Bitter Medicine

Two Doctors, Two Deaths, and a Small Town's Search for Justice

Two deaths

Port Angeles, Washington, is a small town of pretty houses and smiling people, surrounded by acres of pristine wilderness. Everyone thought it was the perfect place to live . . . until two local doctors made headlines.

Two doctors

On a chilly January night, Dr. Eugene Turner hastened the death of a three-day-old baby boy who had been pronounced brain-dead. Six weeks later, ER physician Dr. Bruce Rowan hacked his wife to death with an axe, then tried to kill himself - claiming he snapped after witnessing Dr. Turner's euthanasia.

A small town rocked by a shocking fatality

What really happened? What drove Dr. Bruce Rowan - a man who was entrusted to heal the sick - to so savagely take the life of his own wife? Acquitted by reason of insanity, Dr. Rowan was committed to a mental institution. And thought the trial is over, some fascinating ethical and legal questions have been raised by its outcome.

Now, best-selling true crime writer Carlton Smith reveals the never-before-told facts and the stunning truth behind two doctors, two deaths, a surprising trial, and the picturesque town standing in the shadow of a ghastly killing.

©2000 Carlton Smith (P)2018 Tantor

Retired Seattle RN

I found this book fascinating. But it isn’t for everyone. I personally think Dr. Turner was innocent but if I was a young nurse and saw his actions I would have acted just like the two nurses did.
I didn’t like the cover up. I worked in big Seattle Hospital and I wonder how it would have

Excellent Book

Highly recommend this book. Excellent narration, well written and researched. Very great listen enjoyed it

Poor choices of words by the author

Sadly, on several occasions, the author refers to “the rubber room” at the jail where the doctor was being held. Not only is that a misconception but is also very cruel to those who suffer from mental illness. I half expected the author to describe the hospital where the doctor was sent to be “the funny farm.”

Excellent documentation of justice miscarried

If you want to murder someone, do it in Port Angeles, Washington. Especially if you’re a doctor.

Interesting cases

Interesting cases but they are told from the medical/legal point of concern. Would have liked to know more about "victims'" point of view. Good, clear narration!