The Surgeon by Tess Gerritsen is a gripping thriller that focuses on Detective Jane Rizzoli as she hunts a serial killer targeting lone women. The book delves into the psychological and physical trauma of the victims, with Gerritsen's medical background adding authenticity. While Rizzoli's tough exterior and personal struggles are explored, the absence of Maura Isles is noted, but the story remains engaging and intense.
The Surgeon by Tess Gerritsen is a compelling start to the Rizzoli and Isles series, focusing solely on Detective Jane Rizzoli as she investigates a series of brutal murders targeting lone women. The killer's precision and medical knowledge lead Rizzoli to suspect a trained professional, adding a layer of complexity to the case. The book doesn't shy away from graphic descriptions of the crimes, but these are justified by the narrative's need for realism and the exploration of the victims' long-term trauma. Rizzoli's character is deeply developed, revealing her tough exterior and personal struggles, which are exacerbated by her interactions with her family and colleagues. While fans of the TV series might notice differences, the book offers a fresh perspective that avoids feeling derivative. The action is relentless, and the tension builds as Rizzoli and her partner, Thomas Moore, race against time to catch the killer before another victim falls. Gerritsen's medical background shines through, providing an authentic touch to the proceedings. Although Maura Isles is absent, the story remains engaging and sets the stage for future installments in the series. The book is not for the faint-hearted, but it is a must-read for fans of intense, well-crafted thrillers.
Quick quotes
The first thing I will say is that although this is billed as a Rizzoli and Isles thriller there is no sign of Maura Isles in this book, so the focus is solely on Detective Jane Rizzoli.
Rizzoli certainly has a big chip on her shoulder but as the book progresses and you see what she is subjected to even from her own family, you can kind of understand why.
This is not a book for someone who is looking for a simple detective novel due to the subjects covered. From the start Tess Gerritsen pulls no punches and the descriptions of the murder scenes at times leave little to the imagination but I never had the feeling that they were there just for shock value.