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The Select
Quinn Cleary has always wanted to be a doctor. Yet the only way she can afford it is to win acceptance to The Ingraham, an exclusive, privately funded medical school and reasearch center reputed to be the nation's finest. The few selected students chosen by The Ingraham receive a completely free medical education: tuition, room. board, and lab fees all paid by the school.
Once accepted to the school of her dreams, Quinn dives into her studies and into a steady realationship with a classmate. At last, her life seems perfect.
Or is it? Quinn begins to notice subtle changes in her classmates: the way they act, the way they think -- all seem to be falling eerily into line with the messanic verison of the school's director. She confides her concerns to her boyfriend, who laughs them off -- until he finds a suspicious electronic monitoring device in his room.
Then he disappears.
...Alone on the deserted campus during midyear break, Quinn finally encounters the dark truth about The Ingraham -- the true purpose of the institute's seemingly humane medical research, the motives that have determined the school's policy, and the secret mission of the hospital's intimidating security force, a small private army that is drawing an ever tighter net around her with each passing minute.
What she dicovers is immense and terrifying -- a conspiracy that exposes her to a danger more frightening than death -- a cynical plot that undermines everything she has ever believed about the healing arts.
This is suspense fiction at its grandest: instantly and relentlessly compelling, and touching directly on an issue that heads the list of our national and personal priorites.
Once accepted to the school of her dreams, Quinn dives into her studies and into a steady realationship with a classmate. At last, her life seems perfect.
Or is it? Quinn begins to notice subtle changes in her classmates: the way they act, the way they think -- all seem to be falling eerily into line with the messanic verison of the school's director. She confides her concerns to her boyfriend, who laughs them off -- until he finds a suspicious electronic monitoring device in his room.
Then he disappears.
...Alone on the deserted campus during midyear break, Quinn finally encounters the dark truth about The Ingraham -- the true purpose of the institute's seemingly humane medical research, the motives that have determined the school's policy, and the secret mission of the hospital's intimidating security force, a small private army that is drawing an ever tighter net around her with each passing minute.
What she dicovers is immense and terrifying -- a conspiracy that exposes her to a danger more frightening than death -- a cynical plot that undermines everything she has ever believed about the healing arts.
This is suspense fiction at its grandest: instantly and relentlessly compelling, and touching directly on an issue that heads the list of our national and personal priorites.
333 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1993
About the author
F. Paul Wilson
375 books2,045 followersFrancis Paul Wilson is an author, born in Jersey City, New Jersey. He writes novels and short stories primarily in the science fiction and horror genres. His debut novel was Healer (1976). Wilson is also a part-time practicing family physician. He made his first sales in 1970 to Analog and continued to write science fiction throughout the seventies. In 1981 he ventured into the horror genre with the international bestseller, The Keep, and helped define the field throughout the rest of the decade. In the 1990s he became a true genre hopper, moving from science fiction to horror to medical thrillers and branching into interactive scripting for Disney Interactive and other multimedia companies. He, along with Matthew J. Costello, created and scripted FTL Newsfeed which ran daily on the Sci-Fi Channel from 1992-1996.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/fpaulw...
http://us.macmillan.com/author/fpaulw...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
November 21, 2020
Grade A pulp fiction! Published in 1994, The Select is a medical thriller when these were all the rage following Robin Cook's work. Unlike Cook, however, Wilson can tell a good story with real characters! Quinn Cleary, our lead, starts the book on a tour of The Ingraham, an elite medical school in Maryland and one that if you get accepted, foots the entire bill with room and board. The Ingraham only accepts 50 students a year, however, and Cleary needs to be accepted there as she cannot afford medical school otherwise. There is something fishy about The Ingraham, though at first we only get some hints. The school is in the middle of no-where, but has super hi-tech security, along with 10 foot barbed wire fencing and cameras everywhere.
The applicants are given a tour and they have to spend the night in the dorms; the following day they are given a long exam as the final step in the admission process. Flash forward a few months and Quinn is broken hearted, but not down and out. Quinn is a fun character- a strong woman in contrast to his typical 'damsel in distress'. She is on the wait-list at The Ingraham, with a back up to join the Navy to pay for med school. Her new buddy Tim (friend of a friend) who did get in to The Ingraham, concocts a plan to get Quinn in, and it works! School is hard, but Quinn crams and gets by...
We begin to suspect more and more that something is off about the school, however. The nightly 'bull sessions' among the students largely concern medical ethics, especially who should be given care given medical rationing. Quinn seems to be on the outs with the rest of the student's opinions, which are strangely uniform on the issue. We also learn that all the dorms are bugged, as are all the phones, etc. What exactly is going on at The Ingraham? As the plot unfolds, things go from bad to worse.
The Select is not a great work of art, but few thrillers hold up much past their sell date and this one does. I really liked how the author suggested that soon there would be Medicare for all and how the medical profession would have to adapt. If only we had a national, single payer insurance plan!! The Select feels fresh even today and moves smartly along. I can see why Wilson had a string of best sellers in the 1990s. 4 stars!!
The applicants are given a tour and they have to spend the night in the dorms; the following day they are given a long exam as the final step in the admission process. Flash forward a few months and Quinn is broken hearted, but not down and out. Quinn is a fun character- a strong woman in contrast to his typical 'damsel in distress'. She is on the wait-list at The Ingraham, with a back up to join the Navy to pay for med school. Her new buddy Tim (friend of a friend) who did get in to The Ingraham, concocts a plan to get Quinn in, and it works! School is hard, but Quinn crams and gets by...
We begin to suspect more and more that something is off about the school, however. The nightly 'bull sessions' among the students largely concern medical ethics, especially who should be given care given medical rationing. Quinn seems to be on the outs with the rest of the student's opinions, which are strangely uniform on the issue. We also learn that all the dorms are bugged, as are all the phones, etc. What exactly is going on at The Ingraham? As the plot unfolds, things go from bad to worse.
The Select is not a great work of art, but few thrillers hold up much past their sell date and this one does. I really liked how the author suggested that soon there would be Medicare for all and how the medical profession would have to adapt. If only we had a national, single payer insurance plan!! The Select feels fresh even today and moves smartly along. I can see why Wilson had a string of best sellers in the 1990s. 4 stars!!
October 10, 2009
THE SELECT
F. Paul Wilson covers more ground than just about any writer out there—science fiction, horror, thrillers, medical mysteries—and somehow nails every one. It doesn’t hurt that the man actually practices medicine; he knows his way around both a scalpel and a plot twist.
The Select dives deep into the world of elite medical academia. The Ingraham is the kind of school every ambitious student dreams about—prestige, brilliance, opportunity. But for three friends who make it through the gates, that dream mutates into a nightmare. Behind the polished walls and clinical perfection lies a secret so ugly the faculty will do anything to keep it buried.
Wilson writes with the precision of a surgeon and the tension of a seasoned thriller master. The story moves fast, cuts clean, and never once loses its pulse. It’s sinister, intelligent, and scarily believable.
I highly recommend The Select. It’s one of Wilson’s best—taut, haunting, and smart as hell. I only wish he’d stayed in this vein a little longer, but as he’s said himself, he doesn’t want to repeat what’s already been said. Fair enough. When you’ve written something this sharp, maybe you don’t need to.
F. Paul Wilson covers more ground than just about any writer out there—science fiction, horror, thrillers, medical mysteries—and somehow nails every one. It doesn’t hurt that the man actually practices medicine; he knows his way around both a scalpel and a plot twist.
The Select dives deep into the world of elite medical academia. The Ingraham is the kind of school every ambitious student dreams about—prestige, brilliance, opportunity. But for three friends who make it through the gates, that dream mutates into a nightmare. Behind the polished walls and clinical perfection lies a secret so ugly the faculty will do anything to keep it buried.
Wilson writes with the precision of a surgeon and the tension of a seasoned thriller master. The story moves fast, cuts clean, and never once loses its pulse. It’s sinister, intelligent, and scarily believable.
I highly recommend The Select. It’s one of Wilson’s best—taut, haunting, and smart as hell. I only wish he’d stayed in this vein a little longer, but as he’s said himself, he doesn’t want to repeat what’s already been said. Fair enough. When you’ve written something this sharp, maybe you don’t need to.
March 21, 2021
Read in 1994. A throughly enjoyable and fast moving medical thriller. Powerful and chilling. One of my favorites that year.
June 29, 2024
The bad guys are quite incompetent, the plot is full of holes and convenient coincidences, and Quinn is a very annoying protagonist, but man does Wilson know how to ratchet up the tension.
February 2, 2012
After hearing Eric Bauman talk about Wilson several times, I asked for a suggestion on which of his books to read, and Eric sent me this one. I am not normally one for medical thrillers -- I've never warmed to Robin Cook, for example -- but this book had a nice twist, taking place in a prestigious medical school. Very early on you realize what's going on behind the scenes at the school, so it's not so much a mystery as a thriller where you know more than the characters know and wait anxiously to see how much they're going to figure out and when.
The main characters are pretty well-drawn, starting out as stereotypes (the financially-struggling, uptight female A-student; the ne'er-do-well slacker who also gets As; the gruff security chief, the kindly old professor and the shady medical department head) but most of them, especially the students, become far more "real" by the end of the book. There are things you KNOW will happen: the inevitable romance, the inevitable revelation that someone is not what they seem, the inevitable "chase" scene. Not much comes as a surprise, but the book is still a satisfying read. One small nit to pick: the apparent subplot about the identity of the cadaver Quinn and Tim are assigned to in anatomy lab never really dovetails with the main plot in any significant way ... it's also like Wilson got bored with it and decided no-one would notice if he let it go.
The main characters are pretty well-drawn, starting out as stereotypes (the financially-struggling, uptight female A-student; the ne'er-do-well slacker who also gets As; the gruff security chief, the kindly old professor and the shady medical department head) but most of them, especially the students, become far more "real" by the end of the book. There are things you KNOW will happen: the inevitable romance, the inevitable revelation that someone is not what they seem, the inevitable "chase" scene. Not much comes as a surprise, but the book is still a satisfying read. One small nit to pick: the apparent subplot about the identity of the cadaver Quinn and Tim are assigned to in anatomy lab never really dovetails with the main plot in any significant way ... it's also like Wilson got bored with it and decided no-one would notice if he let it go.
April 25, 2019
Oh my goodness.
I have been an F. Paul Wilson fan for many a year. I have read his short story collections, all of the Repairman Jack books, all of the Secret History of the World books and the Adversary series, and Deep as the Marrow, one of his standalone novels.
Now, "The Select". This book is over 25 years old but remains as troubling a story as I've ever read because it's completely believable. COMPLETELY. What I find really disturbing is...well, when I write, I live the story, kind of a "method writing", if there is a such a thing. Does Dr. Wilson (for he is a Doctor) sleep? Did he sleep while writing this? I have no idea. It would scare the various unpleasant substances out of me.
Highly recommended, but not as casual reading in between procedures next time you're hospital-bound, or even in the Doctor's waiting room. Seriously.
I have been an F. Paul Wilson fan for many a year. I have read his short story collections, all of the Repairman Jack books, all of the Secret History of the World books and the Adversary series, and Deep as the Marrow, one of his standalone novels.
Now, "The Select". This book is over 25 years old but remains as troubling a story as I've ever read because it's completely believable. COMPLETELY. What I find really disturbing is...well, when I write, I live the story, kind of a "method writing", if there is a such a thing. Does Dr. Wilson (for he is a Doctor) sleep? Did he sleep while writing this? I have no idea. It would scare the various unpleasant substances out of me.
Highly recommended, but not as casual reading in between procedures next time you're hospital-bound, or even in the Doctor's waiting room. Seriously.
December 20, 2022
A world of deception and chaos for the sake of medical science. To make it into The Ingraham medical school with free everything, Matt, Tim and Quinn take the measures they need to to become outstanding doctors in this reputable institution. One thing leads to another lies, deception, love, trauma, goodies and badies. An eclectic barrage of characters. For a YA story I could not put it down. 3.5/5
March 10, 2009
This reminded me of Robin Cook. It was a bit creepy. A page turner for sure. This is my first time reading this author and it won't be the last.
October 12, 2012
This is a great medical thriller from a new author for me. It was fast paced and kept me wanting more! I will definitely be checking out more of this author's books! 4 stars!
March 29, 2013
Very good book following a group of students who have been selected into one of the most elite medical schools in the country (they only accept 50 students a year, but everyone who is selected gets all expenses paid, and all graduates go on to be very successful). However, unknown to the students, they are undergoing a form of brainwashing. Unfortunately (fortunately?), the brainwashing isn't working on the main character, which makes more than just her scholarship at risk. It is an intriguing book.
Once I got to the second half of the book, I could not put it down until I finished it (which, unfortunately, meant 2:30 a.m., but it was worth it). Unfortunately, there are a few questions left open at the end of the book, and I'm not aware of a sequel. [spoiler]Namely, does Quinn ever finish medical school?[/spoiler]
The only other complaint I had was probably more of a reflection of me than it was of the book. Somemtimes I had a hard time following the medical jargon that was being tossed around (give me a "quantum-chromo-dynamic-confinement-anomaly" over "neuropharmacology" any day), but I don't follow the medical field that closely (fiction or non-fiction). Fortunately, it isn't necessary to understand every single term used, and the heavy medical jargon was used sparingly.
Once I got to the second half of the book, I could not put it down until I finished it (which, unfortunately, meant 2:30 a.m., but it was worth it). Unfortunately, there are a few questions left open at the end of the book, and I'm not aware of a sequel. [spoiler]Namely, does Quinn ever finish medical school?[/spoiler]
The only other complaint I had was probably more of a reflection of me than it was of the book. Somemtimes I had a hard time following the medical jargon that was being tossed around (give me a "quantum-chromo-dynamic-confinement-anomaly" over "neuropharmacology" any day), but I don't follow the medical field that closely (fiction or non-fiction). Fortunately, it isn't necessary to understand every single term used, and the heavy medical jargon was used sparingly.
July 14, 2016
I normally really like Wilson’s work, but it’s mostly his horror that I like, and this book is more a medical mystery. Not an insurmountable obstacle, but add to that characters who are mostly stereotypes: a brilliant and beautiful young woman who doesn’t think she’s brilliant or beautiful, a great looking jokester who turns out to have a sensitive side, an evil scientist, with his brutish henchmen, and you end up with a book that’s mildly entertaining, but not absorbing. Plus, a lot of the surprises, weren’t. You know almost from the beginning that the young woman and man are going to become romantically involved, that there’s something sinister going on at the school and that the intrepid couple will be the ones investigate it.
So, readable, but rather predictable.
So, readable, but rather predictable.
June 11, 2010
About as suspenseful as watching last year's Super Bowl.
January 1, 2011
As much as I love the Repairman Jack series, I wish Paul would get back to books like these.
June 30, 2011
Great read the second time around. If you haven't read The Select, read it!!! If you have, read it again!!
September 25, 2012
This is one book that really gripped me. I had nightmares!!! It is a must read.
April 6, 2019
A great medical thriller. The characters are realistic and the plot seems like something that could really happen.
September 13, 2024
A great story with very good characters. Intrigue, suspense, action and drama all in a fun murder and malpractice story.
August 26, 2025
"The Select" by F. Paul Wilson is a fast-paced medical thriller that taps into the anxieties of modern medicine and corporate power. Published in 1994 (and originally released in England a year earlier under the title "The Foundation"), the novel is a prime example of the genre popularized by authors like Robin Cook and Michael Crichton. However, Wilson, a practicing medical doctor himself, brings a level of insider knowledge and chilling plausibility that elevates the story beyond a simple potboiler.
The book centers on Quinn Cleary, an idealistic and financially struggling pre-med student who dreams of becoming a doctor. Her prayers seem to be answered when she gets a full-ride scholarship to the prestigious Ingraham College of Medicine, a privately funded institution renowned for its cutting-edge research. But Quinn soon discovers that her dream school is a living nightmare. As she observes her fellow students, she notices subtle and unsettling changes in their behavior—their personalities and opinions are all eerily beginning to fall into line with the school's seemingly messianic director.
Driven by her own strong-willed nature and a nagging sense of dread, Quinn and a few other students begin to investigate. They uncover a horrifying conspiracy that involves the school's sacred charter, its intimidating security force, and the secret purpose of its humane-sounding medical research. Wilson masterfully builds suspense as Quinn gets closer to the truth, painting a picture of an institution that is far more sinister than its philanthropic facade suggests.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its tight, relentless pacing. Wilson "trims to the bone," as one critic noted, keeping the narrative focused and propulsive. He wastes no time with extraneous detail, plunging the reader directly into Quinn's terrifying discovery. The plot unfolds with a series of well-placed twists and turns, with the tension mounting steadily until a satisfying and explosive conclusion.
F. Paul Wilson's background as a physician is evident throughout the book. He presents the medical and scientific concepts with authority, making the terrifying premise feel grounded in reality. The central theme of medical ethics—specifically, the terrifying possibility of doctors being brainwashed to make life-and-death decisions based on a cold, calculated agenda—is a powerful and thought-provoking concept. The book explores the question of who gets to decide who receives care and what constitutes the "best" outcome for society, a conversation that is perhaps even more relevant today than it was in the 1990s.
While some of the characters start out as familiar archetypes, Wilson gives them enough depth and agency to drive the plot effectively. Quinn is a compelling protagonist—a strong and resourceful woman who refuses to conform and fight against the dehumanizing forces at work.
For fans of medical thrillers and corporate conspiracy stories, "The Select" is a must-read. It's a gripping, intelligent, and expertly crafted novel that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the best works of its genre. It's not just a book about a medical school gone wrong; it's a chilling exploration of the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of individual will in the face of absolute control.
The book centers on Quinn Cleary, an idealistic and financially struggling pre-med student who dreams of becoming a doctor. Her prayers seem to be answered when she gets a full-ride scholarship to the prestigious Ingraham College of Medicine, a privately funded institution renowned for its cutting-edge research. But Quinn soon discovers that her dream school is a living nightmare. As she observes her fellow students, she notices subtle and unsettling changes in their behavior—their personalities and opinions are all eerily beginning to fall into line with the school's seemingly messianic director.
Driven by her own strong-willed nature and a nagging sense of dread, Quinn and a few other students begin to investigate. They uncover a horrifying conspiracy that involves the school's sacred charter, its intimidating security force, and the secret purpose of its humane-sounding medical research. Wilson masterfully builds suspense as Quinn gets closer to the truth, painting a picture of an institution that is far more sinister than its philanthropic facade suggests.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its tight, relentless pacing. Wilson "trims to the bone," as one critic noted, keeping the narrative focused and propulsive. He wastes no time with extraneous detail, plunging the reader directly into Quinn's terrifying discovery. The plot unfolds with a series of well-placed twists and turns, with the tension mounting steadily until a satisfying and explosive conclusion.
F. Paul Wilson's background as a physician is evident throughout the book. He presents the medical and scientific concepts with authority, making the terrifying premise feel grounded in reality. The central theme of medical ethics—specifically, the terrifying possibility of doctors being brainwashed to make life-and-death decisions based on a cold, calculated agenda—is a powerful and thought-provoking concept. The book explores the question of who gets to decide who receives care and what constitutes the "best" outcome for society, a conversation that is perhaps even more relevant today than it was in the 1990s.
While some of the characters start out as familiar archetypes, Wilson gives them enough depth and agency to drive the plot effectively. Quinn is a compelling protagonist—a strong and resourceful woman who refuses to conform and fight against the dehumanizing forces at work.
For fans of medical thrillers and corporate conspiracy stories, "The Select" is a must-read. It's a gripping, intelligent, and expertly crafted novel that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the best works of its genre. It's not just a book about a medical school gone wrong; it's a chilling exploration of the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of individual will in the face of absolute control.
September 15, 2024
Quinn ist so sehr not like other girls dass es wirklich schwer zu ignorieren ist. Das Buch ist schon etwas älter, deswegen war diese Art von Charakter wahrscheinlich noch nicht so old and tired wie heute, aber ich finde man hätte schon damals darauf kommen können seinem Hauptcharakter einen Flaw zu geben, der nicht ist, dass sie nicht weiß wie schön sie ist.
Davon abgesehen ist es absolut unhinged (abfällig gemeint), dass Tim immer und immer wieder sexuelle Anspielungen in seinen Konversationen mit Quinn macht, nachdem sie ihm schon einmal nein gesagt hat. Sowas kann man nichtmal damit entschuldigen wie alt das Buch ist, das ist einfach creepy.
Was aber das allerschlimmste war, ist dass sie Matt gesagt hat, dass sie weiß, dass Tim noch in der Uni ist, obwohl sie weiß dass sie abgehört wird. Macht keinen Sinn, wirklich wirklich gar keinen Sinn. Tim hatte ihr das gesagt, bevor er verschwunden ist. Entweder hat sie’s vergessen oder ihm nicht geglaubt. Beides macht keinen Sinn.
Aber das Ende und der Höhepunkt war so violent und unhinged (positiv gemeint), dass ich das alles kurzzeitig vergessen hab, also 3,5/5 :)
Davon abgesehen ist es absolut unhinged (abfällig gemeint), dass Tim immer und immer wieder sexuelle Anspielungen in seinen Konversationen mit Quinn macht, nachdem sie ihm schon einmal nein gesagt hat. Sowas kann man nichtmal damit entschuldigen wie alt das Buch ist, das ist einfach creepy.
Was aber das allerschlimmste war, ist dass sie Matt gesagt hat, dass sie weiß, dass Tim noch in der Uni ist, obwohl sie weiß dass sie abgehört wird. Macht keinen Sinn, wirklich wirklich gar keinen Sinn. Tim hatte ihr das gesagt, bevor er verschwunden ist. Entweder hat sie’s vergessen oder ihm nicht geglaubt. Beides macht keinen Sinn.
Aber das Ende und der Höhepunkt war so violent und unhinged (positiv gemeint), dass ich das alles kurzzeitig vergessen hab, also 3,5/5 :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2026
the plot of this book was INSANE! it was definitely quite slow at the beginning but really picked up in the middle. i didn’t totally connect with any of the characters and feel like they weren’t quite as developed as they could have been. but the ending was very fast paced and exciting to read which i loved! a very very interesting story for sure!
November 11, 2024
This was a slow start. Didnt really get into it until i was 3/4 of the way thru. Rhe last hundred pages were the best of the whole book.
February 28, 2017
In 'The Select', Quinn Cleary is vying for a much-coveted spot at the prestigious medical school The Ingraham. What's not to love about it? It offers free education plus free boarding and meals. However, when Quinn's boyfriend Tim gets suspicious and begins investigating, all hell breaks loose. Suddenly The Ingraham isn't a place where students learn to heal and help people but rather a carefully controlled hell on Earth..
I was incredibly impressed by this book namely how the author succeeded in making it both character-driven and plot-driven without getting too heavy-handed. The main characters Quinn and Tim were fleshed out. Quinn was more than just a pretty face - besides being intelligent and outspoken, she had a mind of her own and wasn't afraid to show it. Meanwhile, Tim was mysterious at first. Later his personality shone through. In addition to his eidetic memory and desire to differ from everyone else, he had a great sense of humour. I found him to be likeable. As a result, it was easy to care about him and Quinn.
The sinister events taking place at The Ingraham weren't exactly shrouded in mystery as there were numerous clues given early on in the story - Ward C was dedicated to burn victims who were injected with a solution that was still in the works, the students were starting to have the same mindset despite their initial differences, the Chief of Security was constantly in Quinn's room, et cetera. Although the mystery (using the term loosely here) wasn't unpredictable nor suspenseful, it was engaging because the author crafted such believable characters and conveyed the sense of imminent danger throughout the story.
Certain interesting bits were mentioned yet never followed up on such as "the Sheedy thing", the identity of the cadaver Quinn had for class and Matt's feelings for Quinn. I would have liked more development on those especially the last one. Love triangles are overdone but I believe that this author would be capable of creating one that is fresh, realistic and perhaps even humorous. Anyhow, I was really satisfied with the ending which .
Overall, 'The Select' was a riveting read thanks to the strong, smart main characters, convincing villains as well as the fluid writing and well-thought-out premise. 'The Select' further cements my love for the medical genre.
I was incredibly impressed by this book namely how the author succeeded in making it both character-driven and plot-driven without getting too heavy-handed. The main characters Quinn and Tim were fleshed out. Quinn was more than just a pretty face - besides being intelligent and outspoken, she had a mind of her own and wasn't afraid to show it. Meanwhile, Tim was mysterious at first. Later his personality shone through. In addition to his eidetic memory and desire to differ from everyone else, he had a great sense of humour. I found him to be likeable. As a result, it was easy to care about him and Quinn.
The sinister events taking place at The Ingraham weren't exactly shrouded in mystery as there were numerous clues given early on in the story - Ward C was dedicated to burn victims who were injected with a solution that was still in the works, the students were starting to have the same mindset despite their initial differences, the Chief of Security was constantly in Quinn's room, et cetera. Although the mystery (using the term loosely here) wasn't unpredictable nor suspenseful, it was engaging because the author crafted such believable characters and conveyed the sense of imminent danger throughout the story.
Certain interesting bits were mentioned yet never followed up on such as "the Sheedy thing", the identity of the cadaver Quinn had for class and Matt's feelings for Quinn. I would have liked more development on those especially the last one. Love triangles are overdone but I believe that this author would be capable of creating one that is fresh, realistic and perhaps even humorous. Anyhow, I was really satisfied with the ending which .
Overall, 'The Select' was a riveting read thanks to the strong, smart main characters, convincing villains as well as the fluid writing and well-thought-out premise. 'The Select' further cements my love for the medical genre.
February 28, 2017
The Select by F. Paul Wilson
This is a stand alone book and not related to the Repairman Jack series. Quinn Cleary has wanted to be a physician for as long as she can remember. Despite her awesome intellectual successes as a student, her family is unable to afford medical school tuition. She and her life long pal, Matt, apply to The Ingraham, the most prestigious medical school in the country. Matt’s buddy, Tim, applies as well with no real drive to being a physician. Tim’s eidetic memory and substantial intellect supersede his uncaring playboy attitude. The three take the notorious Ingraham entrance exam and the fun begins.
The Ingraham may not be what it seems in spite of it’s providing a full boat for all those admitted. It also requires strict adherence to it’s philosophical underpinnings.
Tim’s rebellious behavior and Quinn’s abiding compassion lead the two down a path of perfidy. Matt, although a bit player, provides a lifeline that is instrumental to some major upheavals.
Wilson suggests a frightening method of medical care and provides sufficient arguments which compel serious thought.
I recommend the book.
This is a stand alone book and not related to the Repairman Jack series. Quinn Cleary has wanted to be a physician for as long as she can remember. Despite her awesome intellectual successes as a student, her family is unable to afford medical school tuition. She and her life long pal, Matt, apply to The Ingraham, the most prestigious medical school in the country. Matt’s buddy, Tim, applies as well with no real drive to being a physician. Tim’s eidetic memory and substantial intellect supersede his uncaring playboy attitude. The three take the notorious Ingraham entrance exam and the fun begins.
The Ingraham may not be what it seems in spite of it’s providing a full boat for all those admitted. It also requires strict adherence to it’s philosophical underpinnings.
Tim’s rebellious behavior and Quinn’s abiding compassion lead the two down a path of perfidy. Matt, although a bit player, provides a lifeline that is instrumental to some major upheavals.
Wilson suggests a frightening method of medical care and provides sufficient arguments which compel serious thought.
I recommend the book.
February 1, 2013
When I read the title and the cover I really thought it was about paranormal stuff. I found this book in my grandparents house and wow.
So beware of spoilers.
It starts with the whole thing of "im going to my dream school, yay" and when you think is getting bored and typical all the times that Verran narrated become useful and BAM! your brain explodes with information and everything matches and "the first piece of this domino has fallen".
Totally deserves the five stars.
So beware of spoilers.
It starts with the whole thing of "im going to my dream school, yay" and when you think is getting bored and typical all the times that Verran narrated become useful and BAM! your brain explodes with information and everything matches and "the first piece of this domino has fallen".
Totally deserves the five stars.
July 13, 2010
Is there a word for when you re-read a book but have absolutely no recollection of ever reading it in the first place? Because I just did that. Goodreads says I read it 5 years ago, but absolutely no part of it felt even the least bit familiar.
Decent summer beach read, especially if you already like Wilson's stuff. There's really nothing new or surprising here.
Decent summer beach read, especially if you already like Wilson's stuff. There's really nothing new or surprising here.
February 2, 2014
A story about Quinn Cleary and her desire to get into the 'best' medical education foundation in the US. The problem is, that this foundation has some hidden secrets and is almost too late for Quinn and Tim.
The controls of the pharmaceutical industry on the introduction of new medicines is apparent in this story. Was this the intent of the author....
The controls of the pharmaceutical industry on the introduction of new medicines is apparent in this story. Was this the intent of the author....
January 27, 2019
A fun fast read, although not really suspenseful as you know what is going on depending on whose point of view the story is taking place in.
Entertaining and a bit scary on what politics and money can do.
Re-reading July 2024 with a book club
Still a good book even on the reader-reading.
Entertaining and a bit scary on what politics and money can do.
Re-reading July 2024 with a book club
Still a good book even on the reader-reading.
June 26, 2015
Wow, this was really good and very scary to think about. It's a medical thriller with a bit of psychological thriller thrown in.
June 6, 2021
4.5
Świetna!
Świetna!
January 30, 2018
Pagina69
Con quello che hai, perdi sicuramente, quindi chiedi un’altra carta. »
« Vorrei un’altra carta, per favore. »
« I veri giocatori dicono semplicemente “ancora”, oppure si limitano a battere sulle proprie carte. » Quinn batté. « Ancora. Per favore. »
Le arrivò un dieci di fiori. Il mazziere voltò una regina. Mise una fiche nera e verde accanto a quella di Quinn. « Ho vinto? » « Hai vinto. »
La ragazza fece per prendere uno dei due gettoni. « Lascia che lavorino. »
« Duecento dollari in un colpo solo? Spero che tu sappia quel che stai facendo. »
Le fu servito un fante e poi un asso.
« Blackjack! » esclamò Tim, e Quinn lanciò uno strillo di gioia. « Mi piace, questo gioco! »
Le altre persone sedute al tavolo sorridevano. La trovavano simpatica. “Del resto è logico” pensò Tim. Come poteva essere altrimenti?
Ora Quinn si sentiva più rilassata. Aveva afferrato il ritmo del gioco, ma dopo un po’ la sua pila di fiche da cento dollari si era ridotta. Ebbe un attimo d’incertezza quando uno dei giocatori si alzò e Tim ne prese il posto, portandosi via metà dei gettoni. La curva del tavolo le permetteva di vederlo bene. Questo avrebbe reso facile cogliere la serie di segnali concordata tra loro.
Per qualche giro, Quinn si difese bene, poi guardò dalla parte del compagno e si accorse che aveva le dita della sinistra piegate nel ge¬sto hawaiano. Le stava dicendo, come avevano concordato prima di sedersi al tavolo, di puntare il massimo.
Lei diede un’occhiata al cartellino di plastica che c’era sul tavolo: puntata massima cinquecento dollari.
Con un tremendo sforzo ignorò il nodo allo stomaco e spinse cin¬que fiche da cento dollari sul tappeto verde. Si trovò davanti una regina e un due. Tim che cosa voleva che facesse? Il mazziere aveva un cinque.
Soffocò un’esclamazione nel vedere che anche lui aveva puntato cinquecento dollari; poi si accorse della sua sinistra stretta a pugno. Trasse un profondo respiro e fece un gesto di rifiuto.
« Sto » disse con voce roca.
La bionda girò la propria carta: un fante. Quindici. Doveva prenderne un’altra. Quinn trattenne il fiato… e la vide estrarre un re.
http://www.liberolibro.it/ingraham-a-...
Con quello che hai, perdi sicuramente, quindi chiedi un’altra carta. »
« Vorrei un’altra carta, per favore. »
« I veri giocatori dicono semplicemente “ancora”, oppure si limitano a battere sulle proprie carte. » Quinn batté. « Ancora. Per favore. »
Le arrivò un dieci di fiori. Il mazziere voltò una regina. Mise una fiche nera e verde accanto a quella di Quinn. « Ho vinto? » « Hai vinto. »
La ragazza fece per prendere uno dei due gettoni. « Lascia che lavorino. »
« Duecento dollari in un colpo solo? Spero che tu sappia quel che stai facendo. »
Le fu servito un fante e poi un asso.
« Blackjack! » esclamò Tim, e Quinn lanciò uno strillo di gioia. « Mi piace, questo gioco! »
Le altre persone sedute al tavolo sorridevano. La trovavano simpatica. “Del resto è logico” pensò Tim. Come poteva essere altrimenti?
Ora Quinn si sentiva più rilassata. Aveva afferrato il ritmo del gioco, ma dopo un po’ la sua pila di fiche da cento dollari si era ridotta. Ebbe un attimo d’incertezza quando uno dei giocatori si alzò e Tim ne prese il posto, portandosi via metà dei gettoni. La curva del tavolo le permetteva di vederlo bene. Questo avrebbe reso facile cogliere la serie di segnali concordata tra loro.
Per qualche giro, Quinn si difese bene, poi guardò dalla parte del compagno e si accorse che aveva le dita della sinistra piegate nel ge¬sto hawaiano. Le stava dicendo, come avevano concordato prima di sedersi al tavolo, di puntare il massimo.
Lei diede un’occhiata al cartellino di plastica che c’era sul tavolo: puntata massima cinquecento dollari.
Con un tremendo sforzo ignorò il nodo allo stomaco e spinse cin¬que fiche da cento dollari sul tappeto verde. Si trovò davanti una regina e un due. Tim che cosa voleva che facesse? Il mazziere aveva un cinque.
Soffocò un’esclamazione nel vedere che anche lui aveva puntato cinquecento dollari; poi si accorse della sua sinistra stretta a pugno. Trasse un profondo respiro e fece un gesto di rifiuto.
« Sto » disse con voce roca.
La bionda girò la propria carta: un fante. Quindici. Doveva prenderne un’altra. Quinn trattenne il fiato… e la vide estrarre un re.
http://www.liberolibro.it/ingraham-a-...
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