This is a sequel to The Surgeon, and number two in the Jane Rizzoli/Maura Isles series.

The well-plotted action is full of surprises, vivid, tense scenes and graphic descriptions. Jane may carry her independent attitude a bit too far for some readers, but to me she seemed realistic and easy to sympathize with. Maura Isles doesn't have a big part in this novel; it's mostly Jane's story, but the addition of the intriguing Gabriel Dean is welcome. The scene where Jane's partner collapses with a heart attack is heart wrenching and unforgettable, as Jane realizes how little effort she has spent understanding her partner and his personal problems.

Gerritsen's switch from medical thrillers to police procedural and forensic suspense was a great choice for today's trends in popular fiction. She is a master at characterization and plotting, and her medical expertise lends reality to the details of the story. Plan on time to finish this book when you start it, because it's "can't put down" exciting.