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Bitter Pill
THINGS WERE GOING ALONG JUST FINE
UNTIL THE MIRACLE FOULED THEM UP
“Brother” Bob Bannister is content with his life and his itinerant healing ministry, until one night he finds that the woman who walks off the stage under her own power isn’t one of his shills. At that point, doubts begin to intrude on his previously untroubled existence.
Dr. Abby Davis is tired of her family practice and at odds with God. Dealing with critically ill and dying patients has crushed her spirit to the point she’s ready to quit. But she soon realizes that there’s more to healing than ministering to the physical body.
Scott Anderson was the oldest graduate of his seminary class. Then again, most of them hadn’t turned away from a medical practice, hoping to atone for past mistakes (including his wife’s death) by ministering to men’s souls. Now he hopes he hasn’t made a colossal mistake in switching careers.
Each of these individuals becomes linked to the other, and each finds that God has a purpose for them—but, as it often does, the lesson comes with discomfort.
UNTIL THE MIRACLE FOULED THEM UP
“Brother” Bob Bannister is content with his life and his itinerant healing ministry, until one night he finds that the woman who walks off the stage under her own power isn’t one of his shills. At that point, doubts begin to intrude on his previously untroubled existence.
Dr. Abby Davis is tired of her family practice and at odds with God. Dealing with critically ill and dying patients has crushed her spirit to the point she’s ready to quit. But she soon realizes that there’s more to healing than ministering to the physical body.
Scott Anderson was the oldest graduate of his seminary class. Then again, most of them hadn’t turned away from a medical practice, hoping to atone for past mistakes (including his wife’s death) by ministering to men’s souls. Now he hopes he hasn’t made a colossal mistake in switching careers.
Each of these individuals becomes linked to the other, and each finds that God has a purpose for them—but, as it often does, the lesson comes with discomfort.
- GenresMedicalContemporary
132 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2019
About the author
Richard L. Mabry
34 books521 followersDr. Richard Mabry is a retired physician, past Vice-President of the American Christian Fiction Writers, and the author of twelve published novels of medical suspense and six novellas. His books have been finalists in competitions including ACFW’s Carol Award and Romantic Times’ Inspirational Book of the Year, and have won the Selah Award from the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference.
Richard’s non-fiction book, The Tender Scar: Life After The Death Of A Spouse (Kregel Publishers), has ministered to multiple thousands of grieving individuals. His meditations and short pieces have appeared in The Upper Room, In Touch, and several other periodicals.
When Richard is not writing, he spends his time reading, working fruitlessly to improve his golf game, and defending his title as the world’s best Granddad. He and his wife live in north Texas and are active members of Stonebriar Community Church, pastored by Dr. Chuck Swindoll.
Richard’s non-fiction book, The Tender Scar: Life After The Death Of A Spouse (Kregel Publishers), has ministered to multiple thousands of grieving individuals. His meditations and short pieces have appeared in The Upper Room, In Touch, and several other periodicals.
When Richard is not writing, he spends his time reading, working fruitlessly to improve his golf game, and defending his title as the world’s best Granddad. He and his wife live in north Texas and are active members of Stonebriar Community Church, pastored by Dr. Chuck Swindoll.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
May 28, 2019
4.5 stars
What a riveting story of three lives connected unexpectedly, each of whom are on the brink of life-changing decisions whether they realize it or not.
While at first glance, Bitter Pill seems different from Mabry’s usual work, it really isn’t – at least not in all the ways that count. Thoughtfully merging faith, suspense, and medicine in a plot that’s difficult to put down involving characters you’ll become emotionally invested in, Bitter Pill is exactly what we expect from this author.
Where it differs is that the suspense (while not absent) takes a bit of a backseat to the faith element this time. But don’t make the mistake of thinking that it gets preachy. Not at all. (And again this is consistent with Mabry’s past reads) The author takes these three main characters on an thoughtful – and at times emotional – journey that causes each to examine the deepest places of their faith and how it holds up when the rubber meets the road. In the process, they meet a God full of grace with a distinct purpose for each of their lives and the patience to wait for them to get on board with the work He’s waiting to do in and through them.
And while I’m not in the exact positions of any of these characters, they are completely relatable nonetheless. I’ve been in situations that caused me to do the same examinations of my faith, and I saw a little of myself in Scott, Abby, and Bob. I bet you do, too. In fact, I’m still pondering the poignancy of this story – what it says about humankind, redemption, faith, hope, grace, and God without ever making me feel like the story has stopped for a sermon. (Ironically enough, since much of it takes place in church settings haha!)
The suspense, while not as much the focus of this book, is nevertheless as well plotted as usual from Dr. Mabry and took some surprising twists and turns along the way. Definitely kept me guessing until the reveal and wasn’t at all what i was expecting.
Bottom Line: Another winner from Dr. Mabry – in fact this might be my favorite of his books so far! I became invested in each of these characters and I so hope he has plans to write a follow-up story so we can catch up on where they go from here. I would happily read a series that focuses on their lives after this novella – and that of the community. Touching and thought-provoking, this is a story you won’t want to miss!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
What a riveting story of three lives connected unexpectedly, each of whom are on the brink of life-changing decisions whether they realize it or not.
While at first glance, Bitter Pill seems different from Mabry’s usual work, it really isn’t – at least not in all the ways that count. Thoughtfully merging faith, suspense, and medicine in a plot that’s difficult to put down involving characters you’ll become emotionally invested in, Bitter Pill is exactly what we expect from this author.
Where it differs is that the suspense (while not absent) takes a bit of a backseat to the faith element this time. But don’t make the mistake of thinking that it gets preachy. Not at all. (And again this is consistent with Mabry’s past reads) The author takes these three main characters on an thoughtful – and at times emotional – journey that causes each to examine the deepest places of their faith and how it holds up when the rubber meets the road. In the process, they meet a God full of grace with a distinct purpose for each of their lives and the patience to wait for them to get on board with the work He’s waiting to do in and through them.
And while I’m not in the exact positions of any of these characters, they are completely relatable nonetheless. I’ve been in situations that caused me to do the same examinations of my faith, and I saw a little of myself in Scott, Abby, and Bob. I bet you do, too. In fact, I’m still pondering the poignancy of this story – what it says about humankind, redemption, faith, hope, grace, and God without ever making me feel like the story has stopped for a sermon. (Ironically enough, since much of it takes place in church settings haha!)
The suspense, while not as much the focus of this book, is nevertheless as well plotted as usual from Dr. Mabry and took some surprising twists and turns along the way. Definitely kept me guessing until the reveal and wasn’t at all what i was expecting.
Bottom Line: Another winner from Dr. Mabry – in fact this might be my favorite of his books so far! I became invested in each of these characters and I so hope he has plans to write a follow-up story so we can catch up on where they go from here. I would happily read a series that focuses on their lives after this novella – and that of the community. Touching and thought-provoking, this is a story you won’t want to miss!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
April 30, 2019
As usual, Richard Mabry has hit another home run with this novella of redemption and second chances. We all wonder at one time or another what our purpose in life is. I love the way Richard Mabry explores the lives of "Brother" Bob Bannister, Dr. Abby Davis, and Scott Anderson as they search for their purpose. And the mystery thrown in is an added bonus! The story is full of turns and twists you don't expect. I would like to see a follow-up story on the lives of these three!
July 18, 2019
Typically Dr. Mabry's books are medical suspense with a light touch of romance. In Bitter Pill he veers from his normal story telling style and focuses primarily on the lives of individuals in church ministry. Yes, there is a medical connection that Dr. Mabry so aptly weaves into this short but complex story.
Each of the main characters - and there is a crowded stage in this short book, encounters soul-searching, heart rending personal life events that could easily be the main stay of a feature book. However, Mabry defly tells enough of their story and how they interact with the other characters that you feel as though you are a local citizen or member of the local church congregation.
A short 120 pages of intense reading will leave you feeling like cheering because issues are resolved, spirits are lifted, hearts are healed, and salvation or re-commitment takes place.
I heartily recommend.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the author to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are mine, alone, and are freely given.
Each of the main characters - and there is a crowded stage in this short book, encounters soul-searching, heart rending personal life events that could easily be the main stay of a feature book. However, Mabry defly tells enough of their story and how they interact with the other characters that you feel as though you are a local citizen or member of the local church congregation.
A short 120 pages of intense reading will leave you feeling like cheering because issues are resolved, spirits are lifted, hearts are healed, and salvation or re-commitment takes place.
I heartily recommend.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the author to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are mine, alone, and are freely given.
May 2, 2019
Dr. Richard Mabry is a Doctor turned author. His books are so good. This is a novella style, somewhat shorter length book, but like the others I have read, it is captivating. You will enjoy the mystery, the cooperation between the characters and the reliance on God. It's a great read and I highly recommend it.
I received an ebook copy from the author. All thoughts are my own.
I received an ebook copy from the author. All thoughts are my own.
July 2, 2020
A Bitter Pill to swallow. The Narration of female characters bordered between comical and insulting. It’s been a long time since I’ve heard such disconcerting narration. I figured it only 3+hours “How bad can it be?” Bad..very very bad.
The story is a Christian crisis of conscience/faith tale cloaked in something resembling a medical story. Maybe IF the book is read instead of narrated it may be much better. For example two women were speaking to each and I couldn’t tell one from the other.
Mabry’s “Trouble Series” is much better in both storylines and narration. Start there!
**I was given a free copy of this book in lieu of an honest review at my request. It’s 2 1/2 stars and I rounded up to 3.
The story is a Christian crisis of conscience/faith tale cloaked in something resembling a medical story. Maybe IF the book is read instead of narrated it may be much better. For example two women were speaking to each and I couldn’t tell one from the other.
Mabry’s “Trouble Series” is much better in both storylines and narration. Start there!
**I was given a free copy of this book in lieu of an honest review at my request. It’s 2 1/2 stars and I rounded up to 3.
June 18, 2020
( Format : Audiobook )
"The surgeon dresses the wound but God heals the patient."
This is very much a book which can succeed only if the reader is a fully committed believer in God and, preferably, the Christian faith. Five characters in Goldman, Texas, one female, the others male, reach a crisis point in their lives and have to discover a way to go on. With the exception of Randy, a former conman now working as assistant to one of the others, all have a standing in the community: three are religious ministers and the fourth is the local doctor. Each finds a little ease talking with another in the group and, of course, in prayer. The story felt forced, motivations only slightly touched upon but already related actions were often repeated, taking space in this novella which would have been better emp!oyed with furthering the characterisation. Although most definitely not saying that prayer automatically puts things right according to our own desires, it very much pushes hard the idea that 'we are all part of God's master plan' and we should change our attitudes rather than telling God what to do. All very laudible, perhals, just far too much of it for someone wanting a story rather than a sermon.
Bill Nevitt is a talented narrator, with a warm presence, pleasant accent, good, nuanced articulation and the ability to bring life to characters through his individual voicings of them. But even be was unable to make this short book of personal life crises feel meaningful an real. Unlike Richard Mabry's other works, it was too much a long winded parable instead.
I was fortunate in being freely gifted with a complimentary copy of Bitter Pill by the rights holder, at my request. Thank you. It was an easy read and the ideas certainly had merit: it was just too heavy handed with the religion, too vague about the mundane motivations.
"The surgeon dresses the wound but God heals the patient."
This is very much a book which can succeed only if the reader is a fully committed believer in God and, preferably, the Christian faith. Five characters in Goldman, Texas, one female, the others male, reach a crisis point in their lives and have to discover a way to go on. With the exception of Randy, a former conman now working as assistant to one of the others, all have a standing in the community: three are religious ministers and the fourth is the local doctor. Each finds a little ease talking with another in the group and, of course, in prayer. The story felt forced, motivations only slightly touched upon but already related actions were often repeated, taking space in this novella which would have been better emp!oyed with furthering the characterisation. Although most definitely not saying that prayer automatically puts things right according to our own desires, it very much pushes hard the idea that 'we are all part of God's master plan' and we should change our attitudes rather than telling God what to do. All very laudible, perhals, just far too much of it for someone wanting a story rather than a sermon.
Bill Nevitt is a talented narrator, with a warm presence, pleasant accent, good, nuanced articulation and the ability to bring life to characters through his individual voicings of them. But even be was unable to make this short book of personal life crises feel meaningful an real. Unlike Richard Mabry's other works, it was too much a long winded parable instead.
I was fortunate in being freely gifted with a complimentary copy of Bitter Pill by the rights holder, at my request. Thank you. It was an easy read and the ideas certainly had merit: it was just too heavy handed with the religion, too vague about the mundane motivations.
August 26, 2019
Richard Mabry is known for suspense-filled medical drama with a strong faith message. In his newest novella, Bitter Pill, there is a mystery to be solved, but it is the faith journeys of the three main characters that take center stage. Bob Bannister is a faith-healer who puts on a show in the small town of Goldman. Dr. Abby Davis is a family practioner who cares for her patients emotional health as well as physical. And Scott Anderson is a surgeon-turned-associate pastor who struggles with his faith. All three are impacted by senior pastor Ed Farmer, a man who faces life with wisdom, wit, and grace. His example and legacy is the catalyst for big changes in all three lives.
Bitter Pill is a very short read, yet it is one that will make you think about who or what you put your trust in. The characters are not as well-developed as they would have been in a full-length novel, yet they certainly rang true in their struggles. I loved Ed Farmer, the pastor who connects the three mains. His character is inspiring, yet extremely down-to-earth and utterly believable. While there is a mystery with definite life and death impact, it is not as large a part of the story as I would have liked. It was rather neatly and quickly wrapped up — almost as an afterthought. But that didn’t spoil the book for me — I was focused on the growth of each character.
While a bit of a departure for Richard Mabry, Bitter Pill is a good choice if you are looking for a very quick read. I really enjoyed it.
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
(I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
Bitter Pill is a very short read, yet it is one that will make you think about who or what you put your trust in. The characters are not as well-developed as they would have been in a full-length novel, yet they certainly rang true in their struggles. I loved Ed Farmer, the pastor who connects the three mains. His character is inspiring, yet extremely down-to-earth and utterly believable. While there is a mystery with definite life and death impact, it is not as large a part of the story as I would have liked. It was rather neatly and quickly wrapped up — almost as an afterthought. But that didn’t spoil the book for me — I was focused on the growth of each character.
While a bit of a departure for Richard Mabry, Bitter Pill is a good choice if you are looking for a very quick read. I really enjoyed it.
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
(I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
March 2, 2020
I wanted to read this as soon as I read the book description, so I was thrilled when Dr. Mabry offered to send me a review copy. And it was as good as I’d hoped.
Bob Bannister is a charlatan. He’s a preacher with a healing ministry, but something goes wrong when he finds the woman he prayed for wasn’t his paid shill. Did she actually get healed? Abby Davis is a Christian doctor in town, a family practitioner faced with a growing number of elderly patients with elderly issues, and who is running into problems as a result. Scott Anderson is a medical doctor who abandoned medicine and went to seminary following the death of his wife. He’s now struggling to share God’s word in his new role as assistant pastor.
Three people, each struggling in their own way, but united in that their struggles all relate to the link between faith and medicine. Those struggles are the “bitter pill” of the title, a reminder that we all go through struggles as Christians, but struggles are how we grow.
Bitter Pill is a novel about character growth and change. It’s not the typical Richard Mabry novel. Sure, it’s got the medical setting, but it’s not medical suspense in the same way as his previous novels (no bodies on the driveway in Chapter One). It also has a stronger faith aspect than some of his previous novels, with a valuable message.
Recommended.
Thanks to the author for providing a free ebook for review.
Bob Bannister is a charlatan. He’s a preacher with a healing ministry, but something goes wrong when he finds the woman he prayed for wasn’t his paid shill. Did she actually get healed? Abby Davis is a Christian doctor in town, a family practitioner faced with a growing number of elderly patients with elderly issues, and who is running into problems as a result. Scott Anderson is a medical doctor who abandoned medicine and went to seminary following the death of his wife. He’s now struggling to share God’s word in his new role as assistant pastor.
Three people, each struggling in their own way, but united in that their struggles all relate to the link between faith and medicine. Those struggles are the “bitter pill” of the title, a reminder that we all go through struggles as Christians, but struggles are how we grow.
Bitter Pill is a novel about character growth and change. It’s not the typical Richard Mabry novel. Sure, it’s got the medical setting, but it’s not medical suspense in the same way as his previous novels (no bodies on the driveway in Chapter One). It also has a stronger faith aspect than some of his previous novels, with a valuable message.
Recommended.
Thanks to the author for providing a free ebook for review.
June 24, 2019
(reviewed by Steve)
THE MOODS, THE METHODS, THE MANIFESTATIONS OF THE HUMAN HEART IS THE STUFF OF WHICH LEGENDS ARE MADE . . . AND NIGHTMARES.
IT WAS SOCRATES WHO DECLARED, “TO KNOW THYSELF IS THE BEGINNING OF WISDOM.” TO TRULY UNDERTAKE SUCH AN EXERCISE REQUIRES MORE DISCIPLINE, MORE TENACITY, AND MORE RAW COURAGE THAN MOST OF US CAN MUSTER. AND YET DR. RICHARD MABRY HAS MANAGED TO DO SO NOT ONCE . . .NOT TWICE . . . BUT THREE TIMES IN 121 PAGES.
IN BITTER PILL ONE COMES FACE TO FACE WITH A RELIGIOUS SHYSTER, AN EMPTY PASTOR, AND A STRUGGLING PHYSICIAN. EACH OF THEM CONTAIN THE SEEDS OF GREATNESS. EACH OF THEM IS DRINKING THE DREGS OF DOUBT AND DESPAIR. AND AS THEY CROSS PATHS, AND WANDER INTO EACH OTHER’S LIVES, THE READER DISCOVERS THAT HE IS EXPERIENCING THE GREATEST THRILL KNOWN TO MAN.
IT’S CALLED LIVING.
DR. MABRY CONFESSES IN HIS PREFACE THAT THIS PARTICULAR STORY HAS BEEN SITTING ON THE BACK BURNER INDEFINITELY, BECAUSE A FRIEND WHO KNEW HIM WELL SAID REPEATEDLY, “THIS ISN’T THE TYPICAL RICHARD MABRY NOVEL.”
IT’S MORE. IT’S DEEPER. IT’S BOTH SOBERING AND EXHILARATING.
IT’S SOMETHING I WISH I’D READ EARLIER, AND SOMETHING THAT I WOULD LOVE TO READ AGAIN.
5 STARS FOR YOUR “NOT SO TYPICAL” RICHARD MABRY NOVEL
I received this book free of charge in exchange for my open and honest review.
THE MOODS, THE METHODS, THE MANIFESTATIONS OF THE HUMAN HEART IS THE STUFF OF WHICH LEGENDS ARE MADE . . . AND NIGHTMARES.
IT WAS SOCRATES WHO DECLARED, “TO KNOW THYSELF IS THE BEGINNING OF WISDOM.” TO TRULY UNDERTAKE SUCH AN EXERCISE REQUIRES MORE DISCIPLINE, MORE TENACITY, AND MORE RAW COURAGE THAN MOST OF US CAN MUSTER. AND YET DR. RICHARD MABRY HAS MANAGED TO DO SO NOT ONCE . . .NOT TWICE . . . BUT THREE TIMES IN 121 PAGES.
IN BITTER PILL ONE COMES FACE TO FACE WITH A RELIGIOUS SHYSTER, AN EMPTY PASTOR, AND A STRUGGLING PHYSICIAN. EACH OF THEM CONTAIN THE SEEDS OF GREATNESS. EACH OF THEM IS DRINKING THE DREGS OF DOUBT AND DESPAIR. AND AS THEY CROSS PATHS, AND WANDER INTO EACH OTHER’S LIVES, THE READER DISCOVERS THAT HE IS EXPERIENCING THE GREATEST THRILL KNOWN TO MAN.
IT’S CALLED LIVING.
DR. MABRY CONFESSES IN HIS PREFACE THAT THIS PARTICULAR STORY HAS BEEN SITTING ON THE BACK BURNER INDEFINITELY, BECAUSE A FRIEND WHO KNEW HIM WELL SAID REPEATEDLY, “THIS ISN’T THE TYPICAL RICHARD MABRY NOVEL.”
IT’S MORE. IT’S DEEPER. IT’S BOTH SOBERING AND EXHILARATING.
IT’S SOMETHING I WISH I’D READ EARLIER, AND SOMETHING THAT I WOULD LOVE TO READ AGAIN.
5 STARS FOR YOUR “NOT SO TYPICAL” RICHARD MABRY NOVEL
I received this book free of charge in exchange for my open and honest review.
May 9, 2019
‘I don’t think any of us are prepared for the bitter pill we’re sometimes asked to swallow. ‘
Richard Mabry’s books have always been good and I have enjoyed them all. This one is a bit different than his usual fare, but he is wonderful here. We meet three individuals in this novella: Dr Abby Davis, who is somewhat dissatisfied with her practice and with God. Her patients have begun to ask her to pray for them. Then we gave Bob Bannister, itinerant preacher, who conducts healing services, even though there are no real healings. Until one night, there just may have been one. But Brother Bob knows it doesn’t have anything to do with him. And finally, there is Dr Scott Anderson, who has left medicine and gone to seminary.
Each one of these characters have a connection to the other in a roundabout way. They soon discover that God has a plan for their life. And it involves a good amount of discomfort. They must swallow a bitter pill, but like the medicine prescribed for an illness, that pill brings health back. Sometimes we all need a reminder that not everything that looks bad is bad. Good things come in pain and hardship sometimes.
*My thanks to the author fir a preview copy of this book. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
Richard Mabry’s books have always been good and I have enjoyed them all. This one is a bit different than his usual fare, but he is wonderful here. We meet three individuals in this novella: Dr Abby Davis, who is somewhat dissatisfied with her practice and with God. Her patients have begun to ask her to pray for them. Then we gave Bob Bannister, itinerant preacher, who conducts healing services, even though there are no real healings. Until one night, there just may have been one. But Brother Bob knows it doesn’t have anything to do with him. And finally, there is Dr Scott Anderson, who has left medicine and gone to seminary.
Each one of these characters have a connection to the other in a roundabout way. They soon discover that God has a plan for their life. And it involves a good amount of discomfort. They must swallow a bitter pill, but like the medicine prescribed for an illness, that pill brings health back. Sometimes we all need a reminder that not everything that looks bad is bad. Good things come in pain and hardship sometimes.
*My thanks to the author fir a preview copy of this book. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
May 29, 2019
Three people: a doctor, a surgeon turned pastor, and a lay person posing as a faith healer. Quite a combination for an intriguing story. Is there a common thread in their stories? As a matter of fact, is there a similarity to many of our own stories? Do you ever question what you are doing, where your career is headed, if you are in the right career, are you where God wants you and can use you, and do you even believe in God? Those can be some tough questions to address. Each of the three lead characters in this story are dealing with one or more of these questions. They may not be phrased exactly as I have stated them, but the questions are there nonetheless. I can’t say all their questions are answered, but I think they are moving in the right direction. I have heard it said that God will not tell you the next step until you take the one in front of you. No, I didn’t read that in the story but the message seemed rather clear. Each character was facing some potentially life-changing decisions but they had to choose whether to move forward or not. I enjoyed the story and would love to see a series develop. Just a personal opinion. I received an advance copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
June 9, 2019
Scott dropped the Dr to his name as well as being in the medicine field.
Taking courses to be a pastor and now he had been an associate pastor for three months. When Ed tells him he will be the one preaching on Sunday. Scott saying he needs more time, when Ed reply’s God created the world in six days. He could prepare a sermon in six days. The real question for Scott was what was his foundation, his beliefs.
Bob.Bannister was struggling with a nightmare or was he aware that someone in this small town was sending. deadly messages to warn people about him. He had a thriving healing church , until a woman walked away, and he couldn’t explain what happened, but it scared him.
Abby questions her career choice, when a woman asks to continue to see her, though outcome had already been said. Could she continue to give her patients what they needed outside of being a doctor,
A good in depth look at three people one might say had tunnel visions in their choice of career. and God was showing them to accept other possibility, and to broaden them, in ways that have come to them.
Leaving how it was done, to faith, prayer, and in God’s hand.
Once again he has written, a book that captures us, and intrigued us, of how the three will come together, and the outcome.
Taking courses to be a pastor and now he had been an associate pastor for three months. When Ed tells him he will be the one preaching on Sunday. Scott saying he needs more time, when Ed reply’s God created the world in six days. He could prepare a sermon in six days. The real question for Scott was what was his foundation, his beliefs.
Bob.Bannister was struggling with a nightmare or was he aware that someone in this small town was sending. deadly messages to warn people about him. He had a thriving healing church , until a woman walked away, and he couldn’t explain what happened, but it scared him.
Abby questions her career choice, when a woman asks to continue to see her, though outcome had already been said. Could she continue to give her patients what they needed outside of being a doctor,
A good in depth look at three people one might say had tunnel visions in their choice of career. and God was showing them to accept other possibility, and to broaden them, in ways that have come to them.
Leaving how it was done, to faith, prayer, and in God’s hand.
Once again he has written, a book that captures us, and intrigued us, of how the three will come together, and the outcome.
May 23, 2019
Another great story by Dr. Richard Mabry. I always enjoy his characters and how he skillfully portrays them along with an interesting and inspiring message in his writing.
Scott, once a practicing surgeon, has abandoned medicine and gone to seminary. He blames himself for his wife’s death. He is now an associate pastor at a small community church.
Abby is a general practitioner who seems to be counseling people more than helping their physical ailments.
Bannister moves from town to town preaching and doing healing services with his sidekick Randy.
These three are seeking and searching for their purpose in life. Will God use them, and in what way? Adding to the storyline is a sinister soul leaving threatening notes to Bannister to get out of town. And his message gets louder and louder. Each deed he does gets bolder and bolder. What does he really want and what’s the reason for the threats? God must cause each one to swallow a “bitter pill” in order to get their attention and listen to him.
I received a complimentary copy of this novella from the author but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise.
Scott, once a practicing surgeon, has abandoned medicine and gone to seminary. He blames himself for his wife’s death. He is now an associate pastor at a small community church.
Abby is a general practitioner who seems to be counseling people more than helping their physical ailments.
Bannister moves from town to town preaching and doing healing services with his sidekick Randy.
These three are seeking and searching for their purpose in life. Will God use them, and in what way? Adding to the storyline is a sinister soul leaving threatening notes to Bannister to get out of town. And his message gets louder and louder. Each deed he does gets bolder and bolder. What does he really want and what’s the reason for the threats? God must cause each one to swallow a “bitter pill” in order to get their attention and listen to him.
I received a complimentary copy of this novella from the author but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise.
January 16, 2021
This is a good, thought provoking book. Three people, seemingly very different, are brought together through one pastor. "Brother" Bob Bannister is a fake, paying people to pretend to be healed during his services. Scott Anderson was one an up and coming surgeon. After his wife's death, he turns from medicine to become a minister. But, is his a true calling or just a way to escape his past? Dr. Abby Davis is a Doctor, but more and more, she is called upon to also act as prayer partner and counselor to her patients.
This book has a little bit of mystery, a few sad moments and a lot of Biblical inspiration. The author does a good job of weaving the main characters together as they each try to come to terms with God's will in their lives. This was a quick, well-written read and a good break from a lot of the heavier books that I tend to read.
The narrator does a good job, but some of his female voices are a little grating. All in all, he does a good job and his narration keeps the action going at just the right pace. I was given the chance to listen to this audiobook by the narrator and chose to review it.
This book has a little bit of mystery, a few sad moments and a lot of Biblical inspiration. The author does a good job of weaving the main characters together as they each try to come to terms with God's will in their lives. This was a quick, well-written read and a good break from a lot of the heavier books that I tend to read.
The narrator does a good job, but some of his female voices are a little grating. All in all, he does a good job and his narration keeps the action going at just the right pace. I was given the chance to listen to this audiobook by the narrator and chose to review it.
July 14, 2019
This is Dr. Maybry's newest story. It's actually a novella. It may be a short story but it's one of the best that I've read in a long time.
I never cry when reading a story but I surprised myself and found that tears were running down my face as I read this story. Not that it's a sad story, it's a story of people in a small community surrounded by a much bigger life picture than any of them ever expected.
This story is about life...the good, the bad and the ugly. And how it affects all of us.
It's interesting how all our lives are interconnected and, yet, until something like an unexpected miracle happens we find ourselves seeking the One who created it all.
This short story packs quite a wallop!
I loved this story!
I never cry when reading a story but I surprised myself and found that tears were running down my face as I read this story. Not that it's a sad story, it's a story of people in a small community surrounded by a much bigger life picture than any of them ever expected.
This story is about life...the good, the bad and the ugly. And how it affects all of us.
It's interesting how all our lives are interconnected and, yet, until something like an unexpected miracle happens we find ourselves seeking the One who created it all.
This short story packs quite a wallop!
I loved this story!
July 9, 2019
An itinerant healing minister, a tired family physician and a doctor turned pastor find themselves linked to each other and discover that God has a purpose for them.
"Bitter Pill" is a story of redemption and grace. Sometimes the good guys become bad and the bad guys become good. It just goes to show you that appearances, like the heart, can be deceitful. When you find your purpose, the enemy will attempt to thwart it, but if you persevere and trust in God, good will arise out of bad situations.
It's a good thing this little novelette can be read in less than a day. You won't want to put it down.
"Bitter Pill" is a story of redemption and grace. Sometimes the good guys become bad and the bad guys become good. It just goes to show you that appearances, like the heart, can be deceitful. When you find your purpose, the enemy will attempt to thwart it, but if you persevere and trust in God, good will arise out of bad situations.
It's a good thing this little novelette can be read in less than a day. You won't want to put it down.
November 26, 2021
Bitter Pill was a great read by Richard L. Mabry. Everything was going well with "Brother" Bob Bannister's healing ministry, until the night he finds that the woman who walked off the stage under her own power wasn't one of his shills. Dr Abby Davis is at odds with God and tired of her family practice. Scott Anderson is the oldest graduate of his seminary class. He turned away from a medical practice in the hopes of atoning for his past mistakes, that include his wide's death. Each person is linked together and finds out what gods plan is for them. I enjoyed reading this book and can't wait to read more by the author.
December 1, 2019
Bitter Pill
God works in mysterious ways. Bitter Pill follows the lives of a doctor and two preachers as they struggle with questions of faith and medicine and a madman with his own agenda. The story is an interesting one that gives the listener a lot to think about.
The narrator does a nice job bringing the characters and story to life.
I received a complementary copy of this audiobook. This is my honest and voluntary review.
God works in mysterious ways. Bitter Pill follows the lives of a doctor and two preachers as they struggle with questions of faith and medicine and a madman with his own agenda. The story is an interesting one that gives the listener a lot to think about.
The narrator does a nice job bringing the characters and story to life.
I received a complementary copy of this audiobook. This is my honest and voluntary review.
January 21, 2020
I have submitted this review after listening to the audiobook of this title.
For those against religious beliefs, or Christian faith, this may not be story for you.
It highlights the deliemma a number of people have, due to a change in circumstances, which affect their view of God, and his hand in those changes. Thus the use of the heading "A bitter pill", being some thing forced upon the individuals, so their lives, in the end may become better.
For those against religious beliefs, or Christian faith, this may not be story for you.
It highlights the deliemma a number of people have, due to a change in circumstances, which affect their view of God, and his hand in those changes. Thus the use of the heading "A bitter pill", being some thing forced upon the individuals, so their lives, in the end may become better.
November 18, 2019
Bitter Pill. Richard Mabry is always high on my TBR list and I always look forward to reading any book by him. Bill Nevitt’s narration is, as always, excellent & adds greatly to the book’s enjoyment and seems the perfect complement to Mabry’s work. I was given an Audible copy of this book & am voluntarily reviewing it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
May 31, 2019
Bitter pill, indeed!
This latest novella by Dr. Richard Mabry was going great! Lives of three main characters going through changes, story moving along...then, *BOOM* it was over. It was great, I just wanted it to be longer!
This latest novella by Dr. Richard Mabry was going great! Lives of three main characters going through changes, story moving along...then, *BOOM* it was over. It was great, I just wanted it to be longer!
June 8, 2019
A satisfying read.
Another great book by Mabry. What made it special to me is now it shows the importance of Christian relationships in helping us find our way to the path God has for us.
Another great book by Mabry. What made it special to me is now it shows the importance of Christian relationships in helping us find our way to the path God has for us.
December 3, 2019
Three people facing personal identity crisis learn the hardest lessons.
Thy will be done.
Let go and let God.
Sometimes the answer is not what you wanted to hear.
Bill Nevitt continues to be realistic and an excellent narrator.
Thy will be done.
Let go and let God.
Sometimes the answer is not what you wanted to hear.
Bill Nevitt continues to be realistic and an excellent narrator.
June 23, 2019
Very Good Story
A good story that spoke to my heart!! I'm in a place where I really need Gods leading and guidance. This was real helpful!! C:o).
A good story that spoke to my heart!! I'm in a place where I really need Gods leading and guidance. This was real helpful!! C:o).
September 30, 2019
Another good one
Mabry takes the lives of 3 people who are at crisis times in their lives. It shows how God takes messed up lives and gives them new purpose.
Mabry takes the lives of 3 people who are at crisis times in their lives. It shows how God takes messed up lives and gives them new purpose.
October 5, 2019
Richard Mabry is a favorite author of mine. Always look forward to his next one. Great story and great characters!!
January 12, 2020
Introspective
This is a study of individuals of differing backgrounds sand dreams and their progression thru daily life. It causes you to think.
This is a study of individuals of differing backgrounds sand dreams and their progression thru daily life. It causes you to think.
September 24, 2020
Different from what I had expected, this book brought a new perspective to what grace can do...and that it is offered to everyone despite their past.
November 20, 2020
An excellent read
This book was thought provoking and a quick read.
It kept me interested from the beginning with such an interesting plot.
This book was thought provoking and a quick read.
It kept me interested from the beginning with such an interesting plot.
August 3, 2021
Faith
This story of conflict and success is driven by introspection and the questions that arise in life. A solid story worth reading.
This story of conflict and success is driven by introspection and the questions that arise in life. A solid story worth reading.
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