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Syncope — A Psychological Literary Thriller About Drug Discovery And Consciousness

Syncope noun syn·co·pe ˈsiŋ-kə-(ˌ)pē ˈsin-

1 : loss of consciousness resulting from insufficient blood flow to the brain : faint

    • as in faint
      • a temporary state of unconsciousness
        syncope has been reported in a small percentage of patients taking the drug

Kirkus Reviews on Syncope

“…an intimate study of a tortured soul finding redemption.”

— Kirkus Reviews, August 1, 2026 issue

Syncope, the psychological thriller by Judd Midlam, received the “Get It” verdict from Kirkus Reviews, which has reviewed books ahead of publication since 1933. The review appears in the magazine’s August 1, 2026 issue.

Syncope, page 152

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What Readers Are Saying

Straight from Amazon and Goodreads, with every review linked to its source.

“SYNCOPE is one of those rare novels that feels intellectually sharp and emotionally unstable at the same time, in the best possible way. … It’s the kind of story that stays in your head long after you stop reading.”

Pranav Bhatnagar

Goodreads

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“Thoroughly enjoyed this read — very engaging from start to finish, with some genuinely great one-liners sprinkled throughout. That’s saying a lot, considering the last time I read fiction was back in high school. Tom Glass is a compelling character, and I’m already looking forward to his next gambit. Highly recommend.”

“A very intriguing read which make you question what is best. It is an amazing read which you will not regret reading at least that is how I felt.”

Tanya

Goodreads · Advance copy

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“I was hooked from the beginning. I can really relate to the main character, Tom Glass, and his life as an alcoholic. … I was rooting for him the whole way through. … All in all, a very good story. I want more from this author!”

Uncle Milty

Amazon · Free digital copy

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“Loved reading this! Definitely an interesting book! Loved the writing and how it pulled me in from the beginning!”

“I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I enjoyed the exploration of biomedical ethics and how they can (and often do) clash with traditional medicine.”

Halle

Goodreads · Advance copy

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“…it’s a much deeper dive into one man’s search for a better version of himself. … Interesting read, even if I didn’t expect it.”

Ashleigh Carter

Goodreads · Advance copy

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“Amazing, and rather unusual read that reveals the world of pharmaceutical industry. The main character’s thoughts and feelings are so wild they reminded me of James Joyce’s Ulysses. I particularly love the cover of this book.”

Marina

Amazon UK · Verified purchase

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“From the very beginning, the story feels confusing and a lil bit chaotic, but I think that is done on purpose to show what is going on inside his mind. … His struggle with alcohol and his attempt to become better felt very realistic and emotional.”

Mia

Goodreads · Advance copy

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Read Syncope Today

Available now in print and digital formats. Discover a novel that challenges perception, identity, and the limits of free will.

2026 IngramSpark Editorial Selection, Mystery/Thriller

Also featured in IngramSpark’s Psychological Thrillers collection on Bookshop.org