Successful mystery novels take that tried and true “whodunit” formula and employ some literary or psychological spin that makes them stand out. Scalpel: Vengeance is the Only Justice is a prime example in this case. In the book, readers get the dual perspectives of the seasoned detective and the calculating killer, in this case, a misguided vigilante. The novel is certainly a page-turner, compelling the reader on with only enough information to keep them guessing. It’s intelligently written and keeps the suspense going until the final words of the novel.
Septimus “Mac” McClymonds is the prototypical, veteran detective who has experienced every kind of heinous crime New York City has had to offer until now. The first victim is discovered in a park. The victim has evidence of a postmortem surgical procedure to remove his colon with a note that reads: “The Defense Rests! Lacks Intestinal Fortitude-Lacks Intestine!” Mac figures this is a psychopath with a sense of humor or some axe to grind. As the victims pile up, Mac deduces that the killer has some surgical background and is seeking vengeance against medical malpractice attorneys.
As the novel progresses, we follow the case through Mac’s eyes. But we also get diary entries and introspection into the twisted, rationalizing mind of the killer. This creates an interesting dichotomy of both men believing they are doing the right thing. The killer believes he is contributing to the greater good by scaring malpractice lawyers into thinking twice before going after doctors who, humanly, make mistakes. Mac is trying to stop a serial killer, and he obviously has the moral high ground. But then we keep flipping back to the killer who consistently tries to convince himself that he is the hero, albeit with insane rationalizations and flawed ethical reasoning.
Scalpel is captivating and feels like a classic murder/mystery. The dual narrators (detective and killer) complement each other in one fluid, full narrative. It’s as if they are having an ongoing conversation about morality itself. When Mac discovers the killer has a personal motivation for his crimes, he narrows the field of suspects. As it is with classic mysteries, the killer is always one step ahead, leaving the reader uncertain about the conclusion until the end. The novel is exemplary with its suspense and a compelling read.
Scalpel: Vengeance Is the Only Justice is a gripping thriller where revenge, medicine, and moral boundaries collide. Joel Berman delivers a tense story that explores how far one person will go when the law can no longer provide justice.
