Review: Beware of Big Pharma!
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 12 31, 2011
Just when we think we have smallpox or some other human-race-leveling disease under control, an outbreak reminds us otherwise. This novel allows us to see the dangerous after effects of a cure-all drug called Varion. When this wonder drug came on the market back in the day, it was "supposed to put the psychiatrists out of business." But everyone found out too late about the horrifying effects of long-term use. Varion also ended up in the environment, and was being re-ingested through food and drinking water, compounding the effects.The world quickly banned Varion, but that's when the real problems started: withdrawal. The conditions once "cured" by Varion came back with a vengeance, and all hell broke loose. Nail biters chewed their fingers off. Compulsive behavior became deadly ritual. Detective Borland assisted in cleaning up the big mess back in the day. Now, 20 years later, an "outbreak" has occurred somehow and fat, alcoholic Borland must partner with some of his old squad and train new recruits to squash the problem before the public panics.I suffer from dermatillomania, and the chilling picture of "skineaters" really hit home. I agree with some reviewers that the numerous references to Borland's hernias and his need for booze become somewhat distracting. Overall, it's a quick, engaging read and I couldn't put it down for long. And the irony surrounding the Captain Hyde character was brilliant. Looking forward to the sequel!