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Rizzoli & Isles #6
The Mephisto Club
Evil exists. Evil walks the streets. And evil has spawned a diabolical new disciple in this white-knuckle thriller from New York Times bestselling author Tess Gerritsen.
PECCAVI
The Latin is scrawled in blood at the scene of a young woman’s brutal murder: I HAVE SINNED. It’s a chilling Christmas greeting for Boston medical examiner Maura Isles and Detective Jane Rizzoli, who swiftly link the victim to controversial celebrity psychiatrist Joyce O’Donnell–Jane’s professional nemesis and member of a sinister cabal called the Mephisto Club.
On tony Beacon Hill, the club’s acolytes devote themselves to the analysis of evil: Can it be explained by science? Does it have a physical presence? Do demons walk the earth? Drawing on a wealth of dark historical data and mysterious religious symbolism, the Mephisto scholars aim to prove a startling theory: that Satan himself exists among us. With the grisly appearance of a corpse on their doorstep, it’s clear that someone–or something–is indeed prowling the city. Soon, the members of the club begin to fear the very subject of their study. Could this maniacal killer be one of their own–or have they inadvertently summoned an evil entity from the darkness?
Delving deep into the most baffling and unusual case of their careers, Maura and Jane embark on a terrifying journey to the very heart of evil, where they encounter a malevolent foe more dangerous than any they have ever faced . . . one whose work is only just beginning.
PECCAVI
The Latin is scrawled in blood at the scene of a young woman’s brutal murder: I HAVE SINNED. It’s a chilling Christmas greeting for Boston medical examiner Maura Isles and Detective Jane Rizzoli, who swiftly link the victim to controversial celebrity psychiatrist Joyce O’Donnell–Jane’s professional nemesis and member of a sinister cabal called the Mephisto Club.
On tony Beacon Hill, the club’s acolytes devote themselves to the analysis of evil: Can it be explained by science? Does it have a physical presence? Do demons walk the earth? Drawing on a wealth of dark historical data and mysterious religious symbolism, the Mephisto scholars aim to prove a startling theory: that Satan himself exists among us. With the grisly appearance of a corpse on their doorstep, it’s clear that someone–or something–is indeed prowling the city. Soon, the members of the club begin to fear the very subject of their study. Could this maniacal killer be one of their own–or have they inadvertently summoned an evil entity from the darkness?
Delving deep into the most baffling and unusual case of their careers, Maura and Jane embark on a terrifying journey to the very heart of evil, where they encounter a malevolent foe more dangerous than any they have ever faced . . . one whose work is only just beginning.
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First published September 12, 2006
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About the author
Tess Gerritsen
202 books21.2k followersInternationally bestselling author Tess Gerritsen took an unusual route to a writing career. A graduate of Stanford University, Tess went on to medical school at the University of California, San Francisco, where she was awarded her M.D.
While on maternity leave from her work as a physician, she began to write fiction. In 1987, her first novel was published. Call After Midnight, a romantic thriller, was followed by eight more romantic suspense novels. She also wrote a screenplay, "Adrift", which aired as a 1993 CBS Movie of the Week starring Kate Jackson.
Tess's first medical thriller, Harvest, was released in hardcover in 1996, and it marked her debut on the New York Times bestseller list. Her suspense novels since then have been: Life Support (1997), Bloodstream (1998), Gravity (1999), The Surgeon (2001), The Apprentice (2002), The Sinner (2003), Body Double (2004), Vanish (2005), The Mephisto Club (2006), and The Bone Garden (2007). Her books have been translated into 31 languages, and more than 15 million copies have been sold around the world.
As well as being a New York Times bestselling author, she has also been a #1 bestseller in both Germany and the UK. She has won both the Nero Wolfe Award (for Vanish) and the Rita Award (for The Surgeon.) Critics around the world have praised her novels as "Pulse-pounding fun" (Philadelphia Inquirer), "Scary and brilliant" (Toronto Globe and Mail), and "Polished, riveting prose" (Chicago Tribune). Publisher Weekly has dubbed her the "medical suspense queen".
Now retired from medicine, she writes full time. She lives in Maine.
While on maternity leave from her work as a physician, she began to write fiction. In 1987, her first novel was published. Call After Midnight, a romantic thriller, was followed by eight more romantic suspense novels. She also wrote a screenplay, "Adrift", which aired as a 1993 CBS Movie of the Week starring Kate Jackson.
Tess's first medical thriller, Harvest, was released in hardcover in 1996, and it marked her debut on the New York Times bestseller list. Her suspense novels since then have been: Life Support (1997), Bloodstream (1998), Gravity (1999), The Surgeon (2001), The Apprentice (2002), The Sinner (2003), Body Double (2004), Vanish (2005), The Mephisto Club (2006), and The Bone Garden (2007). Her books have been translated into 31 languages, and more than 15 million copies have been sold around the world.
As well as being a New York Times bestselling author, she has also been a #1 bestseller in both Germany and the UK. She has won both the Nero Wolfe Award (for Vanish) and the Rita Award (for The Surgeon.) Critics around the world have praised her novels as "Pulse-pounding fun" (Philadelphia Inquirer), "Scary and brilliant" (Toronto Globe and Mail), and "Polished, riveting prose" (Chicago Tribune). Publisher Weekly has dubbed her the "medical suspense queen".
Now retired from medicine, she writes full time. She lives in Maine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,382 reviews
May 21, 2013
This is probably my least favorite of Rizzoli and Isles series. I suppose it is all the demon possession parts of the story. I prefer regular old fashioned sociopaths.
October 21, 2015
Ever since Maura Isles got the spotlight in this series, I've been complaining how pathetic she is when it comes to her love life. Seriously, she keeps on trying to fall in love to every attractive guy who looks at her. How come a logical and level-headed medical examiner can make such stupid moves is beyond me.
Anyway, The Memphisto Club is the sixth book in the Rizzoli and Isles series. We got some stabbings here, some bullets flying between the good and the evil, a weird club and a ton of medical terms that either makes me a little bit smarter or confuses the hell out of me.
Tess Gerritsen managed to cure my reading slump and even if I want to slap Maura a few times, this book is a good read.
Anyway, The Memphisto Club is the sixth book in the Rizzoli and Isles series. We got some stabbings here, some bullets flying between the good and the evil, a weird club and a ton of medical terms that either makes me a little bit smarter or confuses the hell out of me.
Tess Gerritsen managed to cure my reading slump and even if I want to slap Maura a few times, this book is a good read.
March 10, 2024
The least Christmas kind of story line for a Christmas vacation read. An unspeakable crime on Christmas Eve gets the action rolling in this Rizzoli and Isles novel. Lots of blood, victims, evil and plenty of creepy flashbacks.
One of my favorites so far as there’s a mix of ancient mythology and modern demon hunters at work here. Multi-layered story plus a few personal dramas at home for Maura and Jane.
Although I guessed most of the ending, it really was a page turner. Great way to start off the last week of reading in 2019.
(Reviewed 12/28/19)
One of my favorites so far as there’s a mix of ancient mythology and modern demon hunters at work here. Multi-layered story plus a few personal dramas at home for Maura and Jane.
Although I guessed most of the ending, it really was a page turner. Great way to start off the last week of reading in 2019.
(Reviewed 12/28/19)
August 21, 2018
Homicide detective Jane Rizzoli and medical examiner Maura Isles are called to the scene of the brutal murder of a young woman. Strange symbols and a cryptic message are clues that lead them to an even stranger group of people who are members of the Mephisto Foundation, a group of scholars who believe in and study the history of evil. Even more disturbing is the discovery that Dr. Joyce O’Donnell is a member and evidence suggests the killer is somehow connected to her.
This was a creepy story that focused on one of my least favorite topics. Mythical demons and their spawns are not my cuppa, which negatively influenced my rating. So, if this is a subject you find intriguing, I highly recommend the story as it’s well researched and written. There’s a secondary storyline involving Maura and Daniel Brody that I did find interesting as well as the story surrounding the killer who is identified at the beginning.
The narrator, Kathe Mazur, was outstanding as she adeptly grasped the nature of each character, providing distinction and resonance. She also added a creep factor to match the story. Even though this wasn’t my most favorite of the stories in the series, it still was pretty interesting and had an exciting climax. 3.5 stars
This was a creepy story that focused on one of my least favorite topics. Mythical demons and their spawns are not my cuppa, which negatively influenced my rating. So, if this is a subject you find intriguing, I highly recommend the story as it’s well researched and written. There’s a secondary storyline involving Maura and Daniel Brody that I did find interesting as well as the story surrounding the killer who is identified at the beginning.
The narrator, Kathe Mazur, was outstanding as she adeptly grasped the nature of each character, providing distinction and resonance. She also added a creep factor to match the story. Even though this wasn’t my most favorite of the stories in the series, it still was pretty interesting and had an exciting climax. 3.5 stars
June 23, 2019
"You can study a face all you want, but you never really know what lies beneath the mask.”
The sixth book in the Rizzoli & Isles series. I have enjoyed reading the books in this series but this is probably my least favorite. It was still an enjoyable read but it was too Dan Brownish. Too much demons / the devil, the bible, secret societies, etc. I understand how Jane Rizzoli felt in this story.
It is Christmas Eve and both Jane Rizzoli and Maura Isles draw the short straws when they are called out to a brutal murder scene. Even the cops are stunned by the brutality. Lots of blood and body parts. PECCAVI (I HAVE SINNED) is written in blood ... along with upside down crosses. And there is a link to Dr. Joyce O’Donnell, the celebrity psychiatrist and Rizzoli's nemesis. Naturally Dr. O’Donnell gives Jane a hard time and won't say where she was or who she was with at the time of the murder. Only that she was with friends. Turns out the friends were members of the Mephisto Club.
The Mephisto Club is a secret society that studies evil. Do demons walk among us? Does it have a physical presence? Using historical data and mysterious religious symbolism they aim to prove that Satan exists among us. Their leader, Anthony Sansone, is mysterious and wealthy. He also seems to have connections at very high levels. Jane has no choice but to work with him. Jane doesn't believe in demons, the devil, or symbology. As far as she is concerned the Mephisto Club is nothing more than an amateur crime fighting club. Maura Isles finds herself being drawn into the club accidentally. Guilt by association. That association being that she was at the crime scenes.
In addition to the gruesome murders, demons, biblical references, and symbols there are personal issues for Jane Rizzoli and Maura Isles. Jane's problems are with her parents and in some ways it was humorous. Maura's problems are with her feelings towards Father Daniel Brophy. This in turn causes conflict between Jane and Maura. Not the best book in the series but still an enjoyable read. As long as Tess Gerritsen doesn't turn into Dan Brown. That would be evil. Back to basics please!
The sixth book in the Rizzoli & Isles series. I have enjoyed reading the books in this series but this is probably my least favorite. It was still an enjoyable read but it was too Dan Brownish. Too much demons / the devil, the bible, secret societies, etc. I understand how Jane Rizzoli felt in this story.
It is Christmas Eve and both Jane Rizzoli and Maura Isles draw the short straws when they are called out to a brutal murder scene. Even the cops are stunned by the brutality. Lots of blood and body parts. PECCAVI (I HAVE SINNED) is written in blood ... along with upside down crosses. And there is a link to Dr. Joyce O’Donnell, the celebrity psychiatrist and Rizzoli's nemesis. Naturally Dr. O’Donnell gives Jane a hard time and won't say where she was or who she was with at the time of the murder. Only that she was with friends. Turns out the friends were members of the Mephisto Club.
The Mephisto Club is a secret society that studies evil. Do demons walk among us? Does it have a physical presence? Using historical data and mysterious religious symbolism they aim to prove that Satan exists among us. Their leader, Anthony Sansone, is mysterious and wealthy. He also seems to have connections at very high levels. Jane has no choice but to work with him. Jane doesn't believe in demons, the devil, or symbology. As far as she is concerned the Mephisto Club is nothing more than an amateur crime fighting club. Maura Isles finds herself being drawn into the club accidentally. Guilt by association. That association being that she was at the crime scenes.
In addition to the gruesome murders, demons, biblical references, and symbols there are personal issues for Jane Rizzoli and Maura Isles. Jane's problems are with her parents and in some ways it was humorous. Maura's problems are with her feelings towards Father Daniel Brophy. This in turn causes conflict between Jane and Maura. Not the best book in the series but still an enjoyable read. As long as Tess Gerritsen doesn't turn into Dan Brown. That would be evil. Back to basics please!
June 2, 2023
The Mephisto Club marks the 6th book in the Rizzoli and Isles series and takes us into the depraved mind of a killer brought up following beliefs and ideologies that are rejected by most. Be prepared for a series of gruesome crime scenes, a nicely contrived storyline and a continuance of the personal lives of both of the main characters.
A gruesome murder calls both Jane Rizzoli and Maura Isles out on Christmas Eve with the crime scene displaying numerous signs of devil worship. Upside down crosses, a pentagram, confronting displays of body parts and blood indicates that an extremely deranged individual has been at work.
The fact that a message in Latin has been left at the scene, translated as “I have sinned”, suggests that the murder is both personal and an act of some kind of revenge or recrimination. But the killer has only just started, leaving murder scenes just as confronting as the first but, fortunately for the police, prone to also leaving clues with the bodies.
There’s a great deal of symbolism used throughout this book, some of it drawing on biblical references, others on pre-scripture works as well as traditional beliefs. There’s a lot to digest but this also provides a rich trail to follow ensuring that the investigation always appears to be progressing.
An unwelcome aid to the investigation comes from the Mephisto Club, a group of civilians who have banded together to form a crime fighting club. Although it’s headed by Anthony Sansome, an extremely wealthy man with connections at the highest level, Rizzoli wants him and his fellow club members out of the picture and away from her crime scenes. That, of course, doesn’t happen and through strings pulled at the highest levels the Mephisto Club joins the hunt for the killer. Thanks to their far-reaching contacts and vast specialist knowledge, their inclusion was a refreshing addition to the team we’ve previously become used to.
Rizzoli’s parents are breaking up. A somewhat amusing diversion to the murder case to provide a few lighter moments. Meanwhile, the feelings Maura Isles for Father Daniel Brophy has been battling over the last couple of books are brought to a head here. This forbidden relationship is fraught with problems and threatens to drive a wedge between the friendship formed by Rizzoli and Isles.
Personally, I don’t mind the blood and gore linked to serial killer books, although I can see where some might have a problem with it. You should go in knowing there will be some confronting moments. Let’s face it, when one of the lead characters is a medical examiner you’re going to strike a higher than normal number of graphic scenes involving human body parts. Tess Gerritsen did a good job in portraying the horror of her crime scenes without going too far over the top.
With a tightly woven plot backed by a well coordinated investigation underlined by some fierce antagonism along the way, I found myself really enjoying The Mephisto Club. From Boston to Rome and back again, the tension was sustained throughout.
A gruesome murder calls both Jane Rizzoli and Maura Isles out on Christmas Eve with the crime scene displaying numerous signs of devil worship. Upside down crosses, a pentagram, confronting displays of body parts and blood indicates that an extremely deranged individual has been at work.
The fact that a message in Latin has been left at the scene, translated as “I have sinned”, suggests that the murder is both personal and an act of some kind of revenge or recrimination. But the killer has only just started, leaving murder scenes just as confronting as the first but, fortunately for the police, prone to also leaving clues with the bodies.
There’s a great deal of symbolism used throughout this book, some of it drawing on biblical references, others on pre-scripture works as well as traditional beliefs. There’s a lot to digest but this also provides a rich trail to follow ensuring that the investigation always appears to be progressing.
An unwelcome aid to the investigation comes from the Mephisto Club, a group of civilians who have banded together to form a crime fighting club. Although it’s headed by Anthony Sansome, an extremely wealthy man with connections at the highest level, Rizzoli wants him and his fellow club members out of the picture and away from her crime scenes. That, of course, doesn’t happen and through strings pulled at the highest levels the Mephisto Club joins the hunt for the killer. Thanks to their far-reaching contacts and vast specialist knowledge, their inclusion was a refreshing addition to the team we’ve previously become used to.
Rizzoli’s parents are breaking up. A somewhat amusing diversion to the murder case to provide a few lighter moments. Meanwhile, the feelings Maura Isles for Father Daniel Brophy has been battling over the last couple of books are brought to a head here. This forbidden relationship is fraught with problems and threatens to drive a wedge between the friendship formed by Rizzoli and Isles.
Personally, I don’t mind the blood and gore linked to serial killer books, although I can see where some might have a problem with it. You should go in knowing there will be some confronting moments. Let’s face it, when one of the lead characters is a medical examiner you’re going to strike a higher than normal number of graphic scenes involving human body parts. Tess Gerritsen did a good job in portraying the horror of her crime scenes without going too far over the top.
With a tightly woven plot backed by a well coordinated investigation underlined by some fierce antagonism along the way, I found myself really enjoying The Mephisto Club. From Boston to Rome and back again, the tension was sustained throughout.
March 24, 2018
Peccavi.
“I have sinned.” This Latin word, along with three upside down crosses, is found on the wall of a lurid murder scene on Christmas Eve. The Mephisto Club, Tess Gerritsen’s sixth book in her much-liked Rizzoli & Isles series, features more graphic murder scenes than several of her previous novels. Mephisto takes its name from the legend of Dr. Faustus. Mephistopheles was the evil spirit that appeared to Faustus after he drew secret symbols. The result: Faustus sold his soul to the devil.
Both Detective Jane Rizzoli and Dr. Maura Isles drew the short straw this particular Christmas and witness the horrific murder scene. “Peccavi.” Who wrote the message?” And for whom is it meant? Soon there is another death, with more symbols. This one strikes close to home. What is the Mephisto Club? Can its leader, Anthony Sansone, be trusted? He seems to be everywhere, to be given wide berth by law enforcement. Yet Jane is wary. She has good reason. One of the members of Mephisto is Dr. Joyce O’Donnell, the neuropsychiatrist who testified in the court trial of Warren Hoyt, the man who tried to kill her and left her scarred for life. She has no love for Joyce O’Donnell, nor does she believe in devils or evil spirits.
There were times when I felt as though I were reading a Dan Brown novel. The plot is filled with Biblical references and pre-Scriptural symbols and traditions. The author presents various interpretations of the messages the killer is sending through his drawings and more disturbing signs. She calls upon her background as an anthropology major at Stanford and her attraction to ancient myths. Beyond that, she once again features the struggle between good and evil. In The Mephisto Club, quite clearly, evil does exist, whether one believes that the source is human or spirit. Not just good vs evil, but the existence of God and the relevance of religion are also themes that tend to recur in these Tess Gerritsen thrillers. I don’t generally like stories that are too heavily invested in cults or preoccupation with demons and so on; this struck me as something altogether different.
Ms Gerritsen’s two female leads, Rizzoli and Isles, both have personal struggles in this book. Jane’s difficulties are with her family. While painful, there is also humor in the way the situation is presented. Maura’s struggles, as in Body Double, are with her feelings toward Father Daniel Brophy. Will she continue to avoid him? Can she? Can they find a way to be “just friends”?
We do get to see fragments of the villain’s past. There is no mystery as to the identity of this perpetrator. Or is there? Is it one big red herring? Does the killer act alone? I’ll say one thing: Tess Gerritsen writes creepy very well.
I’m not sure that I’d rank The Mephisto Club among my favorites of the series so far, but it did keep me interested, mostly because of the characters, frankly. I did appreciate what the author did with the themes, too. Her enthusiasm and training definitely make a difference!
4 stars
Both Detective Jane Rizzoli and Dr. Maura Isles drew the short straw this particular Christmas and witness the horrific murder scene. “Peccavi.” Who wrote the message?” And for whom is it meant? Soon there is another death, with more symbols. This one strikes close to home. What is the Mephisto Club? Can its leader, Anthony Sansone, be trusted? He seems to be everywhere, to be given wide berth by law enforcement. Yet Jane is wary. She has good reason. One of the members of Mephisto is Dr. Joyce O’Donnell, the neuropsychiatrist who testified in the court trial of Warren Hoyt, the man who tried to kill her and left her scarred for life. She has no love for Joyce O’Donnell, nor does she believe in devils or evil spirits.
There were times when I felt as though I were reading a Dan Brown novel. The plot is filled with Biblical references and pre-Scriptural symbols and traditions. The author presents various interpretations of the messages the killer is sending through his drawings and more disturbing signs. She calls upon her background as an anthropology major at Stanford and her attraction to ancient myths. Beyond that, she once again features the struggle between good and evil. In The Mephisto Club, quite clearly, evil does exist, whether one believes that the source is human or spirit. Not just good vs evil, but the existence of God and the relevance of religion are also themes that tend to recur in these Tess Gerritsen thrillers. I don’t generally like stories that are too heavily invested in cults or preoccupation with demons and so on; this struck me as something altogether different.
Ms Gerritsen’s two female leads, Rizzoli and Isles, both have personal struggles in this book. Jane’s difficulties are with her family. While painful, there is also humor in the way the situation is presented. Maura’s struggles, as in Body Double, are with her feelings toward Father Daniel Brophy. Will she continue to avoid him? Can she? Can they find a way to be “just friends”?
We do get to see fragments of the villain’s past. There is no mystery as to the identity of this perpetrator. Or is there? Is it one big red herring? Does the killer act alone? I’ll say one thing: Tess Gerritsen writes creepy very well.
I’m not sure that I’d rank The Mephisto Club among my favorites of the series so far, but it did keep me interested, mostly because of the characters, frankly. I did appreciate what the author did with the themes, too. Her enthusiasm and training definitely make a difference!
4 stars
March 22, 2019
The Mephisto Club is book #6 in the Rizzoli & Isles series and in my opinion its the weakest. I think book 6 was a little too inspired by Dan Brown and his books.
The Mephisto Club is about demons, Satan, secret societies, and lost books of the Bible and it was just less fun then the other books in the series.
I still love this series and I won't let one disappointing book effect my opinion of the rest of the series.
The Mephisto Club is about demons, Satan, secret societies, and lost books of the Bible and it was just less fun then the other books in the series.
I still love this series and I won't let one disappointing book effect my opinion of the rest of the series.
November 10, 2012
It amazes me that Tess Gerritsen is able to write such awesome thrillers, time after time. And yet she does, proving that she is, quite simply, at the top of her game--and at the top of the psychological thriller/mystery genre!
Many others have outlined the plot of THE MEPHISTO CLUB, so let me just say a few things: this is a great storyline, original, and handled deftly. The action-adventure is non-stop throughout the book, and although you know, basically from the beginning of the story, who the bad guy is, it doesn't stop the book from being interesting and intriguing.
I loved that Father Brophy and Dr. Maura Isles finally "got together," but I need this relationship to go beyond THE THORN BIRDS!! There has got to be a resolution to this plot line, and soon!
My only complaint with the story is Jane Rizzoli, who I actually love. However, her hard-a**, morally superior attitude in this book ticked me off. I want to see the softer side of Jane, the nurturing mother side, the love of Gabriel's life side--as well as the the tough-as-nails, ball-buster homicide detective.
Believe me, though, THE MEPHISTO CLUB is another winner!
Many others have outlined the plot of THE MEPHISTO CLUB, so let me just say a few things: this is a great storyline, original, and handled deftly. The action-adventure is non-stop throughout the book, and although you know, basically from the beginning of the story, who the bad guy is, it doesn't stop the book from being interesting and intriguing.
I loved that Father Brophy and Dr. Maura Isles finally "got together," but I need this relationship to go beyond THE THORN BIRDS!! There has got to be a resolution to this plot line, and soon!
My only complaint with the story is Jane Rizzoli, who I actually love. However, her hard-a**, morally superior attitude in this book ticked me off. I want to see the softer side of Jane, the nurturing mother side, the love of Gabriel's life side--as well as the the tough-as-nails, ball-buster homicide detective.
Believe me, though, THE MEPHISTO CLUB is another winner!
September 25, 2025
I have loved a lot of Gerritsen books, but I think this is my absolute favourite so far.
An outstanding book.
Five stars.
An outstanding book.
Five stars.
August 15, 2011
I really didn't like this one all that much. I was actually able to put it down and walk away from it.
I was not thrilled with the character development in this one, there was really only two surprising things...
The overall plot wasn't that good. I was not truly scared reading about the boy's perspective, it was interesting only when it came up, but never led to anything. And then Lily constantly looking over her shoulder was a bit excessive to me. And the fact that Gerritsen tried to get on the band wagon of Dan Brown's symbology was just a let down. She needs to stick to her own guns about medical thrillers and not secret societies. I already have favorite authors that write about secret societies, Dan Brown & James Rollins, and I truly wanted Gerritsen to be my new favorite author in my new favorite category all by itself, medical thrillers. Go back to your roots! Don't do what everyone else is doing!
I guess I was not all that hooked on the demon and Devil scenario that was described in this book, especially the character Anthony Sansone. I really did not like him, nor his influence over the government, Interpol, CIA, FBI, and Boston PD. It's like he trumped everyone. I did not like it nor get it. And then he starts this fighting evil club. Not what I thought it was going to be, and not who I thought would typically join this club,
This one just did not do it for me. I'm going to continue on with the series, but I just thought this one fell flat for me.
I was not thrilled with the character development in this one, there was really only two surprising things...
The overall plot wasn't that good. I was not truly scared reading about the boy's perspective, it was interesting only when it came up, but never led to anything. And then Lily constantly looking over her shoulder was a bit excessive to me. And the fact that Gerritsen tried to get on the band wagon of Dan Brown's symbology was just a let down. She needs to stick to her own guns about medical thrillers and not secret societies. I already have favorite authors that write about secret societies, Dan Brown & James Rollins, and I truly wanted Gerritsen to be my new favorite author in my new favorite category all by itself, medical thrillers. Go back to your roots! Don't do what everyone else is doing!
I guess I was not all that hooked on the demon and Devil scenario that was described in this book, especially the character Anthony Sansone. I really did not like him, nor his influence over the government, Interpol, CIA, FBI, and Boston PD. It's like he trumped everyone. I did not like it nor get it. And then he starts this fighting evil club. Not what I thought it was going to be, and not who I thought would typically join this club,
This one just did not do it for me. I'm going to continue on with the series, but I just thought this one fell flat for me.
July 24, 2017
The Mephisto Club is the sixth Rizzoli and Isles book, and if I’m being honest it is probably my least favourite thus far. It was still an enjoyable read, but I didn’t love it in the way I loved the five prior books. I’m unsure if this is because it has been so long since I read Vanish or whether it was the story itself but I’m hoping I’ll enjoy The Keepsake a lot more.
The one thing I can clearly attribute to my lowered enjoyment is the attention paid to the private life of Isles. Ever since we started to get glimpses into her private life, I’ve found myself somewhat disinterested in the events outside of the criminal elements of the story. I positively adore following Rizzoli’s life – I’ve become so invested, I always want more – yet I cannot bring myself to feel the same way about Isles. I’m not sure what it is about her in particular, but I’m nowhere near as invested in her life.
In terms of the specific story of this one, it’s quite different to the prior books. The Mephisto Club deals with evil in more abstract terms rather than looking at a single crime. Whilst there is the one single crime story being told throughout, the overall story comes together in relation with the overall concept of evil more than it does the individual storyline. I feel as though the usual hard hitting elements of a Rizzoli and Isles story was lost in the background in this attempt to address evil on a much bigger picture.
I have no issue with such stories. They can be very interesting. They can make for great reads. However, it didn’t quite fit with what I expect from a Rizzoli and Isles story. It almost felt as though the characters were slipped into a storyline that was meant for another, with little bits of their own stories being pulled in and lost in the background of everything else that was going on.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read but it wasn’t all I had been hoping it would be. I’m certainly continuing on with this series, but I’m hoping the future books return to what we’re used to.
The one thing I can clearly attribute to my lowered enjoyment is the attention paid to the private life of Isles. Ever since we started to get glimpses into her private life, I’ve found myself somewhat disinterested in the events outside of the criminal elements of the story. I positively adore following Rizzoli’s life – I’ve become so invested, I always want more – yet I cannot bring myself to feel the same way about Isles. I’m not sure what it is about her in particular, but I’m nowhere near as invested in her life.
In terms of the specific story of this one, it’s quite different to the prior books. The Mephisto Club deals with evil in more abstract terms rather than looking at a single crime. Whilst there is the one single crime story being told throughout, the overall story comes together in relation with the overall concept of evil more than it does the individual storyline. I feel as though the usual hard hitting elements of a Rizzoli and Isles story was lost in the background in this attempt to address evil on a much bigger picture.
I have no issue with such stories. They can be very interesting. They can make for great reads. However, it didn’t quite fit with what I expect from a Rizzoli and Isles story. It almost felt as though the characters were slipped into a storyline that was meant for another, with little bits of their own stories being pulled in and lost in the background of everything else that was going on.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read but it wasn’t all I had been hoping it would be. I’m certainly continuing on with this series, but I’m hoping the future books return to what we’re used to.
July 28, 2024
When the dismembered body of a woman is found, with ancient symbols written nearby, it leads Detective Jane Rizzoli & pathologist Maura Isles into a world of danger where they encounter a killer who seems unlike any they have met before. The Mephisto Foundation have studied evil for a long time, but are they the case of the problem or perhaps a solution ?
The Mephsito Club is one of Tess Gerritsen's most brutal novels-even by her standards-yet it still maintains a gripping plot & well drawn characters. It may not be as good as her previous Rizolli & Isles novels, but it' still a pretty decent thriller.
The Mephsito Club is one of Tess Gerritsen's most brutal novels-even by her standards-yet it still maintains a gripping plot & well drawn characters. It may not be as good as her previous Rizolli & Isles novels, but it' still a pretty decent thriller.
May 31, 2023
10/5 🌟
Каков зашеметувачки трилер! Каков ролеркостер!
Ова беше вистинско возење. Можеби и најдобриот крими-трилер кој го прочитав годинава. Тесица ја обожавам ненормално многу. А, и овојпат си ја заслужи титулата - Мој омилен автор на сите времиња. ❤️
Книгава е еден поинаков трилер, застрашувачки, суров, груб, отсечен, свиреп и крајно НЕМИЛОСРДЕН. Баш по мој вкус. Ова е еден крвав и морничав трилер кој ќе го паметам засекогаш. Не само поради бруталноста, туку и поради она познато чувство на удобност кое го имав кога ја читав Хирургот. Тоа чувство не се опишува, само ја земате и ги голтате страниците докрај.
Тематиката и целосната идеја ми беа просто предобри, одличен склоп на религија, сатанистички ритуали, митологија и уште разни разни древни верувања. Совршенство во облик на книга! 🥹
Тес се надминала себеси со ова дело кое не ве остава ни да трепнете додека го читате. 🤗
Ако не сте ја читале, веднаш да ја грабнете и да почнете да ја читате!
(плус и преводот на македонски е вчудувачки одличен!) 🥰
Каков зашеметувачки трилер! Каков ролеркостер!
Ова беше вистинско возење. Можеби и најдобриот крими-трилер кој го прочитав годинава. Тесица ја обожавам ненормално многу. А, и овојпат си ја заслужи титулата - Мој омилен автор на сите времиња. ❤️
Книгава е еден поинаков трилер, застрашувачки, суров, груб, отсечен, свиреп и крајно НЕМИЛОСРДЕН. Баш по мој вкус. Ова е еден крвав и морничав трилер кој ќе го паметам засекогаш. Не само поради бруталноста, туку и поради она познато чувство на удобност кое го имав кога ја читав Хирургот. Тоа чувство не се опишува, само ја земате и ги голтате страниците докрај.
Тематиката и целосната идеја ми беа просто предобри, одличен склоп на религија, сатанистички ритуали, митологија и уште разни разни древни верувања. Совршенство во облик на книга! 🥹
Тес се надминала себеси со ова дело кое не ве остава ни да трепнете додека го читате. 🤗
Ако не сте ја читале, веднаш да ја грабнете и да почнете да ја читате!
(плус и преводот на македонски е вчудувачки одличен!) 🥰
June 9, 2024
Years ago, Tess Gerritsen's Jane Rizzoli & Maura Isles series was one of my favourite series. It's what got me into thriller/mystery genre. I remember not being able to put the books down and it would seem she still has that effect on me.
The back story of the murderer and the victims in this book is simply fascinating. The Biblical references and conspiracy theories are just a cherry on top for me, making this story even more complex.
The back story of the murderer and the victims in this book is simply fascinating. The Biblical references and conspiracy theories are just a cherry on top for me, making this story even more complex.
November 27, 2008
Peccavi
The Latin word is scrawled in blood at the scene of a young woman's brutal murder: "I HAVE SINNED". It's a chilling Christmas greeting for Boston medical examiner Maura Isles and Detective Jane Rizzoli, who swiftly link the victim to controversial celebrity psychiatrist Joyce O'Donnell - Maura's professional nemesis and member of a secret society called "The Mephisto Club."
On tony Beacon Hill, the club's acolytes devote themselves to the analysis of evil: Can it be explained by science? Does it have a physical presence? Do demons walk the earth? Drawing on a wealth of dark historical data and mysterious religious symbology, the Mephisto scholars aim to prove a startling theory: that Satan and his demons actually exist among us.
This book was kind of weird....
With the grisly appearance of a corpse on the Mephisto Club's doorstep, it's clear that someone - or something - is indeed prowling the city. The members begin to fear the very subject of their study. Have they inadvertently summoned an evil entity from the darkness?
Delving deep into the most baffling and unusual case of their careers, Maura and Jane embark on a terrifying journey to the very heart of evil - where they encounter a malevolent foe more dangerous than any they have ever faced...one whose work is only just beginning.
The Latin word is scrawled in blood at the scene of a young woman's brutal murder: "I HAVE SINNED". It's a chilling Christmas greeting for Boston medical examiner Maura Isles and Detective Jane Rizzoli, who swiftly link the victim to controversial celebrity psychiatrist Joyce O'Donnell - Maura's professional nemesis and member of a secret society called "The Mephisto Club."
On tony Beacon Hill, the club's acolytes devote themselves to the analysis of evil: Can it be explained by science? Does it have a physical presence? Do demons walk the earth? Drawing on a wealth of dark historical data and mysterious religious symbology, the Mephisto scholars aim to prove a startling theory: that Satan and his demons actually exist among us.
This book was kind of weird....
With the grisly appearance of a corpse on the Mephisto Club's doorstep, it's clear that someone - or something - is indeed prowling the city. The members begin to fear the very subject of their study. Have they inadvertently summoned an evil entity from the darkness?
Delving deep into the most baffling and unusual case of their careers, Maura and Jane embark on a terrifying journey to the very heart of evil - where they encounter a malevolent foe more dangerous than any they have ever faced...one whose work is only just beginning.
January 17, 2024
I didn’t enjoy this book as much as I have the others.
I really got lost with the international scenes, especially with the audiobook.
Best part, the Dobermans.
And … still scratching my head with the last line of the book!
Interested to see how Maura solves her personal dilemma.
I really got lost with the international scenes, especially with the audiobook.
Best part, the Dobermans.
And … still scratching my head with the last line of the book!
Interested to see how Maura solves her personal dilemma.
July 1, 2018
Tess Gerritsen Fans Group Link
A nice read with Rizzoli & Isles, Christmas Eve is spoiled in Boston. A Latin word "Peccavi" & crosses (written upside down) are left in blood on bodies. The Latin word means "I Have Sinned". Upside down crosses are against "Chtistanity".
Severed body parts from one murder are swap with another part at the next murder. A symbol is left on Maura's door causing her fear.
A Mephisto Club member, Dr. Joyce O'Donnell (psychiatrist), appears but not much "help" - she never liked Jane in the past.
The Mephisto Club leader is Antony Samson (neuropsychologist), additional members are: Edwina Felway, Oliver Stark & Gottfried Baum.
They are devoted to the analysis & history of the Evil & Devils who "walk the earth".
The main character becomes Lily Saul with a "evil" Christianity spirit & a "fallen" angel (Devil) after her? Her parents & Teddy (brother) killed.
Dominic Saul(cousin), best-friend Sarah Parmley & Lori-Ann Tucker missing?
Can Rizzoli & Isles find a murderer -or- the Mephisto Club stop a demon?
At the end, can Lily's donated family house to the town's Fireman, for a training burn, eliminate demons...
A nice read with Rizzoli & Isles, Christmas Eve is spoiled in Boston. A Latin word "Peccavi" & crosses (written upside down) are left in blood on bodies. The Latin word means "I Have Sinned". Upside down crosses are against "Chtistanity".
Severed body parts from one murder are swap with another part at the next murder. A symbol is left on Maura's door causing her fear.
A Mephisto Club member, Dr. Joyce O'Donnell (psychiatrist), appears but not much "help" - she never liked Jane in the past.
The Mephisto Club leader is Antony Samson (neuropsychologist), additional members are: Edwina Felway, Oliver Stark & Gottfried Baum.
They are devoted to the analysis & history of the Evil & Devils who "walk the earth".
The main character becomes Lily Saul with a "evil" Christianity spirit & a "fallen" angel (Devil) after her? Her parents & Teddy (brother) killed.
Dominic Saul(cousin), best-friend Sarah Parmley & Lori-Ann Tucker missing?
Can Rizzoli & Isles find a murderer -or- the Mephisto Club stop a demon?
At the end, can Lily's donated family house to the town's Fireman, for a training burn, eliminate demons...
April 28, 2025
Тут мадам Тесс зустріла Дена Брауна)
Мені таке подобається, виводить з нечитуна
Мені таке подобається, виводить з нечитуна
January 25, 2014
Superbly crafted
this book reads like a horror novel but is a mystery nonetheless. The author does a nice job developing the characters and it is clear that this tendency began earlier in the series. I started with this book and it worked as a stand alone, but there are references to previous books in the series that loyal readers no doubt recognize.
The story begins with a murder on Christmas Eve that appears to be a satanic ritual. A group of amateur sleuths with a lot of money and less experience become involved making the investigation difficult for the police officer Rizzoli. The medical examiner Isles works with her.
Yes, there are undertones of Patricia Cornwell in this but the author is a medical doctor and her knowledge lends an air of authenticity to the story. Overall, I thought it was a good read. I gave it five stars instead of four because I felt the plot was so tightly woven and masterfully crafted that it made it an excellent, rather than simply a good, read. I plan to go back and read the other books in the series.
this book reads like a horror novel but is a mystery nonetheless. The author does a nice job developing the characters and it is clear that this tendency began earlier in the series. I started with this book and it worked as a stand alone, but there are references to previous books in the series that loyal readers no doubt recognize.
The story begins with a murder on Christmas Eve that appears to be a satanic ritual. A group of amateur sleuths with a lot of money and less experience become involved making the investigation difficult for the police officer Rizzoli. The medical examiner Isles works with her.
Yes, there are undertones of Patricia Cornwell in this but the author is a medical doctor and her knowledge lends an air of authenticity to the story. Overall, I thought it was a good read. I gave it five stars instead of four because I felt the plot was so tightly woven and masterfully crafted that it made it an excellent, rather than simply a good, read. I plan to go back and read the other books in the series.
February 18, 2019
Loving these books, very much enjoyed this one.
(I have skipped #5, though, as it involves a crime in a hospital setting with a hostage situation, etc. I don't like those kinds of stories; I find them tedious with everyone kind of holding static in place.)
Anyhow, Jane Rizzoli, homicide detective with a new baby and husband, and Dr. Maura Isles, forensic pathologist, (hope I got that right!) get involved with some rather morbid murders involving demons, the devil, mysterious markings found on victims, the whole shebang. I've read several books recently with similar 'themes,' but as I've said before it's how the writer treats the material which marks it unique or different from others. Ms. Gerritsen certainly does that with this one. Interspersed with Rizzoli's investigation and Isles' interpretation of evidence are scenes of a young woman running from someone - or some thing - over in Europe. There's also a small romance, held on the back burner, between Dr. Isles and a Catholic priest. Wholly shmolley, this one's got it all!
In summary, a bang-up good job and highly entertaining read. My next in this series will be #7. Can't wait!
Four stars
(I have skipped #5, though, as it involves a crime in a hospital setting with a hostage situation, etc. I don't like those kinds of stories; I find them tedious with everyone kind of holding static in place.)
Anyhow, Jane Rizzoli, homicide detective with a new baby and husband, and Dr. Maura Isles, forensic pathologist, (hope I got that right!) get involved with some rather morbid murders involving demons, the devil, mysterious markings found on victims, the whole shebang. I've read several books recently with similar 'themes,' but as I've said before it's how the writer treats the material which marks it unique or different from others. Ms. Gerritsen certainly does that with this one. Interspersed with Rizzoli's investigation and Isles' interpretation of evidence are scenes of a young woman running from someone - or some thing - over in Europe. There's also a small romance, held on the back burner, between Dr. Isles and a Catholic priest. Wholly shmolley, this one's got it all!
In summary, a bang-up good job and highly entertaining read. My next in this series will be #7. Can't wait!
Four stars
April 2, 2023
Що я можу сказати, читаючи вже 6ту книгу? Звичайно, серія мені подобається, найбільше саме детективна частина, мені сподобалось як все продумано і цей клуб "Мефісто", сподіваюсь, таки на цьому не закінчиться і ще щось таки буде, але мені не подобається трохи "особиста" складова цього циклу. Чому? Мені не подобається, що Мора так зациклена на тому, що їй 41 рік і вона самотня, якось у мене в голові не в'яжеться її образ інтелектуальної інтелігентної жінки з оцим "як же ж я без мужика", мені здавалось, що вона самодостатня. Друге, мені не дуже цікаво читати про Джейн-матір. Третє, хоч нарешті прозвучало, що "я намагаюсь бути вам подругою", але на дружні відносини це не дуже схоже. Я все чекаю, коли вони стануть подругами, а щось не особливо і стають.
Далі СПОЙЛЕРИ.
Я обурена тим, що вбили О'Доннел - такий цікавий персонаж, я все надіялась, що вона в майбутньому "вистрелить", маю на увазі, що або сама якийсь злочин зробить, або як співучасник, або ще щось цікаве... а вийшло от так прісно її позбулись.
Але тішилась, що нарешті Мора з Деніелом хоч кудись почали рухатись.
Далі СПОЙЛЕРИ.
Я обурена тим, що вбили О'Доннел - такий цікавий персонаж, я все надіялась, що вона в майбутньому "вистрелить", маю на увазі, що або сама якийсь злочин зробить, або як співучасник, або ще щось цікаве... а вийшло от так прісно її позбулись.
Але тішилась, що нарешті Мора з Деніелом хоч кудись почали рухатись.
March 31, 2015
كوني من متابعي مسلسل Rizzoli & Isles ..
هو ما أوقعني في هذه الورطة منذ البداية .
سعدت حينَ رأيت اسم الكاتبة وقررت قراءة روايتها فوراً ، والرواية أيضاً بطريقة ما ، مرتبطة بالمسلسل .
لكن ، أنا نادمة الآن .
رواية رديئة ، ومع هذا تحتمَ على إنهائها فـ لازلنا في بداية العام والوقت مبكر لترك أحد الكتب بدون إكماله ..
ليست مشوقة أو مثيرة ، فقط مجرد حديث طويل ، طويل ، وغير منطقي .
ولا تتحسن الأمور ولا تتطور ، فـ الرواية تحافظ على مستواها السيء طوال عدد صفحاتها الـ 400 :/
لن أقرأ مرة أخرى لـ تيس جريتسين وسأكتفي بمشاهدة المسلسل ..
هو ما أوقعني في هذه الورطة منذ البداية .
سعدت حينَ رأيت اسم الكاتبة وقررت قراءة روايتها فوراً ، والرواية أيضاً بطريقة ما ، مرتبطة بالمسلسل .
لكن ، أنا نادمة الآن .
رواية رديئة ، ومع هذا تحتمَ على إنهائها فـ لازلنا في بداية العام والوقت مبكر لترك أحد الكتب بدون إكماله ..
ليست مشوقة أو مثيرة ، فقط مجرد حديث طويل ، طويل ، وغير منطقي .
ولا تتحسن الأمور ولا تتطور ، فـ الرواية تحافظ على مستواها السيء طوال عدد صفحاتها الـ 400 :/
لن أقرأ مرة أخرى لـ تيس جريتسين وسأكتفي بمشاهدة المسلسل ..
July 15, 2011
Loved it! I'm reading these in series order, and this is my favorite so far.
November 25, 2018
Tess man yra detektyvų karalienė 🤩😍 Tad visad labai malonu sugrįžti prie jos knygų ir žinau, jog laukia tikrai įtampos bei jaudulio kupini puslapiai.
Kalėdų išvakarėse detektyvė Džeinė Ricoli yra iškviečiama į siaubingo nusikaltimo vietą, kur žiauriai buvo nužudyta jauna moteris.
Į nusikaltimo vietą taip pat atvyksta ir medicinos ekspertė Mora Ailz. Sename name ant sienų jas pasitinka lotyniškas užrašas : AŠ NUSIDĖJAU. Tuomet dar nieko nenutuokdamos moterys, net neįtaria su kokiu blogiu dar joms teks susidurti ir kiek kraupių žmogžudysčių jų dar laukia..
Kaip jau supratote, Tess yra viena iš mylimiausių mano rašytojų. Tad iš jos knygų tikiuosi nemažai. Ir šį kartą ji manęs taip pat nenuvylė. Knyga buvo įtempto siužeto, nenuspėjama bei intriguojanti. Taip pat skaitydama šią knygą sužinojau nemažai detalių iš Biblijos, kas buvo iš ties man labai įdomu.Mitologijos įpinimas buvo įdomus autorės sprendimas.
Tess gerbėjai, kas dar neskaitėte - siūlau tai padaryti, o kas vis svarstote ar pradėti pažintį su šia rašytoja, tai net neabejokite.
Kalėdų išvakarėse detektyvė Džeinė Ricoli yra iškviečiama į siaubingo nusikaltimo vietą, kur žiauriai buvo nužudyta jauna moteris.
Į nusikaltimo vietą taip pat atvyksta ir medicinos ekspertė Mora Ailz. Sename name ant sienų jas pasitinka lotyniškas užrašas : AŠ NUSIDĖJAU. Tuomet dar nieko nenutuokdamos moterys, net neįtaria su kokiu blogiu dar joms teks susidurti ir kiek kraupių žmogžudysčių jų dar laukia..
Kaip jau supratote, Tess yra viena iš mylimiausių mano rašytojų. Tad iš jos knygų tikiuosi nemažai. Ir šį kartą ji manęs taip pat nenuvylė. Knyga buvo įtempto siužeto, nenuspėjama bei intriguojanti. Taip pat skaitydama šią knygą sužinojau nemažai detalių iš Biblijos, kas buvo iš ties man labai įdomu.Mitologijos įpinimas buvo įdomus autorės sprendimas.
Tess gerbėjai, kas dar neskaitėte - siūlau tai padaryti, o kas vis svarstote ar pradėti pažintį su šia rašytoja, tai net neabejokite.
April 4, 2012
This is a series that has almost become a diamond in the rough. I remember, the first book did not really strike me as great, but it was good enough for me to want to read the second one. Ever since, this series has really caught my attention. The setting has been mostly Boston, but this book travels to upstate New York. The Binghamton area, Lourdes Hospital, Norwich and even Syracuse are mentioned. Jane and Maura are tracking an evil force. With the unwanted assistance of the Mephisto Club, they are hot on it’s trail. But the both have personal issues that cloud their minds. Jane’s parents are having marital problems and Maura has fallen in love with a practicing Catholic Priest. The suspense and mystery of this novel are excellent but the personal issues add additional substance to the story. I’m always surprised at how much I enjoy this series and want to find the next book to add to my TBR.
May 25, 2020
5. Kitap olan Siliniş'e kadar tüm kitaplardan daha durağan geçtiği söylense de benim katılmadığım ve aksiyonu yine bol olan Tess Gerritsen kitabı yılbaşı arifesi bir evde cinayet görülmesi ile başlıyor ve sahnede yine Rizzoli,Frost ve İsles var. Lily Saul ve Anthony Sansone' la tanıştığımız kitap olan Mefisto Kulubü diğerlerinden farklı olarak Şeytan kavramını incelerken Mefisto sözcüğünün de anlamını bize aktarıyor. Kitapta yer yer katilin cümleleri yer alıp kitabın başında katil kendini belli etse de sonu enteresan bir şekilde yine şaşırtıyor ve bu işten ekibi kurtaran usta polisimiz Jane Rizzoli oluyor.
May 30, 2018
Wieder ein toller Teil der Rizzoli&Isles Reihe - Die privaten Geschehnisse zu den beiden Haupt-Protagonistinnen kamen mir dieses mal ein wenig zu kurz; ich mag die beiden einfach so gerne. Der Fall war aber spannend und abwechslungsreich, wenn auch ein wenig vorhersehbar. Trotzdem freue ich mich auf die folgenden Bände - Ich bin ja gerade mal bei der Hälfte :)
Tess Gerritsen schreibt einfach toll und als Hörbuch ist die Reihe auch sehr gut umgesetzt!
Tess Gerritsen schreibt einfach toll und als Hörbuch ist die Reihe auch sehr gut umgesetzt!
May 4, 2016
Probably my favorite R & I to date!! Weird, creepy, supernatural (or is it?), this book was suspenseful, full of fast-paced mystery and also had me adding some creepy books to my "to read" shelf! Not trying to spoil but the only storyline I was "meh" on was Isles' love . I'm sure it will be pertinent in the next book but it was just cheesy enough to earn a "chic lit" tag from me.
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