Rabbit in the Moon
by Deborah & Joel Shlian
Busy physicians Deborah and Joel Shlian have managed to fit in enough time over the years to write medical
thrillers. Their first book,
Double Illusion, was optioned for a movie, and
Wednesday's Child was
nominated for an Edgar Award. Their third thriller, Rabbit in the Moon, is destined to make its own mark
in the literary world. Set in 1989, this book follows American-born Lili Quan, an overworked resident at the L.A.
Medical Center, as she heeds a call "home" to China as a last request of her dying mother. Lili, however, is
caught up in a complex plot by several different groups to use her to persuade her grandfather, who she thought
had died long ago, to give up his formula for shou, a medical breakthrough that could extend the human
lifespan for several decades. New places, new experiences, and new relationships unsettle Lili's sense of who
she is and give her much to struggle with, besides trying to save her beautiful neck.
The Shlians have enlivened the sights, tastes, and essence of China, beyond the normal tourist haunts, by
presenting them fresh through Lili's eyes. That in itself would be worth reading this book for. But the Shilans
also offer a web of intrigue, heart-stopping chases, and sound medical science that rivals anything medical
veterans Robin Cook and Peter Clement could offer. Interestingly, the authors chose to set Rabbit in the
Moon against the backdrop of student unrest, reflecting the growing democratic movement during 1989, that
culminated in the massacres at Tiananmen Square. Though the search for a means to halt the ravages of old age
would have been applicable during any time period, including today or even in the future, the decision to pit
this discovery against this political drama added layers to an already strong storyline.
Rabbit in the Moon is an excellent read, offering more than just a page-turner with a tender love
story. It offers the reader much more to think about long after the final page is read. Well-done! |
The Book |
Oceanview Publishing |
June 1, 2008 |
ARC for Hardcover |
1933515147 / 978-1933515144 |
Thriller |
More at Amazon.com |
Excerpt |
NOTE: |
The Reviewer |
Janie Franz |
Reviewed 2009 |
NOTE: Reviewer Janie
Franz is the author of Freelance Writing: It’s a Business, Stupid!and co-author of
The Ultimate Wedding Reception Book and The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Book. |
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