I normally do not read nor like books about the Old West and gunslingers, but on Patti's recommendation I picked up this book.   I am so happy that I did.  Never thought I would find Doc Holiday's life so captivating and interesting. I had trouble putting this book down I was so taken by his story.  Not only was he a well-educated dentist, but also a gambler, horseman, piano player, alcoholic, a friend to the oppressed and a very generous and compassionate human being.  We learn that the main reason he leaves his beloved home in the south is that he is afflicted with tuberculosis with a very poor prognosis and goes west for the hope the arid climate will make his symptoms more manageable. His love interest, Kate, is a very complicated woman who is an integral part of the story.  Their relationship is off and on through out the book and shows he has extreme fortitude to keep her in his life!   I have read all of Mary Doria Russell's book.  They are all so very different, on such a variety of subjects and all exceptionally well written.  Doc is as good as all the others.  Aren't we lucky that she keeps writing!! ~Cindy