There's a widely read popular science book on the early years of this story, Ether Day, but I think this article is especially interesting (and succinct) on the importance of related drug classes (like neuromuscular blockers, IV agents) for making surgery practical in more therapeutic categories. Quick read.
The Origin of Anesthesia: Feuding Scientists, War, and Dart Poison | The Scientist
Through piecemeal advances involving dentists, adventurers, and Queen Victoria, anesthesia evolved from a crude, risky practice into a sophisticated specialty.
the-scientist.com