book 1, has become her lover. Their few moments of solitude together in the mountains have been some of the happiest times for Kate. But coming back to work and the real world, she has to learn to navigate the changed politics in the ER, accept her newly discovered sexual identity, and manage a relationship with a woman who is very comfortable in her own. But scarcely has she warmed her seat again before she and Andy are called back into action, to handle a mysterious outbreak of flu that sounds suspiciously like it's deliberate.
Sequels often have a hard time living up to the original, especially if the latter is a solid 5-star thriller with a really unique premise. Can the author come up with something more spine-chllling than a human bomb? Turns out she didn't need to.
In Pathogen, the boogeyman is one of mankind's oldest nemesis: viruses. Kate goes into full investigative mode as she tries to figure out the how's of transmission and treatment, while Andy carries on a parallel investigation into the who and the why. This focus on medical investigation is what sets this book apart from the first. And makes for a fresh, in-depth look at the real Dr. Kate Morrison in action and in her element. Being together throughout the book also allows a deeper exploration of Kate and Andy's relationship. This is less straightforward than I assumed as even these two mature, perfectly understanding protagonists still have some issues to work out, chief of which is Andy's tendency to be overprotective and Kate's struggle with her sexual identity. Add to that the presence of a creepy and prickly character from Andy's past, pesky patronage politics, and the breathless (and sleepless) race to find a cure and we've got one doozy of a thriller with a dash of lesfic drama.
What makes Pathogen such an effective thriller rests in its ability to sustain tension throughout the book. Even in the quieter moments not involving the medical cases, there was always an undercurrent of dramatic tension going on between the characters. This is due to the variety of nuanced supporting characters that populate Pathogen.
My favorite parts of the book have to be Kate and Andy's interactions. Loving, familiar yet still tinged with some uncertainty and tension--a perfect example of a new couple adjusting to each other, working through their issues together under the most unusual and trying of circumstances--sort of like a baptism of fire--and succeeding or failing at it. I love how the author has continued to develop Kate as a very complex character -- her psyche damaged and rendered fragile by circumstances but still amazingly resilient. Andy's still the same strong, silent and fiercely protective type. We get to know quite a bit more about her in this book because we see her (and everything else) from Kate's POV, and Kate knows her much better now. They are so attuned to each other, and yet, because of the newness of the relationship, and unresolved issues, things have a tendency to flare up at any moment, especially with the added pressure of the case. I loved reading how they resolved their issues, or didn't. Their relationship is so lovingly and sensitively delineated that it feels so special, even if it's just a small part of the book.
The rich plot takes quite a few interesting turns, but the meat of the book is the hunt for the virus' origins and the most effective treatment protocol. And this necessarily involves looking into the virus' epidemiology, it's origins, possible mutations, virulence, modes of transmission etc. The book feels very authentic in this aspect, and almost makes the job of a virologist sexy. Almost. :) I don't pretend to understand everything about how pathogens mutate and invade, but the book manages to make the chase quite riveting.
Plot wise, it does seem unorthodox that the powers that be would call in a hospital ER doc in to manage and track down a flu outbreak, instead of say, an infectious disease specialist, virologist or pathologist...but the author managed to make it work for me. Kate's insistence on relying on patient background and history instead of just the usual clinical charts for diagnosis, her results-oriented approach, her non-confrontational style, her natural empathy for others and her ability to work with the most prickly personalities makes her ultimately perfect for that role.
Bottom line, I highly recommend this book for people looking for a smart, tightly written, riveting, medical investigative thriller that also works as an excellent character study of a woman who's been through hell and back, though a little worse for wear each time. (ugh, I'm dreading what the 3rd book will do to her...she may never admit it, but she needs to get some serious therapy now! before she dives into anymore (mis)adventures. :) ) Her unassuming nature, survival instincts (or lack of it, as Andy vehemently proclaims, lol) and a keen eye for people-reading makes her a genuine heroine we can all get into.
5 stars
ARC from Netgalley
Edited 11/11/2016
There's an issue with the ending that I haven't mentioned because it is obviously a major spoiler. But based on a conversation with reviewer Agirlcandream, I think it's a legitimate concern.
Because Trigger is one of my
all-time favorite thrillers, this sequel was an easy choice, a drop-everything-you're-doing-and-grab-it read for me. Lead character Kate Morrison is a hardworking but unassuming ER doctor working in a busy Vancouver hospital. The harrowing events in Trigger has added a few more physical and psychological scars to the ones she's carried from before--a life-long guilt over a death she was helpless to prevent. Meanwhile, RCMP sergeant Andy Wyles, her erstwhile protector and savior from Book 1, has become her lover. Their few moments of solitude together in the mountains have been some of the happiest times for Kate. But coming back to work and the real world, she has to learn to navigate the changed politics in the ER, accept her newly discovered sexual identity, and manage a relationship with a woman who is very comfortable in her own. But scarcely has she warmed her seat again before she and Andy are called back into action, to handle a mysterious outbreak of flu that sounds suspiciously like it's deliberate.
Sequels often have a hard time living up to the original, especially if the latter is a solid 5-star thriller with a really unique premise. Can the author come up with something more spine-chllling than a human bomb? Turns out she didn't need to.
In Pathogen, the boogeyman is one of mankind's oldest nemesis: viruses. Kate goes into full investigative mode as she tries to figure out the how's of transmission and treatment, while Andy carries on a parallel investigation into the who and the why. This focus on medical investigation is what sets this book apart from the first. And makes for a fresh, in-depth look at the real Dr. Kate Morrison in action and in her element. Being together throughout the book also allows a deeper exploration of Kate and Andy's relationship. This is less straightforward than I assumed as even these two mature, perfectly understanding protagonists still have some issues to work out, chief of which is Andy's tendency to be overprotective and Kate's struggle with her sexual identity. Add to that the presence of a creepy and prickly character from Andy's past, pesky patronage politics, and the breathless (and sleepless) race to find a cure and we've got one doozy of a thriller with a dash of lesfic drama.
What makes Pathogen such an effective thriller rests in its ability to sustain tension throughout the book. Even in the quieter moments not involving the medical cases, there was always an undercurrent of dramatic tension going on between the characters. This is due to the variety of nuanced supporting characters that populate Pathogen.
My favorite parts of the book have to be Kate and Andy's interactions. Loving, familiar yet still tinged with some uncertainty and tension--a perfect example of a new couple adjusting to each other, working through their issues together under the most unusual and trying of circumstances--sort of like a baptism of fire--and succeeding or failing at it. I love how the author has continued to develop Kate as a very complex character -- her psyche damaged and rendered fragile by circumstances but still amazingly resilient. Andy's still the same strong, silent and fiercely protective type. We get to know quite a bit more about her in this book because we see her (and everything else) from Kate's POV, and Kate knows her much better now. They are so attuned to each other, and yet, because of the newness of the relationship, and unresolved issues, things have a tendency to flare up at any moment, especially with the added pressure of the case. I loved reading how they resolved their issues, or didn't. Their relationship is so lovingly and sensitively delineated that it feels so special, even if it's just a small part of the book.
The rich plot takes quite a few interesting turns, but the meat of the book is the hunt for the virus' origins and the most effective treatment protocol. And this necessarily involves looking into the virus' epidemiology, it's origins, possible mutations, virulence, modes of transmission etc. The book feels very authentic in this aspect, and almost makes the job of a virologist sexy. Almost. :) I don't pretend to understand everything about how pathogens mutate and invade, but the book manages to make the chase quite riveting.
Plot wise, it does seem unorthodox that the powers that be would call in a hospital ER doc in to manage and track down a flu outbreak, instead of say, an infectious disease specialist, virologist or pathologist...but the author managed to make it work for me. Kate's insistence on relying on patient background and history instead of just the usual clinical charts for diagnosis, her results-oriented approach, her non-confrontational style, her natural empathy for others and her ability to work with the most prickly personalities makes her ultimately perfect for that role.
Bottom line, I highly recommend this book for people looking for a smart, tightly written, riveting, medical investigative thriller that also works as an excellent character study of a woman who's been through hell and back, though a little worse for wear each time. (ugh, I'm dreading what the 3rd book will do to her...she may never admit it, but she needs to get some serious therapy now! before she dives into anymore (mis)adventures. :) ) Her unassuming nature, survival instincts (or lack of it, as Andy vehemently proclaims, lol) and a keen eye for people-reading makes her a genuine heroine we can all get into.
5 stars
ARC from Netgalley
Edited 11/11/2016
There's an issue with the ending that I haven't mentioned because it is obviously a major spoiler. But based on a conversation with reviewer Agirlcandream, I think it's a legitimate concern.
June 7, 2020
You know that line from Grey’s Anatomy when Meredith has to see a therapist and they’re going through her personal file, and she says it reads like a page-turner? That’s often how I feel about series where the main character isn’t a cop but is nevertheless going through unusually dangerous or exceptional situations, a lot more often than most regular people. It shouldn’t be plausible but if it’s well-written, like the Kate Morrison series, it works.
In Pathogen, book 2 of the series, Kate is asked (not told, this time) to join an investigation: an unknown and mysterious virus seems to be killing people in the very exclusive and wealthy town of Hidden Valley. Andy is working the cop part and Kate is happy to escape her overbearing boss at the hospital.
The virus situation sounds a lot like what Covid-19 must have looked like to the first healthcare professionals who encountered it. Pathogen was published in 2016 however, but the parallels make it even more fascinating to read right now.
There’s a second storyline going on in the background, that of Kate’s coming-out, her discovery of what life as a lesbian (since that’s what she now seems to identify as) is like. Andy is worried about it, Kate not so much. At first. I like that the author didn’t simply assume that because she’s head over heels in love with Andy, Kate’s life is all happiness and fluff. On a third level, Kate is also pondering the direction her professional life is taking. That first sentence I wrote about too much happening in one person’s life? Kate isn’t fooled either.
If I had to use only one word to say what this story is about, it would be “uncertainty”. Uncertainty about the how, when, why of the virus. Uncertainty about Kate’s future, both professional and personal. About who she is, who she wants to be, who she can be. Never about who she loves, however, although even that is not as simple as it seems.
I got swept up in this book just as easily as with the first one. I love Kate and Andy and hope to see more of Jack. The thriller is intricate and exciting, and just thinking about it hours after I finished reading leaves me breathless. I hate the ending, but it makes total sense. I don’t hate it because it’s bad, I hate it because it’s good and I can’t jump right into book 3 since I have so many books to read right now (one of which is Jessica L. Webb’s newest novel, Storm Lines, so that makes me feel a little better). I hate it because it broke my heart a little. It’s a good kind of hate.
In Pathogen, book 2 of the series, Kate is asked (not told, this time) to join an investigation: an unknown and mysterious virus seems to be killing people in the very exclusive and wealthy town of Hidden Valley. Andy is working the cop part and Kate is happy to escape her overbearing boss at the hospital.
The virus situation sounds a lot like what Covid-19 must have looked like to the first healthcare professionals who encountered it. Pathogen was published in 2016 however, but the parallels make it even more fascinating to read right now.
There’s a second storyline going on in the background, that of Kate’s coming-out, her discovery of what life as a lesbian (since that’s what she now seems to identify as) is like. Andy is worried about it, Kate not so much. At first. I like that the author didn’t simply assume that because she’s head over heels in love with Andy, Kate’s life is all happiness and fluff. On a third level, Kate is also pondering the direction her professional life is taking. That first sentence I wrote about too much happening in one person’s life? Kate isn’t fooled either.
If I had to use only one word to say what this story is about, it would be “uncertainty”. Uncertainty about the how, when, why of the virus. Uncertainty about Kate’s future, both professional and personal. About who she is, who she wants to be, who she can be. Never about who she loves, however, although even that is not as simple as it seems.
I got swept up in this book just as easily as with the first one. I love Kate and Andy and hope to see more of Jack. The thriller is intricate and exciting, and just thinking about it hours after I finished reading leaves me breathless. I hate the ending, but it makes total sense. I don’t hate it because it’s bad, I hate it because it’s good and I can’t jump right into book 3 since I have so many books to read right now (one of which is Jessica L. Webb’s newest novel, Storm Lines, so that makes me feel a little better). I hate it because it broke my heart a little. It’s a good kind of hate.
March 16, 2017
Trigger, book 1 in this series, was one of the best lesfic books released in 2016. Add in the fact that it was a debut novel for Webb, and it is really unbelievable. Pathogen was highly anticipated and I really wondered how could it live up to its predecessor. The answer, unbelievably well. This is easily another 5 Stars for Webb, without a doubt in my mind.
What I loved about Trigger was the human bomb storyline. So new and different than any other lesfic book. This book is about deadly viruses, something that we have read about or seen as a TV plot. Even with something that we have seen before, this book still blew me away. Than I realized the real reason I love these books is because of Webb's writing. After only two books, she is already a brilliant writer. I hope Bold Strokes Books, realizes what a star they have here.
I find it harder to write reviews when I love a book. It's hard to really describe and put into words how it made me feel. I also don't want to give to much of the plot away. I will say when comparing the two books, they are pretty different. This book does not have the heart pounding excitement that was in Trigger. But that is not to say this book doesn't suck you in immediately and not let you go until you are finished. I'm also impressed that even with all the medical and scientific mumbo-jumbo in this book, I knew exactly what was going on. Webb does not talk down to readers or flood them with facts we can't really comprehend.
I easily and happily recommend this book to all lesfic fans, and I hope mainstream fans would read this to. This books storyline is contained enough that someone could read this without reading Trigger, but I would recommend reading Trigger first. Not only is it important to understand the full connection between the main characters, but Trigger is fantastic, so why would you want to miss it.
An ARC was given to me by Bold Strokes Books, for a honest review
What I loved about Trigger was the human bomb storyline. So new and different than any other lesfic book. This book is about deadly viruses, something that we have read about or seen as a TV plot. Even with something that we have seen before, this book still blew me away. Than I realized the real reason I love these books is because of Webb's writing. After only two books, she is already a brilliant writer. I hope Bold Strokes Books, realizes what a star they have here.
I find it harder to write reviews when I love a book. It's hard to really describe and put into words how it made me feel. I also don't want to give to much of the plot away. I will say when comparing the two books, they are pretty different. This book does not have the heart pounding excitement that was in Trigger. But that is not to say this book doesn't suck you in immediately and not let you go until you are finished. I'm also impressed that even with all the medical and scientific mumbo-jumbo in this book, I knew exactly what was going on. Webb does not talk down to readers or flood them with facts we can't really comprehend.
I easily and happily recommend this book to all lesfic fans, and I hope mainstream fans would read this to. This books storyline is contained enough that someone could read this without reading Trigger, but I would recommend reading Trigger first. Not only is it important to understand the full connection between the main characters, but Trigger is fantastic, so why would you want to miss it.
An ARC was given to me by Bold Strokes Books, for a honest review
May 16, 2019
After Trigger, the first book in this series, and unbelievable the debut novel of this author was an absolutely gripping 5-star mystery, I was wondering how the second one will be nearly as good as the first one. But I shouldn’t have been wondering, it is another fantastic book. This author is rapidly becoming one of my favorite authors.
Dr. Kate Morrison and RCMP Andy Wyles are again working together on a case, which in the beginning wasn’t really a case. But slowly they uncover that in the small, wealthy town of Hidden Valley was set free a manmade virus which turns out to be deadly. It is a race against time to find out who has it set free and especially how to treat the infected person.
Was I found extremely fascinating, was what was going on in Kate’s mind. It’s sometimes like we are sitting in her brain and witness how all the information comes through her eyes or ears to the brain and how she process and cataloged everything. And you are witnessing her growing helplessness. But it’s not only the virus that keeps her busy, but she’s also struggling with her past, of her sister's death, and it affects her relationship with Andy too.
It’s again written from Kates POV, and this is the only small complaint I have. I would really like to know more about what Andy is thinking and feeling.
A great mystery from an extremely talented writer, exciting, thrilling, scaring and with a lot of feeling. Highly recommended. I’m looking forward to reading book #3.
My rating 5 stars
Dr. Kate Morrison and RCMP Andy Wyles are again working together on a case, which in the beginning wasn’t really a case. But slowly they uncover that in the small, wealthy town of Hidden Valley was set free a manmade virus which turns out to be deadly. It is a race against time to find out who has it set free and especially how to treat the infected person.
Was I found extremely fascinating, was what was going on in Kate’s mind. It’s sometimes like we are sitting in her brain and witness how all the information comes through her eyes or ears to the brain and how she process and cataloged everything. And you are witnessing her growing helplessness. But it’s not only the virus that keeps her busy, but she’s also struggling with her past, of her sister's death, and it affects her relationship with Andy too.
It’s again written from Kates POV, and this is the only small complaint I have. I would really like to know more about what Andy is thinking and feeling.
A great mystery from an extremely talented writer, exciting, thrilling, scaring and with a lot of feeling. Highly recommended. I’m looking forward to reading book #3.
My rating 5 stars
November 19, 2016
Once again Jessica Webb delivers with a thriller every bit as good as anything mainstream authors are cranking out these days. A virus is infecting the locals in a wealthy community north of Vancouver and bioterrorism is suspected. It is up to Sergeant Andy Wyles and Dr. Kate Morrison to hunt down the source of this potential pandemic as well as find a way to save those infected with the virus.
It takes all of Dr. Kate’s formidable skills as a physician to find ways to keep her patients alive while Andy hunts down the source of this rapidly mutating virus. Resources are sent their way, some useful like the virologists at the National Microbiology Laboratory and some not so much useful as openly hostile like the formidable forensic pathologist Mona Kellar.
While our two leading ladies fight viruses and small town politics they are also waging a silent battle of their own. Overprotective Andy is trying to be patient with Kate as she comes to terms with being in a lesbian relationship. As much as the moments these two share with each other are rich and lovely to observe, in this novel Kate and Andy struggle with what the future will hold in terms of their shared lives.
Excellent writing, great pacing, terrific dialogue and an eye for detail place the reader in the hallways of this tiny hospital hoping someone will find answers which will save lives. The intrigue angle is clouded with a few red herrings but the astute sleuth will figure out the source and reasons behind events in Hidden Valley. Kudos to the author for doing her research and keeping the science at a level which intrigues and entertains but does not bore the reader.
The ending caught me by surprise. So much so I had to reread a couple of chapters to see if I missed something. I am not a fan of situations left unresolved but hope all will be revealed to us in the next book written by the talented Ms. Webb.
ARC received with thanks from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley for review.
November 15, 2023
3.25 ⭐️ I listened to the audio on this one and it was just ok.
This was written in 2016 and reading it now made it seem anticlimactic since we have all endured Covid.
The MCs were good and had easy communication. Overall the there was a bunch on medical jargon and not enough mystery or heat for me.
This was written in 2016 and reading it now made it seem anticlimactic since we have all endured Covid.
The MCs were good and had easy communication. Overall the there was a bunch on medical jargon and not enough mystery or heat for me.
April 27, 2020
Another riveting read...again, one that I simply can’t put down!! Unlike Trigger where you had gun blazing scenes, Pathogen had some mind-boggling scenes and had my mind working overtime given the current pandemic that the world is facing right now. Loved everything about the book... hmmm, ok maybe not so much with the ending.
Ratings: 4.5
Ratings: 4.5
November 29, 2016
Pathogen by Jessica L. Webb picks up not long after the conclusion of Trigger, the debut novel in the Dr. Kate Morrison Mystery series. If you haven’t read, Trigger, stop, go read it and then jump right into this one. These two need to be read in sequence. Otherwise, you will be wading in the dark. My review of Trigger can be found here: https://theromanticreaderblog.com/201...
In Trigger, Dr. Kate Morrison and RCMP Sergeant Andy Wyles were thrown together to solve a medical mystery of humans being used a scary ass bombs. The race against time and an evil villain brought these two unlikely women, threw them into a harrowing situation and they both came out alive, scarred and totally head over heels in love. Such a good book!
Pathogen picks up in the aftermath of said event. As Kate returns to being an ER doctor at Vancouver East, she is struggling a bit with being out in her relationship and wrestling with the demons of what happened in Seattle. On the flip-side, she is deliriously in love with Andy. The small moments these two have with each other at the beginning of the book give you a window into their relationship.
Where the tension begins...Andy is called up to the Whistler area to investigate an outbreak of a mysterious flu-like virus. Why is RCMP involved, and not the Public Health Agency of Canada? The mystery seems to increase as a politician’s daughter is one of the sick. Is this political warfare breaking out? The RCMP brings in Kate to assist Andy on finding out what this virus is, who designed it and for what purposes. The mystery of this book is fantastic. Webb hits you with details and facts that have been meticulously researched. The story has many layers, but the heart of it all is a riveting medical drama.
I think what I loved the most about this book though is the protagonists. Kate is such a multifaceted character. She is deeply wounded, but so strong at the same time. Her complexity and resiliency draw you in, and you can’t help but root for her success and at the same time feel her pain. While Andy is the strong protector you sense her wariness as to when the other shoe is going to drop. Will the outside pressure be too much for Kate and Andy to handle? Her wariness of their future is palatable, but her heart is beyond invested. Their relationship, to me, is what makes this book great.
In Trigger, Dr. Kate Morrison and RCMP Sergeant Andy Wyles were thrown together to solve a medical mystery of humans being used a scary ass bombs. The race against time and an evil villain brought these two unlikely women, threw them into a harrowing situation and they both came out alive, scarred and totally head over heels in love. Such a good book!
Pathogen picks up in the aftermath of said event. As Kate returns to being an ER doctor at Vancouver East, she is struggling a bit with being out in her relationship and wrestling with the demons of what happened in Seattle. On the flip-side, she is deliriously in love with Andy. The small moments these two have with each other at the beginning of the book give you a window into their relationship.
Where the tension begins...Andy is called up to the Whistler area to investigate an outbreak of a mysterious flu-like virus. Why is RCMP involved, and not the Public Health Agency of Canada? The mystery seems to increase as a politician’s daughter is one of the sick. Is this political warfare breaking out? The RCMP brings in Kate to assist Andy on finding out what this virus is, who designed it and for what purposes. The mystery of this book is fantastic. Webb hits you with details and facts that have been meticulously researched. The story has many layers, but the heart of it all is a riveting medical drama.
I think what I loved the most about this book though is the protagonists. Kate is such a multifaceted character. She is deeply wounded, but so strong at the same time. Her complexity and resiliency draw you in, and you can’t help but root for her success and at the same time feel her pain. While Andy is the strong protector you sense her wariness as to when the other shoe is going to drop. Will the outside pressure be too much for Kate and Andy to handle? Her wariness of their future is palatable, but her heart is beyond invested. Their relationship, to me, is what makes this book great.
March 6, 2023
Emotional
I kept waiting for what I thought would happen. It didn’t, and what did happen shocked me. I didn’t expect it to end the way it did. Read this wonderful book if you want to find out what I mean.
I kept waiting for what I thought would happen. It didn’t, and what did happen shocked me. I didn’t expect it to end the way it did. Read this wonderful book if you want to find out what I mean.
April 8, 2019
Wow! I love this book. One reason why I like reading books in series is that we get to know the characters more. This time, Kate and Andy has barely recovered from the events in Trigger when they are called to investigate an unusually virulent flu outbreak. We see them working together and still navigating this new relationship. They also have to contend with solving this compelling medical mystery. The medical part of it is also very interesting. The possibility of a viral outbreak is quite scary but also very realistic.
November 21, 2016
I loved the first book in this series Trigger so I was naturally very excited to read this book.
I found this book to be more of an emotional roller coaster than the first book. At least the emotional side was more prominent part whereas the first book was more action based. I was completely pulled into this book and rode every emotional wave which made it an intense read for me. The ending was hard and to be honest didn't see that coming.
I loved reading about Kate and Andy’s relationship as it developed, I can’t wait for book 3! Great book highly recommend it, it will take you on a ride that you have no clue on where it will lead you.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
I found this book to be more of an emotional roller coaster than the first book. At least the emotional side was more prominent part whereas the first book was more action based. I was completely pulled into this book and rode every emotional wave which made it an intense read for me. The ending was hard and to be honest didn't see that coming.
I loved reading about Kate and Andy’s relationship as it developed, I can’t wait for book 3! Great book highly recommend it, it will take you on a ride that you have no clue on where it will lead you.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
November 29, 2016
*The copy provided by NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books in exchange for an honest review*
I was skeptical at first, because rarely do sequels live up to their first, original books. But this one is a gem. This is an amazing thriller, a novel that keeps you on your toes all throughout every page. It's tense, very well written, filled with angst and drama, and even in those quiet moments you fear that something will happen any time now. Both Kate and Andy are well developed, complex characters, consistent throughout both books, so there is also that part as a plus. I'd gladly recommend this novel to anyone and well deserved 5 stars from me.
I was skeptical at first, because rarely do sequels live up to their first, original books. But this one is a gem. This is an amazing thriller, a novel that keeps you on your toes all throughout every page. It's tense, very well written, filled with angst and drama, and even in those quiet moments you fear that something will happen any time now. Both Kate and Andy are well developed, complex characters, consistent throughout both books, so there is also that part as a plus. I'd gladly recommend this novel to anyone and well deserved 5 stars from me.
April 22, 2017
Detailed score: 3.5 rounded up
I know others would disagree but for me this was a slightly less compelling version of the first book.
Angst fans are in for a treat here as one of our leads has so.much.angst . It started to give me the irrits TBH. On the flip side, Andy is a little too good to be true.
It's well written and the story cracks along at a nice pace but, as was my experience in the first book, the romance was a bit underbaked and instalove.
Still. It's a really good read. I'm certainly not sorry I watched these characters be put through their paces again.
I know others would disagree but for me this was a slightly less compelling version of the first book.
Angst fans are in for a treat here as one of our leads has so.much.angst . It started to give me the irrits TBH. On the flip side, Andy is a little too good to be true.
It's well written and the story cracks along at a nice pace but, as was my experience in the first book, the romance was a bit underbaked and instalove.
Still. It's a really good read. I'm certainly not sorry I watched these characters be put through their paces again.
January 26, 2017
Great story and follow-up of Kate and Andy's characters, I think the Author is doing a wonderful job bringing the events and characters to such an enticing and fascinating depth. Kate's character is complex in her way of assimilating to the turn her life has taken since book one, Andy shows a great amount of love and patience in her dealings with Kate as well as lots of understanding. Can't wait to see how these ladies fair in book three. All in all, I believe this was a wonderful sequel.
June 8, 2018
I AM SO TORN. One on hand, I'm very upset about how this book ended (though I don't have to wait until the next is published so I'm luckier than most) and what happens prior to everything falling apart makes me sad.. But, I'm a huge fan of realism.
While I can't attempt to understand what being abducted and almost robbed of the skin on my arms while my lover waits to be executed, what it's like to be in a modern-day war zone, I do know what it's like coming out later in life and dealing with the onslaught of emotions and the uncertainty, and I didn't lose my sister and have to grieve over that previously while overcoming alcoholism. As much as I want to complain about the outcome, I also have to appreciate that this book took risks.
I'm not going to go into the story, as there are loads of reviews to revisit all that happened, but I do want to comment on the tenacity of both of the leads, Andy and Kate. Andy is my dreamgirl, while I'm driven and as stubborn as Kate (minus the medical knowledge), I love how much she cares and protects Kate and that all of her motivations are influenced by this concern while also being this commanding presence and taking such control over situations, rooms and people. I think she's a little possessive (but I oddly find that attractive? ugh), but I love that she's this calm with a sheltered storm inside that is always seeing and caring. Kate is so terribly broken but so beautifully brilliant. I love that she's a shell of a person but still is able to be a human, to treat and care and THINK and do save people while falling apart. That she protects Andy and loves her so very much, but doesn't want to hurt her, whether it be personally, because of others (I'm looking at you, Mona), or because of her lack of concern over her own safety. They drive this story, and I just want more and more and more of them. Onto the next..
While I can't attempt to understand what being abducted and almost robbed of the skin on my arms while my lover waits to be executed, what it's like to be in a modern-day war zone, I do know what it's like coming out later in life and dealing with the onslaught of emotions and the uncertainty, and I didn't lose my sister and have to grieve over that previously while overcoming alcoholism. As much as I want to complain about the outcome, I also have to appreciate that this book took risks.
I'm not going to go into the story, as there are loads of reviews to revisit all that happened, but I do want to comment on the tenacity of both of the leads, Andy and Kate. Andy is my dreamgirl, while I'm driven and as stubborn as Kate (minus the medical knowledge), I love how much she cares and protects Kate and that all of her motivations are influenced by this concern while also being this commanding presence and taking such control over situations, rooms and people. I think she's a little possessive (but I oddly find that attractive? ugh), but I love that she's this calm with a sheltered storm inside that is always seeing and caring. Kate is so terribly broken but so beautifully brilliant. I love that she's a shell of a person but still is able to be a human, to treat and care and THINK and do save people while falling apart. That she protects Andy and loves her so very much, but doesn't want to hurt her, whether it be personally, because of others (I'm looking at you, Mona), or because of her lack of concern over her own safety. They drive this story, and I just want more and more and more of them. Onto the next..
November 10, 2016
Where did Jessica L. Webb suddenly come from!? First with Trigger now Pathogen, her stories are tight, smart nail-biters with such strong female characters or hell just characters in general. I'm a little disappointed that she doesn't have the backing of a much larger publisher behind her because her books are exceptional and truly story-oriented.
Pathogen picks up several months after Trigger and assumes you have read the predecessor, as there's thankfully no rehashing or summarizing of the events in the previous story, but they are heavily referred to and help explain the mindset of the characters at this point in time. Webb lets her characters show their flaws; the "good guys" are not perfect people and the "bad guys" are not dismissed as evil.
I usually do not invest myself in a book series, especially not in lesfic as I've never really loved an author's base story enough to buy into an ongoing series, but that is not the case here. This book (and Trigger) were the highlights of my 2016 reading list and I cannot wait for the next entry in what I hope to be a long-lived series.
Definitely add Trigger and Pathogen to your "to read" list if you enjoy solid characters, wonderful character development, and medical/procedural thrillers.
ARC provided by NetGalley
Pathogen picks up several months after Trigger and assumes you have read the predecessor, as there's thankfully no rehashing or summarizing of the events in the previous story, but they are heavily referred to and help explain the mindset of the characters at this point in time. Webb lets her characters show their flaws; the "good guys" are not perfect people and the "bad guys" are not dismissed as evil.
I usually do not invest myself in a book series, especially not in lesfic as I've never really loved an author's base story enough to buy into an ongoing series, but that is not the case here. This book (and Trigger) were the highlights of my 2016 reading list and I cannot wait for the next entry in what I hope to be a long-lived series.
Definitely add Trigger and Pathogen to your "to read" list if you enjoy solid characters, wonderful character development, and medical/procedural thrillers.
ARC provided by NetGalley
February 15, 2017
After reading the epic awesomeness that is "Trigger" I wasn't sure Jessica Webb could top her last book, but I'm very happy to say she proved me wrong. Even without the compelling slow burn of the beginning relationship of Andy and Kate Ms. Webb kept the romantic aspects of the book solid and a joy to watch develop. Their relationship is not fantastical and perfect. They have struggles and they deal with them realistically all while solving another fascinating medical thriller.
Exciting, suspenseful, and with a pretty darn cool romance too. Looking forward to the next one!
Netgalley ARC received for an unbiased review.
Exciting, suspenseful, and with a pretty darn cool romance too. Looking forward to the next one!
Netgalley ARC received for an unbiased review.
November 16, 2016
This is Jessica L. Webb's second book in the Dr. Kate Morrison Mystery series following this author's debut novel Trigger. I highly recommend that you read them in order otherwise you might miss a few things that will clue you into the conflicts of the main characters.
This novel follows up with the budding romance between Dr. Kate Morrison, an ER director in Vancouver, and Andy Wyles, an RCMP sergeant As in the previous book, a medical emergency is caused by
criminal behaviour and the main characters are instructed to find the treatment against a man-made virus and the criminal behind the attack. As with the previous book, the plot takes several twists and turns that keeps the reader guessing. However, the story goes beyond the medical mystery and unravels the struggle of both characters to cope with their personal conflicts. The secondary characters support the plot to make it credible and realistic. A fantastic example of character development is forensic specialist Dr. Mona Kellar who is so skillfully portrayed that she really gave me the creeps.
I drop half a star due to two issues. One is the repetition of Andy's "grey eyes" to describe her. I don't mind a bit of reiteration but 30 times is a bit annoying. The other issue is that in some parts the virology explanations got too technical and extensive for people like me who know nothing about it.
Overall, a highly recommended read if you are into medical mysteries with a bit of romance. I will definitely read this author's next book as she is in her way of becoming a favourite of mine.
4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley.
This novel follows up with the budding romance between Dr. Kate Morrison, an ER director in Vancouver, and Andy Wyles, an RCMP sergeant As in the previous book, a medical emergency is caused by
criminal behaviour and the main characters are instructed to find the treatment against a man-made virus and the criminal behind the attack. As with the previous book, the plot takes several twists and turns that keeps the reader guessing. However, the story goes beyond the medical mystery and unravels the struggle of both characters to cope with their personal conflicts. The secondary characters support the plot to make it credible and realistic. A fantastic example of character development is forensic specialist Dr. Mona Kellar who is so skillfully portrayed that she really gave me the creeps.
I drop half a star due to two issues. One is the repetition of Andy's "grey eyes" to describe her. I don't mind a bit of reiteration but 30 times is a bit annoying. The other issue is that in some parts the virology explanations got too technical and extensive for people like me who know nothing about it.
Overall, a highly recommended read if you are into medical mysteries with a bit of romance. I will definitely read this author's next book as she is in her way of becoming a favourite of mine.
4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley.
April 27, 2020
Meh, I've read better.
To be honest I'm a little disappointed in this book. After reading the insanely suspenseful first book Trigger I didn't expect this one to be so tame in comparison. Where book one was full of action and a truly villainous bad guy this one felt mainly like a race against the clock for both Kate and Andy. The story itself was written well enough to keep me turning the pages but I had no problem putting this one down for several days to start another book. Here's hoping book three will will make up for the slack in this one. This ends in a 3,75* rating.
To be honest I'm a little disappointed in this book. After reading the insanely suspenseful first book Trigger I didn't expect this one to be so tame in comparison. Where book one was full of action and a truly villainous bad guy this one felt mainly like a race against the clock for both Kate and Andy. The story itself was written well enough to keep me turning the pages but I had no problem putting this one down for several days to start another book. Here's hoping book three will will make up for the slack in this one. This ends in a 3,75* rating.
Read
September 19, 2019DNF'ed - I don't know if I'm just not in the right mindset for this book atm, but I'm not enjoying this at all. I might come back to it.
December 4, 2016
Again, this series never fails but I like the first one better. Maybe I'm more into human time bombs than influenza.
I think I'll also update my rating from the first
book.
Kaye and Andy's relationship have leveled up but there's still "doubts" on both their parts.
This is a page turner. The moment I started reading, I can't seem to stop.
Everything is very well explained. You'll never get lost even if you don't have any idea on the topic.
I also remembered a Korean movie titled "The Flu" although that movie was a bit drastic compared to this one.
Mona Keller is a pain here but her character added more tension on Kate and Andy's relationship.
I wanted to read more about Jack. I'm happy he did catch up somewhere in the middle of the book or maybe 3/4 of the book. I'm just glad he showed up. :)
Noted: Cliffhanger.
Book 3 please come faster. :((((((((((((
Why Kate?
4.5
I think I'll also update my rating from the first
book.
Kaye and Andy's relationship have leveled up but there's still "doubts" on both their parts.
This is a page turner. The moment I started reading, I can't seem to stop.
Everything is very well explained. You'll never get lost even if you don't have any idea on the topic.
I also remembered a Korean movie titled "The Flu" although that movie was a bit drastic compared to this one.
Mona Keller is a pain here but her character added more tension on Kate and Andy's relationship.
I wanted to read more about Jack. I'm happy he did catch up somewhere in the middle of the book or maybe 3/4 of the book. I'm just glad he showed up. :)
Noted: Cliffhanger.
Book 3 please come faster. :((((((((((((
Why Kate?
4.5
December 15, 2016
ARC received from publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I would give this 6 stars if I could. Thoroughly enjoyed it. It is fast paced...even more than the first. The premise is not quite as interesting but the emotional turmoil makes up for it. I couldn't stop reading it. In fact, I am already contemplating a re-read!
I would give this 6 stars if I could. Thoroughly enjoyed it. It is fast paced...even more than the first. The premise is not quite as interesting but the emotional turmoil makes up for it. I couldn't stop reading it. In fact, I am already contemplating a re-read!
November 21, 2016
What an emotional ride! Can't wait to see what's happens in Book 3 and hopefully it isn't the last of the series.
February 7, 2017
Awesome
Absolutely awesome book to follow up to trigger, lots of suspense in the ending, I can't wait for book number 3.
Absolutely awesome book to follow up to trigger, lots of suspense in the ending, I can't wait for book number 3.
November 14, 2023
This is the second of a three-part series that should be read in order. In the first installment, Trigger, Dr. Kate Morrison met and fell in love with Canadian Mountie Sgt Andy Wyles. It was hot! Now, they're paired up again to solve another medical mystery.
The best thing about this series is how real the relationship feels. Kate has never been with a woman before, and she is struggling to come to terms with her lesbianism and in particular what it means to be out in the world. As Andy reminds her:
This realness is precisely what's missing from the popular bubble-gum HEA romances written by heterosexually married women marketing their fiction to the sapphic community. They're not living it, and they don't get it.
Pathogen is well-written and engaging. If I had one minor quibble, it's with the fixation on Andy's gray eyes. They are mentioned at least 27 times. They are clear, appraising, sweet, guarded, beautiful, bleak, flashing, worried, serious. I get it. They're amazing eyes! I think the author is in love with gray eyes. I guess there are worse things in the world.
The best thing about this series is how real the relationship feels. Kate has never been with a woman before, and she is struggling to come to terms with her lesbianism and in particular what it means to be out in the world. As Andy reminds her:
"It takes time to figure out what it means, to shift it around in your head until it makes sense to you. It takes time to say the words and to apply them to yourself. To hear people at work talk about it, to explain to the phone company that I’m not your husband, to decide what words to take offense to, to figure out how you feel about this community that everyone will just assume you are a part of.”
This realness is precisely what's missing from the popular bubble-gum HEA romances written by heterosexually married women marketing their fiction to the sapphic community. They're not living it, and they don't get it.
Pathogen is well-written and engaging. If I had one minor quibble, it's with the fixation on Andy's gray eyes. They are mentioned at least 27 times. They are clear, appraising, sweet, guarded, beautiful, bleak, flashing, worried, serious. I get it. They're amazing eyes! I think the author is in love with gray eyes. I guess there are worse things in the world.
April 2, 2017
A fascinating and gripping topic!
A frightening and fascinating story. The medical terms and facts are understandable and fortunately not too technical. The construction of the story was captivating and the pace never slows down. I thought I had it all figured out but the conclusion was not what I expected. Andy's love and protection of her loved one was heart warming. She is without a doubt my favorite character. Kate's exhausting battle against this disease took a toll on her. She became an emotional mess and lost it. The story is beautifully written but the romance in this installment takes a back seat. The ending was not how I wanted it to end and that was a bit disappointing. Hopefully the author makes up for that in the next part.
A frightening and fascinating story. The medical terms and facts are understandable and fortunately not too technical. The construction of the story was captivating and the pace never slows down. I thought I had it all figured out but the conclusion was not what I expected. Andy's love and protection of her loved one was heart warming. She is without a doubt my favorite character. Kate's exhausting battle against this disease took a toll on her. She became an emotional mess and lost it. The story is beautifully written but the romance in this installment takes a back seat. The ending was not how I wanted it to end and that was a bit disappointing. Hopefully the author makes up for that in the next part.
January 8, 2017
What can I say? Book 2 in the Dr Kate Morrison series is as well written medical-criminal mystery as the first book. It was hard to put the book down....
December 14, 2016
"I love you, Andy Wiles. I know I'm doing a shitty job of showing it these days, but I love you."
This book is fantastic just like Trigger. I keep loving Kate more and more at every new page. She is just a wonderful protagonist with an amazing personality and such compassion for other people. My favorite thing in this book was seeing Andy and Kate working together. It's so rare to find lesbian relationships being developed on the page and not being the main cause of drama. The plot happens outside of it and I appreciate this a lot. I feel like book 1 was a bit more action heavy than Pathogen and in here we got a lot more of quiet plot happening.
That being said, I'm still upset about the ending using a cliffhanger that is overused in my opinion. It was a let down for me since I personally don't see the need of it for the series to keep going. But one thing that I'm excited for is that it seems that the next book is from Andy's POV. I hope it is true because I've been curious to know her side of the story since the first book.
This book is fantastic just like Trigger. I keep loving Kate more and more at every new page. She is just a wonderful protagonist with an amazing personality and such compassion for other people. My favorite thing in this book was seeing Andy and Kate working together. It's so rare to find lesbian relationships being developed on the page and not being the main cause of drama. The plot happens outside of it and I appreciate this a lot. I feel like book 1 was a bit more action heavy than Pathogen and in here we got a lot more of quiet plot happening.
That being said, I'm still upset about the ending using a cliffhanger that is overused in my opinion. It was a let down for me since I personally don't see the need of it for the series to keep going. But one thing that I'm excited for is that it seems that the next book is from Andy's POV. I hope it is true because I've been curious to know her side of the story since the first book.
December 14, 2016
*ARC provided by Netgalley and the Publisher for an honest review*
I just finished reading this book and the best word that I can we to explain my feelings at this moment is, raw. The first book blew me away and although there wasn't much sexual intimacy between the main characters in that book I was still stunned by their chemistry.
This book took their chemistry and used it to make me fall in love with them, I was hooked on their flawed yet perfect love and used every spare second I had immersing myself in their story and then, just when I thought nothing could kill my high, I got to the end.
If there is one thing about Webbers writing that stands out to me, it is her ability to create the most emotionally charged encounters out of the most seemingly mundane moments. In the first book it was the scene when they were standing outside of the hotel rooms (if you read the book, you know the scene) and in this book it is the last scene in the hotel room (sensing a trend here?). Both of these encounters left me feeling like someone reached into my chest and squeezed until I was on the brink of tears.
I absolutely love this authors writing and can't wait for the next installment in Andy and Kate's flawed and yet epic love story and I also can't wait for the next thrilling storyline the author decides to throw at us because her creativity is mind blowing and if you are a fan or mystery thrillers then this author is a must read!
I just finished reading this book and the best word that I can we to explain my feelings at this moment is, raw. The first book blew me away and although there wasn't much sexual intimacy between the main characters in that book I was still stunned by their chemistry.
This book took their chemistry and used it to make me fall in love with them, I was hooked on their flawed yet perfect love and used every spare second I had immersing myself in their story and then, just when I thought nothing could kill my high, I got to the end.
If there is one thing about Webbers writing that stands out to me, it is her ability to create the most emotionally charged encounters out of the most seemingly mundane moments. In the first book it was the scene when they were standing outside of the hotel rooms (if you read the book, you know the scene) and in this book it is the last scene in the hotel room (sensing a trend here?). Both of these encounters left me feeling like someone reached into my chest and squeezed until I was on the brink of tears.
I absolutely love this authors writing and can't wait for the next installment in Andy and Kate's flawed and yet epic love story and I also can't wait for the next thrilling storyline the author decides to throw at us because her creativity is mind blowing and if you are a fan or mystery thrillers then this author is a must read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews