Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

The Greater Good

Rate this book
What would you do if you could eliminate anyone?

If you knew each death would be an unsolvable mystery?

Would you try to do good?

Could you handle the pressure?

And what might others do to steal your precious secret?

Welcome to Kate’s world. It’s a thriller.

Big Questions and Bigger Twists make The Greater Good ideal for Book Clubs.

Dr. Katheryn Newton has dedicated her brilliant mind to groundbreaking medical research. She’s attempting to save lives and hoping to start a family when a catastrophic twist turns her world upside down. Suddenly, Kate finds herself with the power to invisibly end any life.

Within hours, Kate is caught in a moral conundrum and trapped in a web of deception. She fights on, fiercely determined to help her country and the planet, but it’s tough when doing good means being bad—and dangerous when someone knows your secret.

Fast-paced and filled with relentless drama, The Greater Good will leave you What are you willing to die for?

Audible Audio

Published March 15, 2025

166 people are currently reading
45 people want to read

About the author

Tim Tigner

23 books1,050 followers
Tim began his career in Soviet Counterintelligence with the US Army Special Forces, the Green Berets. That was back in the Cold War days when, “We learned Russian so you didn't have to,” something he did at the Presidio of Monterey alongside Recon Marines and Navy SEALs.

With the fall of the Berlin Wall, Tim switched from espionage to arbitrage. Armed with a Wharton MBA rather than a Colt M16, he moved to Moscow in the midst of Perestroika. There, he led prominent multinational medical companies, worked with cosmonauts on the MIR Space Station (from Earth, alas), chaired the Association of International Pharmaceutical Manufacturers, and helped write Russia’s first law on healthcare.

Moving to Brussels during the formation of the EU, Tim ran Europe, Middle East, and Africa for a Johnson & Johnson company and traveled like a character in a Robert Ludlum novel. He eventually landed in Silicon Valley, where he launched new medical technologies as a startup CEO.

In his free time, Tim has climbed the peaks of Mount Olympus, went hang gliding from the cliffs of Rio de Janeiro, and ballooned over Belgium. He earned scuba certification in Turkey, learned to ski in Slovenia, and ran the Serengeti with a Maasai warrior. He acted on stage in Portugal, taught negotiations in Germany, and chaired a healthcare conference in Holland. Tim studied psychology in France, radiology in England, and philosophy in Greece. He has enjoyed ballet at the Bolshoi, the opera on Lake Como, and the symphony in Vienna. He’s been a marathoner, paratrooper, triathlete, and yogi.

Intent on combining his creativity with his experience, Tim began writing thrillers in 1996 from an apartment overlooking Moscow’s Gorky Park. Twenty years later, his passion for creative writing continues to grow every day. His home office now overlooks a vineyard in Northern California.

Tim grew up in the Midwest, and graduated from Hanover College with a BA in Philosophy and Mathematics. After military service and work as a financial analyst and foreign-exchange trader, he earned an MBA in Finance and an MA in International Studies from the University of Pennsylvania.

Thank you for taking the time to read about the author. Tim loves to correspond with readers like you. You are welcome to reach him through Goodreads or directly at timtigner.com/contact

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
221 (56%)
4 stars
103 (26%)
3 stars
45 (11%)
2 stars
11 (2%)
1 star
9 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for Susan.
377 reviews3 followers
April 12, 2025
wow…what a thriller

Once again Tim Tigner delivers a page turning, twisting murder thriller filled with moral debate. I loved it. Another thing about the author I love is he always introduces new futuristic ideas..does not repeat his works……always something new and intriguing . With that said would love a sequel to this one
Profile Image for Grady.
Author 51 books1,822 followers
March 15, 2025
‘Forbidden fruit always tastes sweet’- An extraordinary thriller!

Said before, saying again: For those unfamiliar with the writing art of Tim Tigner, his credentials for his role as a novelist specializing in political intrigue and thrillers are impressive. His academic preparation is a combination of mathematics and philosophy with psychology and radiology, but after academia his instinct for investigation and thrill seeking led him to serve in the Green Berets, specializing in Russian and Soviet counterintelligence. When Perestroika/Glasnost ‘opened’ Russia (or at least by their definition made it more transparent) leading to the fall of the Berlin Wall, Tigner’s direction shifted from espionage to arbitrage and he moved from Russia to Brussels where he witnessed the formation of the European Union. His change in focus shifted back to the US, obtaining further degrees in business and International Studies, and he settled in the Silicon Valley as a corporate type in the medical device industry. And as if that background weren’t sufficient, he continued his travels around the world expending energy as scuba diver, skier, actor, mountain climber, a hand glider, a parachuter, and in every sense of the word an adventurer. Now he follows his obsession with reading thrillers by writing them.

In THE GREATER GOOD Tim employs his experience in the medical realm with a fascinating exploration of the life of one Dr. Kathryn Newton, a medical researcher who discovers a startling ‘power’ about ending life. As the book opens, ‘I shouldn’t be telling you this. I don’t want to put you in danger. But this confession is for the greater good. For humanity’s sake, I must create a record of my story. Just in case it is…well…the beginning of the end.’ How she copes with her discovery opens the portal for one incredibly fascinating thriller that provides not only an immersive reading experience, but also poses concepts for serious questions. Very highly recommended – another Tim Tigner success!
Profile Image for Robert.
168 reviews12 followers
June 24, 2025
The Greater Good is written in a first-person narrative of Dr. Katheryn Newton for most of the novel. She is trying to create a drug / medicine (GRAIL) that would prevent the body from rejecting new body parts. What she initially got was something new, unexpected, and dangerous (FRAIL). As expected, the story focuses on her setup and application of FRAIL.

This was my first Tim Tigner novel and I must say that he certainly has numerous twists and turns in the plot. In addition, he brings up numerous philosophical issues / questions that relate to the “greater good” of society, but highlight corporate greed, media deception, and government corruption / favoritism – many of these items are cable news discussion items today.

I found that some of the questions posed by Katheryn and her husband, Keith, to be intriguing and would make for stimulating classroom discussion regarding philosophy and morality. There were other discussion items that could be labeled as “political” that appear to reflect the author’s concern for current events. I thought that the author did a very good job of finishing out this tale of “greater good” – the ending was fitting for all that had transpired.
41 reviews1 follower
March 15, 2025
If you know Tigner, you know he takes you on a journey at warp speed. The Greater Good is no different and you’ll probably lose some sleep reading it because you’ll want to read ‘just one more chapter’. Good luck with that. The character development is to the point that you feel like you know them, but isn’t that the point (however, not all authors are able to accomplish this), The book’s timeline is now and it will seem like a review of current events: politically, scientifically, financially, spiritually. There is biological research, genetics & DNA, mutations, unexpected results all of which could happen as it does in the novel. The political savvy is frightening and most likely true as well as the financial backdrop of Wall Street and stocks. And spiritually, exactly what does ‘the greater good’ mean? I think you know however you’ll have to read the book to know for sure…at least Tigner’s version of it. Throughout the novel, Tim tricks you with a word, the turning of a page, reading the next chapter; but nothing prepares you for the ending. Did I forget to mention the murders? Enjoy the ride!
151 reviews
March 18, 2025
All I can really say is yikes. This doesn’t feel like Tim’s usual style. So much of the plot feels forced to get to the end. The protagonists are WAY to casual about murder. Actual cold blooded murder. This is not dealt with in a satisfying way and really makes me feel like they’re both just elitist assholes who think they know better than anyone else. Not for a second do they struggle with their decisions… because plot? Especially the husband is just an irredeemable person. So much so that I thought he must be the antagonist and there will be a final reckoning. Not so. All is forgiven because……. well, I’m still trying to figure that out tbh.

The premise itself is not bad, and there were REAL moral quandaries that could have been dealt with. Instead the quandaries are not really quandaries at all. The heroes are terrible people, clearly wrong and most definitely the baddies.
301 reviews9 followers
March 15, 2025
Totally Mind-Twisting!

Tim Tigner’s creative energy explodes in this multi-dimensional thriller. He deftly weaves intellectual, medical, political, and moral dilemmas into a minefield of actions and consequences. The protagonists have a true marriage of equals—each carries a strength and intelligence that complements their partner.

The plot itself pushes the envelope of creativity. A firecracker of a prologue sets the tone and warns the reader of the wild ride to come The author is never predictable and the twists are well-timed and never cliche. Sympathies shift like the floors in a carnival fun house with each new twist. I defy the reader to turn the last page without thinking about what “The Greater Good” really means. Five stars is not enough!
Profile Image for LadyBoss.
9 reviews
November 28, 2025
Obvious AI Writing

The “author” deserves credit for the good premise of the story. However, it’s glaringly obvious to me that AI wrote a great deal of the story. If not all of it. The pacing, the flatness of the characters, the perfect grammar with no unique style. I could go on. Now, let me clarify that I actually have no problem with AI assisting with a story. But, there are ways that an author can prompt and an AI that results in richer characters and depth. There are also ways that an author can partner with an AI so that the AI writes in that author’s unique style. With this one, I only managed to complete 19% before I gave up. This was 100% due to the flat feeling the AI style gave to the characters and the story. Good premise, bad execution.
Profile Image for Andrea.
740 reviews3 followers
March 16, 2025
Tim Tigner hooked me within the first paragraph. Hollywood will be at his door with a movie deal.

It is a compelling story about ethics and one's moral compass in serving the greater good both medically and/or for the greater population by decisions made shaping the laws in D.C. Bet you're interested now.

Read it now! The writing is spellbinding. The issues the characters struggle with are explored well while staying entertaining. The book was so entertaining and compelling, read and edited it twice.

Then, I listened to it on Audible. Very hooked on Tim Tigner's coming back to hits roots in the medical thriller genre.
Profile Image for Pat Pattillo.
11 reviews
March 20, 2025
this is the best read I’ve had in years

It meshes human nature, ethics, world peace, the most toxic aspect of self-serving politics together with the result being hope. If we could only be so lucky for it to work this way in reality.

Tim Tigner tackles subjects in fiction that stretch one’s imagination to the limits. He makes you think. This book started with what is commonly called a “thought experiment” but all his books are thought experiments. I hope to read more from him in a long, long time.
39 reviews
December 1, 2025
I’ve become a big fan of Tim Tigner, and this book has urged me to read onto the next.
Apart from being a great suspense novel, it has the moral dilemmas that are often dinner party conversations with close but old friends who know each other well.
The two main characters, Kate and Keith are thoughtful, intelligent beings who find themselves in a position to “do the greater good”, but not without risk to life or personal cost. Throw in some manipulation that tests their mutual trust and marriage, and then … someone is watching.

Great story. I hope Tim finds a way to pen a sequel
20 reviews2 followers
Read
May 1, 2025
A GREAT READ!

I just got home from 4 months in Naples FL and read the most recent Hanovarian alumni magazine. It listed a few outstanding alumni published authors. Tim is not one of them. My great-grandfather, my wife, our oldest son, myself, and several cousins are also Hanover alumni. Heritage is very valuable,but Hanover's radical left wing transition in the last ten years is shocking and inexcusable. Let's hope the pendulum swings. Keep up the great work, Tim.
29 reviews1 follower
December 5, 2025
I can't believe how awful this is!

I have been a huge Tim Tigner fan, but, wow! What a departure! Tim, there is absolutely no appeal in evil, hypocritical protagonists! Don't you know that the justification of murdering people on the other side of a political argument is NOT GOOD? As far as a business model, good luck to you, now that you've alienated probably more than half of your audience. NO ONE likes to be preached at, and especially by an excellent exemplar of HYPOCRISY.
124 reviews1 follower
December 7, 2025
"Gripping" and "Jaw-dropping" are a stretch, but "entertaining" fits

While there is a lot in this story that exceeds credulity, it was nevertheless an engaging and entertaining read. This is largely due to the credibility the author has from his background and in doing substantial research to support the scientific and military elements. The characters were somewhat interesting, but short of compelling; more two dimensional than three.
46 reviews1 follower
March 19, 2025
Fantastic plot

Tim Tigner is a master story teller and as much as I enjoyed all of his previous books this is even better. I don't believe I ever read a book that kept me guessing what would happen next as much as this Literary masterpiece. I absolutely loved it and am sure you will too!
Profile Image for James Rutherford.
7 reviews
April 29, 2025
Great book with a very interesting plot line.

Very much enjoyed this book as I usually enjoy spy/assassin thrillers and this was a very welcoming varying point of view to the assassin thrillers aspect.

Highly recommend reading and hopefully this becomes a series or has a follow up book in the future.
Profile Image for Don.
1,029 reviews5 followers
April 30, 2025
- Tim Tigner. This is one of the best stories I have read in quite some time. Tigner might have stretched a little but I really see no reason to not believe this tale. I really like his characters and their interaction and how they went about accomplishing their task.My hat is off to Mr. Tigner for creating a fabulous book.
49 reviews
May 6, 2025
A New Day

Tim Tigner writes the most interesting stories and this book is no exception. He is definitely a master story teller. You will want to dive right into this story of a bio chemist’s and her husband’s world and the mayhem that ensues. The book has a twist ending that is as surprising as it is beneficial for the whole human race. This book is such a winner!
15 reviews2 followers
August 21, 2025
Fun! Fun! Fun!

Very intriguing! You have to turn that page. You just don't know what's happening. I've never read a book with a storyline like this one that just keeps me coming back for more. You really feel a part of the two main characters all the way to the end. You're rooting for them, but you're not sure If you should. You'll find out why when you read the book.
45 reviews3 followers
March 19, 2025
Really, really good read!

I like the totally new direction and plot format compared to Tim’s prior work. Good subject based on strong science! I’m sure it is hard to break from a formula that has been successful. Congratulations on a great effort Tim.
Profile Image for Bonnie Stowe.
26 reviews
March 24, 2025
Another excellent story by Tim Tigner

Tim Tigner is one of my favorite authors because he creates stories that are not only hard to put down but also believable. He is amazing! I’ve read every book he has written and always look forward to the next one.
432 reviews8 followers
April 7, 2025
CC1

This book started a little slow. But about a third in it took off. Excellent undercover exercise. Not knowing to about end what Kate and Keith were in for. Great plot!!! 10 stars plus!!!! Thanks, Carl Clause
15 reviews
April 17, 2025
He always keeps you guessing!

Throughout most of the book I read with a furrowed brow. The questionable morality of the main characters would keep me turning the pages looking for the greater good.
Profile Image for Martha Stoddard.
49 reviews
May 19, 2025
Intriguing!

This story delves into moral dilemmas we never want to face. It is well placed and written. The characters are very human with characteristics we all have. Enjoy the read.
Profile Image for Linda.
364 reviews1 follower
August 9, 2025
I was glued and guessing. I did guess who the SEC lady was about 70% in and I was right. Still, this was very thought provoking. I do not have a scientific mind so much of the lab stuff went over my head. But I really liked it.
2 reviews
October 15, 2025
Way to Long

Of all Tigner’s books, this was the most padded with little action. The main characters were morally repugnant and that never changed. I’m hesitant to read another of his.
84 reviews1 follower
March 17, 2025
Masterful, suspense filled drama. Twists and turns at every corner. Is our heroines discovery the beginning or the end of civilization?
63 reviews
March 22, 2025
this was fun, interesting, thought provoking, and thoroughly enjoyable.

I think that covers it. Ok, they want 15, now 11 more words. Now seven.
Really glad I bought /read it.
Profile Image for Joe Martin.
50 reviews
March 29, 2025
As Usual another winner for Tim

I do have some of Tim’s books that I like better but this is still another good one. Good job!
25 reviews
April 14, 2025
Another good thriller from Tim Tigner. The science and protagonists’ motivations seem a bit implausible, but then again, Tim makes you wonder.
13 reviews
April 15, 2025
Intense & riveting

I love when stories are “out there”, a little scary but believable. This story was very intense and makes you wonder. I love this author! Great book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.