The Regression Strain

by Kevin Hwang

Medical Thriller

Publisher: Normal Range Press

Publication Date: May 26, 2025

Synopsis

Dr. Peter Palma joins the medical team of the Paradise to treat passengers for minor ailments as the cruise ship sails across the Atlantic. But he soon discovers that something foul is festering under the veneer of leisure. Deep in the bowels of the ship, a vile affliction pits loved ones against each other and shatters the bonds of civil society. The brig fills with felons, the morgue with bodies, and the vacation becomes a nightmare.

One by one, the chaos claims Peter’s allies. His mentor spirals into madness and the security chief fights a losing battle against anarchy. No help comes from the captain, who has an ego bigger than the ocean.

With the ship racing toward an unprepared New York, the fate of humanity hinges on Peter’s deteriorating judgment. But he’s hallucinating and delirious…and sometimes primal urges are impossible to resist.

The Regression Strain is a fast-paced medical thriller laced with psychological suspense, perfect for fans of Michael Crichton and Blake Crouch.

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You might never want to go on a cruise again!

I have enjoyed cruising, but we all hear about what can go wrong. Imagine being on a ship, far from home, and getting sick or even dying. That does not sound like a fun time to me. However, that is what Dr. Peter Palma is experiencing on this ship. Not the dying part, but a mystery illness that is affecting the crew and passengers at an alarming rate. He thought this job was going to be easy, but he walked into a hornet’s nest without even realizing it.

I do not speak or understand much medical jargon, and I was pleased to see that while the author is a doctor, he made it so that anyone could understand what was happening to the patients. I don’t want to spoil anything, but as I read further and understood more, I predicted a few things before they happened. What I did not predict was who was behind all of this. That was quite a surprise. And how was the virus spreading? Whoa. Let’s just say I think I would be safe, but for reasons similar to Mandy.

Outside of the thriller, this is also about family reconnecting, especially when times are tough. The relationship between Peter and Nali, his sister. There are other notable characters, including Mandy and Luisa, who work with Peter in the medical facility.

This thriller is fast-paced, and although it spans nearly two weeks, it does not feel that long. The flow is continuous and kept me engaged from start to finish. I also enjoyed the imagery throughout the novel.

We give this book 5 paws up.

About the Author

Kevin O. Hwang, MD, is a professor of internal medicine in Houston, where he sees patients and teaches residents. His academic work has appeared in leading medical journals. Nothing excites him more than chicken enchiladas, index cards, and appropriately sized packaging. The Regression Strain is his debut novel.

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