The Retribution Audiobook By Val McDermid cover art

The Retribution

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The Retribution

By: Val McDermid
Narrated by: Gerard Doyle
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World-class crime writer Val McDermid has sold millions of copies of her books worldwide. In The Retribution, clinical psychologist Tony Hill and detective Carol Jordan face a terrifying reality: Serial killer Jacko Vance has escaped imprisonment - and appears hell-bent on revenge against those who put him behind bars.

©2012 Val McDermid (P)2011 Recorded Books, LLC Thriller & Suspense Revenge Mystery Crime Suspense Exciting Scary

Critic reviews

“Be very afraid as you meet a truly inventive serial killer. Val McDermid’s 25th novel is stunningly good.” ( Times(UK)
Compelling Plot • Engaging Characters • Suspenseful Storyline • Emotional Intensity • Intriguing Mystery

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This series introduced me to Val McDermid. I was very impressed with her ability to disturb without being graphic. The characters were another plus, diverse and often surprising. This book has undone all those things. Carol Jordan is no longer admirable, just abusive. Dr. Hill isn't brilliant, simply pathetic. The narrator whining Tony's lines don't help that perception. The story, somewhat implausible but interesting, is the only plus. This isn't often the case but for me it was the only bright spot that kept me listening. I'm not sure it will be enough to move on to the next installment.

Great series derailed

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The author reduces Tony to a pathetic whimpering castrated man. And Carol? If I had the slightest dislike for her in the past, it's nothing compared to the raging inferno of hate I have now for the character now. Then there's the ending...which appears to end rather quickly. Maybe if the book hadn't dragged along (in some areas) like a two-legged dog, perhaps the climax would have been more interesting or satisfying. If you're going to reinsert Jacko into the Tony Hill universe, then do the guy a bit more justice. Jacko has some great moments, don't get me wrong. I just feel deflated by the ending. The author let me down. This includes her turning Tony into a pansy. (And if anyone remembers the night the warehouse was set ablaze in Seaford, the night Carol decided to NOT join her team, but rather stay searching for Jacko (before he was caught for murdering teenage girls), then you'd find issue with her blaming Tony for what happens in this latest book....can't say for what exactly...no spoilers. But she literally holds Tony at fault for something horrendous that happens to her.) I'm going to rewatch the TV series because I need Tony to matter and be great again.

Author rips apart my hero, Tony Hill.

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Been reading all of the TH &CJ in order and this one brings a climax to relationships. Good read, page turner.

Best one so far

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Fantastic mystery – police procedural. Extremely well developed characters, intriguing and byzantine plot… absolutely addictive - highly recommended!

Fabulous!

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Jacko Vance is the most evil creature! As a serial torturer and killer of young women he went undetected for years. Once in prison, he enjoys planning his revenge for the people responsible for his capture and conviction. Murder, disfigurement, and emotional pain are all dished out to his targets. He is truly diabolical.

In another episode with complicated personal and professional relationships, a new serial killer, and the mayhem accompanying Jacko's escape from prison, Tony Hill and Carol Jordan juggle it all. I think this is the best so far in the series.

Having read some of the prior episodes would add depth to much of the emotional pain in The Retribution, but I think it can stand alone as a worthwhile read.

I can't say much more without creating a big spoiler, but I was really sad when the story ended.

Gerard Doyle, as always, does an excellent job of narrating.

Best yet, but so sad...

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