Malcharist Paperback – July 22, 2020

This engaging book pulls the reader into the shadowy world of big pharma for a unique thriller. It spotlights many real, questionable techniques used to create, 'brand' and sell the next big drug and the Herculean challenges faced by journalists trying to go beyond the press releases to report on full story behind a new drug. Occasionally, I wished the action would slow a bit to allow me better absorb the nuances of the plot and there were characters that I would have liked to have known better as the story rolled to its satisfying conclusion. The obscure title doesn't do the intriguing book any favors, in my opinion. However, it's a fascinating summer read by a talented first-time novelist that's worth your time and money. I look forward to what he'll write next. Full disclosure: The author is a co-worker.

As one who has had the fortune/misfortune of reporting on the “science” behind prescription psychiatric drugs for 20+ years, I was thrilled to find MALCHARIST, the new novel by Paul John Scott. Mr. Scott's writing is engrossing (I read this book in 24 hours), irritating (his facts are spot-on and often enraging), and irresistibly evocative (I admit to calling out "Yes!!!" several times in the first few chapters alone).Granted, it shouldn't take a "fictionalized" tale about Big Pharma's sins to direct international attention to the heretical, commercialized science behind pharmaceuticals and Psychotropic drugs like methylphenidate, SSRI antidepressants and antipsychotics. But Mr. Scott weaves his story together so seamlessly that one will almost believe that this is a DOCUMENTARY—not a work of fiction.Yet, as proven in the 2005 thriller, "The Constant Gardener," Big Pharma's big lies sometimes merit the drama of a Hollywood-like storyline. Paul John Scott has delivered this—in a deeply personal, impeccably researched novel — and he has done so in a way that millions will identify with.While we're all lost in the Covid-madness, let's all honor the courageousness of Emergency healthcare workers who unconditionally put their lives on the line for strangers. These men and women are, of course, motivated by goodness. But make no mistake: while these heroes step into danger every day, Pharma truly only cares about profit. They get fined billions of dollars - pay the fine in cash - and move on to the next atrocity. This comes through loud and clear in this powerful book.I've read thousands of studies and observations about "modern healthcare” over the years, but little of what I’ve read made the impact that Mr. Scott's MALCHARIST did.I tip my hat to him - and pray others read this truthful and shocking "novel." I’m hoping for a Hollywood blockbuster too!FIVE STARS.👍

I basically enjoyed this novel ( I’ll get to the basically shortly) which describes the ways pharmaceutical companies have (among other things) lied, distorted clinical trial results, hidden side effects of their drugs, and attempted to sell medications for all sorts of conditions whether these medicines can help or not. As a former medical writer and a person who’s extremely interested in the many ways drug companies have corrupted our medical system, I was engrossed by how accurately Scott describes some of the really evil things that are going on. Scott describes the trials and tribulations of a journalist and a guilt-ridden pharmaceutical ghost writer. The depiction of those two main characters is decent. But Scott goes overboard in his depiction of what pharmaceutical companies can do. They don’t have as much power as he sometimes contends. My other objection is the jazzy writing style Scott uses. It may not bother everyone, but I didn’t like it. For example, “Yeah, conno-f....ing-rations. Lobster bake-on the beach is going to get us some sunsetty fantasy shots.” Or “Mad honeys, the full Abercrombie.” Nonetheless for me the pleasure of reading a nicely plotted novel that so satisfyingly exposed the wrongdoings of the pharmaceutical industry outweighed the book’s faults.

Paul John Scott’s first novel is well worth the read. He’s a wonderful storyteller. Malcharist has lots of twists and turns and colorful characters. It won’t disappoint you. Looking forward to Scott’s next one!

Holy crap. What. A. Great. Book.Malcharist is amazing. I enjoyed it so much, I tried to ration it. To make it last. I couldn't. It was too good.For such an unlikely topic to grab me, and keep me on the edge until the end is a testament to the writing skill of Paul John Scott. I don't want to give away any of the plot points. But I do think you should read this book right now.

Compelling and true! Engaging characters and Brilliant plot!

Really enjoyed this medical thriller- I learned allot about the seamy side of big pharma, while dropping into some of my favorite locals, Minneapolis, London, NYC, Chicago, and swank resorts in Bermuda and Hawaii with some interesting characters and clever dialoug.Very reminiscent of Chris Pavone (The Expats) in style and pace.I couldn't put it down and look forward to a sequel with Griffin in a new underdog, investigative journalist adventure!

As one who has been following the saga of the widely used statin drugs and the harm they can cause, I found this book not only interestingly written but hitting uncomfortably close to home. Anti-depressants are not the only poisons foisted upon an unsuspecting public. The author should write more books.

Well written, inner circle Big Pharma insights. Read at your own risk.

'Malcharist' combines the qualities of a good thriller with a searching look at 'Big Pharma's' ruthless pursuit of profit, regardless of the consequences. The compelling narrative is supported by careful research. Highly recommended!

This immensely powerful novel is a truly spellbinding thriller. Surely Literature Prize Nominations must follow?Very highly recommended indeed.