Robin Cook "Terminal State"

Author: Robin Cook Original title: Terminal Genre: Medical thriller Year of first publication: 1993 Sean Murphy is a young Harvard graduate student specializing in medical biology. Although he has many scientific achievements to his credit, he often behaves irresponsibly and easily gets into conflicts with those around him. He is given the opportunity to conduct research at a center boasting exceptional success in treating medulloblastoma—a 100% remission rate. This is an extraordinary opportunity for him, as his recent research has focused on oncogenes. Understanding such high efficacy in treating even one type of cancer would help him comprehend many processes related to tumor biology. At the same time, Sean notices that the incidence of the formerly rare, multifocal form of this cancer appears to be increasing.  Despite opposition from his family and the girlfriend he is dating, the young scientist decides to seize this incredible opportunity and leaves for an internship in Miami. His girlfriend, Janet, a nurse, follows Sean and takes a job at the same center as him. Together, they set out to unravel the mystery of a unique medulloblastoma treatment. The book addresses the issue of scientific discoveries being used for inappropriate purposes. I must admit that shortly after I started reading, the solution to the mystery became quite obvious to me. Nevertheless, I enjoyed reading *Terminal State* all the way through.  A perfect, light read for the weekend.