David L. Breithaupt, MD aka Doctor B
THEE NEEDS KILLING MARLY
MARLY IS DUE OUT IN LATE 2010Driving to work, skilled San Jose Internist and Addiction Specialist Richard Drinkwater is ambushed and shot by a masked man; fortunately, one with poor aim.
Police are stymied. The doc soon suspects one of his patients, Marly Doan, a successful but cocaine-addicted and paranoid defense attorney, who thinks his doctor gave confidential, medical information to a legal panel resulting in disbarment and criminal charges.
In addition to pain, terror and rage over the shooting, Drinkwater is already enduring a significant episodic depression. After a bungled diagnosis, his wife - also a defense attorney - battles ovarian cancer.
It becomes clear Doan has business connections to a complex and ominous Central American drug cartel. Aggressive actions and threats continue. The police attempt inadequate protection. Drinkwater won’t hide and is reluctant to arm himself because being raised a Quaker made him a staunch pacifist who loathes and fears guns. The doc’s general mood and thinking improve and, encouraged by a realistic wife, he reluctantly hires a teacher, buys and learns how to use his gun and masters defensive tactics. He joins his wife in waging “Righteous War” on their two foes.
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This story is dedicated to all those who have had to put aside their long-held, societal wisdom, personal religious beliefs, even the law and react to protect themselves and loved ones. They confront unique challenges with what they feel are ethical choices and behaviors. Those who make such decisions, only after long, agonizing reflection instead of reacting to impulse, deserve even more praise.Author David Breithaupt MD further opines:
“Unlike cancer, few are ever stalked by armed
predators but everyone has opinions about owning, carrying and using a gun. I hope readers, pro or con, can relate to the moral, ethical issues Drinkwater debates with himself and loved ones."Self Portrait of the Author.......