Discover the Journey of Eli Kurz in "Sula's Sacrifice"

A Glimpse into the NICU Series

As some of you devoted readers know, Baby Doe is the first novel in the NICU series about my doppelganger, the feckless Eli Kurz MD. In Baby Doe, Eli has a cameo role as the smart but overbearing and career-focused senior resident presiding over a NICU housing a newborn who creates an impossible set of life-or-death problems.

In the second book, DiBene's Offer, set in the 1990s, Eli tries to reboot his faltering career at Harvard after neglecting his research. This raises important questions: Why choose biomedical research? How should one conduct this research? What are the rewards and downsides of minimizing clinical work for long days in a lab? Do we seek fame and glory, or the simple joys of discovery? And what happens when the pressures to succeed in academia lead to shortcuts?

The Consequences of Choices

The third novel in the series, Saving Julian, has been my favorite. Eli faces the consequences of his less-than-optimal choices once again. Julian, a baby in the NICU, requires saving several times, as does his mother, Sula, and Eli himself. As Albert Camus put it, "Life is the sum of all our choices."

Just Published: "Sula's Sacrifice"

Now, Sula's Sacrifice is just weeks away from publication. Due to medical malfeasance, Eli has been "encouraged" to take a sabbatical in Ethiopia. He hopes a simple device may improve outcomes for newborns delivered outside hospitals. Eli makes more poor choices, and so does Julian's mom, Sula. Together, they struggle to make things right.

Clinical research is challenging enough in the US, but lives are at stake in this fast-paced medical love story. It’s a narrative that would make members of research review committees cringe. For those captivated by Verghese’s Cutting for Stone, themes of exile, medicine, and family also emerge in Sula's Sacrifice.

A Review of "Sula's Sacrifice"

a review from an advance reading copy:

"Theft, kidnapping, ransom demands, character assassination, a sadistic Sudanese General, a supermodel turned doctor, and yes, love and redemption. Sula's Sacrifice has it all as we follow the trials and tribulations of Dr. Eli Kurz, who flees Boston to run a simple clinical trial in Ethiopia that might improve resuscitation of newborns. I had to strap myself in for the ride."

--Mark P Cohen, author of The Red Heifer post on Substack and the upcoming novel, Listening to the Echo.

The Heart of the Story

At its core, Sula's Sacrifice explores the complexities of human relationships and the ethical dilemmas faced in the medical field. Eli's journey is not just about professional redemption; it’s also about personal growth. He learns that every choice has consequences, not only for himself but for those around him.

The Importance of Research

Biomedical research is vital for advancing healthcare. It can lead to breakthroughs that save lives. However, the path is fraught with challenges. Researchers must balance their time between clinical work and lab work. This balance is crucial for ensuring that they remain connected to the patients they aim to help.

In Sula's Sacrifice, Eli's experiences highlight the importance of integrity in research. The pressures of academia can lead to unethical decisions, but true success lies in making the right choices, even when they are difficult.

The Emotional Landscape

The emotional landscape of Sula's Sacrifice is rich and varied. Readers will experience the highs and lows of Eli's journey. The stakes are high, and the tension is palpable. As Eli navigates his challenges, readers will find themselves rooting for him and Sula. Their struggles resonate on a deeply human level.

Conclusion: A Must-Read

Sula's Sacrifice is more than just a medical drama; it’s a story about resilience, redemption, and the power of choices. Eli Kurz's journey will captivate readers and leave them reflecting on their own decisions. This novel is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of medicine and personal growth.

Stay tuned for the release of Sula's Sacrifice and prepare for an unforgettable journey.