The Surgeon

by Tess Gerritsen
The Surgeon cover
Good Books rating 3.87
Thriller/Suspense
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  • ID: 5608
  • Added: 2025-10-24
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • ISBN: 9781409095040
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2010-01-26
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In 'The Surgeon,' Tess Gerritsen crafts a gripping thriller that blurs the lines between past and present. A serial killer is on the loose, targeting lone women with surgical precision, leading Detective Jane Rizzoli to suspect a medically trained assailant. As she delves deeper into the case, she uncovers a chilling link to an old, unsolved assault that she herself survived. The killer's return threatens to shatter her world, as she races against time to stop him before he strikes again. /n/n This novel is a masterclass in suspense, with Gerritsen's signature blend of medical expertise and relentless pacing. The intricate plot and complex characters keep readers on the edge of their seats, making it a standout in the crime thriller genre.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-10-24
excellent 4.10

The writing is excellent, and the story is fast-paced with well-developed characters. The plot is suspenseful, gritty, and terrifying.

This reviewer praises 'The Surgeon' for its excellent writing and fast-paced story, which keeps readers on the edge of their seats. They highlight the well-developed characters and the suspenseful, gritty plot that makes the book a thrilling read. The reviewer also notes that the book's terrifying elements add to its overall appeal, making it a standout in the genre. They appreciate Gerritsen's ability to create a compelling and suspenseful narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

Quick quotes

    The writing is excellent, the story fast paced, and all the characters are well developed.

    The plot is suspenseful, gritty and terrifying.

    Gerritsen's ability to create a compelling and suspenseful narrative.

Jen Meds Book Reviews · 2023-10-27
intense 4.00

The book is intense and not suitable for those seeking a simple detective novel. The author delves into complex subjects from the very beginning.

This reviewer found 'The Surgeon' to be a gripping and intense read, far from a typical detective novel. The author's decision to tackle heavy subjects right from the start makes it a challenging but rewarding experience. They appreciate the depth and complexity that Gerritsen brings to the story, even if it's not for the faint-hearted. The reviewer also notes that the book's subject matter and detailed descriptions might not be suitable for everyone, but for those who enjoy a more intense and thought-provoking read, it's a standout.

Quick quotes

    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.

    The author delves into complex subjects.

Between the Lines Book Blog · 2017-03-14
graphic 3.50

The medical details are too graphic and detailed for some readers. The author's medical background is evident but overwhelming at times.

This reviewer acknowledges the author's medical expertise but finds the level of detail in the medical procedures to be overwhelming and sometimes too graphic. They appreciate the authenticity that Gerritsen brings to the story, but feel that the sheer volume of medical information can detract from the overall reading experience. The reviewer suggests that while the book is well-written and suspenseful, the graphic nature of the medical descriptions might not be suitable for all readers.

Quick quotes

    Although I realise the author is a doctor and without a doubt knows her stuff, the medical procedures and aspects are too graphic and detailed.

    The author's medical background is evident but overwhelming at times.

    The sheer volume of medical information can detract from the overall reading experience.

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