In this medical thriller, Paramedic Jim Stockbridge responds to an EMS call in the ghetto and finds his best friend brutally stabbed and shot. Consumed with rage he hunts down Sid Drake’s killers and renders his own form of justice. But he soon finds himself lost, tangling with his own demons, and a vicious street gang and its ruthless warlord, William “J-Rock” Jackson.
So begins a long, dark journey that pushes Jim deep into his own personal world of bitterness and revenge, and ultimately to the brink of disaster. Haunting nightmares ensue. Endless nights. A brutal biker gang tries to have him killed and an angry detective wants him behind bars. His girlfriend leaves him, J-Rock is out for blood, and suddenly his entire world seems to be falling apart.
Jim Stockbridge becomes a man truly tested by fire. He set out to seek revenge, but found something totally unexpected--forgiveness.
I really enjoyed this action packed story about a paramedic Jim, who loses his best mate and collegue to a drug gang killing. He vows revenge but along the way things happen, including his life nearly being lost, that puts him back on a better path. Really Good book
One of the dumbest books ever. It started OK, then about 1/3 through it went seriously downhill The main character gets shot, stabbed, is paralyzed, has a broken arm, and in a hospital recovery from surgery. When he awakes he decides he needs to go after the bad guy and that's when he rips out his IV and leaves the hospital. Then he climbs a tree, scales a fence with razor wire on top and then (oh yeah) swims in a raging storm with 10 ft waves. Plenty of excitement but clearly beyond any realm of reality.
Patterson had me hooked from the very beginning. This first novel in the Medic 7 series is nothing short of action-packed and beautifully descriptive. I was utterly captivated by the perfectly depicted characters and scenes which breathed realism from beginning to end. It was like I could see, feel, smell, hear what was taking place. Already recommended this one to my husband as a novel he would most definitely enjoy. And I plan to begin the next novel in the series shortly. The only down side for me, was the repeated use of various forms of God's name taken in vain by the characters throughout. I understand most were not Christians at the time, but regardless, I would prefer to not be subjected to reading those specific words used in that manner. Also if you're squeamish, this might be a difficult read since there are quite a few violent situations due to the nature of the story, but Patterson handled them all well yet realistically. Overall, a read that will encourage you to be brave even when facing the fire because God truly does work in the most unexpected ways.
I really enjoyed this book. It's style reminded me of Clive Cusslers writings. It has kept my interest from the beginning to the end. I didn't want to put it down until I found that I only had a couple of pages left. I will have to keep Pat Patterson in mind when I am looking for another book to read. Thanks Pat for a really engrossing tale.
Pat Patterson, the author, gave thrill after thrill after thrill!!! Oh my! Most of the thrills were plausible. I loved the imagery the author incorporated throughout the novel. The descriptive details were quite vivid which thoroughly enhanced the plot. The characters were well developed. Furthermore, the plot had overtones of finding spiritual guidance in one's life. I enjoyed reading the novel!
This book was action-packed from the beginning to the end It was convicting to me in my own spiritual walk. To understand, people will need to message me. I felt this book was worth a five-star rating. I look forward to the next book in the series.
This was a pretty good book. Action packed from page 1. The author doesn't know much about handguns and it shows in the story. Handguns do not have clips and they don't stocks. lol
If you are looking for a crime EMS suspense story then this book is perfect.
A really exciting action packed book. It gives the reader a taste of life as a paramedic mixed with drugs, gangs and violence. It's one of those books you don't want to put down.
Gangsters, police, paramedics, doctors, homeless, and Godly people make up the interesting characters in this first novel of an exciting series full of heartbreak and hope.
What a fast paced wonderful story. I just put it down when I thought I had to. It had wonderful characters and an amazing storyline. I have already and will continue recommending this book to others.
This was so great! I'm an avid reader and found this to be refreshing and exciting. There's plenty of action and superb characters. A great Christian story.
I would never intentionally pick up a christian themed book. But I have to admit, even with all the christian references in this story, I enjoyed it. There was enough action and suspense even for thriller die-hard's like myself. A fast paced story with great character development, even if you don't particularly care for some of the characters, and I ain't just referring to the bad guys. In the end, I would have liked to seen our super hero Jim end up with the other girl in a hot romantic love scene. Yet all in all, a good book. Patterson knows how to weave a tight, suspenseful story that is sure to please action junkies.
I enjoyed this story - but the byline of 9-11 and post traumatic stress is reflected in his behavior but the day barely discussed. This is ok, but the issues the poor character deals with is over the top. For someone who is self destructive it may be possible, but it was a bit overwhelming to read. If you keep the concept of many dramatic moments will occur and get into the story it will be enjoyed.
Girls and guys, this book is good. Not a love story, definitely exciting, keep me up reading it every night. It was long but it had to be to get the whole story out there. It's about gangs, drugs, meth making, cops and the good Lord. I literally stayed up every night till 4, sometimes 5 in the morning because I could not put it down. And the ending was grrrreeeaatttt !!!! A must read. I loved it and will be looking for more books by Pat Patterson.
Tested by Fire is an accurate and entertaining tale. As a firefighter I was impressed with how accurate and real the technical aspects of the story are. As a reader I thoroughly enjoyed the suspense and action of the book. It was well written and leaves you wanting more. I had a hard time putting it down. I can't wait for the next book from Patterson. 5 Stars, I can't recommend Tested by Fire enough!
This is what I've been looking for in Christian novels, someone who's not ashamed to put it out there, THE TRUTH. Don't get me wrong. I've read some really good books with romance and suspense in them and they included God but this talked about JESUS and that's the name that so many today are afraid to say. Hoorah!! for you for including that name which is above every name!!!
Tested by Fire is a triumphant debut novel by paramedic, Pat Patterson. His realistic portrayal of medical catastrophes, heroes, and villains will keep you turning pages to the very end. When you finish this one, I highly suggest you move on to Paramedic Killer and continue the story!
The eternal fight between good and evil set with new modern eyes and times. Real people fighting for they believed is right, fighting even inside their own demons, doubts, falling and getting up. The dark side portrayed at its worst 9/11 tragedy, gangs, drugs, youngsters lost, violence. A few believers trying to spread the word and save souls. Maybe there's hope.
Overall an excellent book. A medical thriller with a strong Christian theme. Sometimes the fight/chase scenes are a little too long for my personal tastes which is why I gave it 4 stars. Still really enjoyed it though
I think it is good to read and a life lesson you need to believe in Christ and trust him he will be the all your life even if you think he a abandoned you he will always be there god be with you and never let go amen
A good book with an excellent message, but it had a ridiculous amount of violence---reminded me of the old Timex commercials "it takes a licking but keeps on ticking."
Action-packed Christian mystery. Graphic description of EMT's working on 9/11 alone makes it worth the read. Rereading. TTS-enabled eBook. RECOMMENDED for Christians, mystery, and action fans.